South Wick

Bay in Orkney

Scotland

South Wick

South Wick is a picturesque coastal settlement located in the Orkney Islands, off the northeastern coast of Scotland. Situated on the eastern shore of Orkney Mainland, South Wick is part of the Bay of Skaill, which stretches along the A966 road. This small village offers breathtaking views of the North Sea, with its rugged cliffs and pristine beaches.

The community of South Wick is known for its rich history, dating back to prehistoric times. The nearby archaeological site of Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases a remarkably preserved Neolithic village that provides insight into the lives of Orkney's early inhabitants.

South Wick is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The area is abundant in wildlife, including various bird species, seals, and occasionally even dolphins. Many visitors enjoy exploring the coastline, embarking on coastal walks, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches.

Despite its small size, South Wick offers a few amenities for both locals and tourists alike. There are a handful of accommodations, including small guesthouses and self-catering cottages, providing visitors with a comfortable stay. Additionally, a few local shops and cafes cater to the needs of residents and visitors.

South Wick's tranquil atmosphere, combined with its natural beauty and historical significance, make it an idyllic destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat or an opportunity to explore Orkney's fascinating past.

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South Wick Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.358094/-2.8767862 or Grid Reference HY5052. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Walking on Papa Westray

stalked

Swans on the Shore

Usually you see swans on fresh water, but these ones were exploring the shore. These are dipping strata of the Middle Old Red Sandstone that makes up most of Orkney, even though they are not at all red in colour. Most of the land in this square is on the Holm of Papa, a small offshore island, the tip of which can be seen at upper right in this view.

Anne Burgess

Remains of a Fence

The stile for crossing the fence is still standing, but the fence it used to cross has gone.

Anne Burgess

Zigzag Rocks

I assume that the sea, having detached parts of the bedrock, has flipped the loose slabs over so that they are lying at an angle to the bedrock. I could have examined them more closely to test this hypothesis, but we were anxious to get to the pier in good time for our ferry, and my walking companion is not interested in geology and would have demurred.

Anne Burgess

Shag, Papa Westray

Stood on the cliffs at the RSPB reserve of North Hill on Papay Westray

hayley green

Two Ponies

Two ponies in a field above the beach with a distant view towards Hundland.

Rude Health

View Along Fence And Wall Near Berry Hill

Rude Health

Great Auk Memorial

Memorial to last Great Auk killed in Britain in 1813, Fowl Craig, Papa Westray.

Jonathan Taylor

Great Auk Statue

This commemorates the last breeding Great Auk in Britain, it was shot in 1813. Great Auks are now extinct.

Shirley Grant

Loch of Ness

The Loch of Ness and the bay of North Wick beyond, on Papay (Papa Westray), Orkney.

Shirley Grant

Fowl Craig

As its name suggests, a nesting site for seabirds. This is within the RSPB North Hill reserve on Papa Westray.

Lis Burke

Mill Point, Papa Westray

There is the remains of a lade flowing past this ruin, so perhaps this is the mill that gives the point its name.

Rob Burke

Guillemots and razorbills on Fowl Craig

The guillemots are the grey and white birds to the right of the picture. The ledges of the craig provide nest sites for 200 razorbills and 1600 guillemots.

Rob Burke

Razorbill on Fowl Craig, Papa Westray

Only a small part of the craig can be seen from the cliff-top path, but this razorbill obligingly stood at a corner.

Rob Burke

Canoes at the roadside

Overlooking the tidal Loch of the Taing and North Wick on Papa Westray

Lis Burke

House at Hundland

A traditional Papa Westray house, long and low.

Lis Burke

Chambered Cairn Remains

Remains of chambered cairn at the north end of Holm of Papa. In the distance you can just see the impressive Chambered Cairn at the south end of this tiny island and I think the longest chambered cairn in Orkney. There were Fulmars nesting in the stalls of the chambered cairn in the foreground.

Adam Ward