Bay of Cullen

Bay in Banffshire

Scotland

Bay of Cullen

Mouse-ear Hawkweed Hawkweeds, Hawksbeards and Hawkbits all have dandelion-like flowers and are notoriously difficult to tell apart. This is the exception, instantly recognisable because its flowers are lemon-yellow, while all the others are more canary-yellow. — Mouse-ear Hawkweed Credit: Anne Burgess

Bay of Cullen, located in Banffshire, Scotland, is a stunning coastal area renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. Situated on the eastern coast of Scotland, it lies between the towns of Cullen and Findochty. This picturesque bay stretches for approximately 2 miles, offering visitors and locals alike a tranquil setting to enjoy various activities.

The Bay of Cullen boasts a pristine sandy beach, which is a major attraction for tourists during the summer months. The beach offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and the surrounding cliffs. It is an ideal spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying leisurely walks along the shore. The bay's clear waters are also perfect for swimming and snorkeling, attracting water sports enthusiasts.

Aside from its natural beauty, the Bay of Cullen is steeped in history. The nearby Cullen House, a historic mansion built in the 16th century, adds to the charm of the area. The bay has also played a significant role in fishing and shipping activities throughout the years, with remnants of old fisher cottages and boat sheds still visible.

The bay is easily accessible, with ample parking facilities nearby. It is well-served by local amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and shops, ensuring visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Nature lovers can explore the surrounding coastal paths and cliffs, which provide stunning views of the bay and its diverse marine life.

In conclusion, the Bay of Cullen in Banffshire is a remarkable destination that combines natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities. Whether visitors seek relaxation on its sandy beach or wish to explore its rich heritage, the bay offers an unforgettable experience for all who venture there.

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Bay of Cullen Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.672404/-2.4625045 or Grid Reference NJ7264. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Mouse-ear Hawkweed

Hawkweeds, Hawksbeards and Hawkbits all have dandelion-like flowers and are notoriously difficult to tell apart. This is the exception, instantly recognisable because its flowers are lemon-yellow, while all the others are more canary-yellow.

Anne Burgess

Loch Craig

In the foreground is the sea wall of the Tarlair open-air swimming pool. Loch craig is the sea inlet offshore. The ship is Petronordic, port of registry Nassau, which is a shuttle tanker, gross tonnage 54865.

Anne Burgess

House Martin (Delichon urbica)

There are half a dozen nests under the roof of the pavilion at the Tarlair swimming pool. Note the bird sitting in this nest, presumably incubating eggs.

Anne Burgess

Tarlair Lido, 2022

The monochrome emphasises the current state of disrepair of the pavilion, but that is set to change, as funding has been secured and listed building consent given for its refurbishment starting in 2022. The Friends of Tarlair Link

are working towards making this a vibrant leisure destination once again. The Category A Listed facility deserves nothing less.

Alan Murray-Rust

Natural sloping slabs at Tarlair

At the entrance to the lido.

Alan Murray-Rust

The road to Tarlair

Looking towards Macduff. The building to the right of the road is the Well of Tarlair. It dates from c.1800. The chalybeate waters enjoyed considerable popularity for their medicinal and health giving properties in the NE during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Alan Murray-Rust

Threading the needle

View through the naatural arch known locally as the Needle's Eye

Alan Murray-Rust

Tarlair Lido - the swimming pool

The lowest of the three pools. The terraces were restored in 2014, and restoration of the pavilion is due to commence in 2022.

Alan Murray-Rust

Tarlair Lido, the three pools

Nearest, surrounded by the narrow wall was a paddling pool, the next area being a boating pool with the main swimming pool furthest away. The surrounds of the pools were restored in 2014. The complex Listed Category A.

Alan Murray-Rust

Tarlair Lido, view from the east

Compare with this view of the lido in its heyday Link

Restoration of the pavilion is due to start in 2022. Listed Category A.

Alan Murray-Rust

Pond at Mains of Melrose

An artificial pond beside the Burn of Melrose.

Anne Burgess

Rock fall at near Tarlair

Hobs

Road Closed

As this is the signposted route to the Macduff Marine Aquarium, and no diversion is signposted, I have to hope that there have not been too many baffled visitors recently.

Anne Burgess

Macduff Marine Aquarium

Open during the winter, but not on Thursdays or Fridays until the spring. It features creatures native to local waters, and is well worth a visit. I noted the absence of a conger eel, and it was explained that they had had to give up having conger eels because the eels were destroying the concrete 'rocks' in the central tank!

Anne Burgess

The Scurr and High Shore

The rocks in the foreground are named on the maps as the Scurr. High Shore is so named to distinguish it from Low Shore, which is nearer the harbour, rather than because it was higher above the sea.

Anne Burgess