Starnakeppie

Bay in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Starnakeppie

Pillbox roof, Rattray, Aberdeenshire This pillbox is one of a series of 16 which overlooked an anti-tank ditch running behind the dunes for about 7km between the Loch of Strathbeg and the Black Water river to the south. The distance between the pillboxes varied but was typically 400-600m and each pillbox usually overlooked a point where there was a change of direction in the ditch. They were all of the same design which was a Scottish variant of the Type 24. Most of the ditch has been filled in but some lengths of it can still be traced: <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/6996761">NK0958 : Anti-tank ditch, Rattray Head, Aberdeenshire</a>.

There is an Ordnance Survey rivet on the roof of this pillbox which can be seen near the midpoint of the lower edge of the photo. — Pillbox roof, Rattray, Aberdeenshire Credit: Claire Pegrum

Starnakeppie Bay is a picturesque coastal region located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the northeastern coastline, it offers visitors a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The bay is known for its pristine sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear waters.

Situated a short distance from the charming village of Collieston, Starnakeppie Bay is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The bay is encompassed by rolling hills and lush greenery, providing ample opportunities for hiking, walking, and exploring the surrounding countryside.

The beach at Starnakeppie Bay stretches for approximately one mile and is a haven for beachcombing, sunbathing, and picnicking. The peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views make it an ideal spot for relaxation and unwinding. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The wildlife in Starnakeppie Bay is diverse and abundant. Birdwatchers can spot a wide range of seabirds, including gannets, puffins, and guillemots. Dolphins and seals can often be seen swimming in the bay, adding to the area's natural charm.

The bay is easily accessible by car, with parking facilities available nearby. Facilities such as public toilets and picnic areas are also provided, ensuring visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

In summary, Starnakeppie Bay in Aberdeenshire is a breathtaking coastal region offering a serene and idyllic getaway. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, peaceful beach days, or wildlife encounters, this hidden gem has something for everyone.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Starnakeppie Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.612324/-1.8572876 or Grid Reference NK0858. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Pillbox roof, Rattray, Aberdeenshire

This pillbox is one of a series of 16 which overlooked an anti-tank ditch running behind the dunes for about 7km between the Loch of Strathbeg and the Black Water river to the south. The distance between the pillboxes varied but was typically 400-600m and each pillbox usually overlooked a point where there was a change of direction in the ditch. They were all of the same design which was a Scottish variant of the Type 24. Most of the ditch has been filled in but some lengths of it can still be traced: NK0958 : Anti-tank ditch, Rattray Head, Aberdeenshire. There is an Ordnance Survey rivet on the roof of this pillbox which can be seen near the midpoint of the lower edge of the photo.

Claire Pegrum

Former coastguard cottages, Rattray Head, Aberdeenshire

The cottages have become more derelict since they were photographed by Peter eleven years ago: NK0958 : Ruins near Rattray Head.

Claire Pegrum

Anti-tank ditch, Rattray Head, Aberdeenshire

This is one of the few remaining stretches of an anti-tank ditch which ran behind dunes for about 7km between the Loch of Strathbeg and the Black Water river to the south. The ditch was overlooked by a series of 16 pillboxes which were mostly located at a point where the ditch changed direction. NK0958 : Pillbox at Rattray can be seen on the left and NK0958 : Pillbox at Rattray is just visible on the hillside beyond it.

Claire Pegrum

Pillbox, Old Rattray, Aberdeenshire

This is the first of a series of 16 pillboxes which overlooked an anti-tank ditch which ran for about 7km between the Loch of Strathbeg, which can be seen in the background, and the Black Water river to the south.

Claire Pegrum

Ruin of St Mary's Chapel, Rattray

The chapel may date from the 13th Century but probably fell out of use as early as the 15th Century, when Crimond parish kirk was built about 3 km to the west. Burials still take place in the adjacent burial ground. Castle Hill Farmhouse can be seen in the distance to the left. Scheduled Monument SM3303: Link

Bill Harrison

Loch of Strathbeg: view from the south

The loch looked rather desolate on a chilly spring day but there was a lot of birdsong audible.

Bill Harrison

Coastal farmland near Rattray Head

Arable and grazings near Rattray Head with the lighthouse and associated buildings in the distance. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Seatown, Rattray Head

A derelict farm and associated buildings near Rattray Head. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21/22.

James T M Towill

Dunes at Rattray Head

Adrian and Janet Quantock

Rattray Lighthouse Cottages

The former lighthouse shore station now offers bed and breakfast. The lighthouse is just visible beyond the dunes to the left of the house.

Anne Burgess

The Hassy

The Hassy is the dark rock platform just beyond the beach.

Anne Burgess

Tracks in the sand

Proof, if any were needed, that the sand dunes are bustling with life. These are the tracks of insects or spiders climbing the face of the sand dune. It was such a still day that they have not been obliterated by the wind.

Anne Burgess

Dune flora, Rattray

Silverweed (Potentilla anserina)

Stanley Howe

World War 2 pillbox at Rattray Head

One of the chain of pillboxes defending the sandy beach running North from Peterhead. Built in 1940 in anticipation of a German invasion. The St Fergus gas terminal is on the horizon.

Martyn Gorman

Tracks up the dunes

Near Rattray.

Stanley Howe

Rattray lighthouse station

With Radio Station masts behind.

Stanley Howe

A sign of the times

The dune system at Rattray Head is a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its habitats, birds and land forms and woe-be-tide anyone who drives onto them. Quite right too. Ironically, at Menie Estate a few miles to the South, another, possibly more important, dune system with the same SSSI designation is under imminent threat of development by the Donald Trump organisation which wishes to turn it into two golf courses together with a 450 bedroom hotel, 950 holiday homes and 500 houses. Its survival or destruction is to be decided at a public enquiry in the summer of 2008.

Martyn Gorman