Mill Sand

Beach in Orkney

Scotland

Mill Sand

Swartabreck East Orkney farmland. — Swartabreck Credit: Richard Webb

Mill Sand is a picturesque beach nestled on the north coast of Orkney, a collection of islands located off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The beach is named after the nearby Mill of Brogan, a historic watermill that once operated in the area.

Stretching over half a mile, Mill Sand boasts golden sands that gently slope into the clear blue waters of the North Sea. The beach is known for its unspoiled and pristine surroundings, offering visitors a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its remote location also means that it is often less crowded than other beaches in the region, allowing for a more secluded and intimate experience.

Mill Sand is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as the surrounding dunes and grassy areas are home to a variety of bird species, including curlews and oystercatchers. The beach offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline, with dramatic cliffs and sea stacks adding to its charm.

Visitors to Mill Sand can enjoy various activities such as beachcombing, picnicking, and leisurely walks along the shore. The beach is also a popular spot for wildlife watching, with seals often seen basking on nearby rocks. However, it is important to note that swimming is not recommended due to strong currents and chilly temperatures.

Overall, Mill Sand is a hidden gem in the Orkney Islands, offering visitors a serene and untouched coastal experience amidst stunning natural beauty.

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Mill Sand Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.953256/-2.8427079 or Grid Reference HY5107. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Swartabreck

East Orkney farmland.

Richard Webb

Messigate, Tankerness, from the air

Loch of Messigate on the left and Mill Sand in the foreground.

Mike Pennington

Jewellery workshop

Orkney has a rich jewellery heritage, from the early designs of Ola Gorie (the first to produce jewellery here since Viking times) to popular local producers Sheila Fleet, Aurora Orkney, Ortak and several smaller firms. Mainland Orkney is home to several of these jewellery manufacturers; this is the headquarters of the Sheila Fleet jewellery business.

James Allan

Delicate craftmanship

A girl applying rainbow enamel colouring to a ring in the Sheila Fleet atelier in Tankerness.

James Allan

Showroom at the atelier

Jewellery showroom and shop at the Sheila Fleet factory,

James Allan

Mill Sand

With the tide in.

James Allan

Willow Vale, Tankerness

House at a T-junction close to a land-fill site.

James Allan

White horses

With the Loch of Tankerness in the background.

James Allan

St. Andrew's Kirk, Tankerness

St. Andrew's Kirk (North Church) Church of Scotland, Tankerness. Historic Scotland C Listed ID 352630. Built 1801, enlarged 1827.

Andrew Riley

Tankerness Meal Mill

Meal Mill. Historic Scotland B Listed (Ident-18567). Early 19th Century. 2-storey, 5-bay T-plan asymmetrical mill with slightly raised kiln at E end and undershot water wheel at W. Harl-pointed rubble. Long and short quoins to kiln. The tall blocked arches mark the position of the original wheel before it was placed on the outside of the end wall. 3 pairs of stones were driven by a high-breast wheel about 4.3m in diameter and, in order that the movement of the wheel did not startle horses passing over the adjacent bridge, it was shielded by a screen wall.(Historic Scotland)

Andrew Riley