Balcary Point

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Kirkcudbrightshire

Scotland

Balcary Point

Rock outcrops Low rock outcrops on the edge of the raised beach comprise dipping beds of sandstone belonging to the Rascarrel Member of the Fell Sandstone Formation. In the background is the steep, seaward face of Airds Heugh. — Rock outcrops Credit: Jonathan Wilkins

Balcary Point is a prominent headland located in Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland. Situated on the Solway Firth coast, it is a stunning coastal feature that offers breathtaking views and a rich historical background.

The headland is characterized by its rocky cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea, providing a natural vantage point to observe the surrounding landscape. The cliffs are made up of sedimentary rocks, displaying layers that tell the story of millions of years of geological history.

Balcary Point is adorned with an abundance of diverse flora and fauna. The headland is covered in lush grassland, dotted with wildflowers during the summer months. The coastal waters surrounding the point are teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts. Common sightings include seabirds, seals, and occasionally, dolphins.

In addition to its natural beauty, Balcary Point is steeped in history. The remains of an Iron Age fort can be found on the headland, serving as a testament to the area's ancient past. Furthermore, the point played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a navigational landmark for sailors and fishermen.

Balcary Point is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the coastal path, exploring the diverse ecosystem and immersing themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Overall, Balcary Point is a captivating headland that combines natural beauty, rich history, and abundant wildlife, making it a must-visit location for anyone exploring the Kirkcudbrightshire coastline.

Show me another place!

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

Balcary Point Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.824846/-3.824838 or Grid Reference NX8249. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rock outcrops

Low rock outcrops on the edge of the raised beach comprise dipping beds of sandstone belonging to the Rascarrel Member of the Fell Sandstone Formation. In the background is the steep, seaward face of Airds Heugh.

Jonathan Wilkins

Boulder shore

The shore here comprises an extraordinary carpet of equal-sized boulders of glacial origin which are the residua of former deposits of till, or boulder clay. It is part of the discontinuous raised beach which is particularly prominent through the west of the southern Scottish coast. See also, for example NX1239 : Bouldery beach.

Jonathan Wilkins

Balcary Bay Hotel

'The Balcary Bay Country House Hotel which takes its name from the stunningly beautiful bay that overlooks the Solway with the Cumbrian mountains in the distance. Each day brings a different colour spectrum to this wonderful vista. Each night brings forth a romantic moon shimmering across the waters.' Link

Viewed from the top of Balcary Hill.

Russel Wills

Newly cut grass fields

Some grass has been baled. Airds Farm under Big Airds Hill in the background.

Russel Wills

No they are not sheep!

The grass in the foreground has been cut and put into bales covered with white plastic. In the background, looking like a grass maze, the grass has been cut and the machine to gather it and blow it into trailers waits for a trailer.

Russel Wills

Rocks on the foreshore of Auchencairn Bay

The various post on the beach are the remnants of salmon fishing nets. How it might have looked. Link and Link Hestan Island in the bay.

Russel Wills

Balcary Tower

'Balcary Tower was built around 1860 by Colonel Johnstone, the Laird of Auchencairn House, it is believed for his French governess and mistress. The Tower was extended in the 1960s and again in the 1970s and mostly recently was entirely professionally refurbished in 2012.' Link

Link

Russel Wills

View from the carpark

Over the white plastic wrapped bales of grass.

Russel Wills

Agricultural traffic hazard

This is one of the large tractors with a trailer load of freshly cut grass. They were moving in a convoy of four down to the fields to collect the loads and then back up the narrow road with few passing places.

Russel Wills