Long Tail

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Caithness

Scotland

Long Tail

Noss Head View towards Noss Head, the boundary wall, the outbuildings and the lighthouse.
Noss Head Credit: Glen Breaden

Long Tail is a prominent coastal feature located in Caithness, a county in the northernmost part of mainland Scotland. It is classified as a headland or point, extending into the North Sea. Long Tail is situated on the eastern coast of Caithness, near the town of Wick.

This coastal feature is characterized by its elongated shape, protruding out into the sea. It is composed of rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops, which are formed from sedimentary rocks such as sandstone and shale. These cliffs rise steeply from the sea level, providing a striking visual contrast against the surrounding landscape.

Long Tail is known for its dramatic scenery and panoramic views of the North Sea. The headland offers breathtaking vistas, especially during sunset, when the vibrant colors of the sky create a stunning backdrop. The crashing waves and strong winds add to the wild and untamed nature of this coastal area.

The headland also serves as an important habitat for various bird species, including seabirds such as guillemots and kittiwakes. These birds nest on the cliffs and can be observed soaring overhead or diving into the sea in search of food.

Due to its picturesque beauty and unique natural features, Long Tail attracts both locals and tourists alike. Visitors can explore the rugged coastline, go for walks along the cliff-top paths, or simply enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the surrounding environment.

In summary, Long Tail is a captivating headland located in Caithness, Scotland. With its striking cliffs, stunning views, and diverse wildlife, it offers a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and visitors seeking a scenic coastal adventure.

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Long Tail Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.46224/-3.0533667 or Grid Reference ND3853. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Noss Head View towards Noss Head, the boundary wall, the outbuildings and the lighthouse.
Noss Head
View towards Noss Head, the boundary wall, the outbuildings and the lighthouse.
Sinclair's Bay - 1987 Noss Head and Noss Head lighthouse and Castle Sinclair Girnigoe ruins seen over Sinclair's Bay from carpark near Ackergill Links (long distance shot).
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a castle located about 3 miles north of Wick on the east coast of Caithness, Scotland, United Kingdom. It is considered to be the one of the earliest seats of Clan Sinclair.
Sinclair's Bay - 1987
Noss Head and Noss Head lighthouse and Castle Sinclair Girnigoe ruins seen over Sinclair's Bay from carpark near Ackergill Links (long distance shot). Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a castle located about 3 miles north of Wick on the east coast of Caithness, Scotland, United Kingdom. It is considered to be the one of the earliest seats of Clan Sinclair.
Noss Head Starlings gather for the evening roost
Noss Head
Starlings gather for the evening roost
Across Sand Geo to Noss Head A pleasant summer evening brings a small boat out to fish off perilous shores
Across Sand Geo to Noss Head
A pleasant summer evening brings a small boat out to fish off perilous shores
Noss Head Lighthouse
Noss Head Lighthouse
Statue of Henry St Clair at Noss Head In the compound of the Noss Head Lighthouse is this statue of Henry St Clair (sometimes spelled Sinclair) Earl of Orkney.  The statue was erected in 2002.
Statue of Henry St Clair at Noss Head
In the compound of the Noss Head Lighthouse is this statue of Henry St Clair (sometimes spelled Sinclair) Earl of Orkney. The statue was erected in 2002.
Compound of Noss Head Lighthouse In the centre of the compound of Noss Head Lighthouse is a statue of Henry St Clair, Earl of Orkney.
Compound of Noss Head Lighthouse
In the centre of the compound of Noss Head Lighthouse is a statue of Henry St Clair, Earl of Orkney.
Track from Noss Head Lighthouse This is the track to/from Noss Head lighthouse.  In the distance, the image shows some of the buildings of the settlement of Noss.
Track from Noss Head Lighthouse
This is the track to/from Noss Head lighthouse. In the distance, the image shows some of the buildings of the settlement of Noss.
Track from Castle Sinclair Girnigoe Heading towards the car park by the road to Noss Head.
Track from Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Heading towards the car park by the road to Noss Head.
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe in 1999 These ruins are in a striking location by the sea.
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe in 1999
These ruins are in a striking location by the sea.
Wick Airport - 1987 Wick Airport.
The runway was crossed by a public road, which was blocked by traffic-lights, when a plane started or landed - unthinkable under today's safety regulations, but it worked in 1987.
Wick Airport - 1987
Wick Airport. The runway was crossed by a public road, which was blocked by traffic-lights, when a plane started or landed - unthinkable under today's safety regulations, but it worked in 1987.
Castle Sinclair in silhouette
Castle Sinclair in silhouette
North Head View To Broad Haven The cliffs of Wick's North Head give fine viewpoints looking across Broad Haven towards Papigoe.
North Head View To Broad Haven
The cliffs of Wick's North Head give fine viewpoints looking across Broad Haven towards Papigoe.
Towards Papigoe Looking across Broad Haven towards the houses at Papigoe from the start of Wick's North Head.
Towards Papigoe
Looking across Broad Haven towards the houses at Papigoe from the start of Wick's North Head.
Castle Sinclair
Castle Sinclair
Aberdeen Angus at Noss Aberdeen Angus cattle by the minor road out to Noss Head. The under-construction HVDC switching station can be seen beyond.
Aberdeen Angus at Noss
Aberdeen Angus cattle by the minor road out to Noss Head. The under-construction HVDC switching station can be seen beyond.
Coastline, Noss Head A view along the coastline to Noss Head with the lighthouse visible.
Coastline, Noss Head
A view along the coastline to Noss Head with the lighthouse visible.
Castle Sinclair or Girnigoe
Castle Sinclair or Girnigoe
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Long Tail is located at Grid Ref: ND3853 (Lat: 58.46224, Lng: -3.0533667)

Unitary Authority: Highland

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///desk.pollution.jaws. Near Wick, Highland

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