Taing of Faraclett

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Taing of Faraclett

Rousay: postbox № KW17 104 This postbox, by the school and just off the main road, is of a modern design, constructed of pressed steel and designed to be more robust, rustproof and theft-proof than the traditional cast iron box that it will have replaced in the last couple of years.

This particular style of box is becoming quite commonplace in these remote, exposed parts.

Meanwhile, the telephone box is attached by string to the litter bin; I&#039;m not sure whether it&#039;s to keep the box door closed or to stop the bin from blowing away. — Rousay: postbox № KW17 104 Credit: Chris Downer

The Taing of Faraclett is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, a group of islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is classified as a headland or point, jutting out into the North Sea. The name "Taing" is derived from the Old Norse word for "tongue," which accurately describes the shape of this landform.

Situated on the eastern side of Orkney's mainland, the Taing of Faraclett offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rugged coastline. Its strategic location provides a vantage point for observing the vast expanse of the North Sea and the diverse marine life that inhabits it. The headland is characterized by steep cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea, reaching heights of up to 50 meters (164 feet). These cliffs are composed of layers of sedimentary rock, showcasing the geological history of the area.

The Taing of Faraclett is also known for its rich birdlife, making it a popular destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. The cliffs provide nesting sites for various seabird species, including guillemots, puffins, and kittiwakes. Visitors can witness these majestic creatures soaring through the air or perched on the rocky ledges.

Access to the Taing of Faraclett is relatively easy, with a well-maintained footpath leading from the nearby village of Sandwick. However, caution is advised when approaching the cliffs, as they can be unstable and subject to erosion.

Overall, the Taing of Faraclett is a remarkable coastal feature that showcases the natural beauty and biodiversity of Orkney's coastline. Its rugged cliffs, panoramic vistas, and abundant birdlife make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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Taing of Faraclett Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.173023/-2.9667731 or Grid Reference HY4432. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rousay: postbox № KW17 104

This postbox, by the school and just off the main road, is of a modern design, constructed of pressed steel and designed to be more robust, rustproof and theft-proof than the traditional cast iron box that it will have replaced in the last couple of years. This particular style of box is becoming quite commonplace in these remote, exposed parts. Meanwhile, the telephone box is attached by string to the litter bin; I'm not sure whether it's to keep the box door closed or to stop the bin from blowing away.

Chris Downer

Rousay: postbox № KW17 42, Sourin

A fairly modern postbox (1994 at the earliest, otherwise it would have POST OFFICE instead of ROYAL MAIL) at the junction of the B9064 and a minor road to a few houses.

Chris Downer

Lane towards Breck

Lane heading past Breck towards Faraclett and Scockness. A chapel is shown on the map here, but there's nothing resembling such a building amongst those to the right of the road.

Gordon Hatton

Nethermill Rousay

This also appears to be known as Sourin Mill and has an old cast iron wheel on this side, but does the wall to the right of the wheel show a former water race and possibly a breast shot arrangement? Lots of activity at the mill on this occasion as it looks as though it is under conversion to a dwelling.

Gordon Hatton

Hillside down to the Yetnasteen stone

No an easy subject to photograph as access across nearby fields is discouraged. The stone - 'Jotunna-steinn' in old Norse, which simply means 'giant stone' is over 2m high and is said to be a giant who was turned into stone. The giant must still have a thirst as legend says that the stone makes a few strides down the nearby Loch of Scockness at Hogmanay for a drink before returning. I guess that most locals would prefer a rather stronger drink at Hogmanay.

Gordon Hatton

Farmstead for superheros?

The abandoned farmstead is shown as Pow on the map, but maybe that should read as 'POW!' if owned by a local superhero. Slowly decaying with roofs collapsing and weeds rampant.

Gordon Hatton

Fields down to the shore

A near straight stone wall heads down the hillside towards the bar separating the Loch of Scockness from the sea.

Gordon Hatton

Cairn on Faraclett Head

The half mile or so between this point and the beginning of green fields further east is not a place to hang around during bird breeding season. Half a dozen arctic skuas, nasty characters at the best of times, take it in turns to fly aggressively at any human interloper. A trekking pole raised above the head fends off most attacks.

Gordon Hatton

North west side of Faraclett Head

A path makes a traverse of grassy slopes here, but the immediate coastal views of cliffs are disappointing due to the nature of the ground above. Views along the coast to the west are good.

Gordon Hatton

Coastline west of Faraclett Head

The foreground here is within the grid square, but much of the cliffline beyond is in an adjoining square.

Gordon Hatton

Swandale, Rousay

Looking right across the grid square from the Faraclett headland path towards the long abandoned farmstead of Swandale on the far side of a shallow valley.

Gordon Hatton

Two chambered cairns by the path

Green humps, shown as chambered cairns on the map, with only the nearer one being within the grid square. The nearby stile marks the way down towards the small parking area to the south of Faraclett farm, but the route is different to that shown on the 1:25000 map as it now heads directly down to the kink in the farm lane above the car park. Some expertise in gymnastics required to climb over two very high and part broken stiles on the way.

Gordon Hatton

Sourin view

The scattered community of Sourin seen over the roof of the fish farm buildings.

Gordon Hatton

The island school

The fact that Rousay can support a primary school indicates a thriving community. The population of the island is around 230, but I have no idea how many children attend the school. Presumably at age 11 they would have to transfer to the academy in Kirkwall.

Gordon Hatton