Longa Taing

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Longa Taing

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

Longa Taing is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, Scotland. Situated on the mainland of Orkney, it is specifically found on the eastern coast of the island. Longa Taing is classified as a headland, which is a narrow piece of land that juts out into the sea.

The headland of Longa Taing is characterized by its rocky terrain and dramatic cliffs that rise high above the surrounding shoreline. The cliffs are composed of sedimentary rock layers, displaying distinct patterns and colors that have been shaped by the natural forces of erosion over thousands of years. The headland offers breathtaking panoramic views of the North Sea, with its rugged coastline and the nearby islands of Orkney.

Longa Taing is a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its natural beauty and the opportunities it provides for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the area, including seabirds such as puffins and fulmars. The headland also offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, as it serves as a nesting site for several species.

In addition to its natural attractions, Longa Taing holds historical significance. The headland is believed to have been inhabited by ancient settlers, with archaeological evidence suggesting human presence dating back thousands of years. The remains of ancient settlements and burial sites have been discovered in the vicinity, adding to the area's cultural and historical richness.

Overall, Longa Taing in Orkney is a captivating coastal feature that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and historical heritage, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Longa Taing Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.171132/-2.9588827 or Grid Reference HY4531. 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

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

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

The lane to Marion's Shop

This was not during the opening hours, but 'Marion' did open so we could buy some essentials. Great service, but then - this is Orkney!

David Medcalf

The school at Banks

David Medcalf

The B9064 at Banks

David Medcalf

The minor road near Hurtiso

David Medcalf

Egilsay: approaching the ferry slipway

I believe the road signs in this photo are, with the exception of a tourist direction sign for the church, the only ones on the island. The road is seen here as it curves round to the slipway where the ferry berths.

Chris Downer