Tainga Sker

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Tainga Sker

Lane towards Breck Lane heading past Breck towards Faraclett and Scockness. A chapel is shown on the map here, but there&#039;s nothing resembling such a building amongst those to the right of the road. — Lane towards Breck Credit: Gordon Hatton

Tainga Sker is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, an archipelago situated off the northeastern coast of Scotland. This headland, also referred to as a point, is known for its striking natural beauty and geological significance. Tainga Sker is situated on the western coastline of the island of Sanday, one of the largest islands in the Orkney archipelago.

The headland is characterized by its towering cliffs, which rise dramatically from the sea, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean. These cliffs, composed primarily of sandstone and conglomerate, showcase distinctive layers that have been shaped by thousands of years of erosion from wind and water. As a result, Tainga Sker offers a unique glimpse into the island's geological history.

The headland is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The surrounding coastal waters are frequented by various marine species, including seals, dolphins, and seabirds, making Tainga Sker a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Tainga Sker also holds historical and cultural significance. The headland is believed to have been inhabited by ancient communities, with archaeological remains such as burial mounds and stone structures found in the vicinity. These remnants provide valuable insights into the island's past and contribute to its rich cultural heritage.

Overall, Tainga Sker is a remarkable coastal feature that showcases the rugged beauty and geological diversity of the Orkney archipelago. Its stunning cliffs, abundant wildlife, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Tainga Sker Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.172319/-2.9563269 or Grid Reference HY4532. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

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

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 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 B9064 at Banks

David Medcalf

The minor road near Hurtiso

David Medcalf

Egilsay: public telephone

The phone is in the waiting room for the ferry.

Chris Downer

Looking down the road from the junction below the car park at Faraclett Head

Dave Napier

View across Faraclett Head

Peter Amsden

Rousay Mill, Orkney

The mill is described on the RCAHMS website Link

as "19th century. A three-storey rubble building, harled on the main frontage, with an eight-spoke overshot wood and iron wheel. The lade is carried on a drystone wall."