Scrimpo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Scrimpo

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

Scrimpo is a prominent headland located on the northern coast of the Orkney Islands in Scotland. Situated near the village of Birsay, it stands as a natural landmark within the rugged coastal landscape of the region. The headland is characterized by steep cliffs that rise dramatically from the surrounding sea, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

The name "Scrimpo" is derived from the Old Norse word "skrimpa," which means "to shrink" or "to contract." This name is believed to refer to the narrow and rugged nature of the headland, which gives the impression of being squeezed or contracted between the sea and the land.

Scrimpo is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars. The cliffs provide nesting sites for these birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

The headland also boasts a number of archaeological sites, adding to its historical significance. The remains of a Pictish settlement have been discovered on the headland, providing insights into the early inhabitants of the area.

Visitors to Scrimpo can enjoy scenic coastal walks along the cliff tops, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding sea and nearby islands. The headland is easily accessible by foot and offers a peaceful and picturesque retreat away from the bustling towns and cities. With its natural beauty, wildlife, and historical significance, Scrimpo is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Orkney Islands.

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Scrimpo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.17349/-2.9532981 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

The minor road near Hurtiso

David Medcalf

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."