Point of Howan

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Point of Howan

Hamar The isolated house stands above fields being harvested for hay. — Hamar Credit: Anne Burgess

Point of Howan is a prominent coastal feature located in the Orkney Islands, an archipelago situated off the northeastern coast of Scotland. This headland, also known as a point, is positioned on the southwestern tip of the island of Hoy, which is the second largest island in the Orkney group.

Rising approximately 60 meters (200 feet) above sea level, Point of Howan offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its rugged cliffs, composed of sandstone and old red sandstone, showcase the geological history of the area. These cliffs are adorned with various seabird colonies, including guillemots, fulmars, and razorbills, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The point is also known for its distinctive natural arch, referred to as The Needle, which is a striking rock formation that has been shaped by the relentless action of the waves over thousands of years. This arch is a popular subject for photographers and is a significant landmark in the area.

Moreover, Point of Howan provides excellent opportunities for coastal walks and exploration. Visitors can enjoy the coastal path that runs along the edge of the cliffs, offering stunning views of the surrounding seascape and the nearby island of Graemsay. The area is rich in wildlife, with seals often seen basking on the rocks below, and occasional sightings of whales and dolphins offshore.

Overall, Point of Howan is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the Orkney Islands. Its dramatic cliffs, unique rock formations, and abundant birdlife make it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike.

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Point of Howan Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.034243/-2.904417 or Grid Reference HY4816. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Hamar

The isolated house stands above fields being harvested for hay.

Anne Burgess

Shapinsay Gas House

All that remains of former gas works which dates from the mid 19th century.

Shirley Grant

Mill Dam, RSPB Reserve

This reserve has a hide overlooking the dam. The reserve is home to many birds including ducks such as the pintail, waders, black headed gulls and the water rail. In winter the ducks are joined by whooper swans and greylag geese.

Shirley Grant

Main Street, Balfour Village

This village was called Shoreside and was built in the late 1700s as home for workers on the Balfour estate.

Shirley Grant

Elwick

Looking south west across the square to Balfour Castle in the distance.

Callum Black

Bathhouse/dovecot tower, Balfour Castle, Shapinsay

This curious tower was built as a doocot and sea-water shower for residents and guests at Balfour Castle.

Michael Wills

Shapinsay pier

Catherine Morgan

Saeva Ness lighthouse from Shapinsay Ferry

Saeva Ness lighthouse on Helliar Holm viewed from the Shapinsay ferry.

Bill Ross

Saeva Ness Lighthouse

Saeva Ness lighthouse looks out across The String a short distance to the Head of Work on Mainland.

Bill Ross

Balfour Castle

Grapes were once grown in the greenhouses here, in defiance of Adam Smith's assertion that a grape harvest in Scotland would be hopelessly uneconomic. Now the household confines its fruit-growing ambitions to rhubarb jam.

HelenK

The Shapinsay Ferry

Vehicles must reverse on to this shallow bottomed craft which takes about 25 minutes for the journey to Kirkwall. It serves islanders commuting to Kirkwall as well as tourists visiting this agricultural island.

Colin Smith

War Memorial at Elwick

The distinctive cross on a column stands by a road junction above Elwick, a former Viking anchorage. The round stepped stone ornaments by the memorial and the dry stone dykes are common on Shapinsay.

Colin Smith

Field near Balfour

An old mill which may become a crafts centre looms above the grassy hillside north-east of Balfour. In the foreground are the distinctive kochia or "red hot pokers".

Colin Smith

Balfour Castle

Imposing Victorian pile built around Cliffdale, the previous house. It is now an exclusive hotel.

Colin Smith

Shapinsay Harbour

Lobster boats and the Kirkwall RO / RO ferry use the small harbour at Balfour. Cannon decorate the quayside and the round tower in the background is "The Douche" - supposed to be a doocot and a saltwater shower!

Colin Smith