Heckle

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Heckle

Shapinsay Gas House All that remains of former gas works which dates from the mid 19th century. — Shapinsay Gas House Credit: Shirley Grant

Heckle is a prominent coastal feature located in the Orkney Islands, an archipelago in northern Scotland. It is a headland that juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinctive point along the island's coastline.

The headland of Heckle is characterized by its rugged and dramatic cliffs, which rise steeply from the sea to a height of approximately 50 meters. The cliffs are composed of sandstone and are heavily eroded, displaying layers of sedimentary rock that provide geological insight into the area's history.

The headland offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding sea and the neighboring islands. From its elevated position, visitors can observe the dynamic interplay between the land and the sea, as waves crash against the cliffs and seabirds soar above the turbulent waters.

Heckle is known for its diverse wildlife, serving as an important breeding ground for seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. The surrounding waters are also home to various marine species, including seals and dolphins, which can often be spotted from the headland.

The coastal feature of Heckle is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers, who are drawn to its natural beauty and unique geological formations. There are several walking trails that lead to and around the headland, allowing visitors to explore the area's stunning landscapes and discover hidden coves and rock formations.

In summary, Heckle is a striking headland located in the Orkney Islands, offering breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and geological wonders. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking a close encounter with the rugged beauty of Scotland's northern coastline.

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Heckle Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.018757/-2.9023037 or Grid Reference HY4814. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shapinsay Gas House

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

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

Work Farm and Head of Work, St Ola, Orkney

Beef and sheep farm on a headland to the north east of Kirkwall, Orkney. Small loch impounded by an 'ayre' or bar at right

Karl Cooper

Shapinsay pier

Catherine Morgan

Saeva Ness lighthouse from Shapinsay Ferry

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

Bill Ross

Car Ness from Shapinsay Ferry

Wartime coastal defences at the tip of Car Ness 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

Cormorants on rock outcrop

Rod Richmond

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