Point of Glen

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Point of Glen

Cattle near Hamar Farm A field boundary marked on the map near here no longer exists on the ground.
Cattle near Hamar Farm Credit: Bill Boaden

Point of Glen is a prominent coastal feature located in Orkney, an archipelago in northern Scotland. Situated on the western coast of the island of Mainland, it is a captivating headland that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean.

Rising majestically from the surrounding landscape, Point of Glen is characterized by its rugged cliffs, which tower above the crashing waves below. These cliffs are composed of sedimentary rocks, displaying layers of sandstone and shale that have been shaped by the relentless forces of erosion over millions of years. The exposed rocks offer a glimpse into the geological history of the region, with fossils occasionally discovered in the layers.

The headland provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, offering visitors an opportunity to marvel at the dramatic cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and distant islands dotting the horizon. The area is also home to a diverse array of seabirds, such as fulmars, kittiwakes, and guillemots, which nest on the cliffs and provide a lively spectacle for wildlife enthusiasts.

Access to Point of Glen is possible via a well-maintained footpath that winds its way along the cliff edge, allowing visitors to explore the area safely. The path provides access to a small sandy beach nestled in a sheltered cove, which offers a tranquil spot for picnics or relaxation.

Point of Glen is not only a remarkable natural feature but also holds historical significance. The nearby Birsay Bay, just north of the headland, is home to the ruins of the Norse settlement of Birsay, providing a fascinating insight into the island's Viking past.

In conclusion, Point of Glen is a captivating headland located in Orkney, offering stunning coastal views, a diverse array of wildlife, and a glimpse into the region's geological and historical heritage.

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

Point of Glen Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.288267/-2.8852578 or Grid Reference HY4944. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Cattle near Hamar Farm A field boundary marked on the map near here no longer exists on the ground.
Cattle near Hamar Farm
A field boundary marked on the map near here no longer exists on the ground.
Track to Mayfield There is a glimpse of the cliffs at Castle O'Burrian far right.
Track to Mayfield
There is a glimpse of the cliffs at Castle O'Burrian far right.
Cattle near Hamar Farm All the cattle are inquisitive, but the older ones cannot be bothered to move like the younger ones.
Cattle near Hamar Farm
All the cattle are inquisitive, but the older ones cannot be bothered to move like the younger ones.
Ruined farm building near East Hamar A common sight in Orkney. This one doesn't have a new building erected next to it.
Ruined farm building near East Hamar
A common sight in Orkney. This one doesn't have a new building erected next to it.
Drainage channel near Einor Drains are common to aid the farmland, which supports mixed farming.
Drainage channel near Einor
Drains are common to aid the farmland, which supports mixed farming.
Drainage channel near Einor Part of a network draining this farmland. The wind turbine ahead is standing on the coast.
Drainage channel near Einor
Part of a network draining this farmland. The wind turbine ahead is standing on the coast.
Einor A large house by the B9066 which appears to have plenty of character, though I am not sure it is currently occupied.
Einor
A large house by the B9066 which appears to have plenty of character, though I am not sure it is currently occupied.
Ruined farmhouse at Einor
Ruined farmhouse at Einor
Cattle near Einor
Cattle near Einor
Chunky cow near Einor Looking down towards the west coast near Branstone.
Chunky cow near Einor
Looking down towards the west coast near Branstone.
Cattle above Musandale Grazing land with views down to the Bay of Tuquoy.
Cattle above Musandale
Grazing land with views down to the Bay of Tuquoy.
Sheep running away Sheep on Orkney are far more wary than the cattle.
Sheep running away
Sheep on Orkney are far more wary than the cattle.
Preparing for silage Fields in Skelwick, part of Westray.
Preparing for silage
Fields in Skelwick, part of Westray.
Lane to Branstone The lane is not a through road but services a handful of small communities.
Lane to Branstone
The lane is not a through road but services a handful of small communities.
Drainage channel near Cubbigeo Looking inland. The farmland depends on such drainage.
Drainage channel near Cubbigeo
Looking inland. The farmland depends on such drainage.
Road to Cubbigeo A small community by the sea in Skelwick.
Road to Cubbigeo
A small community by the sea in Skelwick.
The shore at Cubbigeo The flat layered rock means you don't need to construct a slipway.
The shore at Cubbigeo
The flat layered rock means you don't need to construct a slipway.
Fishing boat high and dry at Cubbigeo It is a long way from Fraserburgh where it is registered.
Fishing boat high and dry at Cubbigeo
It is a long way from Fraserburgh where it is registered.
Show me another place!

Point of Glen is located at Grid Ref: HY4944 (Lat: 59.288267, Lng: -2.8852578)

Unitary Authority: Orkney Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///slant.increased.newly. Near Pierowall, Orkney Islands

Related Wikis

Rapness

Rapness is a settlement on the island of Westray in Orkney, Scotland. The slipway is the ferry terminal for the Orkney Ferries crossing from Kirkwall on...

Westside Church

Westside Church, (also known as Cross Kirk), is a ruined 12th century church located on the island of Westray in Orkney, Scotland. Archaeological excavations...

Holland House, Papa Westray

Holland Farm is a historic farm complex located on the island of Papa Westray in Orkney, Scotland. The two-storey harled flagstone house with crow-stepped...

Westray

Westray (, Scots: Westree) is one of the Orkney Islands in Scotland, with a usual resident population of just under 600 people. Its main village is Pierowall...

Have you been to Point of Glen?

Leave your review of Point of Glen below (or comments, questions and feedback).