Ness of Ork

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Orkney

Scotland

Ness of Ork

Shapinsay: picnic bench at the north end A picnic bench occupies a pleasant position, just by the end of the road and with good views across to Eday, which we can just make out in the distance. — Shapinsay: picnic bench at the north end Credit: Chris Downer

Ness of Ork is a prominent coastal feature located on the northeastern coast of the Mainland in Orkney, Scotland. It is a headland that extends out into the North Sea, forming a distinctive point that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding seascape.

This rugged headland is composed of sedimentary rocks, primarily sandstone and conglomerate, which have been shaped by centuries of wind and wave erosion. The cliffs along the Ness of Ork rise steeply from the sea, reaching heights of over 100 feet in some areas. The exposed rock formations display layers of different colored sediment, providing a glimpse into the geological history of the area.

The Ness of Ork is known for its rich biodiversity, with a variety of seabirds nesting on the cliffs, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as migratory birds often rest and feed in the surrounding waters. The coastal waters around the headland are teeming with marine life, making it a great location for fishing and diving enthusiasts.

Additionally, the Ness of Ork has historical significance, with several archaeological sites nearby. The remains of an Iron Age broch, a circular stone tower-like structure, can be found on the headland, indicating human settlement in the area thousands of years ago. The strategic location of the Ness of Ork would have made it an ideal defensive position in ancient times.

Overall, the Ness of Ork is a captivating coastal feature that combines stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and a rich historical heritage. It is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking to experience the raw and unspoiled beauty of the Orkney Islands.

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Ness of Ork Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.087346/-2.8005715 or Grid Reference HY5422. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Shapinsay: picnic bench at the north end

A picnic bench occupies a pleasant position, just by the end of the road and with good views across to Eday, which we can just make out in the distance.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: non-antiquities on the beach

A small stone circle and a pile of stones have been put up by a visitor to this small but picturesque beach at the northern end of the island.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: sandy and rocky beach

A nice beach at the northern end of the island. I wonder if the dad and son in the background were as surprised as we were not to be the only visitors.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: Hillock Road

Surprisingly named on the 1:25,000 map, this little lane is a continuation of the B9058, at right angles to it. The beach is just behind us.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: Borroughston Broch

One of many brochs, or remains of, in Orkney, the one here was excavated in the 1860s but fell into poor condition again before being properly restored in the 1990s.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: Borroughston Broch from the north

Another view of HY5421 : Shapinsay: Borroughston Broch, from the opposite side.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: a line of running cows

Maybe 'running' is a bit of an exaggeration, but these cows approached us in line at a bit of a canter before deciding that there was nothing to interest them. A few minutes later they did the same, in similar formation, at the far end of the field.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: the B9058 heads north

Looking along the last dead-straight mile of the main road across the island.

Chris Downer

Shapinsay: hay bales and a sea view

Looking across one of the square patchwork fields of the island, with Rothiesholm Head on Stronsay in the distance.

Chris Downer

Ness of Ork, Shapinsay, from the air

Mike Pennington

Triangulation pillar, Ness of Ork, Shapinsay, Orkney

Looking west towards the coast at Noust of Erraby.

Claire Pegrum

Point of Duresse, Shapinsay, Orkney

Mull Head on Orkney Mainland can be seen on the left of the horizon.

Claire Pegrum

Broch of Burroughston

This is the entrance passageway to the broch, which is sufficiently well preserved to be readily recognisable as such. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. See Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

Broch of Burroughston

The broch still stands to about a third of its likely original height, and its internal features, including stairs and the bases of partitions, have survived. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. See Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

Broch of Burroughston

Looking down from the top of the wall, you get a reasonable idea of the internal layout, including the partitions that create smaller side chambers. The grating is modern, and covers the well. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. See Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

Broch of Burroughston

One of the typical features of a broch is that it has two walls, with a stair spiralling up to the top between the walls. This is part of that staircase. The broch is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. See Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

Broch of Burroughston

Looking down on the interior of the broch. The grating over the well is modern, as is the plinth holding an information board. The broch is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. See Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

Broch of Burroughston

The interior from beside the entrance passageway. The information board and the grating are modern. The broch is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. See Link

for details.

Anne Burgess

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Ness of Ork is located at Grid Ref: HY5422 (Lat: 59.087346, Lng: -2.8005715)

Unitary Authority: Orkney Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands