Black Ness

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Kincardineshire

Scotland

Black Ness

Sill exposed on Darn Bay cliff The sill runs from half way up the left of the frame to the top of the cliff on the right in a very flattened S curve. Samples taken on 22 Dec 21 were consistent with lava. If this is an offshoot of the dyke shown on the BGS overlay about 100m to the left (W), then it is a &#039;North Britain Siluro-devonian Calc-alkaline Dyke Suite - Microgranite&#039;. The rest of the cliffs are Gourdon conglomerate with interbedded sandstone layers. — Sill exposed on Darn Bay cliff Credit: Nigel Feilden

Black Ness is a prominent coastal feature located in Kincardineshire, Scotland. It is known for its picturesque views and distinctive geological features. As a headland and point, it juts out into the North Sea, forming a natural boundary between the land and the sea.

The headland is characterized by its rugged and rocky terrain. Tall cliffs tower above the sea, creating a dramatic landscape. The rocks that make up Black Ness are primarily composed of granite and schist, giving it a unique and visually striking appearance. These geological formations also provide a habitat for a diverse range of coastal plants and wildlife.

The coastline surrounding Black Ness is blessed with stunning vistas. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the North Sea, with the horizon stretching endlessly into the distance. On clear days, it is possible to see as far as the Aberdeen coastline to the north.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Black Ness offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploration. A network of trails winds through the headland, allowing visitors to discover its hidden coves, secluded beaches, and sea caves. The rugged nature of the terrain provides a challenging experience for hikers and climbers, making it a popular spot for adventure seekers.

Black Ness is also of historical significance. It was once a strategic location for coastal defenses during times of conflict, and remnants of fortifications can still be seen today. The area is also known for its rich maritime heritage, with tales of shipwrecks and fishing traditions adding to its allure.

In summary, Black Ness in Kincardineshire is a captivating coastal feature that offers a blend of natural beauty, geological fascination, and historical significance. Its rugged cliffs, stunning views, and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Black Ness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.859445/-2.2393279 or Grid Reference NO8574. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sill exposed on Darn Bay cliff

The sill runs from half way up the left of the frame to the top of the cliff on the right in a very flattened S curve. Samples taken on 22 Dec 21 were consistent with lava. If this is an offshoot of the dyke shown on the BGS overlay about 100m to the left (W), then it is a 'North Britain Siluro-devonian Calc-alkaline Dyke Suite - Microgranite'. The rest of the cliffs are Gourdon conglomerate with interbedded sandstone layers.

Nigel Feilden

Coarse conglomerate in the cliffs above Darn Bay

Some of the rounded stones are getting on for a metre across - compare the fence posts above. The BGS has 'Rob's Cove Conglomerate Member - Conglomerate'

Nigel Feilden

A lay-by on the A92

Ralph Greig

Oilseed rape

A field of oilseed rape beside a turn off for Catterline. The haar was presenting with me with a bit of a challenge, but the good news was that I was free of the commuters on the A92.

Richard Webb

Stubble, Grange

The haar just reveals piles of manure and an explanation for the mud.

Richard Webb

Wheat, Kinneff

Some fields here had been harvested, but this wheat was still green.

Richard Webb

Kirkcorner

A minor road at Kinneff in the wretched haar.

Richard Webb

Large open tank, Wardhead

Alex McGregor

Haar

Kinneff on the Kincardineshire coast during a prolonged period of coastal fog.

Richard Webb

Minor road near Whistleberry

A prolonged period of haar.

Richard Webb

Undulating grassland near Pitcarry

C Michael Hogan

Craig David

The house is just in this square, but the similarly named crag behind it is in the next square. The geological map shows a narrow outcrop here of a volcanic rock called trachyandesite, faulted at both ends. This would account for the presence of the curiously-shaped crag. It is said to have been named because King David II and his Queen, Margaret, took shelter here after being shipwrecked on the rocks below at NO8472 : The King's Step.

Anne Burgess

Rocky Inlet

This inlet is just west of NO8472 : The King's Step. It would be an interesting sight in a nor'easterly storm!

Anne Burgess

The King's Step

The story goes that King David II, returning to Scotland in 1341 after being in exile in France, was shipwrecked here. In 1362 he granted a charter to the nearby burgh of Inverbervie.

Anne Burgess

Not for Landing!

This inlet just west of NO8472 : The King's Step, where King David II was shipwrecked in 1341, would not be a good place to land. Certainly, it is sheltered from south and west, and even north or due east, but it is treacherously rocky and very exposed to the north-east, whence come the wildest winter storms on this coast.

Anne Burgess

Rocks north of Bervie Bay

The westerly dip of the rock strata here is very clear in this view. Bervis Bay is in the middle distance, and Red Head in Angus is just faintly visible on the horizon in the far distance.

Anne Burgess