Horse Isle Shelves

Coastal Marsh, Saltings in Ayrshire

Scotland

Horse Isle Shelves

Boat yard
Boat yard Credit: Mick Garratt

Horse Isle Shelves is a captivating coastal marsh located in Ayrshire, Scotland. Known for its unique ecosystem and breathtaking views, this area is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Stretching along the coastline, the marshland transforms into a mesmerizing landscape of saltings during high tide, creating a stunning contrast of colors.

The Horse Isle Shelves is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. Its rich saltmarsh vegetation consists of various types of grasses, sedges, and herbs that have adapted to the saltwater environment. These plants provide essential habitats and food sources for numerous species of birds, insects, and small mammals.

Birdwatchers flock to Horse Isle Shelves to witness the incredible array of birdlife that inhabits the area. The marsh serves as a critical stopover point for migratory birds, making it a hotspot for birdwatching during the spring and autumn seasons. Visitors can spot a wide variety of species, including wading birds like curlews and herons, as well as ducks, geese, and swans.

Aside from its ecological significance, Horse Isle Shelves also offers visitors a chance to enjoy the tranquility of nature. Exploring the marshland's winding paths, visitors can indulge in serene walks while taking in the stunning panoramic views of the coastline. The shimmering water and vast expanse of marshland create a calming atmosphere that allows visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Overall, Horse Isle Shelves in Ayrshire is a remarkable coastal marsh that showcases the wonders of nature. Its unique ecosystem, diverse wildlife, and picturesque views make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an immersive experience in Scotland's natural beauty.

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Horse Isle Shelves Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.642978/-4.8418851 or Grid Reference NS2142. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Boat yard
Boat yard
Harbour entrance
Harbour entrance
Seagull on Outflow
Seagull on Outflow
Entrance for Arran Ferry at Ardrossan
Entrance for Arran Ferry at Ardrossan
Caledonian MacBrayne's Ardossan terminal
Caledonian MacBrayne's Ardossan terminal
Beacon on Horse Isle
Beacon on Horse Isle
Lighthouse and long-stay parking A view of the harbour wall and parking area. The condition of the sea wall is a matter of concern, and is expected to form part of the works on upgrading the harbour facilities in readiness for the new vessel.
Lighthouse and long-stay parking
A view of the harbour wall and parking area. The condition of the sea wall is a matter of concern, and is expected to form part of the works on upgrading the harbour facilities in readiness for the new vessel.
Vehicle lanes and ferry terminal building Ferry facilities at Ardrossan harbour. This area is expected to be re-modelled for extra capacity and speed of loading when the new ferry takes up the service.
Vehicle lanes and ferry terminal building
Ferry facilities at Ardrossan harbour. This area is expected to be re-modelled for extra capacity and speed of loading when the new ferry takes up the service.
MV Caledonian Isles The ferry from Brodick on Arran enters the harbour at Ardrossan.
MV Caledonian Isles
The ferry from Brodick on Arran enters the harbour at Ardrossan.
MV Caledonian Isles docking The ferry on approach to the linkspan with bow-visor raised.
MV Caledonian Isles docking
The ferry on approach to the linkspan with bow-visor raised.
Arran view An atmospheric, afternoon view of Arran from the harbour lighthouse. Navigation markers and the Horse Isle Shelves can be seen near to the shore.
Arran view
An atmospheric, afternoon view of Arran from the harbour lighthouse. Navigation markers and the Horse Isle Shelves can be seen near to the shore.
Old milestone On North Bay on Montgomerie Road near the junction of Caledonia Road is this very eroded toll road milestone.   Until 2008 it was sited at the Shell Bridge.   After roadworks it was reset at its current position.   This right-hand face has a very eroded Largs 11/Greenock 25 although the bench mark is clear.   The left face has Irvine/9½/Kilwinning/5½/Saltcoats/2.
Old milestone
On North Bay on Montgomerie Road near the junction of Caledonia Road is this very eroded toll road milestone. Until 2008 it was sited at the Shell Bridge. After roadworks it was reset at its current position. This right-hand face has a very eroded Largs 11/Greenock 25 although the bench mark is clear. The left face has Irvine/9½/Kilwinning/5½/Saltcoats/2.
North Crescent Road Shoreline bungalows on the outskirts of Ardrossan.
North Crescent Road
Shoreline bungalows on the outskirts of Ardrossan.
Towards Horse Island Looking out across Ardrossan's North Bay towards Horse Isle and its Martello Tower.
Towards Horse Island
Looking out across Ardrossan's North Bay towards Horse Isle and its Martello Tower.
Pipe outflow, North Bay, Ardrossan
Pipe outflow, North Bay, Ardrossan
Beachside sign, North Bay, Ardrossan
Beachside sign, North Bay, Ardrossan
North Crescent Road, Ardrossan
North Crescent Road, Ardrossan
Ardrossan Community Sports Hub & Fitness Centre
Ardrossan Community Sports Hub & Fitness Centre
Show me another place!

Horse Isle Shelves is located at Grid Ref: NS2142 (Lat: 55.642978, Lng: -4.8418851)

Unitary Authority: North Ayrshire

Police Authority: Ayrshire

What 3 Words

///defected.melon.uncle. Near Ardrossan, North Ayrshire

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