McGowan's Harbour

Coastal Marsh, Saltings in Fife

Scotland

McGowan's Harbour

Sand Martin nests There is a distinct stratum of softer sand in the bank at the top of the beach. Sand Martins have made their nests there. — Sand Martin nests Credit: Rob Burke

McGowan's Harbour is a picturesque coastal marsh located in Fife, Scotland. Situated on the eastern coast of the country, this area is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. The harbour is nestled between the charming towns of Crail and Anstruther, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The main feature of McGowan's Harbour is its sprawling coastal marsh, which is characterized by its extensive saltings. Saltings are coastal wetlands that are periodically flooded by the tides. These marshy areas are home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem.

The marshland at McGowan's Harbour is teeming with an array of plant species, including saltmarsh grasses, sea lavender, and samphire. These plants thrive in the brackish water, creating a lush and verdant landscape. The marsh also serves as an important habitat for various bird species, such as curlews, oystercatchers, and redshanks, which can be spotted wading through the shallow waters in search of food.

Visitors to McGowan's Harbour can enjoy leisurely walks along the coastline, taking in the stunning panoramic views of the North Sea. The area is also popular for birdwatching, as it provides an ideal vantage point to observe the diverse avian population. Additionally, the harbour offers opportunities for fishing and boating, attracting enthusiasts from near and far.

Overall, McGowan's Harbour is a remarkable coastal marsh that showcases the beauty and biodiversity of Scotland's coastline. With its scenic vistas, abundant wildlife, and recreational activities, it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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McGowan's Harbour Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.285504/-2.5972605 or Grid Reference NO6310. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Sand Martin nests

There is a distinct stratum of softer sand in the bank at the top of the beach. Sand Martins have made their nests there.

Rob Burke

Observation post north of Fife Ness

This small structure is at the top of the beach. It has a stone base covered by an iron partial cylinder with a domed top. It is a wartime two-man observation post, possibly associated with Crail airfield. It may be the one recorded as Canmore ID 80388, Site Number NO61SW 16, to the north-east and noted as "Not seen (knocked down?)".

Rob Burke

Observation post roof

This is the corroded iron roof of NO6310 : Observation post north of Fife Ness.

Rob Burke

Fife Ness View

Looking along the northern edge of the Ness on a very windy September afternoon. The in-shore water was remarkably sheltered.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Fife Ness View

Looking along the northern coastline of Fife Ness, at Balcomie Links, on a very windy afternoon which presented the golfers with a real challenge.

Mary and Angus Hogg

Rowan berries by a track to the sea

North of Wormiston Farm on the coast of Fife.

Neil Theasby

Track to the sea from Wormiston

Neil Theasby

Former lifeboat station above Balcomie Sands

Now a feature on the Balcomie Golf Links and used by the greenkeepers for storage.

Neil Theasby

Balcomie Golf Course

There can be but few golf courses with such scenic surroundings as Crail Golfing Society's Balcomie Links course, designed by golfing legend Old Tom Morris and laid out in 1895.

James Allan

Balcomie beach

The Fife Coastal Path involves a 400 metre sand and rock section along this beach to avoid the risk of being struck by a golf ball on the golf course of Balcomie Links.

James Allan

Beach at Randerston

The view of the beach at Randerston, looking towards Randerston Castle. The route of the Fife Coastal Path follows the shore line due to livestock in the fields on the right.

Sandy Gemmill

Caves at Randerston Castle

The view of two caves at Randerston Castle. The second cave, the opening of which is beyond the cave in view, is the larger of the two caves.

Sandy Gemmill

Fife Coastal Path

The view of the Fife Coastal Path after it has climbed from the beach up the eastern side of Randerston Castle. The golf course in the distance is the Balcomie course at Crail.

Sandy Gemmill

Balcomie Links from the Fife Coastal Path

The view from the Fife Coastal Path from the wooden shelter on the golf course NO6210 : Two greens. The path goes behind the green coloured shelter and the sign post on the right directs walkers on the correct path.

Sandy Gemmill