West Inch

Coastal Marsh, Saltings in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

West Inch

The derelict railway carriage at Cairnglass Farm Credit: Peter Aikman

West Inch is a picturesque coastal marsh and saltings located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Situated on the eastern coast of the country, this area boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

The marsh stretches over a vast expanse, covering approximately 100 hectares of land. It is characterized by its unique habitat, consisting of salt marshes, mudflats, and salt pans. These habitats are formed by the interaction of the nearby North Sea and the River Ythan, creating a perfect environment for a wide range of plant and animal species.

The landscape of West Inch is dominated by an intricate network of tidal channels, which constantly shift and change with the ebb and flow of the tides. The salt marshes are covered in vibrant green vegetation, such as sea grasses and samphire, which provide important feeding grounds for numerous bird species.

Speaking of birds, West Inch is a haven for birdwatchers and ornithologists alike. The variety of habitats supports a rich avian population, including wading birds like redshanks, oystercatchers, and curlews, as well as terns, gulls, and ducks. Many of these species are migratory, making West Inch a vital stopover point along their journey.

Beyond its ecological significance, West Inch is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The marsh offers opportunities for walking, birdwatching, and photography, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

In summary, West Inch is a remarkable coastal marsh and saltings in Aberdeenshire, known for its diverse habitats, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery. It is a place where nature thrives and offers a unique experience for those seeking a connection with the natural world.

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West Inch Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.65155/-1.8951509 or Grid Reference NK0662. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The derelict railway carriage at Cairnglass Farm

Peter Aikman

St Combs

David Purchase

Field at Corsekelly

The farm buildings are in the next square, but the foreground field is in this square.

Anne Burgess

Tufted Duck Hotel

This is a very pleasant and, given its out-of-the-way location, surprisingly successful hotel. The building has been much improved since it was first built by the extension at the front. Compare with NK0562 : Tufted Duck Hotel, St Combs, taken eight years earlier.

Anne Burgess

New House

This building came as quite a surprise, and it isn't on the maps yet. On enquiring, I was informed that it is a private house, not yet completed. It certainly has a fine view to seaward.

Anne Burgess

Chain Arch

This is one of a number of sculptures made out of links of chain and painted white standing on an area that used to have a bun in a hollow but has been filled in and levelled. See also NK0562 : Chain Sculptures.

Anne Burgess

Chain Sculptures

I presume that these are some sort of environmental art. Amazing what can be done with some links of chain and a can or three of white paint. See also NK0562 : Chain Arch.

Anne Burgess

North of Inzie Head

A low rocky foreshore extends north from Inzie Head past St Combs.

Anne Burgess

Bench with a View

The bench is built of granite blocks so while it would be a wonderful place to sit and admire the view of Inzie Head and NK0662 : Beach at St Combs, intending users would be well advised to take a cushion with them.

Anne Burgess

Beach at St Combs

This is the north end of a sandy beach that stretches 17 kilometres (almost 11 miles) almost all the way to Peterhead, curving round to landward of NK1157 : Rattray Head Lighthouse.

Anne Burgess

Pallet Graveyard

I have to admit that my first thought on spotting this was, "Firewood!" It would make enough kindling to keep me supplied for years.

Anne Burgess

Builder's Yard?

It looks as if the business here could be laying granite setts. There is a very fine example of such a path at the back of NK0562 : Tufted Duck Hotel.

Anne Burgess

Pillbox, Inzie Head, Aberdeenshire

The pillbox is one of five which overlooked an anti-tank ditch, most of which was a converted drainage ditch, running between Inzie Head and Loch of Strathbeg.

Claire Pegrum

Pillboxes below Gallow Hill, Aberdeenshire

These pillboxes a part of a series of five which overlooked an anti-tank ditch, most of which was a converted drainage ditch, running between Inzie Head and Loch of Strathbeg. As it didn't have the raised beach behind it, the anti-tank ditch in the vicinity of the two further pillboxes was supplemented by mine fields.

Claire Pegrum

Field margin, St Combs, Aberdeenshire

The field margin has been planted with sunflowers, providing a good source of seeds for wild birds. The road which can just be seen to the right is the C21B and the road sign is at its junction with the B9033.

Claire Pegrum