Speat

Island in Wigtownshire

Scotland

Speat

Arched Rock bed at Portdown bay Credit: Tony Page

Speat is a small, picturesque island located in Wigtownshire, off the southwestern coast of Scotland. It is part of the larger archipelago known as the Southern Hebrides. The island is approximately 2 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, with a total land area of about 3 square miles.

Speat is characterized by its rugged coastline, consisting of sheer cliffs and rocky coves, which provide habitat for a diverse range of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. The island's interior is hilly and covered with a mix of grassland, heath, and scattered shrubs.

The island has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Ruins of ancient settlements and burial sites can be found, indicating a long history of occupation. In more recent times, Speat was used for farming, primarily for sheep grazing, although the population declined significantly in the 20th century.

Today, Speat remains uninhabited, with no permanent residents. However, it attracts visitors who are drawn to its untouched natural beauty and tranquility. The island provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring its geological features. Access to Speat is mainly by boat, with several local boat tours offering trips to the island. However, it is important to note that the island does not have any amenities or services, so visitors must come prepared with supplies and take care to leave no trace.

Overall, Speat is a remote and unspoiled island, offering visitors a glimpse into Scotland's rugged coastal landscapes and a chance to experience the peace and solitude of nature.

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Speat Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 54.648227/-4.9329227 or Grid Reference NX1032. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Arched Rock bed at Portdown bay

Tony Page

Dunman fort

It proved impossible to find a viewpoint that does justice to this fine piece of fortification on the aptly named hill of Dunman, since it is the highest point around. Quite a lot of rock protrudes from the southern rampart which follows a distinct cleft in the hill. The fort commands a fine view of the North Channel as it is situated above formidable cliffs.

Jonathan Wilkins

Portdown Bay

A vertiginous drop down a gully from the sheep path at the edge of the cliffs leads to the optimistically-named Portdown Bay.

Jonathan Wilkins

Mid Muntloch Farm

The farm has surely one of the longest barns in existence? The hill behind the farm is Slewhabble.

Jeff Wells

Knowes Farm

The Knowes translates as 'the knolls' in the ancient Scottish language. There is certainly a surfeit of grassy knolls in the area.

Jeff Wells

Cardryne Farm

Owing to the decline in profitability of dairy farming Cardryne, like many other local dairy farms, is currently for sale.

Jeff Wells

Knock Knowe

'Knock' is a Scottish variant of 'clock'. A 'Knowe' is a knoll in the Scottish language. I have no idea why this hill is so named. It appears to be a completely featureless, muddy, ploughed object.

Jeff Wells

East Muntloch Farm

East Muntloch is one of the farms locally to have diversified into offering holiday and B&B accommodation.

Jeff Wells

Pulinkum Farm and Slewmag

Just the roof of buildings on Pulinkum Farm can be seen. The hill behind is Slewmag, and the Mull of Galloway can be seen in the distance on the right of the picture.

Jeff Wells

Knowes Cottage

One of many local farm cottages awaiting sympathetic restoration.

Jeff Wells

Port Kemin

Tony Page

Rocky Coastline, on the Rhins of Galloway

Tony Page

Rain curtain

View of the road as it approaches the bend after passing East Muntloch farm. It was dry where I was standing, but a heavy squall was in progress at the end of the road as can be seen from the misty curtain running alongside the hedge in the distance.

Ian Paterson

Summit Cairn

A small cairn, rather overgrown, at the summit of Auchneight Moor. To the right is the slope of High Slock Fell.

Jonathan Wilkins

Cattle sheds at Cardryne

At this time of year only the calves are living in the big sheds. A farm road towards the shore runs between the farm buildings.

Jonathan Wilkins

Beef herd at Cardryne

Inquisitive, young beef cattle beside the farm track.

Jonathan Wilkins

Cliff edge with Man

Flower-rich turf atop the cliffs to the south of Knock Knowe. In the distance, the Isle of Man is clearly visible, with a line of cumulus clouds marking the high ground.

Jonathan Wilkins