The Knee

Island in Caithness

Scotland

The Knee

Duncansby Head Trig Point Duncansby Head Trig Point is close to the summit of Duncansby Head TUMP which is fenced off.
Name: Duncansby Head
Hill number: 10048
Height: 64m / 210ft
Parent (Ma/M): 1150 Morven
Section: 16C: Tongue to Wick and Helmsdale
County/UA: Highland (UA)
Class: Tump (0-99m)
Grid ref: ND 40554 73241
Summit feature: no feature
Drop: 42m
Col: 22m ND402727 — Duncansby Head Trig Point Credit: Rude Health

The Knee is a small island located off the northeastern coast of Caithness, Scotland. Situated in the North Sea, it is part of the Pentland Firth archipelago, which also includes neighboring islands such as Stroma and Swona. The Knee is known for its rugged and picturesque landscapes, characterized by steep cliffs, rocky shores, and a diverse range of seabirds.

Covering an area of approximately 2.5 square kilometers, The Knee has a relatively low population, with only a handful of residents. The island is accessible by boat, and there is a small harbor that serves as a landing point for visitors. The Knee offers a tranquil and remote environment, making it an attractive destination for those seeking solitude or nature enthusiasts.

The island's geology is predominantly composed of Old Red Sandstone, which forms the towering cliffs that line its coastline. These cliffs provide nesting sites for various seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. Visitors to The Knee can enjoy birdwatching opportunities and marvel at the impressive colonies that inhabit the island during the breeding season.

Due to its location in the Pentland Firth, The Knee experiences strong tidal currents, making it an important site for marine life. The surrounding waters are home to seals, dolphins, and occasionally whales, providing additional attractions for wildlife enthusiasts.

In summary, The Knee is a captivating and secluded island in Caithness, Scotland, offering stunning landscapes, abundant birdlife, and a unique marine environment. Its unspoiled beauty and tranquility make it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.

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The Knee Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.639342/-3.0242944 or Grid Reference ND4072. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Duncansby Head Trig Point

Duncansby Head Trig Point is close to the summit of Duncansby Head TUMP which is fenced off. Name: Duncansby Head Hill number: 10048 Height: 64m / 210ft Parent (Ma/M): 1150 Morven Section: 16C: Tongue to Wick and Helmsdale County/UA: Highland (UA) Class: Tump (0-99m) Grid ref: ND 40554 73241 Summit feature: no feature Drop: 42m Col: 22m ND402727

Rude Health

Duncansby Head from the air

Mike Pennington

Duncansby Stacks

These impressive sea stacks are just south of Duncansby Head in the far North East of Scotland.

Malcolm Neal

Dunscaby Head

Duncansby Head is the most north-easterly part of the Scottish mainland. The headland juts into the North Sea, with the Pentland Firth to its north and west and the Moray Firth to its south. The Dunscaby Head lighthouse stands on the tip of the headland. The lighthouse, which was built in 1924 and automated in 1997, is unusual in that its lantern tower is square rather than the more traditional round design.

David Dixon

Trig Point at Duncansby Head

Stacks of Duncansby in the background

John Ferguson

Duncansby Head Lighthouse

Alan Reid

Sea cliffs at Duncansby Head

Orkney Isles on the horizon.

Alan Reid

Geo of Sclaites, a deep cleft in the cliffs

Near Duncansby Head, this cleft has been cut by the sea as the tide rushes into it compressing air in rocky gaps via waves squeezing air splitting the rock. This is aided by boulders and pebbles also eroding the cleft as they are smashed into the cliff by incoming waves.

Malcolm Neal