Englishman's Skelly

Island in Fife

Scotland

Englishman's Skelly

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

Englishman's Skelly is a small uninhabited island located off the coast of Fife, Scotland. Situated in the North Sea, it lies approximately 3 miles northeast of the coastal town of Anstruther. The island is part of the Isle of May National Nature Reserve and is managed by NatureScot (formerly known as Scottish Natural Heritage).

Covering an area of around 4 acres, Englishman's Skelly is a rocky and rugged island characterized by its low-lying vegetation and lack of trees. The island is primarily composed of sandstone and shale, with its coastline featuring cliffs and rocky outcrops. The terrain is uneven and hilly, providing nesting sites for various seabird species.

The name "Englishman's Skelly" is believed to have originated from the time when the island was used for smuggling activities, with the name "Skelly" referring to a shelter or hiding place. It is also speculated that the name may have been given by local fishermen who used the island as a navigational marker.

The island is home to a diverse range of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. It serves as an important breeding ground for these species, with thousands of birds visiting the island during the breeding season. Additionally, grey seals can often be seen lounging on the rocks surrounding the island.

Due to its ecological significance, access to Englishman's Skelly is restricted to protect the wildlife and natural habitat. However, visitors can observe the island's wildlife from boat tours that operate in the area, providing an opportunity to appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of this remote Scottish island.

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Englishman's Skelly Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.289353/-2.5984352 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

Rocks at Old Haiks

A rock feature near the coastal path, with the trees of Cambo Estate in the background.

James Allan

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