Mary's Skelly

Island in Fife

Scotland

Mary'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

Mary's Skelly is a small uninhabited island located off the coast of Fife, Scotland. Situated in the Firth of Forth, it is part of a group of islands known as the Forth Islands. With an area of approximately 5 acres, Mary's Skelly is one of the smallest islands in the archipelago.

The island is predominantly composed of rocky terrain, characterized by cliffs and outcrops. It is covered in lush vegetation, including grasses and shrubs, which provide a habitat for various bird species, such as nesting seagulls and cormorants. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, making it an attractive spot for fishing and wildlife observation.

Accessible only by boat, Mary's Skelly is a popular destination for day trips and nature enthusiasts. Its isolation and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal place for relaxation and solitude. Visitors can explore the island's rugged coastline, admire the panoramic views of the Firth of Forth, or indulge in birdwatching opportunities.

Historically, Mary's Skelly is associated with the legend of Mary Queen of Scots, who is said to have taken refuge on the island during her escape from imprisonment in nearby Lochleven Castle in 1568. However, there is limited archaeological evidence to support this claim.

Overall, Mary's Skelly is a charming and picturesque island that offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Mary's Skelly Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.285846/-2.5970558 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

Crail lifeboat station above Balcomie Sands

Now a feature on the Balcomie Golf Links and used by the greenkeepers for storage. Crail station opened in 1884 but closed in 1923.

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