Cromartyshire

Historic County in

Scotland

Cromartyshire

View over the Black Isle fields The buildings of Poyntzfield Farm and in the far distance, the snow covered mountains of the Highlands, at least 20 km away. — View over the Black Isle fields Credit: Bill Harrison

Cromartyshire, also known as the County of Cromarty, is a historic county located in the northern part of Scotland. Situated on the eastern coast, it covers an area of approximately 570 square miles. Cromartyshire borders the counties of Ross-shire to the south and Sutherland to the north.

The county is named after the town of Cromarty, which serves as its administrative center. Cromartyshire boasts a rich history, with evidence of human settlements dating back to prehistoric times. Throughout the centuries, the area has been inhabited by various cultures, including Picts, Vikings, and Scots.

The landscape of Cromartyshire is characterized by a diverse mix of coastal features, rolling hills, and fertile farmland. The county is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque views of the Cromarty Firth and the North Sea. The region is also home to several nature reserves, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting and outdoor activities.

Historically, Cromartyshire played a significant role in Scotland's maritime industry. The port of Cromarty served as a major trading hub, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, remnants of this maritime heritage can be seen in the town's architecture, with well-preserved Georgian and Victorian buildings lining its streets.

Cromartyshire is also known for its cultural heritage. The county has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing the work of local artists. The area is also home to several historic sites and museums, allowing visitors to delve into the past and learn about Cromartyshire's fascinating history.

Overall, Cromartyshire offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions, making it an enticing destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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Cromartyshire Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.6582/-4.14769 or Grid Reference NH7165. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

View over the Black Isle fields

The buildings of Poyntzfield Farm and in the far distance, the snow covered mountains of the Highlands, at least 20 km away.

Bill Harrison

Single-track road on the Black Isle

The snow-covered mountains are on the mainland, the other side of the Cromarty Firth, at least 20-km away.

Bill Harrison

Beech Grove

A fine grove of beech trees adjacent to Udale Farm enjoying some spring sunshine.

Bill Harrison

Foreshore at Udale Bay

Shortly before high tide, so most of the mudflat is underwater. Still a few birds by the water's edge, looks like oystercatchers and shelducks. A rather hazy day, with the land in the background somewhat obscured.

Craig Wallace

Udale Bay

This view is from the RSPB hide, see Link

for information.

Peter Church

RSPB Hide - Udale Bay

See Link

for information relating to this hide.

Peter Church

A view from the car park at Udale Bay

An oil platform can be seen in the background.

James Denham

Beach car park at Udale Bay

Near Jemimaville.

James Denham

Looking east at Jemimaville

On the B9163.

James Denham

Ruins of St. Michael's Kirk and Kirkmichael kirkyard

Near Balblair on the Black Isle. The ruined nave and chancel of the church, from the 16th. century can clearly be seen south of Balblair. The chancel became the burial ground of the locally prominent family of Shaw and the cemetery appears to still be in use.

James Denham

RSPB Bird Shelter on the side of Udale Bay

There is a fine hide by Udale Bay on the approach to Jemimaville and two shelters in less visible locations. Udale Bay is a RSPB reserve.

Julian Paren

Mudflat, Udale Bay

Not golden sand, but mud has plenty of interest for the ecologist.

Julian Paren

From the side of Udale Bay looking to the mouth of the Cromarty Firth

In the distance can be seen the North Suitor and South Suitor that sit astride the entrance of the Cromarty Firth. The mudflats are part of the RSPB reserve of Udale Bay.

Julian Paren

Mud at mid-tide in Udale Bay

Udale Bay is so flat that there is a vast expanse of mud even at half tide. The Cromarty Firth has many structures related to the oil industry - some permanent and others that find only temporary home there.

Julian Paren

The Letter I - on the Celtic Tree Alphabet Mosaic Trail

Eighteen different community groups from across the Black Isle took part in this project in 2013, each taking a letter from the Celtic tree alphabet and creating a design inspired by that tree, its associated folklore, flora and fauna. The Letter I lies opposite the Kirkmichael burial ground. The Mosaic was made by the Resolis Friendship Group. I is for the Yew Tree. Celtic: Ioho, Gaelic: Iubhar Yew is one of the longest lived of all British native trees with the oldest known specimen being over 3000 years old. In Celtic times Yew symbolized life, death and rebirth, and it is sometimes known as the death tree, presumably because of its highly poisonous nature. Shields and weapons fashioned from Yew wood were admired by the Celts and considered auspicious on the battlefield. A bow and arrow are shown in the top left corner of the mosaic. Divination rods are also traditionally made from Yew.

Julian Paren