Season: summer
Dunnet Bay has an enormous beach, stretching right round from the Castlehill end to Dunnet Head. On this occasion I enjoyed the isolated middle section, which offers views out to sea and to both of these landmarks. The burn here is also home to the rare Great Yellow bumble bee and this is a wonderful way to access the beach itself. On arrival at the beach, you’re struck by the space in both directions and by the scale of the bay. This is a wonderful stretch of sand for a morning, afternoon or evening constitutional.
Sam and Ali arrive in Scotland.
The middle stretch of beach at Dunnet Bay.
Season: winter
Dunnet Bay sits between Thurso and John O’ Groats in Caithness. It is sheltered and features two beaches, Castlehill and Murkle Bay. At the western end, Castlehill is made up of sand and shingle, with grassy dunes behind. Popular with surfers, this is also a fine spot for a peaceful walk, as well as for birdwatching. Facilities are available in nearby Castletown. To the east is Murkle Bay beach, in the lea of Dunnet Head, which is the most northerly point in mainland Britain. Here you can see Eider ducks, ringed plover and oystercatchers, as well as seals and dolphins. The whole bay is a wildlife haven.
Karen, at Dunnet Bay in Caithness.
Low tide at Dunnet Bay.
