Northern View

Where the North Sea Meets the Mainland

Northern View sits on a windswept headland on Orkney’s Mainland, looking north across the Pentland Firth toward the Scottish mainland and the distant cliffs of North Ronaldsay. The viewpoint is informal and unmarked, reached by a narrow track off an unnamed road, with no buildings or signage. From here, the sea stretches endlessly, broken only by the occasional ferry, fishing boat or seabird. The horizon is wide and open, and on clear days you can see the outline of Caithness and the far northern coast of Scotland, a reminder of Orkney’s position at the edge of the British Isles. The landscape is classic Orkney: low, grassy hills, exposed rock, and a coastline carved by wind and tide. There are no trees, just hardy grasses, heather and sea pinks clinging to the thin soil. The air is often sharp with salt, and the sound of the wind and waves is constant, making it a place that feels both exposed and deeply peaceful.

A Quiet Spot for Reflection and Photography

Northern View is not a developed attraction; it’s a natural vantage point that rewards those who seek out quiet corners of the islands. It’s especially popular with photographers and walkers who want to capture Orkney’s wilder side. The light here is dramatic – soft and golden at sunrise, moody and stormy in winter, and in summer, it can linger late into the evening as part of Orkney’s famous ‘Grimlins’ light. The view north is framed by the open sea and the distant islands, while to the west you can often see the outline of Hoy and the Old Man of Hoy on the horizon. The foreground is a mix of rough pasture and rocky outcrops, with paths worn by sheep and the occasional visitor. There are no benches or shelters, so it’s a place to stand, breathe, and take in the scale of the landscape.

Wildlife and the Rhythm of the Sea

This stretch of coast is alive with seabirds, especially in spring and summer. Gulls, fulmars, and skuas patrol the cliffs and the sea, while oystercatchers and curlews call from the shore. In the water, you might spot seals, porpoises or even the occasional minke whale passing through the Firth. The tides here are strong, and the currents between Orkney and the mainland are some of the fastest in the UK, creating a dynamic, ever-changing seascape. The area is also part of Orkney’s wider network of coastal paths and quiet roads, making it a natural stop on longer walks or drives around the northern part of the island. It’s close to other remote sites and small settlements, but feels isolated and timeless, a place where the rhythm of the sea and the seasons still dominate.

Visiting with Respect and Preparation

Northern View is a raw, natural place with no facilities, so visitors need to come prepared. There are no toilets, shelters or drinking water, and the paths can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Strong footwear and warm, windproof clothing are essential, as the weather can change quickly and the wind is often fierce. The site is best suited to independent travelers who are comfortable with remote, undeveloped locations. It’s not suitable for those with limited mobility, as the approach is over rough ground with no paved paths or handrails. Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control, especially near cliffs and livestock. Because it’s so exposed, the best times to visit are in calm, clear weather, but even on overcast days the atmosphere is powerful. Sunrise is particularly special, when the first light hits the sea and the mainland, and in winter there’s a chance of seeing the Northern Lights dancing over the northern horizon.