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Yesnaby Castle Sea Stack, Orkney

Dramatic 115-foot sandstone sea stack with a natural arch, set amid wild cliffs and crashing Atlantic waves on Orkney’s west coast.

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Yesnaby Castle is a striking 115-foot (35-meter) natural sea stack located on the west coast of Mainland Orkney, near Stromness. Famous for its distinctive 'door' shaped arch and precarious twin-legged appearance, it stands amid dramatic Old Red Sandstone cliffs and crashing waves. Accessible via a scenic coastal walk from the Yesnaby car park, this site offers breathtaking views, geological interest, and a glimpse into Orkney’s rugged maritime landscape.

A brief summary to Yesnaby Castle sea stack

  • Stromness, Yesnaby, KW16 3LP, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as the coastal path can be muddy and uneven, especially after rain.
  • Visit during calm weather for safer walking and the best views of the sea stack and surrounding cliffs.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique natural arch and the dramatic coastal scenery.
  • Be mindful of tides and weather if exploring nearby geos and sea caves along the coast.
  • Respect the natural environment by staying on paths and avoiding climbing or disturbing the stack.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive from Stromness to Yesnaby via the B9057, a journey of about 15 minutes (10 km). Parking is available near the old WWII coastal battery. Note that parking is limited and the road is narrow in places. No parking fees apply.

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Stromness to the Yesnaby area, which typically takes 20-30 minutes. Service frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. From the bus stop, expect a 15-20 minute walk along the coastal path to the sea stack.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, a scenic 3-4 hour round-trip walk from Stromness to Yesnaby Castle is possible, following coastal and countryside paths. The terrain is moderate with some uneven sections and offers rewarding views throughout.

Yesnaby Castle sea stack location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Yesnaby Castle sea stack

A Natural Marvel on Orkney’s West Coast

Yesnaby Castle is an impressive sea stack rising 115 feet above the turbulent North Atlantic, crafted from Old Red Sandstone. Its unique shape resembles a Jenga tower with a natural archway carved by relentless wind and waves, giving it a distinctive doorway-like feature. This precarious structure stands on two uneven legs—one thick and sturdy, the other slender and vulnerable—highlighting the ongoing power of natural erosion that will eventually claim it. Situated just south of the Brough of Bigging, the stack is a dramatic focal point against the rugged cliffs of Yesnaby.

Geological and Coastal Landscape

The surrounding coastline is renowned for spectacular sandstone cliffs, blowholes, geos (narrow inlets), and sea stacks, all shaped by the fierce Atlantic weather. The cliffs display fascinating cross-bedding and storm beach formations, offering insight into the geological history of the region. The sea below often boils and crashes with force, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment that captivates visitors and photographers alike. The area’s wildness is enhanced by the absence of intrusive climbing gear, preserving its natural state.

Walking and Visitor Experience

Visitors typically reach Yesnaby Castle via a 15-20 minute walk along a well-marked coastal path from the Yesnaby car park, near an old World War II coastal battery. The walk is accessible and rewarding, offering panoramic views of the cliffs and the chance to spot other sea stacks and natural arches. The trail is moderately easy but can be muddy in places. Along the way, you can explore various viewpoints and small cliff tops, enriching the experience with diverse perspectives of the dramatic seascape.

Climbing Heritage and Conservation

Yesnaby Castle gained fame in climbing circles after Joe Brown and his team made the first ascent in 1967. It remains one of the few sea stacks in Orkney regularly climbed, alongside the Old Man of Hoy. However, the area is respected for its natural beauty, and climbing activity is limited to preserve the fragile environment. The cliffs and stacks are a testament to the raw power of nature and the adventurous spirit of climbers drawn to this remote locale.

Flora, Fauna, and Seasonal Changes

The cliffs and surrounding area support a variety of seabirds and coastal plants, including sea pinks that bloom vibrantly in warmer months. Seasonal changes dramatically alter the landscape, from wildflower-covered cliffs in spring and summer to stark, windswept rock in autumn and winter. The soundscape is dominated by the crashing waves and calls of seabirds, creating an immersive natural ambiance.

Preservation and Visitor Etiquette

Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile environment by staying on designated paths and avoiding disturbing wildlife. The remote and wild nature of Yesnaby Castle demands mindfulness and preparation for changing weather conditions. This site offers a profound connection to Orkney’s natural heritage and a reminder of the impermanence of such striking geological formations.

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