ND4072 : Stacks of Duncansby

North Stack of Duncansby

52m Elevation
52m Prominence
Scotland Country
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ND4072 : Stacks of Duncansby

N Chadwick Photo source

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Duncansby Head Walk

This easy walk leads you from Duncansby Head along well-trodden paths with stunning views over the cliffs and the sea stacks.

3.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

0-99m hill

Elevation

52m

171 ft

Prominence

52m

Coordinates

58.6326, -3.0351

ND400721

OS Map

7 12

Explorer: 451E

At the Summit

The North Stack features a dramatic cliff edge and is a popular viewpoint with a rocky outcrop, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky and coastal grassland with some cliff edges.

The North Stack of Duncansby is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone, which has been shaped by millennia of coastal erosion. This interesting geology has given rise to striking cliffs and sea stacks that captivate visitors.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can gaze upon the Orkney Islands on a clear day, along with the delightful panorama of the dramatic coastline.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Duncansby' is believed to be derived from the Norse 'Duncansby' meaning 'the point of Duncan'.

Historical Significance

The area is steeped in maritime history, with the nearby lighthouse built in 1924 being a key navigational point for ships.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a parking area at Duncansby Head, which is free to use and can accommodate several vehicles.

Public Transport

The nearest bus service comes from John O'Groats, with limited schedules, so be sure to check ahead.

Nearby Facilities

There are no toilets directly at the site, but John O'Groats has facilities including cafes and a shop.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of the steep cliff edges and potentially slippery rocks, especially when wet.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up North Stack of Duncansby?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around North Stack of Duncansby through the maps

Are there other walkers around North Stack of Duncansby?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for North Stack of Duncansby search or of course create your own walk for North Stack of Duncansby

Can I organise a walk to North Stack of Duncansby?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

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How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up North Stack of Duncansby?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to North Stack of Duncansby here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

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Location

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Grid reference: ND400721

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