ND4072 : Stacks of Duncansby

South Stack of Duncansby

55m Elevation
55m Prominence
Scotland Country
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ND4072 : Stacks of Duncansby

N Chadwick Photo source

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Circular Coastal Walk from Duncansby Head

A scenic coastal path offering breathtaking views of the cliffs and the old lighthouse.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

0-99m hill

Elevation

55m

180 ft

Prominence

55m

Coordinates

58.6299, -3.0350

ND400718

OS Map

7 12

Explorer: 451E

At the Summit

The summit features a rugged cliff edge with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and the notorious Duncansby Stacks, along with a nearby lighthouse.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky coastal cliffs and grassy paths.

South Stack comprises impressive cliffs formed from sedimentary rocks, predominantly comprising sandstone and siltstone. The stunning coastal erosion has created remarkable features such as sea stacks and blowholes.

Views & Scenery

Duncansby Stacks, Pentland Firth, and on a clear day, views as far as Orkney.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name refers to the locality of Duncansby, derived from Gaelic, meaning 'Duncan's headland'.

Historical Significance

An area steeped in maritime history, it has been a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Pentland Firth.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Duncansby Head car park provides ample space and is just a short walk from the cliffs.

Public Transport

Limited public transport; the nearest bus services run from Wick and John O'Groats.

Nearby Facilities

There are toilet facilities at the Duncansby Head car park and nearby cafés in John O'Groats for a well-earned cuppa.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be cautious of steep cliffs, unstable terrain, and sudden weather changes.

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 South Stack of Duncansby?

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

Are there other walkers around South 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 South Stack of Duncansby search or of course create your own walk for South Stack of Duncansby

Can I organise a walk to South 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.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to South Stack of Duncansby.

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 South 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 South Stack of Duncansby here

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

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: ND400718

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