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Yesnaby Cliffs

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description Yesnaby Cliffs Overview

The Yesnaby Cliffs lie on the western coast of Mainland Orkney in Scotland, where erosion has exposed prominent sections of Old Red Sandstone along the Atlantic shore. The coastline includes sea stacks, arches, and other forms produced by wave action, including the narrow, two-legged stack known as Yesnaby Castle. The site is used for coastal walking and is also known among climbers for its exposed rock formations.

help Yesnaby Cliffs FAQ

Where are the Yesnaby Cliffs?

The Yesnaby Cliffs are on the western coast of Mainland Orkney in Scotland. They overlook the Atlantic and form part of Orkney's dramatic Old Red Sandstone coastline.

What is Yesnaby Castle?

Yesnaby Castle is a distinctive two-legged sea stack just offshore from the cliffs. The stack is about 115 feet tall and is a well-known feature for photographers and climbers.

How old is the rock at Yesnaby?

The cliffs expose Devonian Old Red Sandstone formed from sediments associated with the ancient Lake Orcadie environment. That places the underlying geology roughly 400 million years in the past.

Is Yesnaby suitable for climbing?

The cliffs and sea stack attract experienced climbers, but exposed edges, loose ground, wind, and wet conditions create serious hazards. Visitors should treat the site as a coastal walking and viewing area unless they have appropriate climbing skills and equipment.

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