The small pebbly beach at Kirtomy comes alive with colours in the rain.
Leave Bettyhill, heading east and continue along the A836, passing signs to Swordly off to the left. Shortly past Swordly Mill, as the road bends to the right, you will see a bus stop and the road to Kirtomy. Take this left turn and follow the road through the valley. There is a fork part the way down, with the main road going off to the right to the rest of the houses on the other side of the valley. However, you need to go ahead down the road with a grassy strip down the middle. Beware that in places there are potholes that could cause issues for low cars. Continue to the end where it opens up slightly, allowing space to turn around and to park.
Kirtomy beach is a small pebbly inlet with a concrete jetty. It is used by fishermen and is a working harbour, although you probably won't see anyone whilst you are there. In storms, it has been known for the path down to the beach to be washed away but, because it a useful harbour, effort is made to keep a passable path in place.
It is only a small beach, dominated by the concrete jetty and there is no sand for kids to play in, so what's the attraction?
The pebbles.
Satisfyingly chunky and perfectly smooth.
There are hints that a variety of different rock types are represented in these pebbles, with subtle bands and spots of different subdued hues of colour.
But wait until it rains and see them transformed, when wet, into bright bands and clusters of vibrant speckles, looking like mini planets! It will be hard to resist picking one or two up to take home but how to choose when you will want this one... and this one... oh, and this one too...
Notes on accessibility for visitors with limited mobility:
Unsuitable.