
Mull Head and The Gloup Deerness
Explore dramatic collapsed sea caves and rugged cliffs on Orkney's eastern tip. A stunning 7km walk reveals nature's raw power and abundant wildlife.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waves create a spectacular vision

Mull Head and The Gloup Deerness
Best Time
Waves create a spectacular vision

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore dramatic collapsed sea caves and rugged cliffs on Orkney's eastern tip. A stunning 7km walk reveals nature's raw power and abundant wildlife.
"The Gloup is quite a sight, but not nearly as amazing as the views up to the Viking church on top of the head!"

Wear sturdy shoes
Paths can be rocky and slippery, especially in wet or windy conditions. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for wind
Orkney winds are no joke! Be prepared for strong gusts on the cliff tops. :cloudwithwind_face:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gloup
Deerness
A spectacular collapsed sea cave, a giant hole in the ground offering a unique glimpse into nature's architecture.

Viking Church Viewpoint
Mull Head
The dramatic cliffside views near the Viking church are even more breathtaking than The Gloup itself.

Coastal Wildlife
Cliffs and shorelines
Keep an eye out for nesting birds and other fascinating wildlife along the rugged coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Circular Walk Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths can be rocky and slippery, especially in wet or windy conditions. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for wind
Orkney winds are no joke! Be prepared for strong gusts on the cliff tops. :cloudwithwind_face:
Consider walk direction
Walking clockwise may offer clearer paths on the return leg of the circular route. :arrowheadingup:
Bring a flask
Find sheltered spots to enjoy a warm drink and snacks with incredible views. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
Paths can be rocky and slippery, especially in wet or windy conditions. :athletic_shoe:
Pack for wind
Orkney winds are no joke! Be prepared for strong gusts on the cliff tops. :cloudwithwind_face:
Consider walk direction
Walking clockwise may offer clearer paths on the return leg of the circular route. :arrowheadingup:
Bring a flask
Find sheltered spots to enjoy a warm drink and snacks with incredible views. :coffee:
Check tide times
Visiting at high tide enhances the spectacle of waves crashing against the rocks. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, dramatic coastal scenery and the unique geological wonder of The Gloup. The 7km circular walk is highly praised for its breathtaking views and opportunities to spot wildlife, though some note the paths can be vague on the return leg. The powerful winds are a notable feature, adding to the wild atmosphere.
"Free parking for about 15 cars or a dozen vans at the start of a circular walk of just over 7km. We went on a fairly windy day and OMG was it windy on them cliff tops! It definitely BLE off the cobwebs and we had a great walk. The Gloup is quite a sight, but to be fair, not nearly as amazing as the for up to the viking church on top of the head further around the walk!"
Colin Wood
"A real hidden gem of a place to walk. I would walk the circular walk clockwise when I do it again as the path becomes a bit vague on the way back to. Did a few wrong turns. Some really amazing views and some lovely little sheltered spots to sit with a flask and snacks for a while. Well worth a few stops just to take it all in. Loads of wildlife. I reckon some of the rockier parts near the cliff tops and shore would need some care in wet and windy weather although I was very lucky and got a sun tan....."
jon shannon
"A prime example of a collapsed sea cave on the west coast of Orkney. Unlike previous visits, the weather wasn't good enough for us to jump/dive in, but the views were lovely."
Rory Alsop
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mull Head and The Gloup are located on the eastern tip of the Orkney Mainland. The easiest way to reach them is by car, with free parking available for around 15 cars. The area is well-signposted from local roads.
Public transport options are limited. While local bus services may run in the general area, it's advisable to check current Orkney bus timetables for specific routes and schedules. A car is generally recommended for ease of access.
The most popular way to explore is via the 7km circular walk that encompasses both Mull Head and The Gloup. This walk offers diverse scenery and access to the key viewpoints.
Yes, the area is rich in history. The ruins of the Viking church at Mull Head are a significant historical site. You can also explore other coastal areas and historical sites on the Orkney Mainland.
Yes, the area is accessible year-round. However, winter weather can be harsh, with strong winds and potential for icy conditions, so extra caution and appropriate gear are essential.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mull Head and The Gloup are natural attractions and are free to visit. There is no admission fee required.
As an outdoor natural site, Mull Head and The Gloup are accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
No booking is necessary as there is no entrance fee. You can visit spontaneously.
Yes, there is free parking available at the start of the circular walk, with space for approximately 15 cars or a dozen vans.
There are no specific facilities like visitor centers or restrooms directly at Mull Head and The Gloup. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Gloup is a spectacular collapsed sea cave, essentially a large, dramatic hole in the ground formed by the roof of a sea cave caving in. It's a prime example of coastal erosion.
The viewpoints near the Viking church ruins at Mull Head offer stunning panoramic views of the coastline. The Gloup itself is also a major viewpoint.
The circular walk is just over 7km and can take approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the views and wildlife.
The walk involves uneven terrain, cliffside paths, and can be windy. While not overly strenuous, it requires a moderate level of fitness and good mobility. Sturdy footwear is essential.
You can often spot nesting birds on the cliffs and in the sea cave. The coastal environment also supports various marine life and seabirds.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic collapsed sea cave of The Gloup, the rugged cliff formations, panoramic coastal vistas from Mull Head, and the ruins of the Viking church all offer fantastic photographic potential.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for landscape photography. Visiting at high tide can add drama with crashing waves, while dusk offers a unique, atmospheric light, especially if using a torch.
Be mindful of the strong winds, which can affect camera stability. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape. Capturing the scale of The Gloup by including a person in the frame can be effective.
Yes, but it requires patience and a good zoom lens. Be respectful of the birds and their nesting sites, and maintain a safe distance.
Always check local regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas and near wildlife. Respect any signage or restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of The Gloup
Unlike some sea caves that remain hidden, The Gloup's collapsed roof makes its interior accessible to view, albeit from above. This offers a unique opportunity to see inside a cave without the need for caving equipment. The sheer drop and the intricate rock formations within are a testament to the ongoing geological processes. It's a prime spot for understanding how Orkney's dramatic landscapes are formed and continue to evolve.
Navigating the Circular Walk
While the walk is generally well-trodden, some sections can become vague, especially in less-trafficked areas or after periods of poor weather. It's wise to have a map or GPS device handy, or at least pay close attention to landmarks. The walk presents opportunities to find lovely little sheltered spots perfect for a break with a flask of tea and some snacks, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking views and the abundant wildlife. Be prepared for the wind, which can be particularly fierce on the exposed cliff tops, making sturdy footwear and layered clothing essential for comfort and safety.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit