Port of Ness
Also within
Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Quaternary of Scotland | Favourable | — | 2005-03-31 |
Geology & landscape
Geological Period: Quaternary
Landscape processes: Glacial
Description
Port of Ness Port of Ness is located near the northern tip of the Isle of Lewis. This narrow, sandy bay backed by maritime cliffs is a key site for glacial stratigraphy and sedimentology. Sections at Port of Ness have provided evidence for interpreting the Pleistocene succession in the Outer Hebrides for over one hundred years. The complex series of interbedded shelly tills, sands, silts and gravels are of research interest. In particular, interpretations of the age and origins of Port of Ness deposits have a direct bearing on the recent fundamental revisions of the glacial history of the Outer Hebrides and their wider implications for the Late Devensian ice extent, ice sources and climatic conditions in north-west Britain through this period.