Westray, Berst Ness
Naust (Period Unknown)
Site Name Westray, Berst Ness
Classification Naust (Period Unknown)
Canmore ID 2835
Site Number HY44SW 17
NGR HY 4411 4214
Datum OSGB36 - NGR
Permalink http://canmore.org.uk/site/2835
- Council Orkney Islands
- Parish Westray
- Former Region Orkney Islands Area
- Former District Orkney
- Former County Orkney
Field Visit (June 1981)
Berst Ness HY 4411 4214 HY44SW
A single stone-built naust stands high up the gentle slope, where a track runs down to the beach on the E side of Berst Ness. There are kelp-drying racks nearby.
RCAHMS 1983, visited June 1981
(OR 895).
Field Visit (1998)
A noost was recorded previously in this area, but could not be located from the grid reference supplied. That site may be equivalent to one or other of the noosts at this location.
(i) A noost is set into the banks and further defined by earthen banks. The base is roughly paved. The noost measures 4m by 6m and has a rounded end. It issues out onto flat rocks.
(ii) A second noost lies 5m from (i) but is set parallel to the coast edge. It is cut in to the banks and utilises protruding rock as part of its wall. It measures 8m by 6m, is up to 1.2m deep and has a pointed end and roughly paved base. It issues out on to a sandy beach.
Moore and Wilson, 1998
Coastal Zone Assessment Survey
