The Bass Rock completes the island group of the outer Forth. A volcanic plug, it stand 107 metres high and is visible for miles around. No surprise then that it currently houses a lighthouse, albeit one which is only visible on it's southern flank, as detailed in the chart ...
The Bass Rock has had a colourful history. It's earliest recorded inhabitant was St.Baldred. Not much is known about
St.Baldred. He spread the Christain word around the 6th/7th century. It is said he lived a very simple life, lived the life of a hermit, and often retired to the Bass for contemplation.
Over the centuries it has been used as a prison and a garrison. A summary of it's history can be found
here. Nowadays it has a more "peaceful" existence as a bird reserve, being a home to around 50,000 pairs of gannets, reputedly the largest gannet colony on mainland Britain.
From a kayaking perspective, the main approaches to the Bass are from North Berwick, vial The Leithies
Or from Seacliff Beach ...
Seacliffe Beach is a private beach, for which two £1 coins are required for entry.
The Eastern / North Eastern side of the Bass can usually be relied upon for a healthy dose of clapotis. Once I manage to hold a camera in it I'll post some pictures !
