I visited Stroma via a boat across the Pentland Firth. Stroma lies two miles off the north coast of Caithness. The island measures a mile long and half a mile wide. In 1901, the population of the island peaked at a healthy 375, although this figure subsequently dwindled. In 1962, Mr and Mrs Andrew Manson and their children, John and Andrew, were the last family to vacate the island, and Stoma was left deserted. The Island is now privately owned by the Simpson Family. Whilst on the Island, I visited the lighthouse constructed in 1898 and was built by David A and Charles Stevenson, grandsons of the famous lighthouse engineer, Robert Stevenson. Also saw the old Fog Horn towers. There are around 25 ruined crofts, the old school house, church and telephone kiosk. Also visited a partially collapsed sea cave called The Gloup. A wonderful day with glorious views to both the Orkney Islands and the mainland
