Forss Water facts for kids

Forss Water, also known as Forss River, is a river in Scotland. It starts at the northern end of Loch Shurrey, which is a loch (or lake) in the Highland area. The river flows for about 13 kilometres (around 8 miles) to the north. It then empties into Crosskirk Bay and the big Atlantic Ocean.

Crosskirk Bay is located on the northern coast of Great Britain. It is about 8 kilometres (5 miles) west of the town of Thurso, which is in Caithness, Scotland. The river was once an important marker for a historical event called the Sandside Chase in 1437, which involved a group known as the Clan Mackay.

What is Forss Water?

Forss Water is a river that flows through the beautiful landscape of northern Scotland. It gets its name from the area it flows through. The river is an important part of the local environment and history.

Where the River Starts and Ends

The journey of Forss Water begins at Loch Shurrery, a freshwater loch. From there, it travels northwards, collecting water from smaller streams along its path. Finally, it reaches the sea at Crosskirk Bay, joining the vast Atlantic Ocean. This bay is a notable spot on the northern coast of Scotland.

A Bit of History

In 1437, Forss Water played a role in a historical event. It marked the eastern boundary of an area involved in the Sandside Chase. This event was connected to the Clan Mackay, a Scottish clan with a long history in the region. The river helped define the limits of their activities during that time.

Smaller Streams Joining Forss Water

Many smaller streams, called tributaries, flow into Forss Water. These streams add more water to the river as it travels towards the sea. They are like smaller branches joining a main tree trunk.

• The Alt Torigil, also known as Alt Forsiescye, flows into the river.
• The Alltan Guinne also joins Forss Water.
• The Burn of Baillie adds its water to the river.
• The Burn of Brimside is another stream that flows into Forss Water.

Bridges Over the River

People can cross Forss Water using several bridges. There are four bridges for cars and other vehicles, and one special bridge just for people walking.

Road Bridges

These bridges allow roads to cross over the river, connecting different places.

• One bridge is located close to where the river starts, near Loch Shurrery.
• Another bridge is found near Broubster Village.
• There is a bridge near Westfield.
• A fourth road bridge is situated near Lythmore.
• The Bridge of Forss carries the A836 road. This important road leads towards Thurso and John o' Groats in the east. It also goes towards Reay, Melvich, Bettyhill, and Tongue in the west.

Footbridge

There is also a special bridge just for walkers.

• A footbridge is located near the river's mouth, where it meets the sea. This bridge helps people get to St Marys Chapel, which is on the west side of the river, from the village of Crosskirk, on the east side.