Ham, Caithness facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ham |
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 The old watermill and mill pond at Ham |
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 Ham
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| OS grid reference | ND243733 |
| Council area | |
| Country | Scotland |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Postcode district | KW14 8XP |
| Police | Northern |
| Fire | Highlands and Islands |
| Ambulance | Scottish |
| EU Parliament | Scotland |
Ham is a tiny, charming village located in the Caithness region of Scotland. It's part of the Highland council area, which is a large and beautiful part of northern Scotland. Ham is known for a very special feature: it has one of the shortest rivers in the world! This little river flows from a calm mill pond directly into the sea, covering a distance of less than 30 meters. That's shorter than a football field!
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Discovering Ham: A Unique Scottish Village
Ham might be small, but it has a unique charm, especially with its interesting natural features and peaceful setting. It's a great example of how even tiny places can have fascinating stories and geography.
Where is Ham Located?
Ham is nestled in the northern part of mainland Scotland, in an area called Caithness. This region is famous for its rugged coastline, wide-open spaces, and historical sites. Being in the Highland council area means Ham is surrounded by some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes, from mountains to the sea.
Ham's Incredibly Short River
The most famous natural feature in Ham is its incredibly short river. This river starts at a peaceful mill pond and quickly reaches the sea. At high tide, the river is less than 30 meters long. This makes it one of the shortest rivers you'll find anywhere! It's a great example of how water finds its way to the ocean, even over very short distances.
The Old Mill and Its Pond
The village's character is strongly linked to its old watermill and the pond that feeds its short river. Watermills were once very important for grinding grain into flour, using the power of flowing water. The mill pond provides a calm body of water that supports local wildlife and adds to the peaceful atmosphere of Ham. The old mill building reminds us of the village's history and how people used to live and work here.
Life in a Small Scottish Village
Life in a small village like Ham is often quiet and connected to nature. Residents might enjoy the peaceful surroundings, the fresh air, and the beautiful coastal views. Small villages often have a strong sense of community, where people know their neighbors and support each other. It's a contrast to busy city life, offering a chance to experience traditional Scottish village living.
Nature and Wildlife Around Ham
Because Ham is located on the coast and has a mill pond, it's a great place to observe nature. The coastal areas might be home to various seabirds, and if you're lucky, you might even spot seals or other marine life in the waters nearby. The mill pond itself can attract different types of freshwater fish and birds. Exploring the natural environment around Ham can be a fun adventure for anyone interested in wildlife.
