West Ness

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

West Ness

Qui Ness The grassy headland of Qui Ness can be reached by a narrow, well-worn but rather exposed path over a little neck of land - the sheep and lamb seen in this view have just ventured across to reach the extensive patch of grazing beyond. Either side are two deep geos, both with small stacks within them. The nearer one has a beach and is probably not eroding the link, but the more easterly one will no doubt extend by headward erosion and cut the Ness off to form an island in the near future (by geological time standards). To the right of the photo, Tame Holm has similarly been separated from its headland, West Ness, by a narrow channel of the sort much enjoyed by sea kayakers.

In the distance, the far horizon is formed by Esha Ness and Ronas Hill, whilst the nearer grey cliffs in the centre of the view are the Ness of Hillswick with the dramatic stacks of the Drongs just visible to its west. — Qui Ness Credit: Andy Waddington

West Ness is a prominent coastal feature located on the western coast of Shetland, an archipelago in Scotland. It is a headland that stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean, forming a distinctive point along the rugged coastline. The geographical coordinates of West Ness are approximately 60.305°N latitude and 1.337°W longitude.

The headland is characterized by steep cliffs that rise dramatically from the sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cliffs, composed of sedimentary rocks such as sandstone and shale, display various layers that provide insight into the area's geological history.

West Ness boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, with seabird colonies nesting on the cliffs. Bird species such as fulmars, guillemots, and puffins can be spotted, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The headland is also home to a variety of plant species adapted to the harsh coastal environment, including sea thrift, sea rocket, and sea campion.

In addition to its natural beauty, West Ness holds historical significance. The headland has remnants of ancient settlements and archaeological sites, including stone circles and burial grounds, indicating human occupation in the area dating back thousands of years.

Visitors to West Ness can explore the coastal trails that offer stunning views of the cliffs and the open ocean. The site is accessible by road, and there are designated parking areas nearby for convenience. Additionally, the headland provides an ideal spot for fishing, as the strong currents in the area attract a variety of fish species.

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West Ness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.375946/-1.460808 or Grid Reference HU2965. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Qui Ness

The grassy headland of Qui Ness can be reached by a narrow, well-worn but rather exposed path over a little neck of land - the sheep and lamb seen in this view have just ventured across to reach the extensive patch of grazing beyond. Either side are two deep geos, both with small stacks within them. The nearer one has a beach and is probably not eroding the link, but the more easterly one will no doubt extend by headward erosion and cut the Ness off to form an island in the near future (by geological time standards). To the right of the photo, Tame Holm has similarly been separated from its headland, West Ness, by a narrow channel of the sort much enjoyed by sea kayakers. In the distance, the far horizon is formed by Esha Ness and Ronas Hill, whilst the nearer grey cliffs in the centre of the view are the Ness of Hillswick with the dramatic stacks of the Drongs just visible to its west.

Andy Waddington

Dandi Geo

Muckle Roe is formed entirely of igneous rocks forming a pluton of Old Red Sandstone (Devonian) age, and all except the NE side are a Granophyre which forms dramatic red cliffs riven by geos, caves and natural arches. Dandi Geo is one of the narrower geos eroded from the west coast of the island just at the point where a small stream drains northwestwards from a series of small lochans. In the far distance, Esha Ness can be seen across St. Magnus Bay, itself a large basin possibly associated with an ancient meteorite impact.

Andy Waddington

Spindle

Kirsty Murfitt

Beach, South Ham

A sheltered inlet on the otherwise rugged coast of Muckle Roe. It is also popular with seals.

Richard Webb

Fresh rockfall, Muckle Roe

A pile of boulders beneath a clean bit of rock seen across Gulberswick Geo.

Richard Webb

Dandi Geo

A long and deep inlet in the sea cliffs of Muckle Roe.

Richard Webb

Moorland by Loch of Rusness

A fine and bright morning had rapidly turned to heavy rain in the afternoon. The usual crisp and gravelly Muckle Roe moorland.

Richard Webb

Beach, South Ham

The wild coast of Muckle Roe.

Richard Webb

Burn of Lairdsloch

Granite scenery, Muckle Roe.

Richard Webb

Burg

Ruined croft house on the west coast of Muckle Roe.

Richard Webb

Dykes near Burg

Pink and black stripes due to volcanic activity (related to the rocks on Papa Stour and Esha Ness?). The even weathering is striking, often the basalt stands proud or forms gullies depending on the country rock.

Richard Webb

Da Kist

A two legged stack near Burg, Muckle Roe. The coast of Muckle Roe has examples of all the stages of coastal erosion on display. This is a stack nearing collapse or at least partial collapse.

Richard Webb

Da Kist

Sooner or later there will be one wave too many for the "leg".

Richard Webb

Spindle

Granite stack on the west coast of Muckle Roe.

Richard Webb

West Hill of Ham

Hill with some big sea cliffs.

Richard Webb

Muckle Roe

Viewed from Melby.

John Lucas

Sea Stack "Da Kist"

The coastline within this square contains a number of cliffs and sea stacks. Most are somewhat loose and unsuitable for climbing, but the stack in this photo now has a route on the landward side facing away from this shot.

Doug Lee