Northern Ness

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

Northern Ness

Spiggie and Loch of Spiggie
Spiggie and Loch of Spiggie Credit: Mike Pennington

Northern Ness is a prominent coastal feature located in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. It is classified as a headland, also known as a point, due to its distinctive geographical characteristics and its position extending out into the sea. Situated at the northernmost tip of the Shetland mainland, Northern Ness is surrounded by the North Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the open water.

The headland is characterized by its rugged and rocky terrain, with cliff faces that rise steeply from the crashing waves below. The coastline is indented with small coves and natural arches, adding to its dramatic beauty. The cliffs are formed by layers of sedimentary rock, showcasing the geological history of the area.

Northern Ness is a haven for wildlife, attracting numerous seabirds including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. The surrounding waters are home to seals, dolphins, and occasionally even orcas. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts flock to this area to observe the diverse range of fauna that thrives in this unique ecosystem.

The headland is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and photography. There are well-marked trails that lead visitors along the clifftops, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The rugged coastal scenery and the crashing waves make it a popular spot for photographers seeking to capture the dramatic beauty of Northern Ness.

Overall, Northern Ness is a striking and captivating headland in the Shetland Islands, offering visitors a unique blend of dramatic coastal landscapes, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor exploration.

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Northern Ness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.947686/-1.3422772 or Grid Reference HU3618. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Spiggie and Loch of Spiggie
Spiggie and Loch of Spiggie
Sand dunes at Sands of Scousburgh
Sand dunes at Sands of Scousburgh
Colsay from the air
Colsay from the air
View from the slopes of the Ward of Scousburgh With a good view of St Ninian's Isle and tombolo <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/gridref/HU3620">HU3620</a>.
View from the slopes of the Ward of Scousburgh
With a good view of St Ninian's Isle and tombolo HU3620.
View from the slopes of the Ward of Scousburgh A good view of Scousburgh Bay <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/gridref/HU3718">HU3718</a>, Northern Ness and Muckle Sound <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/gridref/HU3618">HU3618</a>.
View from the slopes of the Ward of Scousburgh
A good view of Scousburgh Bay HU3718, Northern Ness and Muckle Sound HU3618.
The slopes of Ward of Scousburgh From the minor road which serves various transmission masts and a former NATO station. Below is St Ninian's Isle and the tombolo which connects it to Shetland Mainland.
The slopes of Ward of Scousburgh
From the minor road which serves various transmission masts and a former NATO station. Below is St Ninian's Isle and the tombolo which connects it to Shetland Mainland.
South coastline of St Ninian's Isle Spectacular.
South coastline of St Ninian's Isle
Spectacular.
South side of St Ninian's Isle from Ward of Scousburgh Inns Holm at the SE corner of St Ninain's Isle and Sweyn Holm at the SW corner; Foula in the distance.
South side of St Ninian's Isle from Ward of Scousburgh
Inns Holm at the SE corner of St Ninain's Isle and Sweyn Holm at the SW corner; Foula in the distance.
Bay of Scousburgh at dusk
Bay of Scousburgh at dusk
Loch of Spiggie at dusk From Scousburgh looking towards Fitful Head.
Loch of Spiggie at dusk
From Scousburgh looking towards Fitful Head.
Communications array Mossy Hill communications array
Communications array
Mossy Hill communications array
Concrete gun base Concrete gun base at Ward of Scousburgh
Concrete gun base
Concrete gun base at Ward of Scousburgh
Looking across the Bay of Scousburgh to the Ness of Rerwick
Looking across the Bay of Scousburgh to the Ness of Rerwick
The north end of the Loch of Spiggie
The north end of the Loch of Spiggie
House at Spiggie, beside Loch of Spiggie
House at Spiggie, beside Loch of Spiggie
Whooper Swans at Loch of Spiggie
Whooper Swans at Loch of Spiggie
Sheep at Scousburgh
Sheep at Scousburgh
Sheep in stubble at Rerwick
Sheep in stubble at Rerwick
Show me another place!

Northern Ness is located at Grid Ref: HU3618 (Lat: 59.947686, Lng: -1.3422772)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///dragon.discloses.actors. Near Sandwick, Shetland Islands

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