South Head

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

South Head

Haaf Gruney from Unst The island of Haaf Gruney ('green island in the deep sea') from Ramnageo on Unst.
Haaf Gruney from Unst Credit: Mike Pennington

South Head is a prominent coastal feature located in the Shetland Islands, Scotland. Situated on the southernmost tip of the mainland, it is a stunning headland that juts out into the North Sea. The headland is characterized by its rugged cliffs, dramatic coastal formations, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Standing at an impressive height, the cliffs of South Head provide a natural barrier between the land and the sea. The exposed rock faces showcase layers of sedimentary rock, reflecting the geological history of the area. These cliffs are often battered by strong winds and crashing waves, making it a spectacular sight for visitors.

The headland offers a diverse range of flora and fauna, with various seabird colonies nesting on the cliffs. Visitors may spot species such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, as well as seals and dolphins in the surrounding waters. The area is also known for its rich marine life, attracting fishing enthusiasts and divers alike.

South Head is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the rugged coastline. A well-maintained trail leads visitors along the cliff tops, providing panoramic views and access to hidden coves and beaches. The headland is also home to a lighthouse, which serves as a navigational aid for ships passing through the area.

In addition to its natural beauty, South Head holds historical significance. The headland is dotted with ancient ruins and archaeological sites, providing insights into the lives of previous inhabitants. It is a place where the past and present converge, offering visitors a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage.

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South Head Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.660961/-0.83866866 or Grid Reference HU6398. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Haaf Gruney from Unst The island of Haaf Gruney ('green island in the deep sea') from Ramnageo on Unst.
Haaf Gruney from Unst
The island of Haaf Gruney ('green island in the deep sea') from Ramnageo on Unst.
Haaf Gruney from the west Taken from the Fetlar ferry.
Haaf Gruney from the west
Taken from the Fetlar ferry.
Vailan, Haaf Gruney The landing place for the island.
Vailan, Haaf Gruney
The landing place for the island.
West coast of Haaf Gruney Looking south.
West coast of Haaf Gruney
Looking south.
South Head, Haaf Gruney With Fetlar in the background.
South Head, Haaf Gruney
With Fetlar in the background.
South Head, Haaf Gruney Looking across to Stranburgh on Fetlar.
South Head, Haaf Gruney
Looking across to Stranburgh on Fetlar.
Geo on the south-east corner of Haaf Gruney
Geo on the south-east corner of Haaf Gruney
Lochan on Haaf Gruney
Lochan on Haaf Gruney
East coast of Haaf Gruney Looking north towards Unst.
East coast of Haaf Gruney
Looking north towards Unst.
Landward Taing, Haaf Gruney Closest to Unst.
Landward Taing, Haaf Gruney
Closest to Unst.
Lochans on Haaf Gruney Looking towards the 'blue banks' of Fetlar.
Lochans on Haaf Gruney
Looking towards the 'blue banks' of Fetlar.
North coast of Haaf Gruney This beach is used as a nursery beach by Grey Seals in autumn. The ruined house at the far end of the beach was a shelter used by chromate miners working at the quarry, but there were no permanent homes on the island.
North coast of Haaf Gruney
This beach is used as a nursery beach by Grey Seals in autumn. The ruined house at the far end of the beach was a shelter used by chromate miners working at the quarry, but there were no permanent homes on the island.
Vailan, Haaf Gruney Small stone shelter above the landing place.
Vailan, Haaf Gruney
Small stone shelter above the landing place.
Scranklings, Ness of Ramnageo This unusual piece of coastline along the east side of the Ness of Ramnageo has the strangely appropriate-sounding name of Scranklings, according to the 1:10,000 map.
Scranklings, Ness of Ramnageo
This unusual piece of coastline along the east side of the Ness of Ramnageo has the strangely appropriate-sounding name of Scranklings, according to the 1:10,000 map.
Stubbi Geos, Ramnageo I had always assumed that at least one of these geos was the eponymous Ramnageo ('Raven's geo') but according to the map they are named Stubbi Geos.
Stubbi Geos, Ramnageo
I had always assumed that at least one of these geos was the eponymous Ramnageo ('Raven's geo') but according to the map they are named Stubbi Geos.
Wester Stubbi Geo, Ness of Ramnageo Looking south towards Fetlar, with Haaf Gruney on the left and Wedder Hom on the right.
Wester Stubbi Geo, Ness of Ramnageo
Looking south towards Fetlar, with Haaf Gruney on the left and Wedder Hom on the right.
High seas hitting Haaf Gruney Strong easterlies hitting the island, photographed from Muness.
High seas hitting Haaf Gruney
Strong easterlies hitting the island, photographed from Muness.
Scranklings, Ness of Ramnageo, Muness
Scranklings, Ness of Ramnageo, Muness
Show me another place!

South Head is located at Grid Ref: HU6398 (Lat: 60.660961, Lng: -0.83866866)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///volume.overpower.handbags. Near Uyeasound, Shetland Islands

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