Kirk Loch

Lake, Pool, Pond, Freshwater Marsh in Shetland

Scotland

Kirk Loch

Loch of Papil, Cullivoe Credit: Mike Pennington

Kirk Loch is a picturesque freshwater body located in the heart of the Shetland Islands, Scotland. Covering an area of approximately 5 acres, this tranquil loch is nestled amidst rolling hills and captivating natural scenery. The loch is situated in close proximity to the charming village of Kirk, which lends its name to this serene water body.

Kirk Loch is known for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the surrounding landscape like a mirror. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The calm and serene atmosphere makes it an ideal location for various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

The loch is home to a diverse range of freshwater flora and fauna. The surrounding marshy areas are adorned with vibrant water lilies and other aquatic plants, creating a colorful and vibrant ecosystem. It is not uncommon to spot a variety of bird species, including ducks, swans, and herons, gracefully gliding across the water or nesting on the marshy banks.

The tranquil ambiance of Kirk Loch is further enhanced by the absence of motorized boats, as it is a designated non-motorized water body. This ensures that the calmness and serenity of the loch are not disturbed, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Overall, Kirk Loch is a captivating freshwater haven, offering a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts, anglers, and those seeking a serene escape amidst the stunning Shetland landscape.

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Kirk Loch Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.723254/-1.0242405 or Grid Reference HP5304. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Loch of Papil, Cullivoe

Mike Pennington

Backhouse, Cullivoe

Mike Pennington

Houses at Cullivoe

Mike Pennington

Black-winged Pratincole (Himantopus himantopus), feeding with sheep, Papil, Cullivoe

Looking rather incongruous feeding in a field and a long way from the Mediterranean.

Mike Pennington

Fence and Grass

The cliff edge is just at the top here.

Des Blenkinsopp

Rocky Coast at Brei Wick

Des Blenkinsopp

Loch of Brough

Des Blenkinsopp

Sheep in the Seaweed

There were quite a few sheep down on the rocks here tucking into this stuff.

Des Blenkinsopp

Rocky Shore, Ness of Houlland

On one side of the Ness of Houlland is the beautiful Breckon Sands beach. On the other side, the shoreline reverts to being less hospitable. The orange thing is some of the assorted fishing debris that washes up from time to time.

Des Blenkinsopp

Site of a Settlement, Ness of Houlland

This is the site of a big area of archaeological remains. This view shows the large enclosure at the centre of the site. Closer to, the outlines of huts and buildings are easy to find. Some of it has already vanished into the sea from erosion.

Des Blenkinsopp

Ancient Walls

Part of a large settlement site near the Sands of Breckon.

Des Blenkinsopp

Birrier Stack

A small island with a spot height of 23 metres marked on the map. It looks like it should be more, somehow.

Des Blenkinsopp

Ancient Walls 2

Another view on this ancient settlement site.

Des Blenkinsopp

Sands of Breckon

Des Blenkinsopp

Fencepost with a hat on

Not being from round here, when I first saw this I thought somebody had been messing about, but then I noticed a lot of other posts topped with assorted buckets, boxes, hard hats etc. I guess it protects the wood against rain soaking down the grain and rotting the post. Good idea.

Des Blenkinsopp

Skulls on a Tomb, St Olaf's Churchyard

The remains of St Olaf's church are just beyond this rather creepy old tomb with its skulls and bones. St Olaf (995-1030) was a king of Norway. There is a long page about him on Wikipedia Link

. which suggests that he wasn't exactly up there with the apostles in the league of saintliness, but as he is the Patron saint of Norway I will tactfully leave it there.