The Keen

Cliff, Slope in Shetland

Scotland

The Keen

Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing
Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing Credit: Mike Pennington

The Keen, Shetland, also known as the Keen Cliffs or Keen Slope, is a prominent geographical feature located on the island of Shetland, Scotland. Stretching along the eastern coastline of the North Sea, the Keen is a breathtaking cliff formation that spans approximately 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) in length.

The Keen is characterized by its towering cliffs, which rise dramatically from the shoreline to reach impressive heights of up to 450 feet (137 meters). The cliffs are composed of rugged rock formations, predominantly consisting of sandstone and shale, resulting in striking patterns and colors that add to the area's natural beauty.

A popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers, the Keen offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and the vast expanse of the North Sea. The cliffs are home to a diverse range of bird species, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Access to the Keen is relatively easy, with a well-maintained footpath running along the cliff edge, allowing visitors to explore the area safely. However, caution is advised, as the cliffs can be unstable in some areas, and the trail may become slippery during wet weather conditions.

The Keen is not only a natural wonder but also holds historical significance. It is believed to have played a role in the local fishing industry, with fishermen using the cliffs as landmarks for navigation.

Overall, the Keen, Shetland, stands as a striking testament to the raw beauty of nature, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery and experience the unique wildlife that calls this area home.

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The Keen Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.718443/-0.98214027 or Grid Reference HP5504. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing
Waves in Bluemull Sound from Westing
Loch of Papil, Cullivoe
Loch of Papil, Cullivoe
Backhouse, Cullivoe
Backhouse, Cullivoe
Houses at Cullivoe
Houses at Cullivoe
Black-winged Pratincole (Himantopus himantopus), feeding with sheep, Papil, Cullivoe Looking rather incongruous feeding in a field and a long way from the Mediterranean.
Black-winged Pratincole (Himantopus himantopus), feeding with sheep, Papil, Cullivoe
Looking rather incongruous feeding in a field and a long way from the Mediterranean.
Lamba Stack, Blue Mull, from the sea
Lamba Stack, Blue Mull, from the sea
The Vere from the sea
The Vere from the sea
Angling boat beside the Vere
Angling boat beside the Vere
Round Holm, Westing, from the sea
Round Holm, Westing, from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Blue Mull from the sea
Geo south of Lamba Stack, Blue Mull
Geo south of Lamba Stack, Blue Mull
Angling boat and the Vere
Angling boat and the Vere
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund I am standing beside the ruins of St Olaf's Kirk at Lund, Unst, Shetland, and looking across Lunda Wick towards the site of Norse ruins (a farmstead and a broch) at Underhoull.
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund
I am standing beside the ruins of St Olaf's Kirk at Lund, Unst, Shetland, and looking across Lunda Wick towards the site of Norse ruins (a farmstead and a broch) at Underhoull.
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund (interior) The ruins of St Olaf's Kirk, Lund, Unst, Shetland, built in the Celtic style and dating back to the C12th.
St Olaf's Kirk, Lund (interior)
The ruins of St Olaf's Kirk, Lund, Unst, Shetland, built in the Celtic style and dating back to the C12th.
Common Snipe, Westing beach
Common Snipe, Westing beach
Creeping Thistle (Cirsium arvense), Lund St Olaf's Church in the background.
Creeping Thistle (Cirsium arvense), Lund
St Olaf's Church in the background.
Silage-making at Lund
Silage-making at Lund
Show me another place!

The Keen is located at Grid Ref: HP5504 (Lat: 60.718443, Lng: -0.98214027)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///mend.dignitary.maybe. Near Uyeasound, Shetland Islands

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