Grutness

Settlement in Shetland

Scotland

Grutness

To Sumburgh Head Taken at Jarlshof, settlement site on Shetland dating back 4,000 years and still in use in the 17th century, I am looking across the West Voe of Sumburgh towards Sumburgh Head, the most southerly point of mainland Shetland. — To Sumburgh Head Credit: Carroll Pierce

Grutness is a small coastal village located on the southern tip of the Shetland Mainland, the largest island in the Shetland archipelago. Situated in the parish of Dunrossness, Grutness is approximately 20 miles southwest of the island's capital, Lerwick.

Known for its picturesque setting, Grutness offers stunning views of the North Sea and the surrounding rugged coastline. The village is nestled within a natural harbor, providing a sheltered anchorage for boats and fishing vessels. Its proximity to the sea has shaped the local economy, with fishing and aquaculture playing a significant role in the community.

One prominent landmark in Grutness is the Muckle Roe, a small island located just off the coast. This uninhabited island is a popular destination for birdwatchers, who come to observe a variety of seabirds, including puffins and razorbills.

Grutness is also home to the famous Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, situated nearby on the southernmost point of mainland Shetland. This historic lighthouse, built in 1821, offers guided tours and provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding islands.

The village itself has a small population, with a close-knit community that values its rich heritage and traditional way of life. There are a few local amenities, including a primary school and a community hall, which hosts various events throughout the year.

Overall, Grutness is a charming coastal village that offers visitors tranquility, natural beauty, and a glimpse into the unique culture and history of the Shetland Isles.

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Grutness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.87408/-1.277447 or Grid Reference HU4010. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

To Sumburgh Head

Taken at Jarlshof, settlement site on Shetland dating back 4,000 years and still in use in the 17th century, I am looking across the West Voe of Sumburgh towards Sumburgh Head, the most southerly point of mainland Shetland.

Carroll Pierce

Wheelhouse entrance

This is a section of the extensive remains located at Jarlshof, Sumburgh, Shetland. The site was first settled around 4,000 years ago and had a succession of inhabitants through the Bronze and Iron Ages to Norse settlement and medieval farming following on until the 17th century. I am looking at an entrance to the wheelhouse complex on the site.

Carroll Pierce

Sumburgh Airport from Jarlshof

Taken on the inner path running between the wheelhouse complex and the Norse settlement at Jarlshof, Sumburgh, I am looking across the eastern edge of West Voe to Sumburgh Airport, Shetland's main airport.

Carroll Pierce

Sumburgh Hotel

I am near the visitor centre at Jarlshof, Shetland, and looking past the Shetland pony towards the Sumburgh Hotel which is flying the Shetland flag. The hill beyond crowned with radar installation is the landward side of Compass Head.

Carroll Pierce

Scatness from the air

Mike Pennington

Loch of Gards, Scatness, from the air

Mike Pennington

Looss Laward from the air

Mike Pennington

Punds, Eastshore, Virkie, from the air

Mike Pennington

Male House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) bathing, Grutness

Mike Pennington

Hudsonian Godwit (Limosa haemastica), Grutness

A rare vagrant from North America; only the 5th seen in Britain.

Mike Pennington

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse

At the summit of this path lie the lighthouse and visitor centre at Sumburgh Head, the southernmost point of mainland Shetland. This is also a nature reserve teeming with birdlife on the cliffs and the rocks below.

Carroll Pierce

Shags at Sumburgh Head

One of many bird colonies to be found at Sumburgh Head, Shetland, these are shags or skarfs as they are known in Shetland dialect.

Carroll Pierce

Minor lighthouse, Sumburgh

With Sumburgh Head and its main lighthouse behind me, I am looking back to the car park which is also the location of a minor lighthouse. This light was relocated from its original position at Muckle Roe in 2001 to make way for a lower-maintenance version lit by solar panels.

Carroll Pierce