Sheep Rock

Hill, Mountain in Shetland

Scotland

Sheep Rock

Fair Isle coastline at Port Saider A very detailed map of Fair Isle on view at the Fair Isle Bird Observatory marks Port Saider slightly to the north of the position on the 1:25,000 OS Map. This view south-west towards the Burrian is from the cliff edge at the OS location. — Fair Isle coastline at Port Saider Credit: Julian Paren

Sheep Rock is a prominent feature located in the Shetland Islands, an archipelago in Scotland, United Kingdom. Rising majestically from the rugged landscape, Sheep Rock is a distinctive hill/mountain that stands at an approximate height of 260 meters (850 feet). It is situated in the central part of Shetland, near the village of Scalloway.

The name "Sheep Rock" derives from its unique shape, which bears a striking resemblance to a sheep lying down. This natural formation has become an iconic landmark in the area, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Sheep Rock is composed of ancient rocks, primarily sandstone and granite, which have been shaped by millions of years of geological processes. The hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills, green pastures, and scattered crofts (small farms).

Nature enthusiasts and hikers are drawn to Sheep Rock due to its accessible trails and stunning vistas. Several hiking routes meander through the area, providing visitors with opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this rugged environment. The hill also offers a habitat for a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

Overall, Sheep Rock is a captivating natural feature that showcases the raw beauty of the Shetland Islands. With its distinctive shape, geological significance, and picturesque surroundings, it has become an emblematic destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the scenic wonders of this remote and enchanting part of Scotland.

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Sheep Rock Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.524613/-1.6133259 or Grid Reference HZ2171. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Fair Isle coastline at Port Saider

A very detailed map of Fair Isle on view at the Fair Isle Bird Observatory marks Port Saider slightly to the north of the position on the 1:25,000 OS Map. This view south-west towards the Burrian is from the cliff edge at the OS location.

Julian Paren

Cliff edge of Meo Ness

The lichens on the rocks at the cliff edge provide a great contrast to the green of Meo Ness. The South Light is visible beyond South Harbour.

Julian Paren

The Burrian

The Burrian is the offshore skerry viewed across one of the many geos on Fair Isle.

Julian Paren

The Burrian from Busta Geo, Fair Isle

Mike Pennington

The middle of the Fair Isle landing strip

Flight DFL002 for Tingwall had just departed, and the next flight wasn't due to arrive for about six hours. So it was deemed quite safe for me to cross the strip on my way to the track to Ward Hill. Amusingly, when that next flight arrived, the landing was aborted at the last minute, and the pilot went round for another attempt. The reason? There was a sheep on the strip! The trip reminded me of my visit to the Isles of Scilly, at the other end of the country, in 2013. Similar small and rather noisy planes, and a runway (in SV9110) on a convex slope so that the pilots couldn't see that far ahead.

David Purchase

Vaasetter Hill, Fair Isle

Vaasetter Hill, 110m, is the rounded light-coloured hill straight ahead. It is a very easy walk, though unfortunately I did not have time to climb it. Beyond Vaasetter Hill looms the dark summit of Sheep Rock (132m, and still just in square). Sheep Rock is accessible only to climbers capable at a high grade. It may not be very long before Sheep Rock becomes a separate island, as the link is very narrow and fragile. This won't make it any more difficult to climb, as the only practicable route is from the east. Although one can argue about "What is a hill?", I think there are five hills of any significance on Fair Isle. On this basis, Sheep Rock is the third highest and Vaasetter the fourth.

David Purchase

Stonybreck, Fair Isle

Malcolm's Head, 107m, beyond.

David Purchase

The gorge of Gilsetter Burn

Falling to the east coast of Fair Isle, with South Gavel on Bu Ness beyond. It had been dry for some weeks, so there was almost no water in the burn.

David Purchase

Fair Isle from the air

Taken from a plane en route between Sumburgh and Aberdeen. The closest part of the island is Buness.

Mike Pennington

Evening at North Haven, Fair Isle

Even the bonxie looked relaxed, but watchful. Fair Isle experiences extremely strong winds and even heavy wooden rowing boats have to be securely tied down.

Donald MacDonald

Mavers Geo, South Haven, Fair Isle

Donald MacDonald

Harbour and beach, North Haven, Fair Isle

The Bird Observatory and hostel can be seen on the skyline

Donald MacDonald

Sea Entrance to North Haven, Fair Isle

The harbour lies behind the breakwater

Donald MacDonald

Fair Isle Bird Observatory, 1974

The purpose-built Bird Observatory was opened in 1969 and encased in blockwork in 1989. The current observatory was opened in July 2010. By 1982 the wood fascia of the observatory had been stained a darker hue HZ2272 : Fair Isle Bird Observatory in 1982. New observatory buildings were opened in July 2010. I visited it within a month of its opening. HZ2272 : Fair Isle Bird Observatory reopened June 2010.

Julian Paren

Good Shepherd IV between Fair Isle and Lerwick

This image was taken on the high seas. Exact position unknown with Mainland Shetland still ahead. I have located this at Fair Isle as one of its two main ports. A sunny day with hardly a breeze but certainly cool on the high seas.

Julian Paren

North Haven, Fair Isle

The Fair Isle ferry, Good Shepherd III, lies at the pier and a trawler is also in North Haven. The Fair Isle Bird Observatory is the flat-roofed brown building on the road heading south.

Julian Paren