Burra Holm

Island in Shetland

Scotland

Burra Holm

Trig point Known to the Ordnance Survey as White Ness — Trig point Credit: Iain Macaulay

Burra Holm is a small island located in the Shetland archipelago, off the northeast coast of Scotland. It is situated approximately 10 miles northeast of the town of Lerwick. The island covers an area of about 80 acres and is predominantly characterized by rugged coastal cliffs and rocky shores.

Despite its small size, Burra Holm boasts a diverse and unique ecosystem. The island is home to numerous seabird colonies, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. These bird populations thrive due to the abundance of food found in the surrounding waters. Visitors to the island can witness these impressive colonies during the nesting season, which typically occurs between April and August.

In addition to its wildlife, Burra Holm is also known for its historic lighthouse. The lighthouse was constructed in 1964 and stands at a height of 19 meters. It serves as an important navigational aid for ships passing through the treacherous waters of the North Sea. The lighthouse is automated and operated remotely by the Northern Lighthouse Board.

Access to Burra Holm is restricted due to its status as a nature reserve. However, visitors can observe the island from boat tours or by walking along the nearby coastal paths. The island offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Shetland landscape, with its dramatic cliffs and the vast expanse of the North Sea.

Overall, Burra Holm is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking a glimpse of Shetland’s natural beauty. Its remote location and untouched landscapes make it a truly special place within the archipelago.

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Burra Holm Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.194924/-1.3063011 or Grid Reference HU3845. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Trig point

Known to the Ordnance Survey as White Ness

Iain Macaulay

Bod of Nesbister

The camping Bod at Nesbister, formerly a fishing station

Jeremy Duncan

Nesbister

Nesbister looking out on the Bod of Nesbister, with Burra and the Scalloway isles in the distance. There is an ancient tidal Pictish causeway below the sea between the Bod isles and the land.

Jeremy Duncan

Pictish Causeway at Nesbister

This ancient Pictish causeway near the Bod of Nesbister can only be seen at low tide.

Jeremy Duncan

Stromness Voe

Stromness Voe with the Ness on the right. The house in the distance is Jackville, accessible only by foot or boat.

Jeremy Duncan

View over the Loch of Strom, Whiteness, Shetland

Taken from a house (through the window, hence the streak on the left of the image) located at the south end of the Loch of Strom. Hogaland is just off the right-hand side of the photo. There are a few more buildings now on the far side of the loch, but it has changed little other than that.

Ruth Sharville

Strom Ness from Hill of Olligarth

This ness is flanked by Stromness Voe (the water to the left of the picture) and the entrance to Weisdale Voe. In the distance can be seen houses in the village of Hamnavoe. Don't be fooled into thinking you're in Orkney - this Strom Ness is definitely in Shetland!

Ruth Sharville

Making hay while the sun shines, Hogaland

...and never is that expression more apt than in Shetland! The summer days are long, but the season is short, so there's plenty to be done on a bonny day.

Ruth Sharville

Loch of Strom viewed from Strom Bridge

The bridge crosses the narrows connecting the Loch of Strom to Stromness Voe. Visible in the loch are the three islands of the Holms of Hogaland and the ruins of a ruined island castle connected to the mainland by causeway.

Ken Craig