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Hog of the Ness

Island in Shetland

Scotland

Hog of the Ness

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

Located on the northern coast of Shetland, Hog of the Ness is a captivating and picturesque headland that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Situated near the village of Brae, this prominent land formation is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Hog of the Ness is characterized by its rugged cliffs, which rise dramatically from the North Sea. These towering cliffs provide a nesting ground for a variety of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and puffins. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of these birds soaring through the air or perched on the rocky ledges.

The headland is also home to an array of diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. It boasts a rich ecosystem, with heather-covered moorlands and sprawling grasslands that attract a multitude of wildlife, such as otters, seals, and the occasional pod of orcas.

For those seeking adventure, the Hog of the Ness offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring. A well-maintained trail leads visitors along the cliff edge, providing panoramic views of the coastline and the nearby island of Muckle Roe. The path is relatively easy to navigate, although caution is advised as some areas can be steep and exposed.

In addition to its natural beauty, Hog of the Ness also holds historical significance. Nearby, the ruins of a World War II lookout station can be found, serving as a reminder of the island's past. The headland has witnessed the passage of time, standing as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Shetland Isles.

Overall, Hog of the Ness is a captivating and serene destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Visitors are sure to be mesmerized by its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere.

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Hog of the Ness Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.85618/-1.3131297 or Grid Reference HU3808. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Scatness from the air
Scatness from the air
Loch of Gards, Scatness, from the air
Loch of Gards, Scatness, from the air
Ness of Burgi, Scatness, from the air
Ness of Burgi, Scatness, from the air
Horse Island, Scatness, from the air
Horse Island, Scatness, from the air
Sumburgh: Horse Island in silhouette Looking towards this island off the southern tip of the Shetland mainland, from the Lerwick-Aberdeen ferry many miles away.
Sumburgh: Horse Island in silhouette
Looking towards this island off the southern tip of the Shetland mainland, from the Lerwick-Aberdeen ferry many miles away.
West Voe of Sumburgh
West Voe of Sumburgh
Jarlshof - Iron age settlement and visitor centre On a very wet afternoon at the fascinating excavated site at Jarlshof - the section seen ahead here is from the Iron Age period with the visitor centre being the modern building behind.
Jarlshof - Iron age settlement and visitor centre
On a very wet afternoon at the fascinating excavated site at Jarlshof - the section seen ahead here is from the Iron Age period with the visitor centre being the modern building behind.
Jarlshof - Neolithic dwelling remains The oldest part of the Jarlshof site dates from about 2500BC or 4,500 years ago. This places it in the Neolithic or New Stone Age. Only a few stones remain as can be seen, but considerable pottery finds have helped in dating this area.
Jarlshof - Neolithic dwelling remains
The oldest part of the Jarlshof site dates from about 2500BC or 4,500 years ago. This places it in the Neolithic or New Stone Age. Only a few stones remain as can be seen, but considerable pottery finds have helped in dating this area.
Jarlshof - Bronze Age dwellings The Bronze Age and Iron Age areas of Jarlshof adjoin each other. I think this view is from the former period looking towards the latter. Unfortunately it was such a dismal day when we visited that we didn't linger as long here as we'd have liked - and my lens was getting covered in rain drops as can be seen !
Jarlshof - Bronze Age dwellings
The Bronze Age and Iron Age areas of Jarlshof adjoin each other. I think this view is from the former period looking towards the latter. Unfortunately it was such a dismal day when we visited that we didn't linger as long here as we'd have liked - and my lens was getting covered in rain drops as can be seen !
Jarlshof - Bronze and Iron Age sites The Bronze and Iron Age sites merge into each other at Jarlshof. The more distant remains in this image belonging to the earlier period, those nearer the camera to the Iron Age.
Jarlshof - Bronze and Iron Age sites
The Bronze and Iron Age sites merge into each other at Jarlshof. The more distant remains in this image belonging to the earlier period, those nearer the camera to the Iron Age.
Jarlshof - Iron Age remains There are numerous Iron Age remains at Jarlshof, most effectively subterranean. This feature at the southernmost part of the site is less well defined than many of the other dwellings, but shows well the circular shape of those ancient homes.
Jarlshof - Iron Age remains
There are numerous Iron Age remains at Jarlshof, most effectively subterranean. This feature at the southernmost part of the site is less well defined than many of the other dwellings, but shows well the circular shape of those ancient homes.
Jarlshof - Iron Age wheelhouse, looking down There are several well preserved "wheelhouses" at Jarlshof. They are effectively subterranean, so this view is from (slightly raised) ground level looking down into the wheelhouse. Having little chambers radiating from a central circular atrium, they provided welcome shelter from the atrocious weather on the day we visited.
Jarlshof - Iron Age wheelhouse, looking down
There are several well preserved "wheelhouses" at Jarlshof. They are effectively subterranean, so this view is from (slightly raised) ground level looking down into the wheelhouse. Having little chambers radiating from a central circular atrium, they provided welcome shelter from the atrocious weather on the day we visited.
Jarlshof - Inside a wheelhouse Taken from inside one of the wheelhouses at Jarlshof looking out of one of the chambers that radiate from the central atrium towards the entrance to the building. The heavy persistent rain (the worst we had on our entire two week holiday) can be seen cascading off the ancient ledges.
Jarlshof - Inside a wheelhouse
Taken from inside one of the wheelhouses at Jarlshof looking out of one of the chambers that radiate from the central atrium towards the entrance to the building. The heavy persistent rain (the worst we had on our entire two week holiday) can be seen cascading off the ancient ledges.
Jarlshof - Wheelhouse interior The interiors of the several wheelhouses at Jarlshof have numerous chambers radiating off a central circular atrium, and also stone "cupboards" or storage chambers such as the one seen here.
Jarlshof - Wheelhouse interior
The interiors of the several wheelhouses at Jarlshof have numerous chambers radiating off a central circular atrium, and also stone "cupboards" or storage chambers such as the one seen here.
Jarlshof - The Norse settlement (Viking) The Vikings left their mark at Jarlshof with extensive remains at the northern half of the site. The Norse settlement covers a period from about 800 to 1200 AD.
Jarlshof - The Norse settlement (Viking)
The Vikings left their mark at Jarlshof with extensive remains at the northern half of the site. The Norse settlement covers a period from about 800 to 1200 AD.
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Hog of the Ness is located at Grid Ref: HU3808 (Lat: 59.85618, Lng: -1.3131297)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///stack.suddenly.digests. Near Sumburgh, Shetland Islands

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