Bay of Whinnifirt

Bay in Shetland

Scotland

Bay of Whinnifirt

March of the poles at Moss Houll Power cables beside the road north of Burravoe.
March of the poles at Moss Houll Credit: Oliver Dixon

The Bay of Whinnifirt is a picturesque inlet located on the east coast of the Shetland Islands in Scotland. Situated on the island of Whalsay, it is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and visitors seeking tranquility amidst stunning natural surroundings.

The bay is characterized by its rugged coastline, consisting of towering cliffs and rocky outcrops, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the sparkling turquoise waters. The area is abundant in wildlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and fulmars, nesting on the cliffs during the breeding season.

The beach at Bay of Whinnifirt is a hidden gem, boasting pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is an idyllic spot for picnicking, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance. The bay is also a popular spot for fishing, with anglers often casting their lines from the rocky shores or venturing out in small boats to catch mackerel, cod, or haddock.

For those interested in history, the nearby ruins of the 16th-century Busta House provide a glimpse into the island's past. This historic building was once a laird's residence and is now a hotel, offering visitors a chance to experience the island's heritage while enjoying modern comforts.

Access to the Bay of Whinnifirt is relatively easy, with a road leading directly to the bay from the main village of Skaw. Whether you're seeking a peaceful beach getaway, a birdwatching adventure, or a glimpse into Shetland's rich history, the Bay of Whinnifirt is a must-visit destination.

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Bay of Whinnifirt Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.524019/-1.0274514 or Grid Reference HU5382. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

March of the poles at Moss Houll Power cables beside the road north of Burravoe.
March of the poles at Moss Houll
Power cables beside the road north of Burravoe.
Winding moorland road B9081 north of Burravoe.
Winding moorland road
B9081 north of Burravoe.
Road at Gossabrough
Road at Gossabrough
Road at Gossabrough With a glimpse of the sea beyond.
Road at Gossabrough
With a glimpse of the sea beyond.
Driveway to Gudon
Driveway to Gudon
Gudon With the Wick of Gossabrough.
Gudon
With the Wick of Gossabrough.
Small beach at Bottom On the Wick of Gossabrough.
Small beach at Bottom
On the Wick of Gossabrough.
Ruin at Bottom Above the beach on the Wick of Gossabrough.
Ruin at Bottom
Above the beach on the Wick of Gossabrough.
View over Gossabrough Hay stooks dot the field in front of a bay called the Wick of Gossabrough, named after the small collection of crofts and houses that surround it. The row of buildings on the far side of the bay seems to be called "Bottom" according to the map, and I think that the ruined building in front of them is Gossabrough Haa. Beyond them, in the distance, can be seen a wall on the Ness of  Gossabrough, it is in the adjacent square to the east (as are all the building that can be seen), and runs from HU53588307 to HU53508315
View over Gossabrough
Hay stooks dot the field in front of a bay called the Wick of Gossabrough, named after the small collection of crofts and houses that surround it. The row of buildings on the far side of the bay seems to be called "Bottom" according to the map, and I think that the ruined building in front of them is Gossabrough Haa. Beyond them, in the distance, can be seen a wall on the Ness of Gossabrough, it is in the adjacent square to the east (as are all the building that can be seen), and runs from HU53588307 to HU53508315
East Yell: postbox № ZE2 38, Holligarth A small, lonely postbox serving the hamlet of Gossabrough, which lies alongside the shore of the bay, Wick of Gossabrough, which we see in the background. The box is emptied at 9:30am daily, except Sunday.
East Yell: postbox № ZE2 38, Holligarth
A small, lonely postbox serving the hamlet of Gossabrough, which lies alongside the shore of the bay, Wick of Gossabrough, which we see in the background. The box is emptied at 9:30am daily, except Sunday.
Natural Arches The Natural Arches at the Horse of Burravoe
Natural Arches
The Natural Arches at the Horse of Burravoe
Point of Whitehill The Point of Whitehill from the Horse of Burravoe
Point of Whitehill
The Point of Whitehill from the Horse of Burravoe
Stack of the Horse The Stack of the Horse from Long Hevda
Stack of the Horse
The Stack of the Horse from Long Hevda
Old Fence post An old fence post with the newer fence - further back from the cliffs in the background
Old Fence post
An old fence post with the newer fence - further back from the cliffs in the background
Stack of the horse The bottom of the Stack of the Horse
Stack of the horse
The bottom of the Stack of the Horse
Nothing much but peat The countryside north of Burravoe
Nothing much but peat
The countryside north of Burravoe
Wick of Gossabrough Looking towards the beach
Wick of Gossabrough
Looking towards the beach
Gudon Croft land beside the Wick of Gossabrough, Yell.
Gudon
Croft land beside the Wick of Gossabrough, Yell.
Show me another place!

Bay of Whinnifirt is located at Grid Ref: HU5382 (Lat: 60.524019, Lng: -1.0274514)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///fries.ballooned.ranges. Near Ulsta, Shetland Islands

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