West Ayr

Beach in Shetland

Scotland

West Ayr

Ness of Hillwick Taken from the B9078 between Burnside and Eshaness, Shetland, I am looking across Sand Wick to the Ness of Hillswick. The Isle of Westerhouse is visible just off the Pund of Grevasand to the west of the Ness. — Ness of Hillwick Credit: Carroll Pierce

West Ayr, Shetland is a picturesque beach located on the west coast of the main island in the Shetland archipelago, off the northeast coast of Scotland. This beautiful sandy beach is nestled within a bay and offers stunning panoramic views of the North Atlantic Ocean.

West Ayr beach is known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach stretches for approximately 1 kilometer, making it a perfect spot for long walks and relaxation. Its remote location ensures a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and rolling green hills, providing a dramatic backdrop to the stunning coastal scenery. This natural landscape attracts a variety of wildlife, including seabirds such as puffins, cormorants, and gulls. Visitors may also spot seals and otters along the shoreline.

West Ayr beach is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities. The clear waters make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even surfing, although caution is advised due to the strong currents. The expansive sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or building sandcastles with the family.

Access to West Ayr beach is relatively easy, with a small car park provided nearby. The beach is also accessible by foot, with a short walk from the nearby village of Sandness. Visitors are advised to check the tide times before visiting, as the beach can become submerged during high tide.

Overall, West Ayr beach in Shetland is a hidden gem, offering a serene and unspoiled coastal experience for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Show me another place!

If you have any feedback on the listing, please let us know in the comments section below.

West Ayr Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.475821/-1.4946232 or Grid Reference HU2777. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Ness of Hillwick

Taken from the B9078 between Burnside and Eshaness, Shetland, I am looking across Sand Wick to the Ness of Hillswick. The Isle of Westerhouse is visible just off the Pund of Grevasand to the west of the Ness.

Carroll Pierce

Papa Stour and Foula

Taken on the B9078 between Burnside and Eshaness, Shetland, I am looking out towards the islands of Papa Stour (left of shot) and Foula beyond.

Carroll Pierce

The Drongs

Taken from the B9078 between Burnside and Eshaness, Shetland, I am looking across Sand Wick to the sea stacks known at The Drongs. Papa Stour can be seen in the distance.

Carroll Pierce

St Magnus Bay Hotel, Hillswick, Shetland

Built in 1900 by the North of Scotland Ferry company. Still functioning, just [in 2004], but the absentee landlord is clearly not interested in maintaining it as a hotel, which is sad.

David Medcalf

Urafirth Primary School, Shetland

Built around ten years ago Urafirth Primary School lies between Urafirth and Hillswick and pupils who live in the north west mainland of Shetland attend. Its nursery is also attended by pupils from as far away as Ollaberry.

John Dally

Hillswick Fire Station, Shetland

With local retained firefighters the Hillswick Fire Station is little more than a large garage, just big enough to house the small appliance based on a large van.

John Dally

Hillswick, Shetland

Large traditionally built houses at Hillswick. In the background is Findlins House and Findlins Farm.

John Dally

Hillswick, Shetland

Houses at Hillswick, the large two storey house with mansard roof is called Laarsund.

John Dally

St Magnus Bay Hotel, Hillswick, Shetland

This hotel was built as a kit in Norway, dis-assembled and transported to Hillswick where it was constructed on its present site in 1900 by the North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Steam Navigation Co.. Sadly it is currently closed (April 2006) although the local community wish to see it opened again. For more information on Hillswick and surrounding area visit Link

UPDATE Oct 07: this hotel is now owned by a local couple and open every day - More information can be found at the official website Link

John Dally

View over Heads of Grocken, Eshaness, Shetland

Looking out over the Heads of Grocken with 'The Drongs' the sea stacks in the distance.

John Dally

Helga water, near Hillswick, Shetland

Shetland is unlikely ever to have a hosepipe ban, there are many many lochs and plentiful rainfall. This is Helga Water near the road to Eshaness.

John Dally

Heads of Grocken

Looking across the square from above Hillswick on a stormy winter's day. The pony was very inquisitive, and didn't want to be photographed in profile!

Anne Burgess

Heads of Grocken

Small sea-stacks off the Heads of Grocken, with the Drongs in the distance.

Mike Pennington

Beach between Heads of Grocken and the Neap

Mike Pennington

Entering Eshaness

Ken Craig

The Quilse

Rob Burke

Cliffs and stack

The view south from this point is spectacular. (The stack and the point to the right lie in this grid square, while the cliff to the left is in HU2775).

Rob Burke