Ayre of Vidlin

Beach in Shetland

Scotland

Ayre of Vidlin

Village store and filling station The trading premises of John I Herculson of Vidlin. — Village store and filling station Credit: Oliver Dixon

Ayre of Vidlin is a stunning beach located on the eastern coast of the Shetland Islands in Scotland. This picturesque sandy beach is situated within the village of Vidlin, overlooking the North Sea. Stretching over 600 meters in length, it offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.

The beach at Ayre of Vidlin boasts soft golden sand, gently sloping down towards the sparkling turquoise waters. The pristine shoreline is often adorned with beautiful seashells, making it a popular spot for beachcombing enthusiasts. The shallow waters are safe for swimming, and visitors can often spot seals basking on the nearby rocks.

The beach is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with rolling green hills and rugged cliffs providing a dramatic backdrop. It offers stunning panoramic views of the North Sea, the nearby islands, and the picturesque village of Vidlin. The beach is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with various seabirds such as puffins and gannets frequently seen in the area.

Ayre of Vidlin is easily accessible, with parking available nearby and a short walk to the beach. There are picnic areas and benches for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery. The beach is relatively quiet and peaceful, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.

Overall, Ayre of Vidlin is a hidden gem on the Shetland Islands, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world.

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Ayre of Vidlin Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 60.369874/-1.1310281 or Grid Reference HU4865. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Village store and filling station

The trading premises of John I Herculson of Vidlin.

Oliver Dixon

The road to Laxo

B9071 at Vidlin. Kirkhouse Loch in the background.

Oliver Dixon

Vidlin Marina

The most distant boat, moored outside the Marina in Vidlin Voe, appears to be the Out Skerries ferry.

Oliver Dixon

The road past Grunna Voe

Oliver Dixon

The road past Grunna Voe

Oliver Dixon

Causeway to Gillsbreck

Road linking Vidlin with Gillsbreck and other townships on the east side of Vilin Voe.

Oliver Dixon

MV Filla at Quee Ness

The Outskerries ferry moored at Vidlin.

Oliver Dixon

Grunna Voe

Des Blenkinsopp

Stream flowing into Grunna Voe

Des Blenkinsopp

Vidlin Public Hall

The year 1910 is on the wall above the left hand window.

Des Blenkinsopp

Vidlin road bridge

Small bridge over the estuary at Vidlin

Mat Tuck

Harbour at Vidlin

Harbour at Vidlin with the Church and Marina.

Mat Tuck

Sheep pens

Sheep pens at Vidlin

Mat Tuck

Grunna Voe

View from the road across Grunna Voe

Mat Tuck

The marina at Vidlin

Shetlanders are described as 'fishermen with crofts' whereas Orkadians are 'farmers with a boat'. On Shetland there are boats everywhere and there has been heavy investment in marinas and safe harbours. There must be more boats per head of population in Shetland than anywhere else in the UK.

Gordon Brown