Hog of Breigeo

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

Hog of Breigeo

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

Hog of Breigeo is a prominent coastal feature located in Shetland, Scotland. It is a headland that extends into the North Sea, forming a distinctive point along the coastline. The name "Hog" likely refers to the hump-like shape of the headland, resembling the back of a hog or pig.

Situated in the northern part of Shetland, Hog of Breigeo offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding rugged cliffs and the vast expanse of the North Sea. The headland itself is characterized by steep cliffs that rise up from the sea, reaching heights of approximately 100 meters. These cliffs provide nesting sites for various seabird species, including puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The area surrounding Hog of Breigeo is also known for its rich marine life. Seals can often be spotted lounging on the rocks, while whales and dolphins can occasionally be seen swimming offshore. The headland is also home to a diverse range of plant species, with hardy grasses and wildflowers clinging to the cliff edges.

Hog of Breigeo is accessible via a scenic coastal path that winds along the cliffs, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the area on foot. The headland is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, who come to admire the dramatic coastal scenery, observe the wildlife, and experience the tranquility of this remote and untouched corner of Shetland.

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Hog of Breigeo Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.862203/-1.3110059 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.

Carroll Pierce

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.

Carroll Pierce

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.

Carroll Pierce

Sumburgh Hotel

I am near the visitor centre at Jarlshof, Shetland, and looking past the Shetland pony towards the Sumburgh Hotel which is flying the Shetland flag. The hill beyond crowned with radar installation is the landward side of Compass Head.

Carroll Pierce

Scatness from the air

Mike Pennington

Loch of Gards, Scatness, from the air

Mike Pennington

Ness of Burgi, Scatness, from the air

Mike Pennington

Horse Island, Scatness, from the air

Mike Pennington

View across Sumburgh from the Head

With the airport further on.

John Lucas

Sumburgh Airport (2)

This is Sumburgh Airport, the main airport serving Shetland, taken from the road as it passes its south western side.

Carroll Pierce

Sumburgh Airport from the air

Mike Pennington

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.

Chris Downer

West Voe of Sumburgh

Kirsty Murfitt

Sumburgh Hotel

This welcoming hotel, restaurant and bar was our first and last port of call on our visit to the Shetland Isles. I'm pleased to report that they had pretty much the full range of the islands' own excellent Valhalla Brewery ales in bottle, though none yet on draught when we were there. Photo taken on a dismally wet afternoon from the path to Jarlshof.

Rob Farrow

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.

Rob Farrow

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.

Rob Farrow

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 !

Rob Farrow

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.

Rob Farrow

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Hog of Breigeo is located at Grid Ref: HU3808 (Lat: 59.862203, Lng: -1.3110059)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands