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The Slithers

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Shetland

Scotland

The Slithers

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

The Slithers is a prominent coastal feature located on the Shetland Islands, a group of islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is specifically situated on the mainland of Shetland, near the village of Scalloway. The Slithers is classified as a headland or point, characterized by its rugged and rocky terrain.

The Slithers juts out into the North Sea, forming a distinctive projection along the coastline. It is known for its dramatic cliffs that rise vertically from the sea, reaching heights of approximately 50 meters (165 feet). These cliffs are composed of layered sedimentary rock, displaying a range of colors and textures that add to the visual appeal of the area.

The Slithers offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the vast expanse of the North Sea and the nearby islands. Its remote location and untouched beauty make it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers. The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seabirds such as puffins, guillemots, and razorbills.

Access to The Slithers is relatively easy, with a well-maintained footpath leading visitors along the cliff edge. However, caution is advised due to the steep drops and potentially slippery surfaces. There are no facilities or amenities available on-site, so visitors are encouraged to come prepared with appropriate clothing, footwear, and provisions.

Overall, The Slithers is a captivating coastal feature that showcases the rugged beauty of the Shetland Islands. Its striking cliffs, stunning views, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and awe-inspiring experience in this unique part of Scotland.

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The Slithers Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 59.860435/-1.3093285 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.
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.
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.
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
Guillemots on a stack at Sumburgh Head
Guillemots on a stack at Sumburgh Head
View across Sumburgh from the Head With the airport further on.
View across Sumburgh from the Head
With the airport further on.
Ness of Burgi and Fitful Head Taken on the western side of Sumburgh Head, beside its lighthouse and visitor centre, I am looking across the West Voe of Sumburgh to the Ness of Burgi. The Bay of Quendale and Fitful lie beyond. Main island, Shetland.
Ness of Burgi and Fitful Head
Taken on the western side of Sumburgh Head, beside its lighthouse and visitor centre, I am looking across the West Voe of Sumburgh to the Ness of Burgi. The Bay of Quendale and Fitful lie beyond. Main island, Shetland.
Sumburgh Airport (2) This is Sumburgh Airport, the main airport serving Shetland, taken from the road as it passes its south western side.
Sumburgh Airport (2)
This is Sumburgh Airport, the main airport serving Shetland, taken from the road as it passes its south western side.
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
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.
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.
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 !
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The Slithers is located at Grid Ref: HU3808 (Lat: 59.860435, Lng: -1.3093285)

Unitary Authority: Shetland Islands

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///clipped.prone.acrobats. Near Sumburgh, Shetland Islands

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Skerry of Burgi Whale Geo Sheep Geo Stack of Vatigeo Old Scartie's Geo Hog of the Ness

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