Eshaness: Shetland’s Rugged Volcanic Peninsula and Dramatic Coastal Wonder
Discover Eshaness, Shetland’s wild volcanic peninsula with dramatic cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and breathtaking North Atlantic vistas.
Eshaness, located on the western tip of Northmavine on Mainland, Shetland, is a wild and windswept peninsula famed for its dramatic volcanic cliffs, powerful Atlantic storms, and the iconic Eshaness Lighthouse. Visitors can explore rugged coastal walks, ancient geological formations, sea caves, and storm beaches, all framed by breathtaking views of the North Atlantic Ocean and nearby islands.
A brief summary to Eshaness
- Shetland, Eshaness, GB
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear and warm, windproof clothing due to exposed coastal paths and unpredictable weather.
- Visit the Eshaness Lighthouse accommodation for a unique overnight experience in a historic setting.
- Explore the Eshaness Circular walk to see volcanic cliffs, blowholes, and the dramatic Grind o da Navir.
- Bring a camera for spectacular views of sea stacks, storm beaches, and nesting seabirds.
- Plan your visit outside of stormy winter months for safer walking conditions and better visibility.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Lerwick to Eshaness takes approximately 60 to 75 minutes via the A970 and B9078 roads. Parking is available near the lighthouse, but roads are narrow with passing places. Fuel up beforehand as services are limited en route.
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Bus
Limited bus services operate from Lerwick to Northmavine with infrequent stops near Eshaness. Travel time ranges from 90 to 120 minutes. Check the Shetland Travel Information website for current timetables and plan for walking from the nearest stop to the lighthouse.
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Walking
For experienced walkers, the Eshaness Circular walk covers 6 km with moderate elevation gain and takes about 3 hours. Terrain includes cliff tops and uneven ground, requiring sturdy footwear and caution near edges.
Eshaness location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Eshaness
Volcanic Origins and Geological Marvels
Eshaness is a remarkable landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity dating back around 395 million years. The peninsula exposes some of the best sections of a volcanic flank in the UK, with visible agglomerates and ignimbrite deposits formed from explosive eruptions and pyroclastic flows. These geological features tell the story of a strato-volcano that once towered here, now eroded to reveal dramatic cliffs and rocky inlets. The coastline is carved by powerful Atlantic waves, creating geos, blowholes, and giant boulder fields that testify to the ongoing natural forces shaping the area.Iconic Lighthouse and Historical Heritage
Perched on the western coast near Calder's Geo stands the Eshaness Lighthouse, designed by David Alan Stevenson and commissioned in 1929. This tapering square tower, built from concrete due to the unsuitability of local stone, flashes white every 12 seconds and has a range of 25 nautical miles. Automated since 1974, the lighthouse keepers' former accommodation is now available as unique holiday lodging, offering an immersive experience in this remote setting. Nearby, the hamlet of Tangwick hosts the Tangwick Haa Museum, a restored laird’s house that preserves local history and culture.Wild Coastal Walks and Natural Attractions
The Eshaness Circular walk, about 6km long, offers an accessible yet thrilling exploration of the peninsula’s volcanic cliffs, storm beaches, and archaeological sites such as a ruined broch. Along the route, walkers encounter dramatic features like the Grind o da Navir amphitheatre, where storm waves have hurled massive rocks high above sea level. The Holes of Scraada, a collapsed sea cave with a subterranean passage to the ocean, adds to the mystique. The coastal path is carpeted with wildflowers in summer and hosts abundant seabirds nesting on the cliffs.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Eshaness is a place of raw natural beauty, where the relentless power of the North Atlantic is palpable. The landscape is treeless and windswept, offering panoramic views of St Magnus Bay and offshore islets like Muckle Ossa. The area’s solitude and dramatic scenery make it ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a tranquil yet invigorating escape. The nearby Eshaness Tea Rooms and camp site provide welcoming spots to rest and refresh.Local Amenities and Accommodation
While remote, Eshaness offers several accommodation options including self-catering cottages and the unique lighthouse keeper’s residence. The nearby village of Brae, about a 20-minute drive away, provides essential services such as shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities. The Shetland Amenity Trust manages the lighthouse accommodation and local heritage sites, ensuring preservation alongside visitor access.Conservation and Accessibility
Eshaness is part of a protected natural environment where visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile coastal ecosystem. The area is accessible primarily by car, with limited public transport options. Walking paths are well maintained but can be exposed to strong winds and variable weather, so appropriate clothing and footwear are advised. The peninsula offers a unique blend of geological wonder, cultural heritage, and wild coastal ambience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lerwick Town Hall
44.2 km
Victorian civic masterpiece with breathtaking stained glass windows telling Shetland's historical narrative
Market Cross
44.5 km
Historic Market Cross in Lerwick, the symbolic heart of Shetland’s trade, community, and civic life.
Northernmost Point Of UK
56.1 km
Explore Skaw on Unst, the UK’s northernmost point, where rugged coastline meets rich Viking heritage and iconic maritime landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tangwick Haa Museum
1.0 km
Explore Tangwick Haa Museum, a historic laird’s house preserving Northmavine’s rich heritage and maritime traditions in scenic Shetland.
Eshaness Broch
2.1 km
Explore ancient Iron Age ruins on Shetland’s volcanic cliffs, where wild Atlantic seas meet breathtaking coastal history and nature.
Eshaness Lighthouse
2.9 km
Historic 1929 lighthouse perched on Shetland’s dramatic cliffs, guarding treacherous seas with stunning coastal views and rich maritime heritage.
Esha Ness
4.2 km
Explore Shetland’s volcanic cliffs, historic lighthouse, and wild Atlantic coast at Esha Ness, a landscape of raw natural power and ancient heritage.
The Hollanders Graves
6.9 km
A quiet cairn on Shetland’s wild west coast marks the burial place of Dutch sailors from the 1674 Battle of Ronas Voe, one of the islands’ earliest known war graves.
Beorgs of Housetter, Standing Stones
14.4 km
Ancient red-pink standing stones marking a Neolithic chambered cairn, offering a rare glimpse into Shetland’s prehistoric heritage.
Mavis Grind
14.7 km
Discover Mavis Grind, the narrow isthmus where the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea nearly meet, steeped in Viking history and dramatic Shetland scenery.
Shetland Rural Experience Centre
16.5 km
Working farm and sheepdog demonstrations celebrating Shetland's agricultural heritage and rural traditions.
Voe Public Hall
22.6 km
A welcoming volunteer-run hub in Shetland’s Voe, hosting diverse community events with inclusive facilities in a scenic island setting.
Tagon Stores
22.8 km
Tagon Stores offers essential groceries, fuel, and friendly service on Shetland’s A970, making it a vital stop for locals and travelers alike.
The Cake Fridge - Shetland
24.5 km
Shetland’s original 24/7 honesty cake fridge, with a quirky tea room and outdoor picnic area serving homemade cakes, soup, and local treats.
The Cabin Museum
27.1 km
Discover Shetland’s wartime stories and rural heritage in this intimate museum nestled in Mainland’s heartland.
The honesty box
30.3 km
Discover authentic Shetland flavors and community spirit at The Honesty Box, a charming self-service farm shop in tranquil Mid Yell.
Scord of Weisdale Viewpoint
31.6 km
A serene roadside viewpoint offering sweeping views over Weisdale Voe and Shetland’s rugged west coast landscapes.
Culswick Broch
33.9 km
Explore Culswick Broch, an ancient Iron Age tower perched on Shetland’s wild west coast, offering rugged beauty and evocative history.
Essential places to dine
Frankie's Fish & Chips
16.4 km
Savor fresh, locally sourced fish and crispy chips at Shetland’s beloved Frankie's Fish & Chips in Brae.
Da Haaf Restaurant
42.8 km
Savor fresh Shetland seafood and traditional Scottish dishes with stunning harbor views at Da Haaf Restaurant in Scalloway.
The Waterfront Bar and Grill
43.1 km
A modern, informal grill in Lerwick serving fresh Shetland seafood and hearty dishes with warm hospitality every evening.
Gurkha Kitchen
43.7 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
The Olive Tree
43.7 km
A cozy British café in Lerwick’s Toll Clock Shopping Centre, offering fresh, gluten-free-friendly dishes and a rich tea selection.
Saffron
43.8 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Hay's Dock By The Dowry
43.8 km
Historic waterfront dining at Lerwick’s last original dock, where Shetland’s maritime heritage meets cozy local hospitality.
The Great Wall
44.0 km
Experience authentic Cantonese flavors at The Great Wall, Lerwick’s largest and most accessible Chinese restaurant in the heart of Shetland.
Téamoré
44.0 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Golden Coach
44.1 km
Savor fresh, authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming, spacious setting at Golden Coach, Lerwick’s favorite for traditional flavors and friendly service.
Fort Cafe & Take Away
44.2 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest fish and chips with friendly service at Lerwick’s beloved Fort Cafe & Take Away, a local culinary gem.
C’est la Vie
44.2 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
The New Harbour Cafe
44.3 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Dowry
44.3 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Grand Hotel
44.3 km
Historic charm and warm hospitality meet in the heart of Lerwick at The Grand Hotel, your gateway to Shetland’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ollabery Shop
11.5 km
A welcoming general store and fuel stop in Shetland’s scenic north, serving locals and travelers with essential goods and friendly charm.
Co-op Food - Shetland Brae - Hillside
16.0 km
Your friendly local Co-op Food store in Brae, Shetland, offering fresh groceries, bakery treats, postal services, and daily essentials from dawn till late evening.
The Shetland Fairy
16.9 km
Discover handcrafted fairy gifts and ethically sourced crystals in Shetland’s northernmost village, where folklore and artistry meet.
The Hillshop
29.9 km
A cozy local shop and café in Mid Yell offering Shetland crafts, home bakes, and a warm island welcome.
The Kergord Hatchery Bookshop
30.1 km
A charming second-hand bookshop in a former salmon hatchery, perfect for readers and dog lovers exploring Shetland’s peaceful Weisdale valley.
Aywick Shop
30.7 km
A beloved general store in East Yell, Aywick Shop offers an eclectic range of goods and a warm community atmosphere in the heart of Shetland’s northern isles.
Shetland Crafts
34.4 km
Discover authentic Shetland artistry at Shetland Crafts in Yell, where tradition meets inspired craftsmanship in a welcoming setting.
The Co-Operative Lerwick
43.4 km
Discover Shetland's flavors at The Co-Operative Lerwick, your go-to convenience store for fresh produce and local goods.
Co-op Food - Shetland Lerwick - Holmsgarth Road
43.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Lerwick - your one-stop-shop for local goods and essentials during your Shetland adventures.
Bolts Minimarket
43.7 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Toll Clock Shopping Centre
43.7 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
Health Craft
44.0 km
Discover Shetland’s finest health foods and crafts at Health Craft, Lerwick’s welcoming hub for wellness and local artistry.
The Bop Shop
44.1 km
Discover Shetland’s beloved monthly vinyl haven and creative hub where music, community, and culture intertwine in Lerwick’s heart.
Boots
44.3 km
Your trusted local pharmacy and beauty destination in the heart of Lerwick, offering health, wellness, and personal care essentials.
The Puffin Republic
44.3 km
Discover authentic Shetland gifts and local artistry at The Puffin Republic in the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant commercial district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Busta House Hotel
16.2 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
Mid Brae Inn
16.3 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Brae Hotel
16.6 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Welcome Inn
21.7 km
A welcoming Shetland pub and live music venue where community spirit and local culture come alive in Mossbank.
The Kiln Bar
42.6 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
Scalloway Hotel
42.6 km
Experience Shetland’s charm with stylish sea-view rooms, fresh local seafood, and warm hospitality at Scalloway Hotel on the waterfront.
Douglas Arms
43.9 km
Cozy and welcoming, the Douglas Arms is Lerwick’s beloved traditional pub, offering local drinks, live music, and genuine Shetland hospitality.
Trench bar and nightclub
44.0 km
Lerwick’s only nightclub open till 3 AM, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of Shetland’s capital.
Thule Bar
44.3 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
The Lounge Bar
44.5 km
A lively Lerwick pub famed for live traditional music, local camaraderie, and a wide selection of drinks in the heart of Shetland.
Fjarå Café Bar
44.5 km
Coastal charm meets local flavors at Lerwick’s Fjarå Café Bar, where sea views and seasonal dishes create an unforgettable dining escape.
Maryfield House Hotel
44.7 km
Charming family-run hotel on Bressay Island with stunning sea views, local seafood dining, and easy ferry access to Shetland’s capital.
Balta Light
51.0 km
Experience authentic Shetland hospitality at Balta Light, the UK's northernmost pub nestled in Baltasound, Unst.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
