The Giant's Leg: A Dramatic Coastal Rock Formation on Bressay
Explore the Giant's Leg, a stunning natural sea arch on Bressay’s rugged southern coast, blending geology, wildlife, and wartime history.
The Giant's Leg is a striking natural sea arch located on the southern coast of Bressay, one of the Shetland Islands in Scotland. This impressive sandstone formation, shaped by millennia of erosion, stands as a geological marvel and a wildlife haven. It offers breathtaking coastal views and is part of a rugged landscape rich with history, including nearby World War I gun emplacements. The Giant's Leg is a must-see for nature lovers and those interested in Shetland's dramatic maritime heritage.
A brief summary to Giant's Leg, Bressay
- GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear for the coastal walk to the Giant's Leg, as the terrain is uneven and can be slippery near the cliffs.
- Visit during low tide for the best views and safer access to the base of the sea arch from nearby vantage points.
- Bring binoculars to spot seabirds nesting on the cliffs and watch for seals in the surrounding waters.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Bressay Lighthouse and the World War I gun emplacements for a fuller historical context.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Ferry and Walking
Take the regular car and passenger ferry from Lerwick to Bressay, a 7-minute crossing costing around £5 return. From the ferry terminal, walk approximately 3.5 km along marked coastal paths to the Giant's Leg. The terrain is uneven and moderately challenging, suitable for those with a good level of fitness.
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Car and Hiking
Drive to Bressay via the ferry from Lerwick with vehicle fares approximately £10 return. Park near Bressay Lighthouse and hike south along the coastal trail to the Giant's Leg. The hike covers about 4 km one way, with some steep sections and rocky paths. No public parking fees apply, but availability is limited.
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Boat Tour
Join a local boat tour from Lerwick during summer months that includes views of the Giant's Leg from the sea. Tours last 1.5 to 2 hours and cost approximately £25–£40 per person. Weather dependent and subject to availability, these tours offer unique perspectives of the rock formation and surrounding wildlife.
Giant's Leg, Bressay 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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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Giant's Leg, Bressay
Geological Wonder Carved by Time
The Giant's Leg is a remarkable natural sea arch formed from Old Red Sandstone, characteristic of Bressay's geology. Over thousands of years, relentless wave action and weathering sculpted this arch into a dramatic coastal feature that juts out from the cliffs at the island's southern tip. Its rugged silhouette contrasts vividly against the turquoise waters below, making it a captivating sight from both land and sea. The formation exemplifies the dynamic relationship between Shetland’s geology and the North Atlantic’s powerful forces.Setting Within Bressay's Diverse Landscape
Bressay itself is a fertile, 28-square-kilometer island situated just east of Lerwick, the Shetland capital. The island’s landscape combines moorlands, crofting settlements, and a coastline rich in sea caves, arches, and cliffs. The Giant's Leg is part of the Bard headland, an area that also features remnants of World War I naval gun emplacements, which once guarded Bressay Sound. This blend of natural beauty and historical artifacts offers visitors a layered experience of Shetland’s past and present.Ecological and Wildlife Significance
The cliffs and sea stacks around the Giant's Leg provide important nesting sites for seabirds, including species such as guillemots and kittiwakes. Nearby, the Isle of Noss, accessible by boat from Bressay, is a National Nature Reserve hosting over 100,000 pairs of breeding seabirds. The surrounding waters and coastal habitats support diverse marine life, making the area a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.Historical Context and Cultural Heritage
Bressay’s history is rich, with Viking roots and later use as a fishing and quarrying community. The southern coast, where the Giant's Leg stands, also bears witness to military history through the preserved WWI gun emplacements. These relics serve as reminders of Shetland’s strategic importance during the world wars. The island’s heritage is further celebrated at the nearby Bressay Heritage Centre, which interprets the island’s natural and cultural legacy.Visitor Experience and Scenic Appeal
Approaching the Giant's Leg, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the Shetland coastline and the North Sea. The site is accessible via coastal walks from the Bressay Lighthouse area, offering a moderately challenging hike with rewarding panoramas. The sound of crashing waves, the fresh sea air, and the sight of seabirds in flight combine to create an immersive sensory experience. Photographers and nature lovers find the Giant's Leg especially enchanting during changing light conditions, including sunrise and sunset.Conservation and Accessibility
As a natural formation within a relatively remote and unspoiled environment, the Giant's Leg benefits from conservation efforts aimed at protecting Shetland’s unique coastal ecosystems. Visitors are encouraged to respect the fragile environment by keeping to designated paths and observing wildlife from a distance. While there are no direct amenities at the site, nearby facilities on Bressay include a heritage centre, café, and accommodation, making it suitable for day trips or longer stays.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market Cross
6.8 km
Historic Market Cross in Lerwick, the symbolic heart of Shetland’s trade, community, and civic life.
Lerwick Town Hall
7.0 km
Victorian civic masterpiece with breathtaking stained glass windows telling Shetland's historical narrative
Northernmost Point Of UK
84.9 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
The Knab
6.0 km
A scenic coastal headland in Lerwick blending rich history, natural beauty, and visionary community development on Shetland’s shores.
Tesco Superstore
6.9 km
A comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Lerwick offering groceries, fresh produce, clothing, and extended hours for convenient island shopping.
Fort Charlotte
7.0 km
An 18th-century artillery fort above Lerwick harbour, offering panoramic views and centuries of military history in a free-to-enter historic site.
Shetland Museum & Archives
7.4 km
Discover Shetland’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and archives in a historic dockside setting in Lerwick.
Shetland Textile Museum
9.0 km
Discover Shetland’s rich textile heritage through vibrant exhibitions, live craft demonstrations, and authentic local artistry in Lerwick.
Scalloway Castle
11.7 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Scalloway Castle, a formidable 1600 tower house symbolizing Shetland’s turbulent past and the legacy of ‘Black Patie’.
Scalloway Museum
11.7 km
Discover Shetland’s history and heroic wartime tales at Scalloway Museum, a vibrant community hub near the iconic castle.
RSPB Mousa
13.1 km
A 2,000-year-old Iron Age broch and sanctuary for 6,800 storm-petrels on a wild, uninhabited Shetland island.
Broch of Mousa
13.5 km
Explore the tallest, best-preserved Iron Age broch in Europe, a 2,300-year-old coastal fortress steeped in history and Norse legend.
Lingness
18.5 km
Discover Ling Ness, a tranquil coastal headland in Shetland offering scenic walks, wildlife, and authentic island atmosphere.
Nesting Phonebox
18.7 km
Discover Shetland’s charming Nesting Phonebox, a tiny red kiosk transformed into a delightful bookshop nestled in a tranquil rural setting.
Scord of Weisdale Viewpoint
20.0 km
A serene roadside viewpoint offering sweeping views over Weisdale Voe and Shetland’s rugged west coast landscapes.
The Shetland Crofthouse Museum
24.2 km
Step inside a traditional 19th-century Shetland crofthouse and experience the authentic rhythms of island life amid coastal gardens and peat fires.
The Cake Fridge - Shetland
26.8 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.
Culswick Broch
27.7 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
Da Steak Hoose
6.8 km
A cozy, no-frills steakhouse in Lerwick serving juicy cuts, crisp chips, and hearty meals in a warm, local atmosphere.
The Bay Brasserie
6.9 km
Savor fresh local flavors with stunning bay views at Lerwick’s welcoming Bay Brasserie, blending scenic charm and diverse dining.
No 88 Kitchen and Bar
6.9 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest seafood and local lamb in a cozy, modern British restaurant at the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant dining scene.
The Grand Hotel
6.9 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.
The Dowry
6.9 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The New Harbour Cafe
6.9 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
C’est la Vie
7.0 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
Fort Cafe & Take Away
7.0 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest fish and chips with friendly service at Lerwick’s beloved Fort Cafe & Take Away, a local culinary gem.
Golden Coach
7.1 km
Savor fresh, authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming, spacious setting at Golden Coach, Lerwick’s favorite for traditional flavors and friendly service.
Téamoré
7.2 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Great Wall
7.2 km
Experience authentic Cantonese flavors at The Great Wall, Lerwick’s largest and most accessible Chinese restaurant in the heart of Shetland.
Hay's Dock By The Dowry
7.4 km
Historic waterfront dining at Lerwick’s last original dock, where Shetland’s maritime heritage meets cozy local hospitality.
Saffron
7.4 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
The Olive Tree
7.6 km
A cozy British café in Lerwick’s Toll Clock Shopping Centre, offering fresh, gluten-free-friendly dishes and a rich tea selection.
Gurkha Kitchen
7.6 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Peerie Isles
6.7 km
Discover authentic Shetland crafts and gifts in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre at Peerie Isles.
The Shetland Times Bookshop
6.7 km
Explore Britain’s most northerly bookshop, a cultural gem in Lerwick offering rich Shetland literature and a welcoming browsing experience.
Jamieson's of Shetland
6.8 km
Discover authentic Shetland wool and heritage knitwear at Jamieson's, Lerwick’s treasured wool shop on Commercial Street.
Ellesmere Stores
6.8 km
A welcoming convenience store in Lerwick’s heart, offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with a community spirit.
Ninian
6.9 km
Discover authentic Shetland craftsmanship with a modern twist at Ninian, Lerwick’s charming gift shop for exquisite knitwear and home furnishings.
LHD Shop
6.9 km
LHD Shop in Lerwick offers trusted workwear, marine supplies, and outdoor gear tailored to Shetland’s rugged lifestyle and maritime heritage.
Peerie Shop
6.9 km
Discover unique Shetland gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre.
The Puffin Republic
6.9 km
Discover authentic Shetland gifts and local artistry at The Puffin Republic in the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant commercial district.
Boots
7.0 km
Your trusted local pharmacy and beauty destination in the heart of Lerwick, offering health, wellness, and personal care essentials.
The Bop Shop
7.2 km
Discover Shetland’s beloved monthly vinyl haven and creative hub where music, community, and culture intertwine in Lerwick’s heart.
Health Craft
7.2 km
Discover Shetland’s finest health foods and crafts at Health Craft, Lerwick’s welcoming hub for wellness and local artistry.
Toll Clock Shopping Centre
7.6 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
Bolts Minimarket
7.6 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Co-op Food - Shetland Lerwick - Holmsgarth Road
7.8 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Lerwick - your one-stop-shop for local goods and essentials during your Shetland adventures.
The Co-Operative Lerwick
7.8 km
Discover Shetland's flavors at The Co-Operative Lerwick, your go-to convenience store for fresh produce and local goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Maryfield House Hotel
6.6 km
Charming family-run hotel on Bressay Island with stunning sea views, local seafood dining, and easy ferry access to Shetland’s capital.
The Lounge Bar
6.8 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
6.9 km
Coastal charm meets local flavors at Lerwick’s Fjarå Café Bar, where sea views and seasonal dishes create an unforgettable dining escape.
Thule Bar
6.9 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
Trench bar and nightclub
7.2 km
Lerwick’s only nightclub open till 3 AM, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of Shetland’s capital.
Douglas Arms
7.4 km
Cozy and welcoming, the Douglas Arms is Lerwick’s beloved traditional pub, offering local drinks, live music, and genuine Shetland hospitality.
Scalloway Hotel
12.0 km
Experience Shetland’s charm with stylish sea-view rooms, fresh local seafood, and warm hospitality at Scalloway Hotel on the waterfront.
The Kiln Bar
12.0 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
Busta House Hotel
35.4 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
Brae Hotel
35.5 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Mid Brae Inn
35.9 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Welcome Inn
40.3 km
A welcoming Shetland pub and live music venue where community spirit and local culture come alive in Mossbank.
Balta Light
75.3 km
Experience authentic Shetland hospitality at Balta Light, the UK's northernmost pub nestled in Baltasound, Unst.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Relaxing
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
