Attractions and Places To See around Sandwick - Top 17

Sandwick is home to several impressive natural features. You can visit St Ninian's Tombolo Beach, which is the largest active tombolo in the UK, offering a unique walk to St Ninian's Isle during summer. The Holes of Burra feature dramatic cliffs, and Selkie Kingdom Bay provides another beautiful coastal experience.

The region is rich in history. A must-see is the Broch of Mousa, the finest preserved Iron Age broch in Shetland and the tallest still standing globally. You can also explore the St Ninian's Chapel Ruins, dating back to the 13th or 14th century, and learn about local heritage at the Hoswick Visitor Centre.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The walk across St Ninian's Tombolo Beach to St Ninian's Isle is a popular and picturesque activity. Exploring the ancient Broch of Mousa can be an exciting adventure for older children, and spending time at Selkie Kingdom Bay offers a chance to enjoy the beach and spot wildlife.

The coastal areas around Sandwick are excellent for wildlife. At the Holes of Burra, you can observe seabirds like Fulmar, Shag, and Black Guillemots. The island of Mousa, home to the Broch, is also known for its birdlife and seals. Keep an eye out for seals and various bird species along the shores of Selkie Kingdom Bay.

The Sandwick area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including easy routes like the Meal Beach and Hamnavoe Circular. For cycling enthusiasts, there are moderate to difficult routes available, such as the Mousa Sound Viewpoint – Clickimin Broch loop. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Sandwick and Cycling around Sandwick guides.

While specific hiking trails are not detailed for every attraction, many of the natural sites like St Ninian's Tombolo Beach and the Holes of Burra offer scenic walks along the coast. The island of Mousa also has a trail around its perimeter. For more structured routes, consider the running guides which often include walking-friendly paths.

The summer months are generally ideal for visiting Sandwick's attractions. During this time, the St Ninian's Tombolo Beach is fully exposed, allowing for walks to the isle. The weather is also more favorable for exploring outdoor sites like the Broch of Mousa and enjoying coastal views.

The Holes of Burra are a series of dramatic cliffs near Sandwick. This area is a significant nesting site for seabirds such as Fulmar and Shag, and you might spot Black Guillemots fishing offshore. The rugged scenery and abundant birdlife make it a great spot for nature observation.

Yes, the Broch of Mousa is accessed by ferry from Sandwick. It's a highly recommended trip to see the best-preserved Iron Age broch in Shetland, which stands as the tallest still-standing broch in the world. You can explore its interior and climb to the top for impressive views.

Visitors frequently praise the unique natural beauty and rich history of the area. The walk across St Ninian's Tombolo Beach is often highlighted as a beautiful spectacle. The well-preserved Broch of Mousa offers an immersive historical experience, and the coastal views and wildlife spotting opportunities are also highly appreciated.

Beyond the Broch of Mousa and St Ninian's Chapel Ruins, you can find Sand Lodge near the Mousa ferry jetty. Parts of this historic lodge date back to the 1600s and it was once home to the Bruces of Sumburgh, offering another glimpse into the region's past.

Sandwick offers pleasant coastal areas. The most famous is St Ninian's Tombolo Beach, a unique sand and shingle bar connecting to St Ninian's Isle. The village of Sandwick itself has a nice beach, and another can be found at Cumlewick. Selkie Kingdom Bay also provides a beautiful beach environment.