4.6
(21)
175
hikers
6
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Yell, located in the Shetland Islands, offer diverse and dramatic natural landscapes. The island features magnificent cliff scenery, particularly along its north-east coast, and boasts white sand beaches like the Sands of Breckon. While parts of Yell include expansive peatland, coastal areas provide varied terrain with elevation changes, ranging from flat grassy sections to rockier paths.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.8
(4)
22
hikers
8.54km
02:16
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
17
hikers
9.66km
02:35
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
3
hikers
8.96km
02:30
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The White Wife of Otterswick is one of Shetland's more unusual and moving memorials - the figurehead of the German ship Bohus which sank in a storm off the coastline here, and which now commemorates the lives of four of the crew who were lost.
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The headland of Ness of Houlland ends at the ragged rocks of Outsta Ness, home to seabirds of many kinds. Pause here to enjoy views of the west side of Unst and the north coast of Yell, before retracing your steps.
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The coastal scenery here is outstanding, with the double-arch the real highlight. To truly appreciate this magnificent area taking to sea kayak or small boat is highly recommended, but the view from the cliff top is pretty special also.
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The cliffs at Ladies Hol offer a host of incredible coastal features to look at. Including views of Little Horse, the Geo of Gardins and the islands of Fetlar, Skerries and Whalsay.
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Burra Voe Pier and Marina makes a great starting point for a hike around the local area. Offering parking, toilet facilities and at the caravan and camping site a very cool shop, the roof of which is made from one of the lifeboats from the SS Canberra.
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The White Wife is the restored figurehead of the German cadet ship Bohus which was wrecked nearby in 1924, with the loss of 4 lives.
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Yell offers a selection of 6 family-friendly hiking trails, all rated as moderate difficulty, perfect for getting the whole family outdoors.
The family-friendly trails in Yell are chosen for their manageable distances and gentle paths, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both children and adults. They often feature diverse landscapes, from dramatic coastlines to white sand beaches, keeping younger hikers engaged.
Yes, several family-friendly routes in Yell are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For instance, The Sands of Breckon and Gloup Voe loop and Ness of Queyon circular are excellent options for a complete loop experience.
Yell's family-friendly trails showcase stunning natural beauty, including dramatic cliff formations, natural arches like the Horse of Burravoe, and beautiful white sand beaches. You might also spot local wildlife, such as otters and various seabirds, especially along the coast.
Yes, several trails offer interesting points. For example, the Ness of Burravoe Trail leads through a headland featuring cave-riddled cliffs and the Horse of Burravoe arch. You can also explore the historic Muness Castle nearby, or visit the scenic Lund Beach.
Many trails in Yell are suitable for dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a lead, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Please be mindful of local wildlife and ensure your dog is well-behaved.
Parking is often available at the start of popular trails. For instance, the Ness of Burravoe Trail starts from Burravoe Pier and Marina, which offers convenient parking facilities.
The family-friendly hikes in Yell typically range from 2.5 to 4 hours to complete, depending on the route and your family's pace. For example, Ness of Burravoe Trail takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes, while The Sands of Breckon and Gloup Voe loop is closer to 2 hours and 35 minutes.
The warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September), generally offer the most pleasant conditions for family hiking in Yell, with longer daylight hours and milder weather. However, Yell's weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changing conditions.
Some trailheads and nearby villages offer facilities. For example, Burravoe Marina, a starting point for the Ness of Burravoe Trail, provides toilets and even camping facilities.
For truly dramatic coastal views, The Sands of Breckon and Gloup Voe loop is highly recommended. It's renowned for its striking cliff scenery and expansive sea vistas.
Absolutely! The Sands of Breckon and Gloup Voe loop is particularly known for its beautiful white sand beaches, including the Sands of Breckon, making it a fantastic option for families wanting to enjoy the shoreline.
All the family-friendly hikes listed for Yell are classified as 'moderate' difficulty. This means they are generally accessible for most families, featuring varied terrain and some elevation changes, but without being overly strenuous. They are designed to be enjoyable for a range of fitness levels.
The family-friendly trails in Yell are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.56 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the peaceful atmosphere, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable family outing.


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