Cross to Noss National Nature Reserve by the historic inflatable ferry and walk the clifftop path above the Noup — a sheer sandstone stack hosting one of Britain's largest gannet colonies, rated a true bucket-list Shetland experience.
What to expect
A short inflatable dinghy ferry hop from Bressay lands you on Noss, where the 181-metre Noup cliff face reveals itself as a vertical city of gannets, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes in a wall of noise and motion. The well-marked coastal path circles the island's perimeter, rising through heather moorland before delivering the ultimate cliff-edge panorama. Interpretive panels explain the island's ecology, geology and crofting history. The pace is entirely yours — linger as long as the wildlife demands.
Good to know
Reserve open daily 10:00–17:00, mid-May to late August. Call the Noss Information Line (0800 107 7818) before travel for ferry and weather updates. Wear sturdy walking boots and full waterproofs. Allow 3–4 hours for the full circuit — plan against your all-aboard time accordingly.