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Noss National Nature Reserve
Noss is probably the most accessible of the huge sea bird colonies to be found in this part of the world. Take a boat trip to this island of cliffs, moorland and sandy beaches where thousands of seabirds and wonderful scenery guarantee a memorable experience.
Highlights: 45,000 guillemots, 7000 pairs of gannets and several thousand fulmars, kittiwakes and puffins breed on the packed cliffs and ledges from mid may until July. Seals and otters can be seen until the end of August, and the flowers are worth a look throughout spring and summer.
Location: An hourly car ferry from Lerwick to Bressay (see www.shetland.gov.uk/ferries), and then follow the Noss signs for 3 miles to the car park. You may be able to hitch a lift with the postcar. You can also hire bikes in Lerwick. There is a 0.5 mile steep farm track leading from the car park to the Noss inflatable ferry. (NB Rocks leading to the ferry point may be slippery). Take the Noss ferry for a three minute crossing. Ferry charges are £3 for adults, £1.50 for children (2006).
The ferry operates most days between 1000 and 1700 (not Monday and Thursday) from early May to end of August, it is not usually possible to visit outside these months. The Noss crossing requires the ability to get into an inflatable boat. If you think that you will require help to board the ferry, please contact the local SNH office in advance. NB Dogs are not allowed on ferry.
Contact SNH to discuss Guide Dogs. There are also private operators running boat trips around Noss.
Grid reference: HU546404
Visitor facilities: There is a visitor centre and toilets. The walk around the island takes about 3-4 hours over moderate ground but includes steep, high cliffs. The weather conditions can change rapidly; make sure you have sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing.
Highlights: 45,000 guillemots, 7000 pairs of gannets and several thousand fulmars, kittiwakes and puffins breed on the packed cliffs and ledges from mid may until July. Seals and otters can be seen until the end of August, and the flowers are worth a look throughout spring and summer.
Location: An hourly car ferry from Lerwick to Bressay (see www.shetland.gov.uk/ferries), and then follow the Noss signs for 3 miles to the car park. You may be able to hitch a lift with the postcar. You can also hire bikes in Lerwick. There is a 0.5 mile steep farm track leading from the car park to the Noss inflatable ferry. (NB Rocks leading to the ferry point may be slippery). Take the Noss ferry for a three minute crossing. Ferry charges are £3 for adults, £1.50 for children (2006).
The ferry operates most days between 1000 and 1700 (not Monday and Thursday) from early May to end of August, it is not usually possible to visit outside these months. The Noss crossing requires the ability to get into an inflatable boat. If you think that you will require help to board the ferry, please contact the local SNH office in advance. NB Dogs are not allowed on ferry.
Contact SNH to discuss Guide Dogs. There are also private operators running boat trips around Noss.
Grid reference: HU546404
Visitor facilities: There is a visitor centre and toilets. The walk around the island takes about 3-4 hours over moderate ground but includes steep, high cliffs. The weather conditions can change rapidly; make sure you have sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing.
These maps are intended as a guideline only; you must check the exact location of the reserve yourself. Wildlife Extra assumes no responsibility for the accuracy or usefulness of the information on this website.