Easternmost

The easternmost part of Scotland is the tiny Shetland archipelago of Skerries, or Out Skerries.. This lighthouse, on Bound Skerry, is the highest one in Shetland. Before it was automated the keepers used to stay on the now uninhabited Grunay. Today the isles of Bruray (east isle) and Housay (west isle) are inhabited. Only about 40 people live on the isles. The ferry from Vidlin on the Shetland mainland takes about 90 minutes to reach the shelter of Skerries and on a Friday it's possible to do a day trip. 

It was wet when we reached Vidlin this morning but the sun soon broke through and we had a sunny if slightly bumpy sail to Bruray. At the ferry waiting room you can make yourself a cup of tea and heat food. Very civilised. We ate our sandwiches then walked across the link bridge to Housay. After a wander we returned to Bruray and walked the circuit. There wasn't really a path but it was pleasant grassy coastal walking. 

Just caught the tiny shop before it closed for an ice lolly before chatting to some people holidaying here from mainland Shetland. I'd think it an ideal place for children. The ones we saw were jumping off the pier, catching crabs, paddling and cycling freely. Lovely. 

The ferry back left a few minutes early so we should be back in Lerwick before 6pm. I've never been to Skerries before and I've had a really good day on the isles.