Sumburgh Head

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19th C. engraving of Sumburgh Head by John T. Reid

Sumburgh Head, the most southern tip of the Shetland mainland. The Old Norse name was Dunrøstar høfdi, it means "The Head onto the Thunderous Noise", refering to the noise of Sumburgh Roost. The cliffs are home to hundreds of seabirds and the area is a RSPB nature reserve.
Robert Stevenson was the engineer in charge of building the Sumburgh Head lighthouse. Work started on the building in 1819, and the light was first lit in 1821.
As well as birds, Sumburgh Head has become a popular viewing point for Whales and Dolphins.

Sumburgh Head, with the lighthouse, seen from the parking area

Information board on the way up tp Sumburgh Head

Guillemots at Sumburgh Head. Photo by Jaydee67

See Also

• Sumburgh Head Lighthouse
• Sumburgh Airport

Sumburgh Head from west.

View westward first to Scatness, and then Fitful Head, centre, and Quendale to the right

View northward, Sumburgh Airport in centre, Compass Head to the right