Hillswick is a small village on the Mainland island of Shetland in the Northern Isles of Scotland; it is situated on a sheltered bay of the Ura Firth, 35 miles from the bustling town of Lerwick. Surrounded by dramatic picturesque landscapes with rocky cliffs to the west overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and unusual headland to the east, the rural village of Hillswick sits on a west facing promontory at Northmavine the most northerly part of the Shetland Mainland. The village was developed by the laird Thomas Gifford c1700 as a fishing station. Historically interesting features include Hillswick House built in the late-1700s, one wing of the house overlooks the beach and is known as ‘Da Bod’ it was once a trading booth, then Shetlands oldest public house and is currently a café, the profits from the café are donated to the local seal sanctuary. The settlement has been a popular tourist destination since 1900 when the North Company, who operated the ferries from Mainland Scotland to Shetland and Orkney, used Hillswick as a main terminus and decided to build the St Magnus Hotel; the large white wood-clad building stands in the centre of the village and remains a popular resort. The tranquil village has shops and amenities and is an ideal location for fishing, walking, sight-seeing and nature-watching.
Places to Stay near Hillswick
Herrislea House Hotel (22.14 miles)
We will warmly welcome you at our country location, 7 miles from Lerwick, where you will be at the centre of Shetland, and the centre of our attention. Our well-maintained hotel has an impressive ... More
The Shetland Hotel (24.35 miles)
Situated in Lerwick, Shetland's main town, the Shetland Hotel provides an ideal base for all your requirements. Lerwick is Shetland's capital, and is itself a busy cosmopolitan and charismatic harbour town ... More
Lerwick Hotel (25.14 miles)
Modern & well equipped hotel 10 minutes walk from the town centre, nestling on the shore of Breiwick Bay Ideal base for both the holiday or business traveller. This attractive hotel is ... More
Kveldsro House Hotel (25.32 miles)
The Kveldsro House Hotel - The country home hotel in town. Perfect for the discerning business executive or the individual traveller on a short or long break Located in the centre of ... More
Lav rockha Guest House (115.57 miles)
At Lav'rockha we offer luxurious accommodation with all facilities for your comfort at competitive rates, and are the only Guest House in Orkney to have been awarded four stars and ... More
Albert Hotel (115.57 miles)
Merkister Hotel (115.75 miles)
Situated on the shores of Harray Loch, the Merkister hotel stands in its own grounds in the most wonderful location, commanding impressive views of this famous loch and its surroundings. ... More
Houton Bay Lodge (122.84 miles)
8 luxurious & spacious en-suite rooms at attractive rates. Fantastic rural setting with great views of Scapa Flow & South IslesOnly 15-mins drive from Stromness & KirkwallDelicious meals using only ... More
Seaview Hotel (138.90 miles)
We are a small family run hotel in the far North of Scotland with breathtaking views of the Pentland Firth and Orkney Isles. We are only 300 yds from Orkney ... More
Castle Arms Hotel (141.33 miles)
The Castle Arms Hotel is a former 19th Century coaching inn, situated 8 miles from John O'Groats, in the village of Mey. It is the earest hotel to Gills Ferry to ... More
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