The best hikes from bus stations around Unst
4.9
(18)
213
hikers
3
hikes
Hiking around Unst, the northernmost inhabited island of Britain, offers diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The island features dramatic coastal cliffs, expansive open moorland, and unique geological formations like the serpentine rock of Keen of Hamar. Hikers can also discover varied coastlines with sandy beaches and historical sites.
Best bus station hiking trails around Unst
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Moorland with Ponds – Highest Point loop from Haroldswick, a 13.2 miles (21.3 km) trail that takes 5 hours 59 minutes to complete, featuring significant elevation gain across moorland terrain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lund Beach loop from Uyeasound, a moderate 4.7 miles (7.6 km) path that explores coastal scenery and sandy shores.
- Local hikers also love the Clivocast Standing Stone – Muness Castle loop from Uyeasound, a 6.2 miles (9.9 km) trail leading through coastal landscapes and past historical landmarks, often completed in about 2 hours 38 minutes.
- Hiking around Unst is defined by dramatic coastal paths, open moorland, and unique geological features. The network offers options for moderate to difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Unst are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore Unst's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
5.0
(2)
9
hikers
21.3km
05:59
420m
420m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
7.63km
02:01
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
9.91km
02:38
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Worth it - the rocks of the north and the birds
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Everything is full of nesting birds
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The puffins were already gone here, maybe there would still be some to admire in early August
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A fantastic tour in the nature reserve. The cliffs are very impressive and thousands of birds nest here
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On the cliffs you can see tens of thousands of gannets and many puffins.
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Muness Castle is a splendid example of tower house architecture, and it’s full of delightful touches. Here it’s easy to appreciate how the family, servants and visitors would have used the internal space of the castle. It was built for Laurence Bruce of Cultmalindie – a prominent figure during a turbulent time in Shetland. Accused of oppression of the Shetland people, Bruce is also portrayed as heroic in some legends.
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A feast for the senses, the sounds and sights of Hermaness are full of drama. The white tops of the waves complement the white staining on the cliffs where seabirds nest every year. Gannets glide past, searching the waves relentlessly, and then diving into the water at breakneck speeds. Puffins waddle from their clifftop burrows in early summer and, away from the bustle of the cliffs, great skuas and red throated divers nest in the open moorland. Hermaness National Nature Reserve is managed by NatureScot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations in Unst?
There are 3 curated hiking routes in Unst that start directly from bus stations, making it easy to explore the island car-free. These include routes of varying difficulty, from moderate to difficult.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on bus-accessible hikes in Unst?
Unst offers a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect dramatic coastal cliffs, expansive open moorland, unique geological formations like the serpentine rock of Keen of Hamar, and beautiful sandy beaches such as those at Skaw and Sandwick. Many routes offer breathtaking views of the North Atlantic.
Are there any circular hiking routes available from bus stops in Unst?
Yes, several routes accessible by bus are circular. For example, the Moorland with Ponds – Highest Point loop from Haroldswick offers a challenging circular hike, while the Lund Beach loop from Uyeasound provides a moderate option.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see on these bus station hikes?
Many routes pass by significant landmarks. You can explore historical sites like Muness Castle on the Clivocast Standing Stone – Muness Castle loop from Uyeasound. Other highlights include the Lund Beach and various viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the coastline and sea stacks.
Are the bus station hiking trails in Unst suitable for families?
While the guide features routes ranging from moderate to difficult, families can find suitable options. The Lund Beach loop from Uyeasound is a moderate route that might be manageable for families with older children, offering scenic coastal views and a beach destination.
Can I bring my dog on these hiking trails?
Unst is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to be mindful of livestock and ground-nesting birds, especially during breeding season. Always keep dogs on a lead, particularly in nature reserves like Hermaness, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Check specific trail information for any local restrictions.
What is the best time of year to hike in Unst?
The best time to hike in Unst is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and you'll have the best chance to spot seabirds like puffins at colonies such as Hermaness. Winter hiking can be challenging due to shorter daylight hours and potentially harsh weather conditions.
Are there any challenging routes accessible by bus in Unst?
Yes, for experienced hikers, the Moorland with Ponds – Highest Point loop from Haroldswick is classified as difficult. This route covers over 21 km with significant elevation gain, offering a strenuous but rewarding experience across Unst's moorland.
What wildlife might I encounter on these hikes?
Unst is a haven for wildlife. Hikers often spot vast seabird colonies, including puffins and gannets, especially near coastal reserves. Moorland birds like Red-Throated Divers and Golden Plovers are also common. Along the coast, you might even catch a glimpse of otters or, with luck, cetaceans in the sea.
Are there places to eat or stay near the bus stops for hikers?
Unst has limited but welcoming facilities. Haroldswick and Uyeasound, which are starting points for some bus-accessible hikes, offer local amenities. It's advisable to check in advance for opening times of cafes, pubs, and accommodation, especially outside of peak season, as options can be scarce.
Do I need any permits to hike in Unst?
Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking on public access land in Unst. However, always respect private property, follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, and be aware of any specific regulations within nature reserves like Hermaness National Nature Reserve, particularly concerning wildlife protection.
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