Fitful Head
Fitful Head Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Classifications
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Elevation
283m
928 ft
Prominence
272m
Coordinates
59.9056, -1.3827
HU346135
OS Map
4
Explorer: 466S
At the Summit
At the summit, you'll find a weathered cairn and breathtaking cliffs plunging into the North Sea, offering a perfect perch for admiring the waves and for watching for puffins during nesting season.
Terrain & Geology
Fitful Head is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks, specifically sandstone and siltstone, formed during the Jurassic period. The cliffs provide fascinating geological formations that are a potential delight for geology enthusiasts.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, enjoy panoramic views over the North Sea, the Orkney Islands, and the rugged coastline of the Shetland Islands.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Fitful' is derived from Old Norse, potentially meaning 'the land of the wind', which is fitting given the often-blustery conditions.
Historical Significance
Fitful Head has historical significance as a navigation point for sailors, where the dramatic cliffs have been a familiar sight for centuries.
Photo Gallery
View allPopular Routes
Trail from St. Margaret's Hope
ModerateA well-trodden path starting from the charming village of St. Margaret's Hope, leading up the grassy slopes of Fitful Head.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is limited parking available in the village of St. Margaret's Hope. Ensure you're not blocking any driveways!
Public Transport
Local buses connect most villages in Shetland, but check the timetable as service can be infrequent.
Nearby Facilities
In St. Margaret's Hope, there are a couple of cosy cafes and public toilets available for use. A great spot to fuel up before the hike!
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Beware of steep cliffs near the summit; strong winds can also make footing tricky. Take care when on the grassy slopes, especially if wet.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Find Walking Companions
Join friendly walkers exploring Fitful Head and surrounding area
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Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Fitful Head?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Fitful Head through the maps
Are there other walkers around Fitful Head?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Fitful Head search or of course create your own walk for Fitful Head
Can I organise a walk to Fitful Head?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Fitful Head.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Fitful Head?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Fitful Head here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid Ref: HU346135
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