Papa Stour is a small island on the west coast of the Shetland Islands just off the southern tip of St, Magnus Bay. A regular ferry service from West Burrafirth connects the island with the mainland, but you can also use the air service from Tingwall to bring you to Papa Stour. The Vikings gave this name to the island and it means "Big Island of the Priests". Historians believe this was due to a community of Celtic priests that lived here during the 6
th and 7
th centuries.
Up until the 17
th century, the island belonged to Norway. A Norwegian royal farm was working here by the end of the 13
th century, but the economy of the island expanded to fishing in the 1800's. Originally the fishing was known as Haaf – using boats called sixareens with a crew of six men.
The population never exceeded 400, even in its heyday of the Crabbaberry fishing station. Due to the lack of fuel, many people moved away and today there are less than 30 people living here. Sheep farming is important and provides much of the Shetland wool for the famous knitted sweaters.
There are many archaeological sites on the island showing evidence of prehistoric times. At East Biggins, you can see remnants of the Middle Iron Age at Muckle and Little Heogan and at Dutch Loch, near Hamnavoe, you will see a burnt mound dating from the Bronze Age.
Grey seals, killer whales and porpoises are common sights around the coastline. This is the site where many seals give birth to their young and it is a major breeding ground for otters. Papa Stour is also the nesting ground for at least 18 different species of birds, making it a perfect location for bird watching. During an afternoon stroll, you will see many types of blooming plants, such as Ling, Thyme. Mountain Everlasting and many other beautiful plants.
There is no shop on the island as the people travel by ferry to larger centres for their shopping needs. For tourists, accommodations are available at North House, which is both a guesthouse and a working farm. Immerse yourself in the culture and the lifestyle of the island where you get the best of both worlds. Enjoy being tended on and explore the spectacular sights that this island holds.
Photographs © Graeme G Storey ShetlandTourism.Com