North Park, Whalsay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Park |
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.jpg) North Point and North Park, Whalsay |
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 North Park
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| OS grid reference | HU542634 |
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| Council area | |
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| Country | Scotland |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | SHETLAND |
| Postcode district | ZE2 |
| Dialling code | 01806 |
| Police | Northern |
| Fire | Highlands and Islands |
| Ambulance | Scottish |
| EU Parliament | Scotland |
| UK Parliament |
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| Scottish Parliament |
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North Park is a small settlement, often called a hamlet, located on the beautiful island of Whalsay. Whalsay is one of the many islands that make up the Shetland Islands in Scotland. North Park is found in the southwestern part of Whalsay, within an area known as the parish of Nesting. It sits just north of other places like Saltness and Symbister, and a little to the northwest of Hamister.
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Welcome to North Park!
North Park might be a small place, but it's part of a fascinating island community. Hamlets like North Park are tiny villages, often with just a few houses. They are peaceful spots where people live close to nature.
What is a Hamlet?
A hamlet is a very small group of homes, usually without a church or a large shop. It's smaller than a village but bigger than just one or two isolated houses. Think of it as a cozy cluster of homes in the countryside. North Park is a great example of a quiet Shetland hamlet.
Finding North Park
North Park is easy to find if you are on Whalsay. It's in the southwest, meaning it's near the bottom-left side of the island if you look at a map. Its location near other small settlements like Saltness and Symbister means it's part of a network of close-knit communities on Whalsay.
Exploring Whalsay Island
Whalsay is often called "The Bonnie Isle" by locals, which means "The Beautiful Isle." It's one of the larger islands in the Shetland group and is known for its stunning coastal views and rich history.
Life on Whalsay
Life on Whalsay is unique. The island has a population of around 1,000 people. Many residents work in fishing, farming, or local services. There are schools, shops, and even a golf course on the island. It's a place where everyone knows everyone, and community spirit is strong.
Whalsay's Nature
Whalsay boasts incredible natural beauty. The coastline is rugged, with cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves. It's a fantastic place for birdwatching, with many different species visiting throughout the year. You might spot puffins, gannets, or even eagles. The island's landscape is mostly treeless, covered in heather and grass, which gives it a wild and open feel.
The Amazing Shetland Islands
North Park and Whalsay are part of the Shetland Islands, an archipelago (a group of islands) located far north of mainland Scotland. These islands are closer to Norway than to Edinburgh!
Shetland's History
The Shetland Islands have a long and exciting history. For hundreds of years, they were ruled by Norway before becoming part of Scotland in the 15th century. This Norse heritage is still very visible in the local culture, language, and place names. You can find ancient brochs (round towers) and Viking longhouse remains across the islands.
Wildlife of Shetland
Shetland is a haven for wildlife. The seas around the islands are home to seals, otters, and various types of whales and dolphins. On land, you might see the famous Shetland ponies, known for their small size and strong build. Many unique birds also make Shetland their home, especially during breeding season.
What Makes Shetland Special?
Shetland is known for its strong winds, dramatic scenery, and unique culture. The islands have a special charm, with a mix of Scottish and Norse traditions. Events like the Up Helly Aa fire festival, where a Viking longship is burned, show off this rich heritage. It's a place where nature is grand, and communities are tight-knit.
