Skaw, Whalsay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Skaw |
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 Old Westhoose, Skaw |
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 Skaw
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| OS grid reference | HU591665 |
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| Council area | |
| Lieutenancy area | |
| 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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Skaw is a small village located on the very tip of Whalsay, one of the beautiful Shetland Islands in Scotland. It's a quiet place, mostly known for its traditional farming areas called crofts. You can find the Whalsay airstrip and the Whalsay Golf Club nearby. This golf club is special because it's the most northerly one in all of the British Isles!
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Exploring Skaw Village
Skaw is part of the Nesting parish. It sits in the extreme northeast of Whalsay. The area is mainly used for crofting. This is a special type of small-scale farming found in Scotland.
What is Crofting?
Crofting is a traditional way of life. It combines small-scale farming with other jobs. People who live on crofts are called crofters. They often raise animals or grow crops on their land.
Fun Things to See in Skaw
There are a few interesting spots around Skaw.
- Whalsay Airstrip: This small airport helps connect Whalsay to other places.
- Whalsay Golf Club: If you like golf, you can play a round here. It's quite unique because of its location so far north!
Natural Beauty: Skaw's Lochs
Skaw is surrounded by pretty natural features.
- East Loch of Skaw: This loch (a Scottish word for lake) is located to the east of the village.
- West Loch of Skaw: You'll find this loch to the southwest of Skaw.
Historic Homes and Stones
Skaw also has some interesting history.
- Westhoose: There's a house in Skaw called Westhoose. It has been rebuilt three times over the years!
- Skaw Voe Standing Stone: This is an ancient standing stone. It is about 1.5 meters (nearly 5 feet) tall. You can find it about 50 meters (about 164 feet) from the shore.
Islands Near Skaw
Just off a point called Skaw Taing, there are two small islands.
- Outer Holm of Skaw: This is the island further out from the shore.
- Inner Holm of Skaw: This island is closer to the shore. It has the ruins of an old chapel on it, which is a fascinating piece of history.
