Star Gazers Cottage
Unst, near Shetland
Shetland
A cozy romantic hideaway situated on the UK’s most northerly island—boasting sea-facing views over Westings Bay, a warm wood-burning stove, and prime dark skies for Northern Lights spotting.
Escape to the edge of the world at this historic, characterful self-catering cottage in Westings, on the wild west coast of Unst. Looking out across Westings Bay and its four offshore holms (islets), this peaceful island sanctuary is tailor-made for couples, stargazers, birdwatchers, and lovers of quiet wilderness.
Stargazing & Aurora Borealis: Free from light pollution, Unst is one of the premier locations in the UK to witness the Northern Lights (the “Mirrie Dancers”) and dark winter skies.
Wild Coastal Scenery: Direct access to dramatic clifftop walks, quiet coastal paths, and pristine golden sand beaches.
Warm & Atmospheric: Intimate living space centered around a cozy wood-burning stove—ideal for relaxing after a day of island exploring.
Sea View Courtyard: Private gravelled garden patio with outdoor seating for taking in sweeping island sunsets over the bay.
The Interior
Blending authentic historic charm (including low-level traditional doorways) with clean contemporary comfort, the cottage is thoughtfully equipped for effortless island living:
Living Spaces
Cosy Lounge: Step through to a snug sitting room where you can curl up in front of the roaring wood-burning stove with a movie on the TV/DVD player or a good book.
Contemporary Kitchen & Dining: Fully equipped with an electric oven, induction hob, dishwasher, fridge, air fryer, microwave, and a dining table for romantic meals for two.
Utility & Facilities: Useful utility area with a washing machine, small worktop freezer, and wardrobe storage space for outdoor gear.
Bedroom & Bathroom
Bedroom: Tastefully decorated, peaceful double bedroom for restful nights listening to the sea.
Bathroom: Clean, bright bathroom complete with a deep bath (featuring a hand-held shower attachment), WC, and heated towel rail.
Exploring Unst & The Shetland Isles
As Britain’s northernmost inhabited island, Unst offers an extraordinary mix of UNESCO Geopark landscapes, ancient Viking history, and rich community life:
Hermaness Nature Reserve: Walk the boardwalks across Hermaness to view towering cliffs housing over 100,000 nesting seabirds (including puffins and gannets) overlooking Muckle Flugga lighthouse—the UK’s northernmost point.
Viking Heritage & Castles: Explore ancient Norse longhouse excavations, visit historic Muness Castle, and discover maritime history at the Unst Heritage Centre and Boat Haven.
Local Crafts & Tastings: Enjoy artisan gin tasting at the Shetland Reel Distillery, treat yourself to cake at Victoria’s Vintage Tearoom, or join islanders for local music concerts and regattas.
Key Property Features
Occupancy: Ideal for 2 Guests (1 Double Bedroom)
Heating & Comfort: Wood-burning stove (starter logs provided) + electric heating
Kitchen Tech: Air fryer, induction hob, dishwasher, microwave, fridge, washing machine
Outdoor Space: Gravelled private courtyard with garden furniture (stored in shed) and sea views
Parking: Off-road parking space adjacent to the courtyard wall
Building Character Note: Features traditional historic low-level doorways (mind your head!)
Please check the Ferries to the Islands are operating before booking.
