Tucked away in an archipelago off the coast of Scotland, a tiny island known as Foula is home to just 30 residents, making it the UK’s most remote. The island is renowned not only for its minuscule population but also for its breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife.
Visitors flock here hoping to spot puffins and skuas nesting in the towering cliffs that overlook the Atlantic Ocean. These cliffs, among the highest in the UK, reach up to 370 metres (1,210 ft).
BirdLife International has designated the island as an Important Bird Area due to its large colonies of cliff and moorland-nesting seabirds. The island’s name, derived from Old Norse, means ‘bird island’, reflecting its long history of abundant wildlife dating back to Neolithic times.
However, Foula offers little in terms of modern entertainment. There is no wi-fi, pubs or bars, and not even a shop.
As reported by the BBC, visitors must bring everything they need with them. Accommodation options are limited to two guest houses, Burns and Ristie, and a few camping sites, reports the Express.
Interestingly, the island still follows an ancient version of island time, adhering to the Julian calendar instead of the more modern Gregorian calendar. This means residents celebrate Christmas on January 7, over two weeks later than the rest of the UK.
Today, Foula is home to just 30 permanent residents. However, if you’re keen on visiting this stunning island, there are a couple of travel options available.
You can opt for a quick 10-minute flight from Shetland’s Tingwall Airport or take the slightly longer ferry ride from Ham to Walls on Mainland, Shetland. The New Advance ferry can accommodate up to 12 passengers and completes the journey in approximately two hours.