Centre Hillier (CI52c-SW entrance)

This is the SW entrance to the SE tunnel of two which go right through Sheep Rock - as can be seen in photo 2. The tunnels join for roughly 1/3 of their length in the middle.

Notes: The length is estimated as follows: 119 + 116 (end to end lengths of CI52d and CI52c) - 39 (estimated shared length inside) + 10 m (Rpt 1145 estimated length of CI53a tunnel) + 5 (estimate of the distance between the two tunnels CI53a and CI52d).

Needs a length survey to confirm the length; and a visit with powerful lights to see how big the central cavern is. There is also the possiblity of a connection to tunnels from some of the other nearby entrances - eg CI52a.

Links and Resources:

OS Namebooks. Shetland, vol 11. p92 has, as part of the entry for Sheep Rock: On the sea side of the Peninsula are several large arches called by the inhabitants Hillyars and thro' (through) the center one of which, a boat can be pulled giving to the visitor one of the grandest sights of a natural archway to be seen anywhere, and before which our ancient cathedrals dwindle into insignificance.
Rpt 1145 Harries, D.B., Purcell, A., Moore, C.G., Lyndon A.R., Porter, J.S., Saunders, G.R. and Hume, C.L. 2024. Distribution mapping and baseline monitoring survey of sea caves around Fair Isle. NatureScot Research Report 1145.
Photo 1 shows various entrances on the SW side of Sheep Rock. Report 1145 - FI Caves (GSG vs) p88. This entrance is CI52c.
Photo 2 shows the entrances from closer. There is clear view through CI52d and CI52c - this tunnel. Report 1145 - FI Caves (GSG vs) p90.
Photo 3 sketch plan of the CI52c + CI52d + CI53a cave system. Report 1145 - FI Caves (GSG vs) p91.
Photo 4 shows the Sheep Rock from the mainland, looking ENE. This entrance is to the right of a rib of rock sticking out from the cliff near sea level.
Photo 5 shows a number of entrances on the south west side of Sheep Rock. this entrance is just to the left of the leftmost rib.
Photo 6 is the view NE from inside one of the Hilliers, probably this tunnel.

This entry was last updated: 2024-12-07 21:12:27

Errors or omissions in this information? Submit corrections/additions/comments for this entry to the registrars.

NGR:	HZ 22109 70902
WGS84:	59.52348, -1.61101
Length:	211 m
Vert. Range:	Not recorded
Altitude:	-1 m
Geology:	Vaasetter Sandstone Formation - interbedded with conglomerate.
Tags:	Other
Registry:	main

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