Scotland
Fitty Hill
169M
554FT
About Fitty Hill
Rising as the highest point on the island of Westray, this modest Marilyn offers an expansive perspective of the North Isles. The terrain is largely heathery moorland, providing a straightforward but wind-swept ascent. From the summit, the patchwork fields of Westray stretch toward the dramatic sea cliffs of Noup Head.
Key Statistics
Rank
27th Highest in Region
Parent Range
Data coming soon
Prominence
?
169
Nearest Town
Midbea
Geology
You are walking on layers of ancient sandstone, siltstone, and mudstone. These stacked sediments form the solid foundation of the Upper Stromness Flagstone Formation.
Nearby Fells
Find It
OS Grid Reference
HY429448
Latitude
59.2864°N
Longitude
3.0026°W
Did You Know?
- •The name is rooted in Old Norse, where 'fit' refers to a meadow or a strip of land along a waterfront, describing the fertile, grassy slopes that characterize the island's interior.
- •The summit provides a grandstand view of the North Isles, including the neighbouring Papa Westray and the low-lying profile of North Ronaldsay, with the spectacular 70-metre-high sea cliffs of Noup Head visible to the west.
- •Despite its modest elevation, the hill is classified as a Marilyn because its 169-metre height is also its total prominence, as the land drops to sea level on all sides.
- •The hill overlooks the Links of Noltland, a significant archaeological site where shifting dunes have revealed a Neolithic and Bronze Age village, including the discovery of the 'Westray Wife' figurine.
- •Given the island's geography, this 169-metre summit is the highest point for miles in any direction; while it won't challenge your lungs, the relentless Orkney wind will certainly challenge your balance.