Hildasay Island: A Remote Private Island for Sale
Located just off the west coast of Scotland’s Shetland Islands, Hildasay is a secluded private island now on the market. Spanning roughly 108 hectares (267 acres), this property is listed for about $463,000. Known historically for granite quarrying and fishing, the island is also a haven for diverse wildlife, including seabirds and coastal species.
The island features a traditional cottage offering basic living accommodations, two freshwater lakes, and gently rolling terrain. Its highest elevation reaches approximately 32 meters above sea level. Hildasay’s rich history includes several notable points:
- In 1891, around 30 residents called the island home.
- Granite extraction and herring curing were the main industries.
- Granite was quarried extensively and transported by a railway to the harbor.
- Remnants of this industrial past, including abandoned granite blocks and railway traces, remain visible today.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, traveler Chris Lewis received permission to reside in the island’s sole dwelling throughout lockdown. He later authored Finding Hildasay, chronicling his travels along Britain's coastline. Kelvin Anderson, the agent handling the sale, commented:
“This is a rare chance to own Hildasay — a stunning and historically significant private island near the Shetlands’ western shore.”
He added that the island’s scale and untouched environment provide a genuine sense of seclusion, with sweeping views and unobstructed access to surrounding waters.
Also Available: Thorn Island Near Pembrokeshire, Wales
In addition to Hildasay, another private island called Thorn is on sale in the UK. Situated close to the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales, Thorn spans one hectare and is priced at £3 million (around $4 million). The property includes an 8,000-square-foot (750 m²) fort classified as a Grade II listed building.
Owning an entire island like Hildasay is increasingly rare today, making this an exceptional opportunity. The sale of such remote properties reflects growing interest in isolated real estate, driven partly by modern challenges from globalization and urban expansion. It offers unique prospects for investors and individuals seeking privacy and a closer connection with nature.