Wow…you got nearly the full complement of weather on this short trip. Loved the glassy seas heading out, but not sure I would have loved that ferry ride back to Shetland! It was a fine adventure overall, and a very worthwhile trip. Cheers, and ATB!
Hi Steve and Alicja. I just want to thank the two of you for the pleasure you gave my mother in her final months. I found your channel purely by accident late last year and told my parents. Since the beginning of the year I have been my mums care giver 13hrs a night 7 days a week. We would watch your videos as soon as we could and also went back into your earlier work while we waited for new ones. As she got sicker I would save the videos till she was having a good day. Both her and my dad loved your presenting style and gentle way your adventures unfolded with you showing us what interested you and therefore what you thought the viewer might like it too. It never failed for us. My parents on occassion would comment that we took you (me) there as a baby/toddler when you went somewhere they knew or my dad would have a story about a certain place. We emigrated to NZ in 1969. Mum (Olive) passed away last night (20 August)91 years young but she had watched this video with us on saturday night. I know NZ is a long way away from Scotland but the scenery would amaze you and you both would be most welcome. Again thank you both of you for bringing brief moments of pleasure to a dying woman and her family Thanks Adrian
Thank you for this comment, Adrian, and my condolences on your loss. Like you, I'm far away from Scotland now (the US Pacific North West in my case), and love to see Steve exploring my childhood haunts in his unique style.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: Your videos are not just the usual travel videos. Talk about taking one for the team. You take the challenges en route and make me appreciate the places you visit both audibly and visually. Add to that all the tips and observations, and you not only entertain but also inform. Steve, I watch a lot of travel documentaries and travel features on TH-cam due to my disability, and unable to travel. I can honestly say that your films are unique, and way more interesting than most, offering me a window on the world like no other. Thank you.
Aye, if this was mainstream telly there would be an unnecessary tense voice-over throughout... "Steve is trying to get to a remote outpost of the country, but he has only 24-hours to get there. He'll risk life and limb, travel by trains, planes and ferry boats, accompanied only by a camera and a carrier bag full of cans and Tunnock's tea cakes!"
I agree with you. His vivid account of the island, as he explored it, transported me so fully into the experience that it felt like I was there with him, witnessing it firsthand.
Anything on the Internet is better than anything on the TV, almost. Programmes like this are far superior than anything that could be produced by the BBC or Channel 4, etc.
You did ask for feedback, and it was fantastic, every step of the way, every sheep, dog or Shetland pony, was a treat to see. Out of ten, several million.
@@whigwood I agree wholeheartedly. The combination of your brilliant filming (especially on the ferry from Foula back to the mainlaind) and equally brilliant narration kept me spellbound for an hour.
I’m a Yank, living in Atlanta, Georgia, and all the sudden this Scottish bloke shows up on my recommended list so I give him a go. Wow! First, the view totals are amazing, but then I see why. Great content and I’m sold completely with the views, the accent, and all the rest. Plus, we have a corgi and she loves the views of the old sod, and the sheep, and the sheep dogs. Lot’s of barking, of course, but the “wee”this and “wee” that is over-the-top entertainment. I’m subscribed and waiting for more!
I am the same with the Fun in the Woods Big Monkey channel, but the other way round. I'm a Brit and love Dave Pearson's videos (I think it's Pearson) . All the very best to you.
I used to work in the broadcast industry and have to congratulate you on every aspect of your production work from camera through presenting voice over and editing. You can teach today's broadcasters a thing or two and deserve a show of your own on TV. Thank you also Steve for reminding me adventurous spirit. Something I miss and have lost as am in my seventh decade now. Your video made me smile, happy times spent traipsing around Shetland over 20 years ago watching Up Helya and experiencing solitude at the northerly tip of the island. Looking forward to seeing more of your travels. Cheers! Nigel
Interesting video. Myself and my wife and kids spent 3years on Shetland. I was a locum Doctor and spent a lot of time on Whalsay which was a fascinating and delightful place. What I did come to realize on Shetland (and especially on Whalsay) that the sea is everything: a living, a pathway ("we'll just pop over to Norway to talk to a man about about a boat"), a source of worry, a connection with the older community, a connection to the weather and nature, and a huge source of food. Songs are generally about the sea "Rowing Doula Down" is a beautiful one. Words for the people on Whalsay? Tough and canny, but not Scottish. A close and very, (how can I say this) "mathematical" and "technical" community. The knitting is something incredible and the ability to navigate on the sea is astounding. Much less sentimental than Ireland, but very kind. From Ireland.
@@robingherasim55 What about The Scottish Isle? I tune in every few days to marvel at the fact that Katie hasn’t yet strangled that man with her bare hands. Who knew that sheep liked biscuits or that cats and sheep get on so well?
Yep, Ruth’s videos are very good too! Also, he doesn’t have many subscribers yet, but Tim’s travels is also great. Really nice bloke too and funny.
หลายเดือนก่อน +19
I was up for a funeral about a decade ago on the ferry, as I couldn’t get a flight. Hadn’t done the ferry for 30 years and while the seats had improved, the floor was preferable and I got about four hours sleep before getting up before dawn and a wonderful sunrise. I love that last run into Lerwick but it was a glorious day and my brother, who’d never been, got to see it in all its glory. Last time we went up was last year with a camper and we and the dogs had a cabin. That’s the way to do it.
You're a brave man, Steve Marsh! I enjoyed this video immensely. Many years ago, when I lived in Shetland, I was friendly with the school dentist. (I don't know if such people still exist!) Anyway, he was making his annual visitation to Foula and invited me to go along for the ride. He also kindly agreed to my taking my (now late, sadly) father-in-law with me. We flew in a Loganair Islander from Sumburgh and that was quite an adventure in itself. The weather was not particularly good. We got into the plane, the pilot gave us a very brief safety briefing, started the engines and, looking left and right to ensure there was no conflicting traffic, taxied on to the runway and took off. We flew at around 500ft and had to climb to get above the airstrip in Foula. And, yes, I recall that bumpy gravel airstrip! As we came into land, the pilot slowed the aircraft to around 40 knots and the stall warning went off just before we touched down. There were quite a few people waiting for the plane and those of us who had come on the outward flight and were returning with the plane to Sumburgh got off to stretch our legs. The dentist had brought his chair and his dental tools and these were unloaded at the airstrip. After around 20 minutes we piled back into the Islander. The pilot started the engines and lined the plane up for take off. It was a windy day and I thought my last moments had come as we bounced along the runway (which heads downhill towards the sea near after about half its length). The pilot seemed to be urging the plane to unstick and, yes, we left the ground and were immediately blown sideways by the wind. We made it home safely! I can't say that Foula would be my choice of residence, or even for an overnight camping expedition, but I'm very glad to have visited. Many thanks, Steve, for bringing back memories!
Things I Learned Today About Foula: Owned since the turn of the 20th century by the Holbourn family, Professor Ian Holbourn purchased Foula around 1900, becoming its last laird. Population : 38 Population density: 3 people/km Foula was first inhabited as far back as 5,000 years ago Has a sub-circular stone construction that was man-made, elliptical in shape with the axis pointing towards the mid-winter solstice, built before 1000 BC Baxter Chapel is part of the Church of Scotland. It is made of grey-coloured stone and is situated "on the tail of 7 Hamnafield". Darn you for being educational and making me learn stuff, Marsh!!! 😜
JFK @@soavemusica!!! You can always switch off the channel should this offend you instead of making other people miserable with unneeded enforced regulation because you believe in that.
Loved the Video. As an American, seeing someone eating beans from the back of a fork is almost the most European thing ever! I remember being a young Soldier stationed in Germany. I found out quite quickly that my table manners were not up to the standards. Peace.
You know why your videos work? At least one reason is that you are just curious! You see something that interests you and you show it to us, like the horse scratching his tush and the ropes hanging from the rescue boat. Just plain interesting. Thank you for sharing.
@@rosemarymee leading question. If it was the only way I could visit then yes. If there was a more comfortable way to spend the night, I would take the second option.
@@johnhowarth8822 I’ve been thinking that I would use the vestry of the Kirk for shelter and take a little mini immersion heater to heat water for my Earl Grey/ instant soup/ noodles. I would leave a generous donation for the upkeep of the Kirk. Stretching out on a nice hard Presbyterian bench would be very good for the spine. I would book passage on that landing craft - now that we know it’s so cheap. However, there are more interesting Shetland islands to visit. Fair Isle is high on my bucket list.
One of your nicest and most enjoyable videos Steve. You really gave us a quick view of life on Foula. These videos also make really homesick for Scotland after so many years in Australia 😥
Steve. your videos bring so much joy to so many of us. You have an uncanny knack of demonstrating what's important in life, living for and in the moment. I read a comment below from a disabled gentleman and what struck me was how appreciative he was of you bringing your adventure home to him in a very real way. Keep it up my friend. Lang may your lum reak!
Never change, this is just awesome to watch. Most youtube channels that i like start like this and suddenly its always sponsoring with first class this and business class things.. it is good for them. But they forget who they are. You even if there is some kind of luxury, you are humble and the same as when you started. Great channel to watch!😊
The "piano" in the church is actually not even a string instrument. It is an organ and driven by wind from the foot pedal, so it won't make a sound without a bit of footwork.
This was fantastic. Your curiosity and sense of adventure are not dampened by weather, lack of sleep, nor mobs of sheep! 😂 Another brilliant outing. That being said, the crossing back from Foula was a bit of a rollercoaster ride. Not sure I’d be so hardy! 😬 Many thanks for bringing this to us. 👍🏼
Hi Steve! I cannot thank you enough for all of your INCREDIBLE videos. Watching your videos is the best way to start my day! Who knew that I would be going along with you to Foula this morning with my morning cup of coffee?? Many thanks!
I really loved this video! It's so different from anything else out there and i think you're so brave to take on that adventure with pretty much no supplies, no time to spend seeing that beautiful island, no locals to talk to and get info from (and maybe something to eat), just winging the whole trip. I'm totally not brave enough to do any of this, but I'm glad i know someone who is. I'll be a devoted fan from now on. Glad i found you 💕
Hi Steve!! It's Margi from Seattle area!! That's an old Church Organ, you need to pump the pedals with yr feet, then the air blows up the pipes as you play on the keys! It works then!! Only when the air is flowing tho ;) I HAVE one literally in my house!! ;D When you do get here one day, you can play it! 😊❤ Glad to see you!! So sad tho that your videos don't show up most of the time on my youtube feed somehow! Even tho I always click 'like' and am subscribed.
@@gulfstream7235 Doubt it - I've done winter in the outer Hebrides with winds that were strong enough to blow over a removal lorry lol...................
Wasn't a piano but an organ. I could see the stop and the pump peddles. I admire you for taking a chance when there was a great probability that you wouldn't get out of there on the next day. Very interesting episode. Thanks!!
First time watching Steve, definitely not the last. Watching you from South Africa, im amazed at how the public transport is organised and clean and that nothing is locked 🤣🤣👍
Steve, that was epic, in the truest sense of the word! Trains, boats, planes and everything (apologies, Scott...) but seriously, this is one of your best, if not THE best video you've done. Those dawn skies on the outward journey up to Lerwick, that amazing flight over the sea cliffs, the wee chapel on Foula, the car graveyard, and the overnight camp. Can't wait to see what you've planned for the future! Thanks so much for taking us with you! Brilliant.
One of the best videos I've watched in a long time. The isolation of Foula is something else. I once met a guy in Oxford who lived in Lerwick and whose father installed the roads on Foula.. Thanks for a great video Steve.
Love watching from my warm home ! It’s thrilling to see the land and water, the sparse buildings, and to hear all the birds and engines. Lots of fun - thanks for the adventure !
Sooooo enjoyed this film Steve!🙏 Out of all your films I’d say this has to be my favourite so far. I had a little chuckle at the sight of the payphone with the bible next to it…desperate times and all that! Please know that your going without a bed for 3 nights on the bounce has brought about great results. Thanks pal.
You are a brave man Steve, undertaking a trip with such a doubt over simply getting there by plane let alone returning to the mainland?! Your trips never fail to amaze and certainly adds places for us to visit ourselves, well done 👍
Well Steve that has to be one of the best videos you have done ( maybe even the best) absolutely loved how raw it was but so full of interest with stunning scenery & wildlife!! You could feel the sense of worry on your face when you found out the return flight was cancelled 🥺 but as always you persevere and find a way home Brilliant 👏
Somehow you (both) find the beauty and innocence of these places. The sea, the fields, the birds, the seal, sheep and ponies and dogs!♡ Thank you so much♡
No better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than with our mate Steve on a stunning flight as castaways to a remote Scottish Island! And I did love that landing, and it was refreshingly pleasant to fly with a pilot who does it perfectly! A heartwarming indeed.
The round circle of stones that you weren't sure about camping in looks like a plantie crub or crö-essentially an enclosed, protected area for growing cabbages, which would then be transferred to kale yards. Sincerely, a native (I'm from the mainland though; Foula's a beautiful place, but it's too wild and barren for the majority of us!)
Thank you for the information. I would never have guessed that they were for cabbage in a million years. I thought they might be something else for the sheep to hide in or be gathered into. Thank you again.
What a great adventure Steve! I sat glued to the TV instead of doing my chores. What an absolute gem of a video, beautiful sights, I enjoyed it thoroughly. As an avgeek I'd have loved to be on that flight! Thank you Steve, thank you ❤
Well done, Steve. You're a hero for putting yourself through stuff so that the rest of us do not have to and can just watch. However, I must confess to a tweak of jealousy because I no longer have the stamina or the resilience or young bones to make that sort of a commitment. The remoteness of the island really came through.
That for me was one of your most enjoyable videos Steve loved the scenery a true nature experience I’ve never ventured any further than Lerwick look forward to more of the same ❤
What a great video Steve, we always watch your great videos but this was unique, we were completely gripped by your adventure this time. Well done for letting us share your experience. Stunning place to visit but not sure I could live there!!
As someone who camped on Arran and down the Mull of Kintyre and Skye and the Orkneys it fetched back so many memories and found your style and pace to be so entertaining, good video and it was nearly like being there myself.
Another fantastic video Steve! Stunning photography and insightful commentary. Always a pleasure to see your work in opening the world to us lucky folk!
Great video again Steve👍 , loved that church on Foula I have a never ending fascination of how they build such ornate structures with all the furnishings in such remote place's all those years ago.
This was an exceptional video. Well edited and riveting. Almost wished the boat hadn’t been pre booked and waiting for kids so you could have stayed longer in the island 😂 so tell me how much was the ferry fare back from the island to Lerwick? and what is the idea that you had (at the end of the video )to motivate you to go back to the island ??
It's not often I watch full TH-cam videos from start to finish, I often skip most parts of them. But this one I found myself glued to it every minute from the start to the end.. Many thanks for doing it...
Steve produces wonderful videos and this really is one of the best. Love the journey, the sights and scenery and Steve's commentary and humour. I think Steve has got vlogging down to a fine art.
Beautiful. Thanks so much, especially for the respect you show and your fantastic sense of humour. Much appreciated from one that travel to Ilse of Foula is sadly an impossibility for me.
I was riveted! What you put up with to do these videos leaves me cold. I’m a woman who needs her daily shower and other ablutions in comfort. Where eating is the most important daily ritual for you, it’s washing for me. I’m just loving these videos where you take us to places very few people go. Thanks Steve. You’re a legend!
Although I do love my daily shower etc in comfort I do go wild camping but there are still ways to keep clean-ish. Baby wet wipes are important. A small bottle of hand sanitiser for washing hands. I usually have a stove and can heat water for a wash too. I've even washed my hair when it was long and in a ponytail, wild camping near a quiet beach in Galicia, northern Spain, by heating up water on a fire, mind you it was summer but not sweltering hot.
Brilliant trip! Thanks for bringing us on. Heard a Swedish sailor bragging at the docks right before you had your steak pie and chips. Cheers from Sweden! Subscribed:)
Great video Steve thank you for posting, after working Offshore for many years and going through most of the Shetland Terminals, UNST, Scatsta, Sumburgh, and even the Lerwick Ferry Terminal when required, the weather in the summer between May and September can be subject to fog, and in winter wind snow, and 70 mph fog!
Thoroughly enjoyed watching Steve . What a great adventure . I lived up in the far north of Scotland for many years and the sight of folk wearing the Yellow Dunlop wellies , brings back happy memories. The best wellies ever . Nice to see the Gannet, fulmar and great skua footage too . Brilliant stuff
Great Video Steve of a very beautiful Island… I think the reason most of the wrecked cars are left so close to the Piers on offshore Islands is that when a Barge arrives to collect them for disposal in Scrappage Yards they are easily accessible. I think the Local authorities may be responsible for this valuable service that ensures for good housekeeping of very special environments… Keep up the great work.👏
What a superb video giving a taste of the remote beauty of the island I like the uncertainty, the winging it where you were drained but glad you set out. That's living when one falls through your front door and starts planning the next trip!
The rate and consistency at which these high-quality videos are popping out is bamboozling. What a joy to watch this channel 🎉
Hugely appreciated!
Agree Steve and Alicja are great
@@steve-marsh ......seagulls as friends what more do you want.....ha ha ha brilliant video ste😁👍
Wow…you got nearly the full complement of weather on this short trip. Loved the glassy seas heading out, but not sure I would have loved that ferry ride back to Shetland! It was a fine adventure overall, and a very worthwhile trip. Cheers, and ATB!
I don’t think you understand what that word means. 🤦🏼♀️
www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bamboozle
A lazy Saturday afternoon, a cup of tea, and another epic Steve marsh video. It doesn't get much better than this!
Right you are Scott. I watch your videos also. You've had some great ones too. Dave from Massachusetts.
Well said Scott I totally look forward to vids from you both Thank you Rab.
No coffee Scott for cruising altitude 🤔🤣🤣🤣
Then we do it again on sunday's for your videos too 😂😂
What about St Mirren Scott
Hi Steve and Alicja. I just want to thank the two of you for the pleasure you gave my mother in her final months. I found your channel purely by accident late last year and told my parents. Since the beginning of the year I have been my mums care giver 13hrs a night 7 days a week. We would watch your videos as soon as we could and also went back into your earlier work while we waited for new ones. As she got sicker I would save the videos till she was having a good day. Both her and my dad loved your presenting style and gentle way your adventures unfolded with you showing us what interested you and therefore what you thought the viewer might like it too. It never failed for us. My parents on occassion would comment that we took you (me) there as a baby/toddler when you went somewhere they knew or my dad would have a story about a certain place. We emigrated to NZ in 1969. Mum (Olive) passed away last night (20 August)91 years young but she had watched this video with us on saturday night. I know NZ is a long way away from Scotland but the scenery would amaze you and you both would be most welcome.
Again thank you both of you for bringing brief moments of pleasure to a dying woman and her family
Thanks
Adrian
@@ahebron what a beautiful comment Adrian...so sorry for your loss..
@@Nook747👍
What a lovely comment! So sorry for your loss.
Thank you for this comment, Adrian, and my condolences on your loss. Like you, I'm far away from Scotland now (the US Pacific North West in my case), and love to see Steve exploring my childhood haunts in his unique style.
Thanks for the comment. Sorry about your loss.
This is more compelling, well constructed and well presented than ANYTHING the mainstream TV channels can make. Top man Steve. Thoroughly enjoyable.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: Your videos are not just the usual travel videos. Talk about taking one for the team. You take the challenges en route and make me appreciate the places you visit both audibly and visually. Add to that all the tips and observations, and you not only entertain but also inform. Steve, I watch a lot of travel documentaries and travel features on TH-cam due to my disability, and unable to travel. I can honestly say that your films are unique, and way more interesting than most, offering me a window on the world like no other. Thank you.
Better than anything on television. Steve is a natural presenter / broadcaster and not an autocue in sight.
Aye, if this was mainstream telly there would be an unnecessary tense voice-over throughout...
"Steve is trying to get to a remote outpost of the country, but he has only 24-hours to get there. He'll risk life and limb, travel by trains, planes and ferry boats, accompanied only by a camera and a carrier bag full of cans and Tunnock's tea cakes!"
🤣
I agree with you. His vivid account of the island, as he explored it, transported me so fully into the experience that it felt like I was there with him, witnessing it firsthand.
@@steve-marsh Did 100% better job covering the island than Bald & Bankrupt. Thanks/Diolch.
Anything on the Internet is better than anything on the TV, almost.
Programmes like this are far superior than anything that could be produced by the BBC or Channel 4, etc.
You did ask for feedback, and it was fantastic, every step of the way, every sheep, dog or Shetland pony, was a treat to see. Out of ten, several million.
... and I echo every word. This was perfection.
@@whigwood I agree wholeheartedly. The combination of your brilliant filming (especially on the ferry from Foula back to the mainlaind) and equally brilliant narration kept me spellbound for an hour.
Honestly Steve, better than anything you see on tv. You’ve got an amazing way of making the viewers live your experience. Thank you 🙏
I’m a Yank, living in Atlanta, Georgia, and all the sudden this Scottish bloke shows up on my recommended list so I give him a go. Wow! First, the view totals are amazing, but then I see why. Great content and I’m sold completely with the views, the accent, and all the rest.
Plus, we have a corgi and she loves the views of the old sod, and the sheep, and the sheep dogs. Lot’s of barking, of course, but the “wee”this and “wee” that is over-the-top entertainment. I’m subscribed and waiting for more!
I am the same with the Fun in the Woods Big Monkey channel, but the other way round. I'm a Brit and love Dave Pearson's videos (I think it's Pearson) .
All the very best to you.
If you look hard in the background you'll see the rarer red spotted haggis. It's not seen often.
You yanks don't get out of america enough, if you did you would not be so amazed by a common and well known accent. SHOCKING. 🇬🇧
@@Mlgraham22 You really shouldn't go around calling people "old sod". It really is very rude 😜.
@@Mlgraham22 whit ye blabbering on about ya raj
I used to work in the broadcast industry and have to congratulate you on every aspect of your production work from camera through presenting voice over and editing. You can teach today's broadcasters a thing or two and deserve a show of your own on TV. Thank you also Steve for reminding me adventurous spirit. Something I miss and have lost as am in my seventh decade now. Your video made me smile, happy times spent traipsing around Shetland over 20 years ago watching Up Helya and experiencing solitude at the northerly tip of the island. Looking forward to seeing more of your travels. Cheers! Nigel
I’ll be honest, this is my favourite kind of video of yours - exploring lesser-known (or visited) parts of Scotland/the UK :)
By himself.
I too enjoy the Scottish exploration trips most of all.
Interesting video. Myself and my wife and kids spent 3years on Shetland. I was a locum Doctor and spent a lot of time on Whalsay which was a fascinating and delightful place. What I did come to realize on Shetland (and especially on Whalsay) that the sea is everything: a living, a pathway ("we'll just pop over to Norway to talk to a man about about a boat"), a source of worry, a connection with the older community, a connection to the weather and nature, and a huge source of food. Songs are generally about the sea "Rowing Doula Down" is a beautiful one. Words for the people on Whalsay? Tough and canny, but not Scottish. A close and very, (how can I say this) "mathematical" and "technical" community. The knitting is something incredible and the ability to navigate on the sea is astounding. Much less sentimental than Ireland, but very kind. From Ireland.
I find Ireland strange. So thank you for saying that because I'd never put my fingers on the reason why
👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏
Steve Marsh/Scott Manson (Planes, Trains, Everything)/Ruth Aisling - Three Scottish TH-camrs making the world a brighter place.
@@michaelkobylko2969 Also Living the Skye Life, with Willy, Sarah and their two spaniels!
Yep I like Ruth's videos too
@@robingherasim55 What about The Scottish Isle? I tune in every few days to marvel at the fact that Katie hasn’t yet strangled that man with her bare hands. Who knew that sheep liked biscuits or that cats and sheep get on so well?
@@rosemarymee I'm not familiar with The Scottish Isle. I'll check it out 👍
Yep, Ruth’s videos are very good too! Also, he doesn’t have many subscribers yet, but Tim’s travels is also great. Really nice bloke too and funny.
I was up for a funeral about a decade ago on the ferry, as I couldn’t get a flight. Hadn’t done the ferry for 30 years and while the seats had improved, the floor was preferable and I got about four hours sleep before getting up before dawn and a wonderful sunrise.
I love that last run into Lerwick but it was a glorious day and my brother, who’d never been, got to see it in all its glory.
Last time we went up was last year with a camper and we and the dogs had a cabin. That’s the way to do it.
As a resident of Thurso and long-time lover of the sea, I can confirm I have NEVER seen the sea so calm as when you arrived at Lerwick.
You're a brave man, Steve Marsh! I enjoyed this video immensely. Many years ago, when I lived in Shetland, I was friendly with the school dentist. (I don't know if such people still exist!) Anyway, he was making his annual visitation to Foula and invited me to go along for the ride. He also kindly agreed to my taking my (now late, sadly) father-in-law with me. We flew in a Loganair Islander from Sumburgh and that was quite an adventure in itself. The weather was not particularly good. We got into the plane, the pilot gave us a very brief safety briefing, started the engines and, looking left and right to ensure there was no conflicting traffic, taxied on to the runway and took off. We flew at around 500ft and had to climb to get above the airstrip in Foula. And, yes, I recall that bumpy gravel airstrip! As we came into land, the pilot slowed the aircraft to around 40 knots and the stall warning went off just before we touched down.
There were quite a few people waiting for the plane and those of us who had come on the outward flight and were returning with the plane to Sumburgh got off to stretch our legs.
The dentist had brought his chair and his dental tools and these were unloaded at the airstrip.
After around 20 minutes we piled back into the Islander. The pilot started the engines and lined the plane up for take off. It was a windy day and I thought my last moments had come as we bounced along the runway (which heads downhill towards the sea near after about half its length). The pilot seemed to be urging the plane to unstick and, yes, we left the ground and were immediately blown sideways by the wind.
We made it home safely!
I can't say that Foula would be my choice of residence, or even for an overnight camping expedition, but I'm very glad to have visited. Many thanks, Steve, for bringing back memories!
Thanks for sharing that Barney, a great read :)
That's a great story in itself.
🎉 All power and praise to this traveler....ah, the wanderlust that leads him on.! Super video.
Good job m8.
Things I Learned Today About Foula:
Owned since the turn of the 20th century by the Holbourn family, Professor Ian Holbourn purchased Foula around 1900, becoming its last laird.
Population : 38
Population density: 3 people/km
Foula was first inhabited as far back as 5,000 years ago
Has a sub-circular stone construction that was man-made, elliptical in shape with the axis pointing towards the mid-winter solstice, built before 1000 BC
Baxter Chapel is part of the Church of Scotland. It is made of grey-coloured stone and is situated "on the tail of 7 Hamnafield".
Darn you for being educational and making me learn stuff, Marsh!!! 😜
@TheUluxian¨Thank you for info.
Cheers for this! :)
@@steve-marsh In the Bible it is written: EXODUS 20: 7 "Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain", so "thank God" preferable to "OMG".
JFK @@soavemusica!!! You can always switch off the channel should this offend you instead of making other people miserable with unneeded enforced regulation because you believe in that.
🥱@@soavemusica
Man, Scottish travel is not for the impatient, inflexible, or motionsick. Amazing
Why am I all those things but ended up on an island too 😫
Loved the Video. As an American, seeing someone eating beans from the back of a fork is almost the most European thing ever! I remember being a young Soldier stationed in Germany. I found out quite quickly that my table manners were not up to the standards. Peace.
From the other side of the world, thanks for posting this. It's wonderful seeing these places I have no hope of ever getting to.
You know why your videos work? At least one reason is that you are just curious! You see something that interests you and you show it to us, like the horse scratching his tush and the ropes hanging from the rescue boat. Just plain interesting. Thank you for sharing.
Yesss we got the long video! Watching with coffee this morning
Have a great weekend!
What a beautiful little chaple...Respect Steve, for taking your cap off...Cool...I love it there
Stumbled upon this channel and stayed up til 1:30 in the morning watching. Wonderful!
Sir, you guided me through the island, not by means of the video, but through your vivid description as you explored it.
Thank you so much for taking us on an adventure. I guess I’m one of dozens who would love to replicate the trip even at 79 years of age.
Ditto....also 79!
@@johnhowarth8822 Are you happy to camp in a field?
@@rosemarymee leading question. If it was the only way I could visit then yes. If there was a more comfortable way to spend the night, I would take the second option.
@@johnhowarth8822 I’ve been thinking that I would use the vestry of the Kirk for shelter and take a little mini immersion heater to heat water for my Earl Grey/ instant soup/ noodles. I would leave a generous donation for the upkeep of the Kirk. Stretching out on a nice hard Presbyterian bench would be very good for the spine. I would book passage on that landing craft - now that we know it’s so cheap. However, there are more interesting Shetland islands to visit. Fair Isle is high on my bucket list.
@@rosemarymee sounds like a wise choice.
One of your nicest and most enjoyable videos Steve. You really gave us a quick view of life on Foula. These videos also make really homesick for Scotland after so many years in Australia 😥
Hey really appreciate your comment :)
Great video.. I had just watched” the edge of world” a few days ago that was filmed on Foula, was supposed to be Saint Kilda.
Steve that was one of your best.Your efforts are truly appreciated.
Thank you😊
Steve. your videos bring so much joy to so many of us. You have an uncanny knack of demonstrating what's important in life, living for and in the moment. I read a comment below from a disabled gentleman and what struck me was how appreciative he was of you bringing your adventure home to him in a very real way. Keep it up my friend. Lang may your lum reak!
What a stunning country Scotland, and the UK in a whole is.
Top notch. Better than anything on TV tonight.
Never change, this is just awesome to watch. Most youtube channels that i like start like this and suddenly its always sponsoring with first class this and business class things.. it is good for them. But they forget who they are. You even if there is some kind of luxury, you are humble and the same as when you started. Great channel to watch!😊
The "piano" in the church is actually not even a string instrument. It is an organ and driven by wind from the foot pedal, so it won't make a sound without a bit of footwork.
I think its called a harmonium?
Steve this is such an antidote to the doom-scrolling and TikTok stuff. Thank you so much.
You're a great camera man, Steve! Thanks for taking us along and thanks to your buddy who convinced you to keep filming, no matter what!
This was fantastic. Your curiosity and sense of adventure are not dampened by weather, lack of sleep, nor mobs of sheep! 😂 Another brilliant outing. That being said, the crossing back from Foula was a bit of a rollercoaster ride. Not sure I’d be so hardy! 😬 Many thanks for bringing this to us. 👍🏼
Hi Steve! I cannot thank you enough for all of your INCREDIBLE videos. Watching your videos is the best way to start my day! Who knew that I would be going along with you to Foula this morning with my morning cup of coffee?? Many thanks!
Thank you so much for this!!!
Excellent video! I was brought up on Foula so brings a lot of memories back for sure.
@@Omaha9988 Have you written or blogged about your years on Foula? That would be fascinating to read.
@@rosemarymee I haven't unfortunately. Although I'd highly recommend a trip there. Words don't do the place justice!
I really loved this video! It's so different from anything else out there and i think you're so brave to take on that adventure with pretty much no supplies, no time to spend seeing that beautiful island, no locals to talk to and get info from (and maybe something to eat), just winging the whole trip. I'm totally not brave enough to do any of this, but I'm glad i know someone who is. I'll be a devoted fan from now on. Glad i found you 💕
Hi Steve!! It's Margi from Seattle area!!
That's an old Church Organ, you need to pump the pedals with yr feet, then the air blows up the pipes as you play on the keys!
It works then!!
Only when the air is flowing tho ;)
I HAVE one literally in my house!! ;D
When you do get here one day, you can play it! 😊❤
Glad to see you!!
So sad tho that your videos don't show up most of the time on my youtube feed somehow!
Even tho I always click 'like' and am subscribed.
My favourite out of all the films you've made so far, loved every minute of it. Foula is beautiful. I'd move there at the drop of a hat.
Thanks so much! A favourite to make too!
Spend one winter there and you might change your mind...
@@gulfstream7235 Doubt it - I've done winter in the outer Hebrides with winds that were strong enough to blow over a removal lorry lol...................
@@gallovidian2151 What would you do there?
Wasn't a piano but an organ. I could see the stop and the pump peddles. I admire you for taking a chance when there was a great probability that you wouldn't get out of there on the next day. Very interesting episode. Thanks!!
Cheers for the correction
the best kind of adventure so long as you have nothing important to be back for
They also call it a Harmonium.
Steve please don't change your channel these videos are amazing love everyone of them thanks.
Was so amazing. Production value out of this World.Francois from South Africa.
👏
First time watching Steve, definitely not the last. Watching you from South Africa, im amazed at how the public transport is organised and clean and that nothing is locked 🤣🤣👍
Steve, that was epic, in the truest sense of the word! Trains, boats, planes and everything (apologies, Scott...) but seriously, this is one of your best, if not THE best video you've done. Those dawn skies on the outward journey up to Lerwick, that amazing flight over the sea cliffs, the wee chapel on Foula, the car graveyard, and the overnight camp. Can't wait to see what you've planned for the future! Thanks so much for taking us with you! Brilliant.
I’m glad there’s not a headstone up there reading -
‘Here lies Steve, not forgotten, his heart was good but the flights were rotten’.
🤣
This had me on the edge of my seat! Shetland is a lot bigger than I imagined. Loved the private jet!
Not a private jet. Normal way in and out weather dependent.
Haha thank you :)
@@moiraedwards57 aye, just a wee joke 🤣
Did you pay for the small ferry, or did you do a runner!!!
One of the best videos I've watched in a long time. The isolation of Foula is something else. I once met a guy in Oxford who lived in Lerwick and whose father installed the roads on Foula.. Thanks for a great video Steve.
Love watching from my warm home ! It’s thrilling to see the land and water, the sparse buildings, and to hear all the birds and engines. Lots of fun - thanks for the adventure !
Fantastic video Steve, as always
Thanks so much!
I was so worried for you Steve as you traversed that cattle grid. Just imagine breaking you ankle there! 😮
Sooooo enjoyed this film Steve!🙏 Out of all your films I’d say this has to be my favourite so far. I had a little chuckle at the sight of the payphone with the bible next to it…desperate times and all that! Please know that your going without a bed for 3 nights on the bounce has brought about great results. Thanks pal.
You are a brave man Steve, undertaking a trip with such a doubt over simply getting there by plane let alone returning to the mainland?!
Your trips never fail to amaze and certainly adds places for us to visit ourselves, well done 👍
Well Steve that has to be one of the best videos you have done ( maybe even the best) absolutely loved how raw it was but so full of interest with stunning scenery & wildlife!! You could feel the sense of worry on your face when you found out the return flight was cancelled 🥺 but as always you persevere and find a way home Brilliant 👏
Stumbled upon this vid tonight. So glad I did. I watched the whole thing. Great entertainment
Glad you enjoyed it!
1st time i watched one of your videos, what a lovely guy, very watchable, well done.
Can't stop watching these videos, once I start I'm hooked. Wonderful to see so much of what I'm missing. Wonderful, really wonderful.
Somehow you (both) find the beauty and innocence of these places. The sea, the fields, the birds, the seal, sheep and ponies and dogs!♡ Thank you so much♡
No better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than with our mate Steve on a stunning flight as castaways to a remote Scottish Island! And I did love that landing, and it was refreshingly pleasant to fly with a pilot who does it perfectly! A heartwarming indeed.
With LOVED the Shetland Murder Mystery stories and were GUTTED when it ended. So this trip with you was a wonderful surprise!!!! Thanks!!!!
The round circle of stones that you weren't sure about camping in looks like a plantie crub or crö-essentially an enclosed, protected area for growing cabbages, which would then be transferred to kale yards. Sincerely, a native (I'm from the mainland though; Foula's a beautiful place, but it's too wild and barren for the majority of us!)
Thank you for the information. I would never have guessed that they were for cabbage in a million years. I thought they might be something else for the sheep to hide in or be gathered into.
Thank you again.
I absolutely loved this content…had everything…animals,spectacular views,rural small living,exciting moments. Best video yet.
Joy to watch, start to finish. Top notch production. Well done Steve.
What a great adventure Steve! I sat glued to the TV instead of doing my chores. What an absolute gem of a video, beautiful sights, I enjoyed it thoroughly. As an avgeek I'd have loved to be on that flight! Thank you Steve, thank you ❤
Your content is excellent; your videos are crisp and sincere, and your destinations are surprising yet humble in some way. Thank you.
Well done, Steve. You're a hero for putting yourself through stuff so that the rest of us do not have to and can just watch. However, I must confess to a tweak of jealousy because I no longer have the stamina or the resilience or young bones to make that sort of a commitment. The remoteness of the island really came through.
Your best video so far, it has everything. Scottish tourism board should give you a job - great effort.
That for me was one of your most enjoyable videos Steve loved the scenery a true nature experience
I’ve never ventured any further than Lerwick look forward to more of the same ❤
What a great video Steve, we always watch your great videos but this was unique, we were completely gripped by your adventure this time. Well done for letting us share your experience. Stunning place to visit but not sure I could live there!!
As someone who camped on Arran and down the Mull of Kintyre and Skye and the Orkneys it fetched back so many memories and found your style and pace to be so entertaining, good video and it was nearly like being there myself.
I loved every second of this film. Thank you for letting us see the adventure. Well done.
Another fantastic video Steve! Stunning photography and insightful commentary. Always a pleasure to see your work in opening the world to us lucky folk!
Great video again Steve👍 , loved that church on Foula I have a never ending fascination of how they build such ornate structures with all the furnishings in such remote place's all those years ago.
Fantastic, character-revealing adventure, Steve. Thanks for taking us along. Bon voyage!
This was an exceptional video. Well edited and riveting. Almost wished the boat hadn’t been pre booked and waiting for kids so you could have stayed longer in the island 😂 so tell me how much was the ferry fare back from the island to Lerwick? and what is the idea that you had (at the end of the video )to motivate you to go back to the island ??
Hey thanks so much! The ferry was just a couple of pounds! Incredible :) the idea was the theme for my ‘Secret Ferry’ video, now on the channel
It's not often I watch full TH-cam videos from start to finish, I often skip most parts of them. But this one I found myself glued to it every minute from the start to the end.. Many thanks for doing it...
Steve produces wonderful videos and this really is one of the best. Love the journey, the sights and scenery and Steve's commentary and humour. I think Steve has got vlogging down to a fine art.
What an absolutely fascinating trip.
Can't believe you slept in that tent without any hot drinks or food. It has to be my worst nightmare.
Did look quite a miserable experience to me.
Steven you're a champion! Keep it up mate, you fill a void in many folks lives! Your episodes with your sidekick are a special treat too.
Anotbanger. Thanks Steve for showing Scotland as it is...Amazing xxx
These videos are strangely compelling. I find the time flies by whilst watching . Keep em' commin !!
Beautiful. Thanks so much, especially for the respect you show and your fantastic sense of humour. Much appreciated from one that travel to Ilse of Foula is sadly an impossibility for me.
What a trooper you are Steve !!! Thanks for taking me along ! Love your video's...so real, so natural..Thank you
I was riveted! What you put up with to do these videos leaves me cold. I’m a woman who needs her daily shower and other ablutions in comfort. Where eating is the most important daily ritual for you, it’s washing for me. I’m just loving these videos where you take us to places very few people go. Thanks Steve. You’re a legend!
Although I do love my daily shower etc in comfort I do go wild camping but there are still ways to keep clean-ish. Baby wet wipes are important. A small bottle of hand sanitiser for washing hands. I usually have a stove and can heat water for a wash too. I've even washed my hair when it was long and in a ponytail, wild camping near a quiet beach in Galicia, northern Spain, by heating up water on a fire, mind you it was summer but not sweltering hot.
Brilliant trip! Thanks for bringing us on. Heard a Swedish sailor bragging at the docks right before you had your steak pie and chips. Cheers from Sweden! Subscribed:)
Blessedly sparsely populated, quiet and peaceful. Ahhhh.
Absolutely brilliant. Thank you, Steve. Now its on MY bucket list.❤
Great video Steve thank you for posting, after working Offshore for many years and going through most of the Shetland Terminals, UNST, Scatsta, Sumburgh, and even the Lerwick Ferry Terminal when required, the weather in the summer between May and September can be subject to fog, and in winter wind snow, and 70 mph fog!
Absolutely fabulous video! You were right to keep it as 1 longer episode. Loved it, I think it might be my favourite one yet!😁
Felt as though I was there beside you. A wonderful and interesting journey. Thanks for the opportunity to see it all.😊
Just found you!! Hello from gidgetin australia. What a fantastic production. Thank you
Thoroughly enjoyed watching Steve . What a great adventure . I lived up in the far north of Scotland for many years and the sight of folk wearing the Yellow Dunlop wellies , brings back happy memories. The best wellies ever . Nice to see the Gannet, fulmar and great skua footage too . Brilliant stuff
Great Video Steve of a very beautiful Island… I think the reason most of the wrecked cars are left so close to the Piers on offshore Islands is that when a Barge arrives to collect them for disposal in Scrappage Yards they are easily accessible. I think the Local authorities may be responsible for this valuable service that ensures for good housekeeping of very special environments… Keep up the great work.👏
fantastic adventure video Steve bet you cant wait to return, look forward to your next adventure
Well, I've been watching videos online for roughly 25 years & this one is certainly among the TOP 10. I've subscribed.....Brilliant !
What an adventure! I enjoyed this so much. Thanks a lot!
Amazing scenery from the plane and another great blog.
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Love the pilot of the ferry stearing with his foot in a sock, lol (51:21)
A smashing and very enjoyable video, your a great ambassador for Scotland.
Another great video Steve. I’ve watched about half a dozen now, all good stuff, cheers 👍🏼
What a superb video giving a taste of the remote beauty of the island I like the uncertainty, the winging it where you were drained but glad you set out. That's living when one falls through your front door and starts planning the next trip!