A bod in Shetland is a type of self-catering hostel-like accommodation, bods being found throughout the islands and normally in old buildings by the harbour.

Grieve House is where the Scottish poet Hugh McDiarmid (who managed to be expelled from both the Scottish National Party and Communist Party !!) lived for 8 years. Its located in the outer suburbs of Symbister and was impossible to find, not being visible from the main road (its reached via a farm track). Thankfully the cheerful and friendly caretaker, who lives closeby on the opposite side of the valley, was able to guide us there.

Accommodation is basic to say the very least, its much more of a mountain bothy, consisting of one large room with four basic bunkbeds and two decrepit armchairs in front of a small wood-burning stove. At the back was a kitchen area with a sink with cold running water, a large dining table with chairs and food preparation space, although given the amount of dust and grime in the... more