Places to visit
Flingtail nesting grounds
The Highmist Islands are the only known nesting grounds of the rare Flingtail Gull, and Sherstead Island has the largest of the five islands. The nesting area is in a hard to reach bay on the eastern side of the island, where the winds are blocked by the high cliffs. Those wanting to reach the bay by land are in for a tough hike and I would only recommend it for experienced walkers / ramblers.
It is much easier to see the bay by boat and there are several tour guides available to take you out there for a small fee. You can of course hire a boat of your own, though the currents can be tricky in inclement weather, Also the tour operators have a wealth of knowledge they are more than willing to share, which will be missed out on if you head out there on your own.
It is best to do this activity during the months of May to August, as this is when the gulls are nesting. The beach itself is off limits during this period so as not to disturb the nesting birds. Another reason why it is better to do this activity by boat.
Talking head point
You can only get the full effect of this experience during the months of September to November, as this is when the Force winds blow across the northern coast of the island. The cliffs on this northern point of the island drop sharply into the sea below, and it affords excellent views of the mainland on clear days. However the views. as specatcular as they are, are not the main reason for taking a trek out here. Standing on the end of the point is a large head carved from stone, which stands over ten feet tall. The winds have smoothed its features somewhat, but it is still very recognisable as a human face. The mouth of the statue is wide open as if shouting at the sky, and is hollow. One can stick one's arms right in up the the shoulder and not reach the back of the cavity. It is thought that the whole head is riddled with small connected cavities. When the wind blows just right it sounds as if the head is murmuring, and on particularly windy days it seems as if it is genuinely shouting at the sky.
Things to do
Hiking
The island is great for hiking and has some beautiful coastal walks, those to the south and west of the island are good for easy hikes, while those in the north and east can be quite rugged in places and in bad weather can be a little dangerous for the inexperienced. Those who prefer trees to beach and sea, won't be disappointed either as the woodlands in the centre of the forest also provide excellent walks, and are home to a host of wildlife. Check with the tourist information centre before heading out, as they can give you up to date information on which are the best places for walking at that time of year.
Woodland Adventure Park
While designed with mostly children in mind, adults can still find plenty to keep them occupied in this wonderfully built play area. Woodland treasure walks, mushroom hunts, woodland skills classes, archery range are just some of the activities on offer here. There is also the tree top adventure course, which is split into three routes of varying difficulties. There is even a woodland creature rehabillitation centre where children can see some of their favourite cratures up close. All in all, the whole family can spend an adventure packed day here, and then relax in the cafe which serves up delightful sandwiches and cakes.
Fordens Pier
This is the entertainment heart of Sherstead island, and probably the biggest tourist pull. The pier is a mile long stretch of stalls, shops, street food, games, shows and music. There is something for everyone here, and the place is bustling during both the day and night. i will say that if crowds aren't your thing then i would most definitely avoid this place during peak season. In fact even during off season there is still a healthy flow of foot traffic, as this a prime spot for locals to hang out too. However, if you enjoy being in the thick of things then this is the place for you. I spent a whole day and night on this pier, and am still sure i didn't do and see everything there was to do and see.
Things to buy
Driftwood Dreams
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This delightful shop is owned by Manny Defroe, and she has been selling her driftwood sculptures from it for over thirty five years. Each one is unique and lovingly carved and shaped, into beautiful designs which usually evoke nature in some way. They range in size from small hand held pieces to ones which require a horse and cart to transport, it entirely depends upon what has washed up on shore. All of Manny's pieces are made from wood she has collected herself, though if you find a piece while out walking and take it to her, she might be able to make something from it, for a fee of course.
Coastal Decor
If you are looking to add a bit of nautical flair to your home, or know someone who has a fondness for coastal themed knick-knacks then this is the place for you. Greta and Marlow Greenbelt are a friendly and cheery couple who opened their shop only five years ago after moving here from the mainland for a quieter life after their children left home. Their shop is spread over two storeys with the ground floor dedicated home furniture, and the top floor which has the smaller items, such as ornaments, utensils, plates and such. Out back there is a small yard and work shop, where marlow makes his own garden furniture.
Things to eat
Street food
Just walk along the pier at any time of day or night and take your pick. There are stalls selling all sorts of goodies, pies, fish stew, seafood skewers, salt water taffy, cookies, cakes, you name it. One thing for sure is that you won't go hungry on the pier, as there is food to suit every budget, and it is all quite delicious.
Fishmarket
Sherstead island is reknowned for its shellfish, and the fishmarket is the best place to find them if you aren't willing to go out and collect them for yourself. The market is situated at the north end of the docks and it best to get there early in order to get your choice of the best catches. There are a couple stalls here who also sell prepared food if you want a seafood breakfast before you start perusing the wares, but the market is dedicated mostly to fresh fish. On friday nights, however the market becomes a bit of a local night spot, with live mussic and most of the stalls now given over to drink and hot food vendors.
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