Shetland

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price
28/08/2025
To the right is the Sands of Rerwick beach, Colsay Island is to the centre left and if you look closely, you can see seals in the water just offshore.
Joe deSousa, Wikimedia Commons

Shetland offers a distinctive experience with its dramatic coastal scenery, deep historical roots, and abundant wildlife, appealing to those seeking an enriching and tranquil escape amidst natural beauty.

Lerwick provides venues for social interaction, particularly through its pubs hosting lively traditional music sessions and the various festivals held throughout the year, which celebrate local culture and heritage.

Top 6 Things to do in Shetland

Shetland offers diverse activities, ranging from exploring ancient historical sites and dramatic coastal landscapes to observing abundant wildlife and immersing oneself in local culture.

1. Sumburgh Head Lighthouse & RSPB Reserve

Visiting Sumburgh Head allows one to experience a dramatic cliffside setting and a working lighthouse. It is an excellent location for observing thousands of nesting seabirds, including puffins, gannets, kittiwakes, and guillemots, particularly from mid-April to early August. The area also offers opportunities for spotting seals, porpoises, and occasionally orcas from the headland. Tips: Binoculars are highly recommended for wildlife viewing. Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly.

Cost: Entry to the visitor centre is approximately £6 for adults and £2 for children.

Transport: Sumburgh Head is located approximately 26 miles from Lerwick. The Number 6 South Mainland bus service runs between Lerwick (Annsbrae Gardens station) and Sumburgh. The nearest bus stop is Sumburgh Hotel Gate, about a 2-mile walk from the lighthouse. The bus journey from Lerwick takes approximately 53 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes and costs around £2.90. A taxi from Lerwick could cost between £55-£70 and takes about 40 minutes.

2. Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

Exploring Jarlshof offers a unique journey through thousands of years of human history, with remarkably preserved remains from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age (including a broch), and Norse settlements. One can wander through the interconnected layers of history, witnessing how different civilizations lived on the same site. It is fascinating to see the evolution of architecture and daily life over millennia. Tips: Allow ample time to explore the various structures and read the interpretive signs. The site is exposed, so be prepared for wind and weather.

Cost: Admission is approximately £9.00 for adults. Discounts may be available for booking online or arriving car-free.

Transport: Jarlshof is near Sumburgh Airport, about 2 miles from the 'Terminal' bus stop, and approximately 24.7 miles from Lerwick. Bus route 6 from Lerwick (Annsbrae Gardens station) goes to the Sumburgh Hotel Road End, which is a 5-minute walk from Jarlshof. The bus journey takes about 53-60 minutes and costs around £2.90. A taxi from Lerwick could cost between £50-£65 and takes around 35 minutes.

3. St Ninian's Isle & Tombolo Beach Walk

Walking across the iconic 500-meter sandy tombolo connecting the mainland to St Ninian's Isle is a memorable experience. This natural causeway offers breathtaking symmetrical views and leads to a tranquil island with coastal walks and archaeological remains of a medieval chapel. The beach itself was named Scotland's best in 2022. Tips: Check tide times, as very high tides or winter storms can occasionally cover the tombolo. Wear appropriate footwear for walking on sand and potentially uneven paths on the island.

Cost: Access to the tombolo and island is free.

Transport: St Ninian's Isle is located on the southwest coast of Mainland Shetland. Bus service 6 (Sumburgh route) to Channerwick Junction, followed by service 7 to Bigton, will get you to the nearby village. From the 'Shop, Bigton' bus stop, it is a 4-minute walk to the tombolo. Bus fares vary but are economical, with multi-trip passes offering a 20% discount. A taxi from Lerwick (approx. 18 miles) would cost around £35-£45 and take about 30 minutes.

4. Noss National Nature Reserve Boat Trip

Taking a boat trip around the Isle of Noss offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness one of Europe's largest seabird colonies up close. From the water, one can observe thousands of gannets, puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes nesting on the towering cliffs. It provides an immersive experience into Shetland's vibrant marine ecosystem, with chances to see seals and other marine life. Tips: Book in advance, especially during peak season (April-October). Choose a reputable local operator for the best experience. Dress warmly, even in summer, as it can be colder on the water.

Cost: Scheduled daily boat trips typically cost around £60 for adults and £25 for under 16s for a 2-2.5 hour tour.

Transport: Boat trips depart from Victoria Pier Slipway in Lerwick Harbour. This is centrally located in Lerwick and easily accessible on foot if staying in the town. Public buses operate within Lerwick (Service 1) and from other areas into Lerwick.

5. Explore Lerwick & Shetland Museum

Wandering through Lerwick, Shetland's only town and capital, allows one to soak in its unique atmosphere as a bustling port with deep historical ties. Visitors can explore the charming lanes, visit local shops offering crafts, and discover the Shetland Museum and Archives. The museum provides an in-depth understanding of the islands' rich history, culture, and natural heritage, from prehistoric times to the present day. Tips: Check the museum's opening hours in advance. Explore the waterfront and its historic buildings. Look out for local pubs that might host traditional music sessions.

Cost: The Shetland Museum and Archives offers free admission.

Transport: Lerwick is the main hub of Shetland. Public buses operate throughout Lerwick and connect to other parts of Mainland Shetland.

6. Mousa Broch Evening Trip for Storm Petrels

Embarking on an evening ferry trip to the uninhabited island of Mousa to see its Iron Age broch is a truly unique experience. The Mousa Broch is the best-preserved broch in Scotland, and in summer evenings, it becomes a nesting site for thousands of storm petrels. One can stand inside the broch and hear their distinctive purring calls as they fly in and out after dark. Tips: This trip is best undertaken in July, as specified for seeing Storm Petrels. Book the ferry in advance. Dress very warmly, even on summer evenings, as it can be cold and windy on the island.

Cost: Ferry fares to Mousa are typically around £15-£20 return for adults. .

Transport: Ferries to Mousa typically depart from Sandwick on the Mainland. Sandwick is accessible via the Number 6 bus service from Lerwick, which takes approximately 30 minutes and costs around £2.30. Taxis are also available. The Mousa ferry journey itself is short.

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