travel to shetland

The Ultimate Guide To Planning A Trip To Shetland

Categories Orkney & Shetland , Scotland , Scottish Islands

For this mini-guide, Shetlander and writer, Laurie Goodlad, shares more about these fascinating islands, and how best to plan and enjoy your time there. Laurie is a full-time travel blogger and tour guide who has been sharing her island home with visitors since 2018. Born to the islands, she can trace her ancestry back hundreds of years and is passionate about Shetland.

Table of Contents

Shetland has so much to offer visitors; from the rugged scenery, to the history and wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Made up of over 100 islands, Shetland is an archipelago in the middle of the North Atlantic; where the North Sea meets the North Atlantic, and Scotland meets Scandinavia, Shetland enjoys a distinct and unique culture.

Lying at 60° North, the latitude line passes through the sweeping South Mainland, metaphorically slicing Shetland in half. Being so far north means that the days of summer are very long and light – or, as in winter, are very short and dark.

In summer, Shetland enjoys up to 19 hours of daylight but, in the winter, can expect to see only six hours of light. Put simply, Shetland is closer to the Arctic Circle to the north (400 miles/643 km) than it is to the UK’s urban powerhouse, London (600 miles/962 km), to the south.

Its rugged coastline of almost 1,000 miles (1,700km) has been carved and shaped by the unbridled power of the North Atlantic on the west while, while, on the east coast, the North Sea challenges the ever-changing coastline. Of these 100 or so islands, 16 are inhabited.

Including Fair Isle to the south, and Out Stack in the north, Shetland is about 100 miles (160 kilometres) long and, at its widest, is 7 miles (11 km), but in places like Mavis Grind , it’s no more than about 70 metres wide. Mainland is the largest of the islands, at 55 miles (88 km) long it has links by inter-island ferry, plane and road bridge to those that are inhabited.

Geographically, Shetland resembles a jigsaw puzzle, formed by a range of ancient hills standing on the continental shelf and partly drowned when the last period of glaciation retreated 10,000 to 12,000 years ago.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Laurie writes the travel blog, Shetland With Laurie and has worked as author for Lonely Planet on their latest Scotland guidebooks. Here, Laurie shares her insights, tips and favourite places.

How To Get To Shetland

Getting to Shetland is easy; you can fly or take the overnight ferry.

Shetland by air

Flights are operated by Loganair and depart from most Scottish airports, including: Aberdeen , Glasgow , Edinburgh , Inverness , Kirkwall and Dundee (seasonal). There are also flights from London and Bergen throughout the summer.

Shetland by sea

NorthLink Ferries operates the lifeline service to the isles, with two ferries running on the route between Lerwick and Aberdeen .

The ferry calls in at Kirkwall , Orkney on alternate evenings, and the sailing time is between 12 and 14 hours.

Cars can be brought on the ferry and there are various accommodation options, including cabins and sleeping pods. The boat also offers pet-friendly accommodation in some of its cabins.

Exploring Shetland

Shetland by car

Shetland is best enjoyed with a car; you can either bring your own vehicle on the overnight ferry or hire a car from one of the car hire companies.

● Bolts Car Hire ● Grantfield Garage ● Star Rent a Car

Oil money has meant that Shetland has a good road network, and the subsidised inter-island travel means lower fares. Most rural roads are single-track, with passing places that are easy to navigate.

Cycle Shetland

Taking a bike on the ferry to Shetland is cheaper than a car, and allows you to slow down and enjoy the islands at a leisurely pace (but bear in mind that there are no dedicated cycle lanes!)

Shetland’s roads are in very good condition and are a pleasure to cycle, although main roads can be quite fast and the gradients tiring. It is worth taking account of the fact that the weather is changeable and a strong head-wind can make for a challenging cycle.

Inter-island travel

Nine inter-island ferries operate throughout Shetland, linking Yell , Unst , Fetlar , Whalsay , Skerries , Bressay , Papa Stour , Fair Isle and Foula . Ferries to the North Isles , Whalsay and Bressay operate daily, with multiple sailings.

Ferries to Skerries , Papa Stour , Fair Isle and Foula are less frequent, and booking is required. All except the Fair Isle and Foula ferries are ro-ro car ferries .

Fair Isle and Foula have air links to Tingwall Airport (6.5 miles from Lerwick). There are several flights a week but it is advised to plan trips to Fair Isle and Foula at the start of your holiday as flights can often be delayed or cancelled due to weather, particularly fog. Allowing flexibility in your schedule is recommended if you are planning to visit Fair Isle and Foula.

Public transport

Shetland has excellent public transport provision, allowing you to explore all corners of the islands. Buses provide links to all corners of Shetland, but note that the bus stop may still be several miles from that beauty spot you want to visit.

Bus timetables and up-to-date information are available on the free ZetTrans Travel App, available on both Apple and Android devices and does not need a mobile phone signal to be used.

Zetrans and Traveline Scotland provide useful information about travelling around Shetland.

Guided tours

Shetland has lots of private guides who can help you unlock the magic of the isles, here are a few to check out:

• Shetland with Laurie
• Shetland Nature
• Adventure Shetland
• Island Trails
• Shetland Minibus Tours

Things to do in Shetland

As a Shetlander, I’m always asked what my favourite things to do in Shetland, and it’s just so difficult to pick!

However, we all have a few favourite places, and here are some of mine which I feel will give you the best taste of Shetland’s landscape, culture and heritage.

Lerwick’s old town

Explore the picturesque port of Lerwick – the UK’s most northerly town and one of the country’s leading fishing ports.

Walk through Lerwick’s old town, exploring the fascinating 18th-century lanes and lodberries with their stone foundations proudly built into the sea, defying time and tide.

Head to South Commercial Street to find the fictional home of enigmatic TV star Jimmy Perez from the hit TV show Shetland , or dip your toes in the water at Bain’s Beach and search for a piece of sea-worn pottery.

Throughout the summer, Laurie offers Walking Tours of Lerwick’s old town, exploring the fascinating history of the town.

Deepdale, West Mainland

Hike out to Deepdale in Shetland’s West Mainland for a slice of paradise and enjoy the setting sun on a summer’s night. The walk is around 5 miles (8km) and can be challenging in parts.

Park at the Voe of Dale (Dale of Walls beach) and follow the coast north towards Sandness (OS Explorer 467). This piece of coastline, with views across to the most westerly island of Foula , is awe-inspiring. The cliffs are dramatic and rugged, hewn out by the powerful forces of the North Atlantic.

A day in Skerries

For those who really want to get away from it all and enjoy a leisurely day hiking the coastline, the island of Skerries is ideal.

Out Skerries, known locally as Da Skerries or just Skerries , are a small low-lying trio of islands – Housay , Bruray and Grunay – that lies 13 miles off Shetland’s east coast and four miles northeast of Whalsay .

The island is home to around 30 people who largely depend on the fishing industry, and small enough to be walked in a day trip.

Tresta Beach, Fetlar

The smallest of the North Isles, Fetlar , known as the Garden of Shetland, is a beautiful island to explore.

One of the best places to experience is the beach at Tresta with its glistening sand that sparkles in the summer sun. This is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic – or even try a little wild swimming at 60 North!

Getting to Tresta is easy; from the ferry, take the B9088 for two miles, and follow the signs for Tresta. The beach is unmissable!

No trip to Shetland would be complete without a visit to the uninhabited island of Mousa.

World- famous for the 2,000-year-old Iron Age broch which is the best surviving example of a broch anywhere in the world. The island is also famous for its breeding colony of storm petrels and other wildlife.

Mousa Boat operates day trips from April to mid-September and evening tours to see the storm petrels around midsummer.

St Ninian’s Isle, South Mainland

St Ninian’s Isle is probably Shetland’s best-known beach. Its iconic image is found in most brochures and internet searches for places to visit in Shetland, and rightly so.

St Ninian’s Isle is a picture-postcard pristine white sand tombolo spanning some 500 metres from the Shetland Mainland, across to the uninhabited St Ninian’s Isle, where the 9th century St Ninina’s Isle treasure hoard was discovered.

Hike to a broch

So much of Shetland’s archaeology is away from the trappings of visitor centres, and remain quiet and hidden away from the crowds.

Here are a few of my favourites to hike to:

• Culswick Broch Walk
• Levenwick Broch
• Burraness Broch
• Burland Broch

Sands o Breckon, Yell

Yell is the largest of Shetland’s trio of North Isles, often overlooked by visitors as they head north to Uunst.

The beach at Sands of Breckon is worth a visit; with stunning golden sands and turquoise seas. Besides the beach, the area provides a fascinating glimpse into Shetland’s archaeological past.

This secluded site has had almost continual occupation from prehistoric times, and the remains of past people can be seen all around the area. To get here, follow the A968 north through Yell and, just before the Gutcher Ferry Terminal, turn left towards Cullivoe.

Follow this road (B9083) for several miles – look out for the ‘brown’ tourist sign marked ‘Breckon Sands’. Follow this road for ⅓ of a mile and park responsibly at the end of the road and follow the path to the beach.

Click here for more on things to do in Yell.

Quendale Beach, South Mainland

Shetland’s not short of beautiful beaches, particularly in the sweeping South Mainland, and the sand at Quendale is no exception.

Quendale beach is Shetland’s longest stretch of sandy beach at just short of a mile. This area has changed significantly as shifting sands alter the landscape, and the unique dune system stretches far inland. Testament to the changes brought to this area is found in the excavations at Broo – an abandoned township buried under sand some 300 years ago.

The best way to reach Quendale Beach is to follow the A970 south until you almost reach Sumburgh. Follow the road signs for ‘Toab/Hestingott’, heading west, follow this road for about two miles until the road ends at some garages and the double carriageway gives way to a dirt track. Park responsibly and follow the track down to the beach.

Eshaness, Northmavine

The rugged cliffs at Eshaness are breathtakingly beautiful. Formed by fire and ice almost 400 million years ago, this is a landscape of drama and rugged beauty.

Walk the Eshaness circular and marvel at the incredible volcanic formations in the landscape, including the Grind o da Naavir, Hols o Scraada and the Kirn o Slettans.

Eshaness is an hour’s drive from Lerwick following the A970 north towards Hillswick , then follow the signs for Eshaness.

Heylor, Northmavine

Under the shadow of Ronas Hill , Shetland’s highest point, Heylor is a beautiful ‘out of the way’ spot sitting on the shores of Ronas Voe , an impressive fjord-like inlet of seawater that stretches far inland along the side of Ronas Hill and its red granite heights.

Follow the A970 north towards Hillswick . At Urafirth , turn right towards Heylor and Swinister and follow the road for around half a mile before veering left towards Heylor.

Westerwick, West Mainland

Enjoy a coastal walk between Westerwick and Silwick and enjoy the dramatic scenery and red granite cliffs. To find Westerwick, follow the A971 west, then take the B907 towards Skeld.

In Skeld, follow the signs towards Wester Skeld – follow this road for several miles, passing the school and graveyard before turning left at the end of the road towards Silwick and Westerwick .

Follow this road before turning right towards Westerwick . Park at the end of the road for walking routes.

Jarlshof Prehistoric Site, South Mainland

The site is a must-see for anyone visiting Shetland; laid out chronologically and spanning 5,000 years of human history, visitors weave their way through the ages of Shetland’s human history.

From the first farmers of the Neolithic, through the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Broch period and the arrival of the Vikings.

Following a period of Norse rule, Shetland becomes part of Scotland, and we see an era dominated by the Scottish Lairds.

Visitors conclude their walk through time with the now ruinous, but once grand, Laird’s house of 1600. Jarlshof is unmissable!

Fethaland, Northmavine

For the most northerly point of Mainland Shetland, head to the historic 19th-century fishing station at Fethaland in the North Mainland. The walk out to the now ruinous buildings will take a few hours, so you might want to pack a picnic and OS Explorer No 469 . Park responsibly at the end of the Isbister road – bearing in mind that the farmer requires access to the farm road.

Tips for planning a trip to Shetland

• Book well in advance! Accommodation can book up a year in advance, so you will need to get planning well ahead of travel. Shetland has a dedicated accommodation website that you can find. This is a good place to look for accommodation and these are some accommodation reviews that I have done.
• Pack for all weathers ; Shetland is in the far north and, even in summer, weather can be cool and often cold! Pack plenty of layers, a sturdy pair of boots and a good waterproof outer layer.
• Plan your days around different areas; South Mainland, West Mainland, North Mainland, Unst, for example.
• Book a boat trip with the Mousa Boat or the Noss Boat.
• Book meals in advance if you are travelling in the summer as restaurants book up quickly and it can be difficult to get a last-minute table.

Where to eat

• No 88, Commercial Street, Lerwick
• The Dowry, Commercial Street & Hay’s Dock, Lerwick
• Fjara, Lerwick
• Da Steak Hoose, Mounthooly Street, Lerwick
• Peerie Shop Cafe, Lerwick
• The Cornerstone, Scalloway
• Braewick Cafe, Eshaness (seasonal opening)
• Busta House Hotel, Brae
• Frankie’s Fish & Chips, Brae

Recommended accommodation

• Shetland Seawinds , Lerwick
• Ingrid’s Self Catering , Scalloway
• Scalloway Hotel
• Busta House Hotel , Brae
• Westshore , West Mainland
• The Taing , Reawick
• Shorehaven and The Boatman’s House , Unst
• Da Peerie Neuk , Unst

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Contact details are available for ferry booking office numbers, ferry voicebank information lines and for the local bus service operators.

If you'd like to have the latest bus, ferry and flight times available on your phone, you can download the Shetland Travel Information app from iTunes and the Google Play stores.

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How to Get to Shetland by Sea and Air

If you've been inspired by stories about wildlife spotting in Shetland , the sea otter capital of the UK, or dining on the archipelago's fabulous salt grass-fed lamb and cold water seafood you may want to add a visit to your UK vacation or holiday.

Planning is definitely the operative word in a journey like this. Shetland is not a place you can just pop over to on impulse. It takes time, logistics, and patience. That's why this romantic archipelago of 100 islands strung across the ocean 100 miles from Scotland's North coast (where the Atlantic meets the North Sea) is such an uncrowded and rewarding place to visit. Here are the options:

FlyBe, operated by Loganair, flies to Shetland but first, you have to get to Scotland. If you arriving at Heathrow, British Airways runs flights that connect through Aberdeen from London Heathrow or through Edinburgh from Gatwick.

Onward flights land in the far south of Mainland, at Sumburgh, the airport serving Lerwick, Shetland's capital, about half an hour away. It is one of only two in the world to have a road crossing its runway. Few driving experiences are more memorable than being held at the crossing by a gate while a plane takes off right in front of you, and this could just be your first experience in Shetland, as you leave the airport in your hire car. There are flights to Sumburgh from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Inverness, with connections on to London.

If you decide to fly, you should be aware that flights from London or other major English airports with a connection to Shetland through Scotland can be expensive and, because of waits between flights, can take a very long time. The combinations we checked, which included a 1h30min flight from London to Aberdeen and a 1h flight from Aberdeen to Sumburgh involved waits between flights of between five and 11 hours.

By far a more romantic, and certainly more relaxing, way to journey to the isles is to steam out from Aberdeen in the early evening on the daily Northlink ferry and sail north through the night, docking in Lerwick in the morning.

The Hrossey is no cruise ship but she is a beauty. If the weather is not too wild you can stand and watch the mainland slip away over the horizon and dolphins break the water surface on the deck, while cozy private cabins offer en-suite bathrooms and free films on the wall-mounted (everything is, of course, wall-mounted) TV. The Feast restaurant serves locally sourced produce (they do a great steak) while the Longship Lounge pours pints of local real ales, such as Dark Island from Orkney , until the wee hours.

It can also be a much cheaper way to travel. There are so many variables in the fare - season, car or no car, how many in your party, private cabin or reclining seat, full breakfast, continental breakfast, dinner, choices and each element with its own price - that it's quite hard to suggest a price that will suit all. But, if you use the Northlink website to try out different combinations, you can judge for yourself.

Once you get to Shetland, both national and local car rental brands are available in Lerwick and at the airport.

How to Get Around

Shetland is the sort of place where ferry captains pop down to the car deck to invite you onto the bridge, because “it’s warmer up there”. Here the interisland ferries are subsidized, which makes them not only affordable but also regular and relaxed. Travel more than once on the same route and you’ll start to recognize the crew. Traveling between the islands by ferry is also a great way to get out on the water and spot marine life. No visit to Shetland is complete without at least one journey on this lifeline of a service, where you may even find the ferry is running just for you.

Ferries are operated by Shetland Islands Council.

The outer isles (Foula, Fair Isle, Papa Stour, Skerries) are also served by plane and if you plan to visit Foula this is certainly the best way to go, with day returns (round trip tickets there and back in the same day) possible throughout the summer on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. These are also provided by Shetland Islands Council and subsidized, so fares are low. Flights are operated by Directflight.

The Culture

Shetland could be one of the most misunderstood destinations in Britain. Firstly, it is never “the Shetlands”, only ever Shetland or the Shetland Islands. To a Shetlander “the Shetlands” sounds as wrong as would “the Londons”.

Shetland is part of the UK but most of the islands’ residents identify with being Shetland first, Scottish second, and British, well, not at all really. The capital, Lerwick, is some 300 miles from Edinburgh and 600 miles from London, but only 230 miles from Bergen in Norway. And so this is an archipelago that looks not only to the British mainland for influence but to the Nordic countries too.

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Ultimate Guide to Visiting Shetland & Orkney

Home > Blog > Ultimate Guide to Visiting Shetland & Orkney

For many people, Shetland and Orkney are the remote islands ‘somewhere up the top’ of a map of the British Isles.

But make the simple journey north and you’ll discover cosmopolitan towns, world-class scenery, and some of the friendliest locals around. With a fascinating history dating back to Neolithic times, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit some of the finest historic sites in Europe.

Absolute Escapes have been arranging self-drive holidays in Scotland for almost two decades, and we like to think that our customer excellence rating of 99% is based on our first-hand experience. With this in mind, I ventured north to research Shetland and Orkney. A tough job but someone’s got to do it!

Armed with new-found knowledge from my trip, here’s my ultimate guide to these beautiful archipelagoes.

When is the best time to visit Shetland & Orkney?

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May and September are usually excellent months to visit Shetland and Orkney. They are not only quieter than June, July and August in terms of visitor numbers, but also statistically the driest months of the year.

The northern latitude means that the sun barely sets in summer, providing almost endless hours of daylight to explore. On Shetland, the long summer days and unique light are known as the simmer din . Winter months are very dark, and the sun sets before 15.00 on the winter solstice. The legendary Viking fire festival Up Helly Aa brightens up Shetland on the last Tuesday of every January.

Summer is the best time for nature lovers to visit. Puffins arrive here to breed from mid-April until early August, and your best chance of encountering orcas and minke whales is from the start of May until early August.

It’s also worth mentioning that Orkney is the UK’s most popular cruise ship destination. The busiest months for cruise ship arrivals are May, June and August, and you should avoid those months if you’d like to experience Orkney with fewer crowds.

Absolute Escapes offer tailor-made holidays which are created uniquely for you by our award-winning specialists. Our packages include hand-picked accommodation, a personalised information pack, and 24-hour support from our dedicated team.

Our popular Shetland & Orkney: Escape to the Edge itinerary is a superb introduction to the islands. It includes an overnight ferry from Aberdeen, three nights on Shetland, four nights on Orkney, all ferry travel between the islands, and (optional) car hire.

You can travel to Shetland by ferry or by plane.

The main ferry service is operated by Northlink and runs daily from Aberdeen to Lerwick, the capital of Shetland. Ferries depart from Aberdeen in early evening and arrive in Lerwick very early the following morning. The ferries are modern and well-equipped with comfortable en-suite cabins.

There are also several flights per day from the main Scottish airports (Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow), and regular summer flights from Bergen in Norway. The journey time from Edinburgh and Glasgow is 1.5 hours and 1 hour from Aberdeen.

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With around 100 islands, Shetland is surprisingly large and spread out. The main island, which is known as ‘Mainland’, is home to the vast majority of the population and is the fifth largest island in the British Isles with an area of 373 square miles.

Due to its size, you could easily spend a week on Shetland and barely scratch the surface. If you don’t have endless time, it’s possible to see some of Shetland’s top attractions over 3 or 4 nights.

If you’re travelling by ferry from Aberdeen, it’s worth remembering that you will arrive in Lerwick very early in the morning (07.30) which will effectively give you an extra day of sightseeing on arrival.

On arrival, many visitors make a beeline for the South Mainland which is home to some of Shetland’s most popular attractions:

• Jarlshof : The incredibly well-preserved remains of a 4,500-year-old Neolithic settlement. A true historic gem.
• Sumburgh Head : Popular visitor centre and nature reserve. An excellent place to spot puffins and marine animals.
• St Ninian’s Isle : This unique ‘tombolo’ beach is one of Shetland’s most scenic spots.

The island’s vibrant capital of Lerwick is also home to some excellent attractions:

• Shetland Museum : This excellent, modern museum tells the story of Shetland’s history and culture. Entry is free.
• Fort Charlotte : A 17th-century fortress built to defend Shetland from Dutch and French warships.
• ‘The Lodberry’ : The home of fictional detective, Jimmy Perez, from the Shetland TV series. This must be the most photographed spot on Shetland!
• Clickimin Broch : An outstanding example of an Iron Age broch, which is a stone-built round house found only in Scotland.

There are plenty of fabulous things to see elsewhere on Shetland. Here is some of our favourites:

• Scalloway : The island’s ancient capital is only a 15-minute drive from Lerwick and well worth a visit. Explore Scalloway Castle (closed in 2022 for conservation work) and Scalloway Museum.
• Eshaness : This rugged corner of the north-west Mainland is home to awe-inspiring scenery and bracing coastal walks.
• Unst : Britain’s most northerly island is home to sensational scenery and wonderful wildlife at Hermaness National Nature Reserve. Getting to Unst requires a bit of pre-planning (more info here ), but it’s well worth the effort.

With a natural sand causeway jutting out across the sea, the ‘tombolo’ beach at St Ninian’s is quite simply breathtaking. This spot features in many promotional images of Shetland and is justifiably popular with visitors, although – even in the height of summer – you’re likely to see no more than a handful of other people.

Nearby Scousburgh Sands is another idyllic and peaceful spot. The golden sands are backed with sand dunes, and you may be lucky enough to see seals bobbing around in the sea nearby.

My favourite beach on Shetland was Meal Beach in West Burra – an idyllic, south-facing cove with white sand and turquoise water. West Burra is connected by bridge from the Mainland so there are no ferries required.

Shetland’s roads are generally in excellent condition and it is stress-free to drive around the islands. Like much of Scotland, some parts of Shetland have single-track roads – in which case you will need to use passing places. If you see a vehicle coming towards you, or there is a driver behind you who wants to overtake, pull into a passing place on your left, or wait opposite a passing place on your right.

If you’d like to do a bit of island-hopping, Shetland Islands Council operate the ferry services on Shetland. These ferries are frequent and reliable, and we would advise pre-booking journeys in advance.

Public transport on Shetland is available in most places and is fairly reliable. You can plan public transport journeys on the Shetland Travel website.

Shetland’s ultimate island-hop destination is well worth the effort to get there. Unst is the most northerly island in Britain and home to the legendary Hermaness National Nature Reserve.

Getting to Unst (and then back to the Mainland) involves taking 4 ferries. These can get very busy in peak season and we would recommend pre-booking tickets for all journeys on the Shetland Island Council website:

• Toft (mainland) to Ulsta (Yell)
• Gutcher (Yell) to Belmont (Unst)
• Belmont (Unst) to Gutcher (Yell)
• Ulsta (Yell) to Toft (Mainland)

No payment is made at the time of booking – you will instead be asked to pay in full on the first ferry. You can do so by cash or debit/credit card. The staff are flexible and helpful if you miss a pre-booked ferry journey, however, you may need to wait a while until they can find a space for you on a subsequent ferry.

Most people drive straight through Yell (around a 30 minute drive) to take the second ferry across to Unst. Therefore, we would suggest booking the Gutcher to Belmont crossing no earlier than 40 minutes after the first ferry arrives in Ulsta.

Eating options on Unst are limited. Victoria’s Vintage Tea Rooms is open from Tuesday – Saturday (10.00 – 17.00) and booking a table is essential. Alternatively, we would suggest picking up a packed lunch from the Mainland.

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Shetland is, of course, world-famous for its eponymous ponies, which can be seen grazing by the roadside or on the heathery hills. During August, the local agricultural shows take place, providing excellent opportunities to see Shetland ponies in action.

People travel from across the world to view Shetland’s seabird colonies, including puffins, gannets, guillemots, fulmars and kittiwakes. It really is a bird lover’s paradise, and you are guaranteed to see puffins at Sumburgh Head and Hermaness nature reserves in season.

Shetland is also one of the best places in Britain to spot sea mammals, particularly common seals, grey seals, otters, harbour porpoises and, occasionally, orcas. The best time to see them is between May and August.

Accommodation on Shetland ranges from everything from tiny glamping pods and cosy B&Bs to modern hotels. For our self-drive packages, we will usually try to secure accommodation in Lerwick as it has good amenities and some fabulous places to eat and drink.

Although accommodation options are more limited further north, there are some lovely places to stay around Brae and Hillswick. These are good bases to explore the northern Mainland and travel to Yell and Unst.

Many of the best places to eat are in the main town of Lerwick – a bustling, cosmopolitan port with amenities usually found in much larger towns.

Fjarå Café Bar is a relaxed bistro just outside the centre of Lerwick which offers fantastic sea views, friendly staff and delicious food. Don’t miss the freshly-landed mussels.

Located on Lerwick’s main street, C’est la Vie Cafe serves French and Spanish specialities. While the cafe does not have an alcohol license, you are welcome to BYOB. It is open daily for lunch and dinner.

The Dowry is a modern space with a Nordic feel, serving excellent food with an Asian twist. The name was taken from the dowry payment by which Shetland and Orkney were pawned to Scotland by the King of Denmark, Norway and Sweden in the sixteenth century.

In Scalloway, Da Haaf Restaurant is right at the heart of all things maritime, serving excellent local seafood and other produce with a view over Port Arthur.

During the busy summer months of June, July and August, we’d recommend pre-booking an entry slot for Jarlshof on the Historic Scotland website.

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The ferry service from Shetland to Orkney is operated by Northlink . There are usually 3 crossings per week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) which depart Lerwick at 17.30 and arrive in Kirkwall at 23.00. If you’re taking this ferry, we’d recommend eating dinner on board as most places in Kirkwall will be closed on arrival.

You can also fly directly from Shetland to Orkney with Loganair .

Orkney is an archipelago made up of 70 islands, which you could spend a lifetime exploring. If you don’t have endless time, 4 or 5 nights will give you a good flavour of the islands and allow you to see most of the top attractions.

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Orkney’s cosmopolitan capital of Kirkwall is a delightful small town with excellent attractions:

• St Magnus Cathedral : Known as the ‘Light in the North’, this majestic cathedral was originally founded in the 12th century by Viking Earl Rognvald.
• Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces : These palaces are regarded as two of the finest examples of architecture in Scotland and highlight Orkney’s strong Norse links.
• Highland Park Distillery : Enjoy a tour and tasting at one of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries.

Orkney’s exceptional prehistoric sites have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site called the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’. The most popular attractions to visit are:

• Skara Brae : This incredible Neolithic village is the jewel in the crown. Older than the Egyptian Pyramids, it offers a fascinating glimpse into life for Orkney’s earliest inhabitants between 3,200 and 2,200 BC.
• Maeshowe : This atmospheric chambered cairn and tomb was constructed around 5,000 years ago. It was broken into by Vikings in the 12th century who carved runic graffiti into the walls of the main chamber.
• Ring of Brodgar : One of the largest and best-preserved stone circles in the British Isles. This is a popular spot with coach tours, so we’d suggest visiting early or later in the day to avoid the crowds.

There are plenty of fantastic attractions elsewhere on Orkney:

• Stromness : With quaint alleyways and sweeping sea views, Orkney’s second-largest town is a lovely place to wander around. Pop into the Pier Arts Centre or Stromness Museum.
• Italian Chapel : This incredibly ornate Catholic chapel was built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II.
• Brough of Birsay : Walk across a tidal causeway to explore Pictish, Norse and medieval remains on a beautiful island. The causeway is only passable for two hours either side of low tide. You can check tidal times on the Met Office or Orkney.com websites.
• Yesnaby Castle : This wild stretch of coastline on the west Mainland is an unbeatable place for a bracing coastal walk. The sea stack, Yesnaby Castle, is a great alternative to the more famous Old Man of Hoy (see below).
• Hoy : A short ferry ride from the Mainland, Hoy is a magical island packed full of dramatic scenery, wonderful historic sites, and the legendary sea stack; the Old Man of Hoy. You can also visit the excellent new Scapa Flow Museum in Lyness to learn more of Orkney’s military involvement in the First and Second World Wars. You can find more information about visiting Hoy below.

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Orkney’s mainland has several fantastic beaches, so no matter where you’re staying, you’re not far from the shore. Just a short walk from Kirkwall you’ll find the beach at Scapa , or head further west and explore the shallow bay at Waulkmill .

In the east Mainland, Burray and South Ronaldsay, places like Dingieshowe , Glimps Holm and the Sands o’Wright are popular spots to visit.

On Hoy, Rackwick Bay has giant rounded pebbles, golden sand, and massive cliffs on either side of the bay.

Even further off the beaten track, the islands of Sanday and Stronsay have numerous beautiful beaches to explore, and there’s a good chance you’ll have them all to yourself.

Roads on Orkney are generally in very good condition and it is easy to drive around the islands. Some rural parts of the Mainland, and many of the outlying islands, have single-track roads – in which case you will need to use passing places. If you see a vehicle coming towards you, or the driver behind wants to overtake, pull into a passing place on your left, or wait opposite a passing place on your right.

If you’re planning to get off the Mainland and visit different islands, the ferry services are regular and reliable. These are operated by Orkney Ferries , and you can check timetables and pre-book tickets on their website.

Public transport is available across much of Orkney, with many routes passing close to the most popular sites including the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel. You can find more information and plan your journey on the Orkney Islands Council website.

The Old Man of Hoy is located on the island of Hoy, located south of the Orkney Mainland. If you’re taking your car to Hoy, you’ll need to take the ferry from Houton to Lyness. A foot passenger-only service is available from Stromness.

The Houton to Lyness service is operated by Orkney Ferries and we would recommend pre-booking your tickets well in advance during the summer months. The crossing time is around 40 minutes.

To reach the Old Man of Hoy, you will need to drive to Rackwick – a 30-minute drive. From here, it is a 2.5 – 3 hour (return) walk to view the spectacular sea stack.

Remember to give yourself ample time to get back to Lyness for your return ferry to Houton. If all else fails, you will also get a good view of the Old Man of Hoy if you’re sailing from Stromness back to Scrabster on the Scottish mainland.

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Like Shetland, Orkney is a nature lover’s paradise. It is estimated that 15% of the world’s seal population live here. It’s also a great place to see orcas and harbour porpoises.

Orkney’s towering sea cliffs are home to thousands of birds – puffins, guillemots, gulls, gannets and kittiwakes – while the marshlands and sweeping moorlands are natural habitats for the likes of curlew, hen harriers and other birds of prey.

Orkney has a very high standard of accommodation which is driven up by the 200,000 visitors it receives each year. You’ll find everything from cosy B&Bs to luxurious hotels which would not be out of place in a large city.

We usually prioritise accommodation in Kirkwall for our self-drive clients. It’s not only an excellent base to explore the Mainland, but there are also some fabulous places to eat and drink and good local amenities.

One of the best places to eat on the islands is the Storehouse Restaurant , which you’ll find in a beautifully-refurbished former warehouse just off Kirkwall’s main street. The restaurant serves high-quality local produce such as hand-dived Orkney scallops, Orkney lamb, beef and seafood.

Situated on Kirkwall’s Harbourfront, Helgi’s serves great gastropub meals using locally-sourced ingredients. The decor takes inspiration from Orkney’s Viking past.

Next door to the Highland Park Distillery on the outskirts of Kirkwall, the Lynnfield Hotel serves excellent Scottish cuisine. The decor is whisky themed, which is very apt considering the hotel’s location, and the snug bar is a perfect spot for a nightcap.

You may also wish to dine on Orcadian produce at the Kirkwall Hotel. The newly-refurbished Harbour View Restaurant offers intimate booths and fine views of the waterfront. For something a little bit different, you could try Twenty One in the heart of Kirkwall. This stylish spot serves small plates, craft beers and cocktails. For hearty Italian fare, Lucano serves traditional pasta and pizza close to St Magnus Cathedral.

Slightly further afield you’ll find The Foveran in St Ola – 3 miles from Kirkwall. This stylish family-run restaurant has sweeping views across Scapa Flow, and the menu showcases the best of the local larder.

During the busy summer months of June, July and August, we’d recommend pre-booking an entry slot for both Skara Brae and Maeshowe on the Historic Scotland website.

There are regular free guided walks around the Ring of Brodgar stone circle. Check the website for details.

Discover Shetland & Orkney with Absolute Escapes

If you’d like to experience Scotland’s incredible Northern Isles for yourself, our Shetland & Orkney self-drive itinerary is a great place to start. Our packages include hand-picked accommodation, all ferry travel, a personalised information pack, and 24-hour support from our dedicated team.

All of our self-drive holidays are tailor-made to your individual requirements, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with your dream trip and our Travel Specialists will make it happen.

Scott Smyth

P.S. Keen to explore Shetland and Orkney’s epic scenery on foot? You might be interested in our brand new multi-centre walking holiday .

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The Shetland Islands | How To Get There | Guide And Tips

The Shetland Islands are a collection of remote islands located in the far north of Scotland. In this post, I want to share with you what you need to know about how to travel to the Shetland Islands as well as some tips from my experience visiting the beautiful islands.

So, if you’re planning a visit to the Shetland Islands, keep on reading for some helpful information. But first, let’s have a quick overview of the islands.

Coming your way in this post - click to expand ->

Get to know the Shetlands

What are the Shetlands and where are they located?

The Shetlands are a collection of more than 100 islands, only about 20 of which are inhabited. The entire archipelago is located off the northernmost tip of Scotland, 130 miles from the British mainland and a little bit west from the Orkney Islands.

The largest town and Shetland’s capital is Lerwick, a busy port located on the largest island, rather confusingly called Mainland.

Around 20,000 people live in the Shetlands and most of them work in fishing or fish farming. Tourism has been growing rapidly over the last few years so there are plenty of things to do here besides going around museums and ancient castles as well as miles upon miles of stunning coast.

To hear the locals talk, I would best describe it as a strong mix of Orcadian (the dialect spoken in Orkney) and Scots with some Norn words mixed in. It’s not difficult to understand at all although you might find yourself hearing things that don’t make sense all the time.

What’s the climate like in the Shetlands

The climate in the Shetland Islands is oceanic, which means cold and wet most of the year but can be amazing in the summer. I certainly recommend visiting during the summer (June-August). Temperatures are mild and there is less chance of rainfall. I went in June and although there were some downpours, it was blue skies and sunshine most of the time.

I also loved the fact the sun didn’t set until about 11 pm, even then it never got truly dark. One of the cool things about being so far north.

But bear in mind, the opposite is true for winter, so if looooong dark nights are your thing, this is the place to go!

You can read more about the climate in my post about the best time to visit the Shetland Islands .

How to get to the Shetland Islands

Car ferry to shetland islands.

If you’re asking me what is the best way to get to the Shetland Islands, then it has to be the ferry. It takes longer but is far more enjoyable to me than flying. However, flying will always be better if you are tight on time.

There are two main ferry routes to Shetland. One from Aberdeen, on the Scottish mainland, and another from Kirkwall in the Orkney Isles.

The ferry is large with an onboard cinema, restaurant, bar, kids play area and a small shop. During our crossing, there were ample places to sit and relax, and if the weather is kind, a great outdoor area to get some refreshing Seabreeze into your lungs.

Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry

When I visited Shetland, I had my car with me, travelling up from England, so leaving from mainland Scotland using the Shetland Islands ferry from Aberdeen was the best option.

During summer, NorthLink Ferries sail daily from Aberdeen to Shetland and from Shetland to Aberdeen. The crossing takes 12-13 hours through the North Sea leaving every evening and arriving the following morning. However, be sure to double-check out of the main season as there are fewer crossings available.

Tickets can be booked in advance from their website with a number of options to suit all budgets.

The cheapest is just a ticket with no cabin or seat. I found that most people doing this tended to sleep in their sleeping bags in the bar.

At least, I assume this was the case and they weren’t just too drunk to get back to their cabin!

A simple ferry ticket with no car or sleeping area is between £23 – £36 depending on the season. You “upgrade” and can book a reclining seat for a guaranteed place to sleep for £3.50.

The middle option is what we booked, a sleeping pod. I booked it more out of interest as it sounded cool, but all it is is a larger reclining chair with a bit more security than the public areas of the boat.

There is a locked door that separates the sleeping pod area from the rest of the boat, so while it is slightly more secure than sleeping in the bar option, it’s still not fully private so we didn’t feel comfortable leaving valuable stuff around.

The sleeping pods have a shared shower and toilet facilities and a pod costs £18 per person.

The most expensive option is a cabin. There are a few options from Executive to shared 4-bed cabins, some with sea view whereas others are inside. The cabins run from £70 – £150 depending on the options you select.

What I love about the ferry pricing is that there is something for everyone and the best option depends on circumstance. For example, I visited with my wife and as it was just the two of us, we were happy with a sleeping pod. If I were backpacking, I’d be happy with the bar floor to save some ££s. 

However, if I was travelling with my kids, getting a 4 birth cabin would make sense.

Let’s take a closer look at the pricing.

Aberdeen to Lerwick ferry price

To give you an idea, here are a few selected prices for journeys between Aberdeen and Lerwick to help give you an idea. These are based on the 2022 schedule and are subject to change.

Low Season – 7th January to 23rd March, 1st November to 17th December.

Mid Season – 1st to 6th January, 24th March to 14th June, 1st September to 31st October, 18th to 31st December.

Peak Season – 15th June to 31st August.

If you would like to see all of the rates, and the full Shetland Islands ferry timetable, just check out the Northlink Ferries website and fares page .

Orkney to Lerwick Ferry

For those travelling to Shetland from Orkney, all of the above information is pretty much the same, the only difference is that the price is a little cheaper and the crossing takes about 5 hours less.

Travelling on the Shetland ferry with pets

You are allowed to travel on the Northlink ferry with your pets and there are a few options.  Pets can travel either in your vehicle, a booked kennel or there are also bookable pet-friendly cabins.

Pets don’t require a boarding pass and travel free of charge but it is important to know that only support dogs are permitted in the ship’s internal public areas.

See more information on the pet policy here .

Flights to the Shetland Islands

The quickest way to get to Shetland is by flying, but the downside is that it is more expensive and if you want to explore, you’ll have to hire a car . Sumburgh Airport is the main airport in the Shetlands and is located to the south of Mainland

There are several flights per day, to and from the major Scottish airports of Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Kirkwall. For the latest flight times, prices and details on how to book, visit the Loganair website .

You can fly directly from London to Shetland out of London City Airport on Mondays and Thursdays. The flight lasts 3h 35mins and will usually cost around £200. You can check the Loganair website above for more details on these flights.

There are plenty of other options for flying from most English airports to Shetland if you are happy to make a stop. With one connection you can expect the flight to take around 5 hours.

You can also fly directly to Shetland from Manchester on a weekly basis, and also from Bergen in Norway during the summer.

All of the flights are operated by the Scottish airline, Loganair. Hold baggage and onboard refreshments are included in your ticket price.

Getting from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick

Sumburgh Airport is located on the southern tip of the Shetland Mainland, about 25 miles south of Lerwick.

The most flexible way to make this trip is with car rental. This will allow you the freedom to explore the islands at your leisure.

While it is hard to give an exact price as it varies significantly depending on the time of year and availability, a rough guide price would be that you can expect to pay £60-70 per day for car hire in the region.

The fastest way to get from Sumburgh Airport to Lerwick is by taxi. While the price will vary, you can expect to pay between £50 – 60 and the trip to be around 30 mins. 

There should be some available, but you can also pre-book through many island taxi companies . 

The cheapest option would be the bus to Lerwick from the airport. This will be between £4-7 per person and the journey takes around an hour. You can catch the bus, Service 6, from opposite the main terminal. View the timetable for more information.

Getting around Shetland

Now that you know how to get to The Shetland Islands, you will also need to know more about getting around. 

The easiest and best way to explore Shetland is in your own car. You can either bring your own if you get the ferry or hire one on the island. If you are only visiting for a couple of days, I’d recommend flying and hiring, it is the most efficient use of your time.

However, if you are on holiday and staying for a week or so, then certainly bringing your own would be the most cost-effective option.

For comparison, a car will be about £125 each way on the ferry vs £70 per day in a hire car. So a return ferry for your car will be around the same as 4 days car hire.

Driving around the islands is wonderful with barely any traffic and stunning scenery, and while there are buses, you can only reach the most remote parts with your own transport.

As I mentioned there, another option is the bus. We met a few hikers who were using this option. It is certainly more cost-effective, but you will be less flexible.

Finally, you can reach out to local guides and taxis. Many residents will offer guide services or taxis are good for a to b travel.

Travelling between the islands

Between the islands, there are ferries that run on a regular timetable, so to avoid waiting you should try to have an element of planning, but I’ll go into this in more depth in a different article that I haven’t written yet. But for now, you can find the details of ferry times and prices can be found on the Shetland Islands Council website here. Alternatively, the Tourist Office which is located at Market Cross in Lerwick also has all the information you would need.

For the islands that are a little further away, such as Fair Isle, there are a number of direct flight routes. Bear in mind these leave from a different airport, a smaller one about 7 miles north of Lerwick in Tingwall.

You can find out more about these routes on the Air Task website who operate the flights.

Final thoughts

The Shetland Islands are a beautiful and remote part of Scotland that can be accessed by plane, car or bus. In this article, we have shared with you how to get there as well as some tips on getting around the islands. We hope that this information will help you plan your visit to these stunning islands.

2 thoughts on “The Shetland Islands | How To Get There | Guide And Tips”

This was extremely helpful indeed. Is it easy to book accommodation on the island? Another thing, we would be flying from Heathrow and hiring a car at the airport – but which airport to choose? Aberdeen or Inverness?

Hi Maryan, sorry for the slow reply. I was able to book a campsite on Booking.com before going. I was kind of on shoulder season, so I had no problems finding places to stay, but I don’t think it is too hard. In regards to airports, if you’re planning on hiring a car on the mainland and taking it on the ferry, Aberdeen would be a better choice as it’s where the ferry leaves from, but I don’t think it would matter too much for either option. Hope you have a great time.

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Find cheap flights to Shetland from $963

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Faqs - booking shetland flights, how long is the flight to shetland.

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Shetland takes 26h 27m, covering a distance of 3913 miles. The most popular route is Boston - Lerwick with an average flight time of 13h 20m.

What is the cheapest flight to Shetland?

The cheapest ticket to Shetland from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $897. The most popular route is Boston Logan Intl to Lerwick Sumburgh and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $897.

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Top airline flying to Shetland

Starting with the flight Cairo to London the plain was so poor no entertainment at all uncomfortable seats although it’s 5 hours long,then an American airline plain took me from London to Miami it was a bad experience the crew most of flight time not available and they asked us to help our selves for any snacks if we need. From Miami to London actually was perfect flight with a huge plain and perfect crew but from London to Cairo was horrible plain with stiff fixed seats not movable no entertainment or wi fi very poor Menu which is unacceptable for a business class

I've done hundreds of flights in my life, and this flight was one of the best I've ever taken, From beginning to end, everything went smoothly, professionally, and with a smile and friendly attitude from all employees I interacted with. The food was delicious (and free), as were the drinks. There was just a genial and effective way in the way that British Airways organized the flight -that reminded of days in the 70's, 80's, and 90's, when flying was a fun, and exciting adventure. I enjoyed and had confidence in the abilities of the flight crew, I'll be flying British Airways several more times this summer. Thank you so much for the great experience! Cheryl Olso

Terrible! I missed my flight to my final destination and British airlines and American Airlines keep pointing fingers on each other’s. Nobody wants to take responsibility

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

Very cramped seats in economy, difficult to get comfortable with your legs and feet and back. The seat width is ok but I’m average size. Food is HORRIBLE. Crew is friendly. Delays and very tight connections made it tough for navigating. We would have missed our connecting flight if it wasn’t delayed too. The terminal transit was slow and normally every 10 minutes before 8pm, after 8 pm is every 30 minutes!!!!! No free wine or drinks!! Below average attitude.

Leg room was better than expected. Lavatory’s were easy to access.crew was grea!

Horrible seat allocation. Boarding was slow. Food was average and so was entertainment. The TV terminal didn't work and so had to use remote.

Lost one checked bag.and wasted 30min waiting and filing missing baggage report. Very unsatisfied.

This was an American Airlines flight. The crew were very unhappy and quite grumpy. Abrupt to the point of being rude. The food was dreadful. Indeed the breakfast was in edible. I will avoid AA at all costs in the future.

As expected for a BA long haul flight in economy - you get what you pay for. Good leg space, in flight entertainment and food and drink provided. Staff on the return flight (overnight) we're a bit brisk and just wanted to get everyone fed and watered before turning the lights down. We're vegetarian so ordered it separately through the booking, although when we were in flight we realised there was a normal and vegetarian option anyway, and we were given vegan. This is fine, however on the return trip we were told there were no more specially ordered meals left, so be aware in case you have specific dietary requirements.

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Justin Foulkes

Orkney & Shetland

Up here at Britain's top end it can feel more Scandinavian than Scottish, and no wonder. For the Vikings, the jaunt across the North Sea from Norway was as easy as a stroll down to the local mead hall and they soon controlled these windswept, treeless archipelagos, laying down longhouses alongside the stony remains of ancient prehistoric settlements.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Orkney & Shetland. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Predating Stonehenge and the pyramids of Giza, extraordinary Skara Brae is one of the world's most evocative prehistoric sites, and northern Europe’s best…

Constructed about 5000 years ago, Maeshowe is an extraordinary place, a Stone Age tomb built from enormous sandstone blocks, some of which weighed many…

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

At marvellous Hermaness headland, a 4.5-mile round walk takes you to cliffs where gannets, fulmars and guillemots nest, and numerous puffins frolic. You…

Shetland Museum

This museum houses an impressive collection of 5000 years’ worth of culture, people and their interaction with this ancient landscape. Comprehensive but…

Isle of Noss

Little Noss, 1.5 miles wide, lies just east of Bressay. High seacliffs harbour over 100,000 pairs of breeding seabirds, while inland heath supports…

Sumburgh Head Visitor Centre

High on the cliffs at Sumburgh Head, this excellent attraction is set across several buildings. Displays explain about the lighthouse, foghorn and radar…

Unst Bus Shelter

At the turn-off to Littlehamar, just past Baltasound, is Britain's most impressive bus stop. Enterprising locals, tired of waiting in discomfort, decided…

Tomb of the Eagles

Two significant archaeological sites were found here by a farmer on his land. The first is a Bronze Age stone building with a firepit, indoor well and…

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Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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Lerwick, Shetland

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Orkney & Shetland Island Hopping - Itinerary

So, what awaits you in Orkney and Shetland? For starters, each has a distinctive culture, natural wonders and a number of fascinating geological sites. Lying off Scotland's north coast, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, these two archipelagos are rather special places indeed.

Take a 12-day trip through this charming scattering of islands where you'll discover some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world, remarkable wildlife, ancient archaeological sites, pristine beaches and much more.

You can fly directly to Orkney and Shetland with  Loganair .

• Distance 398 Miles 637 km
• Transport Car
• Main theme Islands

Day 1 Orkney - Kirkwall & Stromness

It's the first day of your adventure and it's going to be a good one! Get your bearings on Orkney's Mainland, the largest of the islands in Orkney, and explore town, coastline and the famous Skara Brae.

Kirkwall Kirkwall

Four brightly coloured fishing boats in the harbour at Kirkwall, decked with buoys and nets, with the stone buildings of the town lining the water

© Iain Sarjeant, all rights reserved.

Immerse yourself in the Orcadian capital of Kirkwall and learn about the island's fascinating history on a visit to its many historic sites including St Magnus Cathedral, a magnificent red sandstone building that dominates the skyline for miles around.

Stromness Stromness

Looking across the bay to Stromness harbour. The small houses sit right on the edge of the sea, each with a steep private jetty down to the water

© Daniel J Allen, all rights reserved.

The captivating old town of Stromness is located on the shore of Hamnavoe, an inlet of Scapa Flow, and is the main ferry port on Orkney. Stroll around the pretty town and pop into Stromness Museum to learn about Orkney's natural and maritime history. Feeling peckish? Then grab a bite to eat at one of the town's excellent cafés and bistros.

Yesnaby Orkney

Yesnaby Castle sea stack on the west coast of Orkney

Gaze out at the remarkable rock formation of Yesnaby Castle, a two-legged sea stack popular with climbers. Bring along binoculars and see how many different kinds of bird species you can spot while enjoying a revitalising coastal walk.

Yesnaby is also one of the few places where the rare and delicate flowering plant primula Scotica - more commonly known as Scottish primrose - grows. Visit in the summer when the clifftops are dotted with these vivid magenta flowers.

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village Sandwick

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

Visit Skara Brae, one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in the world. Older than the Egyptian pyramids, the Neolithic settlement is located on the Bay of Skaill. Uncovered by a sandstorm in 1850, it offers an unparalleled insight into how life was lived by Orkney's earliest inhabitants between 3200 and 2200 BC.

• On Public Transport Route
• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Hearing Loop
• Cafe or Restaurant

Day 2 The Heart of Neolithic Orkney

Dedicate your second day in Orkney to unearthing the other archaeological treasures which form the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You might feel like you're Indiana Jones by the end of today!

Brough of Birsay Birsay

Looking Across To The Brough Of Birsay Across Skipi Geo From From The Whalebone On the Mainland.

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Make a stop at the Brough of Birsay, the remnants of Pictish and Viking settlements which are believed to date from the 7th -13th century. Here, you'll find traces of Viking and even older Pictish homes, the remains of a Viking monastery, an 11th century sauna, and the cast of a Pictish standing stone with its engravings still visible (the original is on display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh).

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn Orkney

Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Maeshowe is the finest chambered tomb in north west Europe and is more than 5,000 years old.

Viking crusaders broke into the cairn in the 12th century and carved graffiti runes on the walls of the main chamber. Maeshowe is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site, along with Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness.

Ring of Brodgar Stromness

Ring of Brodgar

One of the finest stone circles in the world. Dating back from 2,500 to 2,000 BC, the stone ring was built in a true circle, 104 metres wide and originally contained sixty megaliths; today only twenty-seven of these stones remain.

Day 3 Isle of Hoy

Set off by ferry from Houton and head to the Isle of Hoy. Today you'll explore the second largest island in Orkney and enjoy its coastal delights.

Old Man of Hoy Hoy

Picnic At The Old Man Of Hoy, Orkney

© VisitScotland / Colin Keldie

Enjoy a bracing walk to the Old Man of Hoy, a dramatic sea stack which is the tallest in Britain and considered one of the most challenging ascents in the UK by climbers.

For detailed information about this walk, please visit the Walk Highlands website .

Scapa Flow Orkney

Why not explore the southern end of Hoy? At Scapa Flow Visitor Centre & Museum you can discover the major role Orkney played during both World Wars when the natural harbour of Scapa Flow served as a vital base for the British Royal Navy.

Day 4 Lamb Holm, Burray and South Ronaldsay

Today you'll cross back to Orkney Mainland, before heading to other islands via the causeways known as the Churchill Barriers and getting a further insight into two very different eras of Orkney's history.

The Italian Chapel Orkney

The Italian Chapel

Visit the Italian Chapel, a beautiful Roman Catholic chapel in Lamb Holm which was constructed by Italian POWs during the Second World War.

• Level Access

Day 5 Westray

Take a ferry from Kirkwall to the Isle of Westray, where you can discover this island's natural beauty and unique heritage.

Westray Heritage Centre Westray

Westray Heritage Centre

Westray is famed for being the site of the discovery of the Orkney Venus. Also known as the Westray Wife, it's a small Neolithic figurine which is the oldest representation of a human form ever found in Scotland, and the oldest depiction of a human face ever uncovered in the UK. At the Westray Heritage Centre in Pierowall , you can even pick up scrumptious shortbread biscuits in the shape of the Orkney Venus. Never has archaeology tasted so scrumptious!

Westray Orkney

Pure white sand in the foreground in the bay of Pierowall gives way to turquoise water with green fields over the sea

© Iain Sarjeant / VisitScotland

One of the first places in Orkney to be settled by the Vikings, Westray is small enough to explore by bike or car over the course of a day. On the coastline, you might spot puffins or other seabirds. Pop into one of the island's art galleries and see artworks and crafts inspired by Westray's beautiful blend of coastline and landscape.

Day 6 Kirkwall

It's been a busy few days in Orkney, but your last day on these islands has finally arrived. Before you set off for Shetland, explore more of Kirkwall's cultural offerings.

Arts and crafts Kirkwall

St Magnus Cathedral

© Orkney.com

Uncover more of Orkney's flourishing arts and crafts scene, where everything from jewellery to furniture is made. Explore the town's many galleries and shops and keep your eyes peeled for unique items.

The Orkney Museum Kirkwall

The Orkney Museum

Enjoy a wander around the Orkney Museum. Housed inside a beautifully restored merchant's residence, the museum offers a fascinating insight into Orkney's rich archaeological heritage. 

Day 7 Lerwick

You are now 100 miles from the Scottish mainland on the most northerly of the British Isles! Wake up and disembark from the ferry in Lerwick, the main port and bustling capital of Shetland. Spend today getting to know this harbour town and see its sights.

Shetland Museum & Archives Lerwick

Shetland Museum and Archives

Set on the waterfront within a restored 19th century dock in Lerwick, this fascinating museum tells the story of Shetland’s heritage and culture. 

• Accessible toilets

Clickimin Broch Near Lerwick

Clickimin Broch in Lerwick at night

Make the most of the fresh air and head to Clickimin Broch, the remnants of an Iron Age defensive tower located just outside Lerwick.

Fort Charlotte Lerwick

A NorthLink ferry sails from Aberdeen to Lerwick

© NorthLink Ferries

In the heart of Lerwick you'll find Fort Charlotte, an 18th century five-sided artillery fort which was named after the wife of George III. Originally built to protect the Sound of Bressay from the Dutch, Fort Charlotte is now a training base of the Territorial Army.

Pubs and bars Lerwick

Fjarå Café Bar, Lerwick

© Promote Shetland / Euan Myles

Find a cosy watering hole in Lerwick where you can sit back and relax with a locally brewed ale. If you're lucky, you might even stumble upon a lively jam session held by local musicians. Shetland boasts a thriving local music scene and you'll find that many of its musicians gather in pubs and bars during the evenings.

Day 8 South Mainland

We suggest an early start today - there's a lot to fit in! Today you'll be heading south to experience remarkable heritage sites. Soak up the history and imagine life in eras gone by!

Shetland Crofthouse Museum Lerwick

Historical Shetland Crofthouse Museum

Step back in time at this restored 19th century thatched cottage and see how Shetlanders would have lived in the 1870s.

Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement South Mainland

Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement, Sumburgh

The Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements in Shetland are one of the most important and inspirational archaeological sites in Scotland.

Old Scatness Broch South Mainland

Old Scatness

Another amazingly well-preserved archaeological site is Old Scatness Broch, the remnants of an ancient village which lay buried for almost 2,000 years before being unearthed by archaeologists. Find out about the Neolithic, Pictish and Viking people who lived here at the site's excellent interpretive centre, and on guided tours which are available through the summer months.

Please note that Old Scatness is only open on Fridays. 

Sumburgh Head Nature Reserve South Mainland

Waves crashing into a large rock in the sea.

Sumburgh Head is located at the southern tip of mainland Shetland with the majestic 100 metre cliffs offering a fantastic, unobstructed view of the seabird colonies and marine life surrounding it.

• Pets Welcome

Mousa Broch Sandwick

A couple exploring Mousa Broch

You can take a boat out to see one of Europe's finest archaeological marvels. Standing at a height of more than 13 m, Mousa Broch is the most impressive and best preserved Iron Age tower in Scotland. After a short boat crossing from Sandwick, you can climb the narrow steps to the top of the broch and take in breathtaking views across Mousa Sound.  If you take the boat trip in the evening, you might witness a thrilling natural spectacle, when swarms of storm petrels seek the cover of darkness and return to their nests inside the broch.

St Ninian's Isle South Mainland

St Ninian's Isle, joined to Mainland by a tombolo of sand at Bigton, Shetland.

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins, all rights reserved.

St. Ninians Isle beach is a large natural sand causeway with sea on either side. On the west coast of Shetland, it links the South Mainland with the Isle. This is the location where a horde of silver Viking treasure was discovered hidden beneath the island's chapel in 1958.

Day 9 Central Mainland

Explore the central mainland of Shetland, including the sheltered seaport of Scalloway, only 6 miles from Lerwick. It was known as the capital of the islands till 1708 and has had its fair share of history.

Scalloway Museum Shetland

Scalloway Museum

Visit the Scalloway Museum and discover the fascinating story of the Shetland Bus, the name given to a covert wartime operation. Conducted between the Royal Navy and the Norwegian Resistance, it involved Shetland fishing vessels helping to transport supplies, weapons and Allied agents out of Nazi-occupied Norway. The Museum also has exhibits covering Ancient Scalloway, The Boom Years and Scalloway’s people.

Central Mainland Shetland

Central Mainland

Make your way to Whiteness and Weisdale, passing through the Tingwall Valley, where the Vikings are said to have held their annual parliament. Whiteness and Weisadale are popular walking spots. There's an abundance of indigenous flora and fauna, pretty bays and some of the loveliest views in all of Shetland.

Day 10 North West Mainland

Today, explore the north west part of the Shetland Mainland, known as the Northmavine peninsula, and discover local history and stretch your legs and see the best of Shetland's landscape on a rejuvenating walk!

Tangwick Haa Museum North Mainland

Tangwick Haa Museum

Originally built in the late 17th century for the Cheyne family, owners of the Tangwick estate, Tangwick Haa was converted into a local history museum in the late 1980s which displays exhibits relating to the development of Northmavine and its people.

Eshaness Eshaness

The Eshaness Cliffs

Soak up the area's natural beauty on the picturesque circular walking route and discover some of Shetland's wildest and most breathtaking coastline.

Day 11 Unst

Cross from the Mainland to the island of Yell, and then catch the 10 minute ferry crossing to neighbouring Unst, Britain's most northerly island to uncover the remnants of the Vikings, see incredible geology and admire the island's natural heritage.

Viking Heritage on Unst Unst

Jarl Squad March with their replica Viking galley

Explore the excavated Viking longhouse sites of Unst. Highlights of which include the reconstructed longhouse at Hamar and the nearby Skidbladner, an impressive replica Gokstad ship. Managed by the Shetland Amenity Trust, you can find out just what the digs revealed about the Norse Vikings who settled on the islands.

Unst Heritage Centre Unst

Unst Heritage Centre

The island has the distinction of being home to the highest number of Viking longhouse remnants in the world. At Unst Heritage Museum and Unst Boat Haven in Haroldswick, find out more about the archaeological digs and Shetland's maritime history.

Hermaness National Nature Reserve Shetland

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

Unst is a bit of a nature lover's paradise, and a visit to one of its beautiful National Nature Reserves is a must. Explore the sweeping hillsides of Keen of Hamar or at Hermaness, walk to the dramatic cliff and see thousands of breeding seabirds, such a puffins, kittiwakes and fulmars.

Day 12 Yell

It's the final day! Depart Unst and start to make your way back to Shetland Mainland. Before you leave Shetland and catch the evening ferry departure from Lerwick, you might just have time to catch some of Yell's natural highlights. You'll find some of the best beaches in the UK!

Sands of Breckon Yell

The Sands Of Breckon (An Award Winning White Sand Beach And Arguably Shetland's Finest), On The Island Of Yell, Shetland

In the very north of the island, you can discover the Sands of Breckon, where shell sand dunes are bordered by crystal clear waters and dune grass lands.

West Sandwick Yell

West Sandwick

Visit West Sandwick on Yell's western coastline, close to the villages of Shandwick and Balintore and enjoy a stroll along unspoilt white sands.

Old Haa Yell

At Burravore in the south of the island, discover the story of Yell's folklore and history at the Old Haa, a museum set in the house of a 17th century laird. You can also see artworks by local creative talents, or tuck into some home-baking in the tearoom.

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How to get to & around the Shetland Islands

Wondering how to get to the Shetland Islands? It’s surprisingly easy – and fun! Discover the best way of travelling to this rugged archipelago and how to get around once you’re there.

Have you ever wondered how to get to the Shetland Islands?

This small archipelago sits north of Scotland and is surprisingly easy to travel to.

And what awaits once you’re there? Gorgeous vistas. Fantastic hikes. Amazing wild and birdlife.

Basically a whole lotta fun, which is why the islands are definitely worth visiting.

In this guide, I’ll outline the best ways to get to Shetland. And we’ll also take a look at how to get around, once you’re there.

For more, find out the best things to do in Shetland , so you can make the most of your time on the islands.

Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. If you click through for additional information or make a purchase, it may result in a small commission, at no extra cost to you. See my privacy policy if you require more information. Thank you for supporting a small content creator.

This post forms part of my guide to the United Kingdom . Check out this itinerary for first-timers to London and what you shouldn’t do when visiting the UK .

How to get to the Shetland Islands

There are two ways to get to the Shetland Islands.

The first way is by boat .

The second way is by plane .

As this is a responsible travel blog, I highly recommend taking the ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick. Not only is it less expensive and more sustainable; it’s also a lot of fun.

However, if you’re short on time, it is possible to fly into Sumburgh Airport from a handful of destinations.

Let’s explore these two options further.

How to get to Shetland: travelling by boat

To get to Shetland by boat, you’ll need to book with NorthLink Ferries .

Tickets start at £23.20 for an adult and £11.60 for a child.

These ferries service both the Orkney and Shetland islands, travelling between Aberdeen in mainland Scotland, Kirkwall in Orkney and Lerwick in Shetland.

It takes around six hours to reach Kirkwall and 14.5 hours all up to get to Lerwick – meaning you’ll be on the ferry overnight. Fun!

You can take a car or bicycle with you from mainland UK to Shetland, via the ferry.

Alternatively, you can travel as a foot passenger and pick up a rental car once there. We’ll explore this option in greater detail further down this post.

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Types of tickets on the ferry to Shetland

When you make your reservation, you have the choice of booking a reclining seat, pod, or cabin for the journey.

If you have the funds, I highly recommend booking a cabin.

The cabins are great! They have two beds and are fairly spacious, considering you’re on a boat. There’s a television and en-suite bathroom with a toilet and shower.

You can choose between an inner cabin without a window or an outer cabin with a window. Get a window if you can, so you can admire the seascape as you pass by.

Also available are premium and executive cabins, which come with extra perks. These include:

• a work desk in the executive cabin
• access to the Magnus Lounge
• two complimentary drinks.

Alternatively, if you’re on a budget or travelling solo and can’t see the point in booking an entire cabin, you can rent a reclining seat (£3) or sleeping pod (£18). The pods allow you to recline back up to 70 degrees, so they’re comfier than the reclining seats.

Disabled cabins with extra facilities are also available, as are pet-friendly cabins, which you can share with your furry friend. Yup, you can take Fido onboard the ferry, which is pretty cool.

Travelling to Shetland via ferry is a lot of fun. I highly recommend it. For a similar journey, discover what it’s like to catch a ferry to Tasmania in Australia .

What is there to do on the ferry?

As this is an overnight journey, you will spend the majority of your time on the ferry sleeping, I would assume.

However, there are a few things onboard you can look to, to occupy your time.

First, let’s go over food options.

Dinner service starts generally when the ferry departs, after 5pm.

An honest review? The food is just okay. I ordered a burger on my way to Shetland. On the way back, I was a bit done with heavy food, but there wasn’t much on the menu I found appealing by that point.

On my first day in Shetland, I didn’t order breakfast on the ferry, going to a local cafe in Lerwick instead.

There are also a couple of bars onboard. Very nice to get a beer or wine, snag a seat by a window and look out to the sea. Especially if you have a good book on hand.

There’s also a cinema onboard. Tickets can be bought from the ferry’s onboard shop – it’s £5.50 for adults (16yrs +) and £3.50 for children (0-15yrs). You can view the schedule in advance or I guess, just wait to be surprised once you’re on the boat.

How to get to Shetland: catching a plane

The second way to get to Shetland is to fly there.

Sumburgh Airport is the island’s main airport, located at the southern end of the mainland.

You can fly into Shetland on Scottish airway Loganair . It offers routes from around the UK, the biggest airport being London’s Heathrow.

It’s also possible to fly in from Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Inverness and Manchester. And from Kirkwall on Orkney.

Outside of the UK, you can travel to Shetland from Bergen in Norway in the summer months.

The views coming in for landing either way would be lovely!

Sumburgh Airport is pretty tiny. Once you’ve landed, you can pick up a hire car and drive on to Lerwick (about 20 minutes away), or whatever you next destination on the islands happens to be.

You can also fly from Tingwall Airport (which is six miles from Lerwick) to other far-flung islands in this area, such as Foula, Papa Stour and Fair Isle. Airtask Group manage these flights.

How to get around the Shetland Islands

Now that we’ve thoroughly covered how to get to the Shetland Islands, let’s explore how we can get around them.

Travelling around Shetland by car

The easiest way to travel around Shetland is by car.

You can either bring your own vehicle or rent a car once you arrive.

We chose to rent through Bolts Car Hire . The process is extremely simple. We picked up the car when we arrived on the ferry, from the terminal. We then dropped the car off right where we picked it up, dropping the keys in a dedicated box for staff to pick up during office hours.

One nice bonus – we were able to choose an automatic, rather than get lumped with a manual. Very handy if you’re travelling with someone who doesn’t drive stick. This can cost quite a bit more on the UK mainland, but on Shetland, prices were quite reasonable.

Other car hire companies include Jim’s Garage and Star-Rent-a-Car .

It’s also possible to hire a coach or motor-home , for your Shetland adventure, if there’s a big group of you or you fancy having a home on wheels for a bit.

Driving around Shetland is pretty easy. There’s not exactly bucketloads of traffic, or any of the mainland UK’s ridiculous roundabouts.

You may have to deal with one lane roads, but there’s plenty of places to pull over (called ‘passing places’). And I personally did not get stuck behind any tractors, very unlike road tripping in Ireland .

Catching car ferries in Shetland

If you want to travel from the mainland to islands like Yell and Unst (which you definitely should do), you’ll need to jump on a car ferry.

Spots on these ferries can be booked in advance online , or by telephone (up to a half hour before departure date).

When you arrive at the terminal, you’ll see two rows – one for people with bookings for that particular ferry and one for unbooked vehicles.

In peak season (summer), I recommend booking the ferries where you can. In the cooler seasons, you can probably wing it, park in unbooked and pay once you’re onboard.

I was a bit overly conservative with figuring out driving and ferry travel time on a journey to Unst and arrived at the Yell terminal far ahead of schedule. I was able to park in the ‘unbooked’ queue and made it onboard, no problem.

Heading back, I found I was leaving earlier than anticipated. Ringing the office, I was able to book onto two earlier boats.

It’s a really fun way to travel, adding another element to your journey. And especially great if you love boats.

Travelling around Shetland by bus

Don’t drive? Or just don’t want to?

It is possible to travel around Shetland by bus, even if you’re a visitor to the island.

Check out the timetable and plan your journey.

Travelling around Shetland by bike

Alternatively, you can get around Shetland by bike. I certainly saw plenty of people cruising around on two wheels.

Either bring your own bike onboard the ferry, or rent one while you’re there.

For more info, check out the Shetland Community Bike Project . You can also hire bike and helmet from Sumburgh Hotel .

Getting to & around Shetland is pretty straightforward

As you can see, it’s pretty easy to get to Shetland. And once you’re there, getting around is a no-brainer too.

For ease of journey, I recommend catching the ferry there and back, unless you’re going on to another destination in Scotland – it just might make more sense to fly.

And definitely take advantage of the inter-island ferries. They’re really easy to navigate and make the journey all the more fun.

Love exploring remote archipelagos? Me too. For more, check out my content on the Faroe Islands and Svalbard . And consider a road trip in the Westfjords of Iceland .

Are you heading to Shetland? Hope this post proves helpful in organising your trip there.

If you like this post, you should pin it. 📌

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Loganair flights to Shetland from £108*

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Travel to Shetland

The ultimate escape.

The Romans called these islands   Ultima Thule,   believing them to be on the edge of the world. Nowadays Shetland is more like the ultimate escape to awesome coastal scenery, outstanding birdlife, a wealth of archaeological treasures, warm hospitality and much else besides.

Beneath its vast skies, Britain’s most northerly archipelago is 300 islands & skerries strong and possessed of a unique character. Viking roots run deep – the multiple Fire Festivals around New Year, such as the renowned   Up Helly Aa   longboat-burning, are vivid testimony to that. Explore other enthralling eras in the medieval castles, ancient brochs, standing stone circles and prehistoric villages.

Shetland’s museums and festivals...

... can enhance any visit with their fascinating and varied themes – how about Boat Week and Wool Week? The UK’s most northerly Folk Festival is a round-the-clock celebration of musicianship, song and generally having a good time. In summer, enjoy music sessions in local pubs. Food and drink features outstanding local produce, perhaps washed down with a Shetland ale or whisky or gin.

The expansive, wind-combed moorlands are home to the miniature Shetland ponies, countless sheep (hence the famous knitwear) and 500 species of plants, while out to sea you can often spot whales, seals and porpoises. The sea-angling is top class, as is the loch trout fishing. But it’s the birdlife that truly astonishes. Immense colonies of gannets, guillemots, fulmars and puffins will delight ornithologists. Ultimately, Shetland will work its relaxing magic on you.

Sumburgh Head

Sumburgh head is located at the southern tip of Shetland's mainland and is a lighthouse, visitor centre and nature reserve. Explore the history and heritage and enjoy the spectacle of seabirds including puffins, shags and fulmars. 

St Ninian's Isle

St Ninian's Isle is a beautiful sandy beach on the west coast of Shetland. Known as a 'tombolo' the beach is a natural sand causeway with sea on either side, connecting the South Mainland with the Isle.

Read the Shetland Times Guide to Shetland

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Shetland’s star new BBC crime thriller sounds brilliant - details

Sorcha groundsell is set to star.

BBC has announced the latest show for BBC ALBA - their Scottish Gaelic-language channel - and we will be getting some Gaelic language lessons ASAP! The upcoming drama, which will air on the network and on iPlayer, is set to star Shetland actress Sorcha Groundsell - and it sounds seriously good. 

The new show, The Island , stars Sorcha as PC Kat Crichton, a police family liaison officer who returns to her home island as part of the investigation into a brutal and inexplicable murder. 

The synopsis reads: “[The story sees] four troubled siblings gather at their family home in the Outer Hebrides as their father is questioned over the mysterious death of their mother.” 

Keen to watch but don’t speak Gaelic? Don’t worry, the show will be subtitled to make it as accessible as possible to a wider audience. Speaking about the project, she said: “I’m thrilled to be part of this incredible series and honoured to participate in breaking new ground for the Gàidhlig language. 

“I have been hoping to find an opportunity to bring this element of my personal life, which means so much to me, into my professional work. I can’t think of a better project than An t-Eilean (The Island) to do so. This show feels like a momentous opportunity for us Gaels to share the language, culture and scenery we love so much with the wider world.”

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The actress, who grew up in Ness on the Isle of Lewis, has also starred in the Netflix show The Innocents and His Dark Materials, as well as the hit show Shetland. She is set to be joined by Outlander’s Iain Macrae, who will play self-made millionaire, Sir Douglas MacLean, while Industry star Sagar Radia will play the role of lead police investigator, DCI Ahmed Halim. 

Speaking about the show, executive producer Arabella Page Croft said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Sorcha and the rest of the talented An t-Eilean (The Island) cast on this exciting new drama series. Packed full of complex and provocative characters, and set against the stunning Hebridean landscape, we can’t wait for viewers both at home and abroad to be swept away by what we hope is a must-see, ambitious crime thriller.”

The show is filming at the Amhuinnsuidhe Castle in Harris as well as Lewis and Glasgow. The release date is yet to be confirmed, so watch this space!  

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The Spirits Business

First shetland whisky distillery set to open.

Lerwick Distillery is scheduled to open later this year and will become the first Shetland whisky producer.

The official opening date is to be confirmed, but founders Martin Watt and Calum Miller said the site was nearing completion.

Once open, Lerwick Distillery will be the most northerly whisky distillery in the UK. It will eventually open to visitors, and hopes to enhance tourism to the Scottish archipelago.

Ian Miller has been appointed master distiller of Lerwick Distillery. He brings more than 50 years of experience in whisky to the project, including 25 years spent at William Grant & Sons.

Caroline MacIntyre, one of the distillery co-founders, has also been named sales director.

Watt and Miller first began dreaming of opening a distillery more than 10 years ago. They found a site for the distillery in 2022, and worked with Business Gateway for advice on how to raise their profile and how to access funding.

Watt, director of Lerwick Distillery, said: “The support that we received from Business Gateway has been excellent. Diana [Abernethy, Business Gateway adviser] was able to point out things that we had missed in our business plan, and gave us access to great contacts to help us develop.

“If it hadn’t been for the funding Business Gateway signposted us to, we would not have raised enough share capital to be able to expand the business so quickly.

“The £4,000 [US$4,950] funding resulted in an extra £682,000 [US$844,000] share capital investment that really wasn’t expected. We truly couldn’t have done this without Business Gateway.”

Abernethy added: “It’s an exciting brand and journey they’re embarking on and will give such a boost to tourism in the area and the local economy.”

In other whisky news, Speyside distillery The Cabrach, which is preparing to open this summer, released its first Scotch whisky earlier this week .

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Shetland's SaxaVord Spaceport given crucial safety licence

The spaceport, which is on the northern tip of the Shetland Islands, hopes to launch rockets vertically into orbit from British soil.

Science correspondent @SkyNewsThomas

Thursday 25 April 2024 05:59, UK

A spaceport that hopes to launch the first rockets vertically into orbit from British soil has been given a crucial safety licence.

SaxaVord Spaceport, which is on the northern tip of the Shetland Islands, will be allowed to clear and control a hazard area downrange of the launchpad to reduce the risks to aircraft and shipping.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which has responsibility for regulating space launches, said it was satisfied that the spaceport operator can provide what it called "range-control services", keeping people out of the danger zone and safely monitoring the progress of a rocket in flight.

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It's a significant legal milestone.

The CAA has already given SaxaVord a licence for its ground operations.

Colin Macleod, head of UK space regulation at the CAA, said the licence was vital for protecting public safety before and during launches.

"It's a remote location with a relatively narrow range for launching northwards," he said.

"The size [of the safety zone] will depend on the size of the rocket and how likely it is to fail, as well as the trajectory. The time of day can also affect how much traffic is there."

The spaceport hopes to launch 30 rockets each year. Its position on the northern tip of the UK makes it ideal for putting satellites and other payloads into an orbit that passes over the north and south poles.

The last piece of the regulatory jigsaw ahead of the first launch will be a licence for the rocket manufacturer.

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Seven companies have applied to the CAA for approval.

German companies HyImpulse and Rocket Factory Augsburg are hoping to launch 'sub-orbital' rockets that don't quite reach outer space later this year.

Larger rockets carrying satellites into orbit are likely to be launched from SaxaVord in 2025.

Sky News was recently given rare access to Skyrora's factory near Glasgow, where one such rocket is rapidly taking shape .

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

'We are now preparing to make more space history'

Frank Strang, CEO of SaxaVord Spaceport, said: "Satisfying such a crucial piece of the regulatory process affords everyone the comfort that we will always operate in a safe and proper manner under the watchful eye of the regulator.

"As Western Europe's only fully licenced vertical launch spaceport, we are now preparing to make more space history with the beginning of orbital launch operations well under way."

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SaxaVord will be the UK's second launch site.

Spaceport Cornwall was the first licensed operator, but was built on the premise of using aircraft to carry rockets aloft from Cornwall Airport Newquay. Its one and only launch so far, by Virgin Orbit, ended in failure.

Spaceport Sutherland, on the Scottish mainland, is also under construction.

• COVID-19: Latest visitor information
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• How to get to Shetland

Updated 3rd April 2023

Visitors are welcome to Shetland and there are currently no Covid restrictions in place, in line with the latest Scottish government guidance .

All covid rules and restrictions have been lifted in Scotland, but the government reminds people that the virus has not gone away.

That means that wearing a mask indoors in public places and on public transport is recommended, although it is no longer a legal requirement. Ferry operator NorthLink Ferries continues to strongly recommend that face coverings are worn in its ports and ships, while Loganair operates strict FlySafe Protocols on every flight.

It is also advised that everyone continues to take extra precautions when enjoying Shetland and its attractions.

International travel to Scotland

For most international travellers, no Covid travel rules apply for entering Scotland. If you are travelling from mainland China to Scotland via England, you must take a pre-departure test.

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland from another country, you should check your own government’s advice about travelling home after visiting Scotland.

Please note: new travel rules may be brought in at short notice, so check the latest advice for each country you’re planning to travel to before booking your trip and before you go.

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