Lerwick Harbour : Lerwick : Seek The Aurora

Lerwick

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Nestled in the stunning Shetland Islands, Lerwick is not just the capital of Shetland; it’s a gateway to one of nature’s most mesmerizing spectacles: the Northern Lights. With its rugged coastline, charming harbour, and rich cultural heritage, Lerwick offers a unique backdrop for witnessing the aurora borealis.

The best time to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Lerwick is during the northern hemisphere winter, specifically from mid-October to mid-March.

Credit: Simon Hurry
Credit: Glenn Langhorst
Credit: ella peebles
Credit: Robert Witański
Credit: Don Lodge
Credit: Federica Bisso
Credit: Simon Hurry

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Lerwick. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

21%

There is a 21% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Lerwick area (forecast for 11 January 2026 at 8:29pm UTC)

Kp 5.00

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.

HPI 76 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz -3 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 5 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 2.54 p/cm³

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm³).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm³.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 550.7 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Moon

Waning crescent 44%

Sunrise 8:59am

Sunset 3:25pm

Moonrise 1:49am

Moonset 10:33am

Rain

6°C Feels like 0°C

High: 6°C
Low: 4°C

Chance of precipitation 100%
Cloud cover 100%
South-Easterly winds 20 km/h gusts of 27 km/h
Rain 23 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Lerwick

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Lerwick.

Free cancellation Private tour

Shetland South Mainland Tour St Ninian Isle and Jarlshof

5.0 (3)

5 hours From £600.00

Discover the captivating South Mainland of Shetland, where history and nature intertwine. Explore the pristine St Ninian's Isle, famous for its Pictish silver horde, and stroll along its stunning 500m long tombolo. Witness seals basking on secluded beaches and marvel at the impressive Sumburgh Head lighthouse, nestled within a seabird sanctuary. Uncover 5000 years of history at the ancient Jarlshof site, before enjoying a warm cup of tea and local crafts in Hoswick. Optional lunch or afternoon tea can be arranged for your delight. - Visit St Ninian's Isle and its remarkable tombolo - Explore the Sumburgh Head RSPB Reserve and lighthouse - Discover 5000 years of history at Jarlshof - Enjoy tea and local shopping in the village of Hoswick
Free cancellation Private tour

Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland

5.0 (38)

4 hours 30 minutes From £825.00

Join us for a private guided tour to Shetland's scenic south Mainland. Departing Lerwick we visit the island's former capital, Scalloway, before heading to Sumburgh at the southern tip of the islands. Here we visit the prehistoric settlement of Jarlshof before concluding our tour with a visit to Sumburgh Head.
Free cancellation Private tour

Ponies Express Private Tour to Scalloway

4.6 (5)

1 hour From £160.00

Travel to Scalloway the ancient capital where you will stop at Carol’s Ponies, you have a chance to meet, learn about and photograph these wonderful animals. Originating in Shetland the breed was a packing pony and are now found all over the world, used as popular riding ponies for children and a companion to horses. Carol the stud owner will explain all in her talk about these beautiful creatures, remember they have teeth and may assume fingers for carrots! So please do not feed the ponies.
Free cancellation

The Puffin Express

No reviews

3 hours From £38.00

Join us on the Puffin Express, brand new for 2026, as we journey from Lerwick, Shetland's capital, to the very south of Mainland in search of Shetland's favourite birds. Every year, Puffins- or "Tammie Norries" as we call them- come ashore to breed after spending winter at sea. Loved for their black and white plumage, these cheeky birds have become a symbol of Shetland. Sumburgh Head, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, is the best spot in Shetland to catch a glimpse of them up close. Plus, it's home to a 19th century Stevenson lighthouse, clifftop walks and a plethora of wildlife. When booking, please bear in mind that Puffin sightings can never be guaranteed. They are wild birds and on occasion may be out of view at the time of your visit. Please also note that there is a steep (but paved) walk from the coach park to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. On arrival, your driver will inform you of the departure time. It is your responsibility to ensure you're back on time.
Free cancellation

Shetland Pony Express

4.6 (58)

1 - 2 hours From £25.00

Make the most of your day in the beautiful Shetland Islands without breaking the bank! Hop aboard our Ponies Express and enjoy the views as we take you on a circular journey around Shetland's Central Mainland. Admire the views as we travel to Scalloway, the former capital of Shetland where you can visit the castle, museum or just stroll amongst the colourful houses. There are some fantastic shops and restaurants to visit here too! Next up, we pay a visit to some of the islands' most famous residents. Shetland Ponies originated right here in Shetland, but thanks to their huge appeal can now be found all over the world, being especially popular as riding ponies for children and a companion to horses. Carol, the stud owner, will explain in detail about these beautiful animals. Please remember that they have strong teeth and can nip so please do not feed the ponies! After a scenic drive through the Tingwall Valley we return to Lerwick.
Free cancellation Private tour

Full-Day Private City Tour in Lerwick

4.9 (30)

6 hours 30 minutes From £370.77

Lerwick is the main town and port of the Shetland Islands. On our first stop we will visit the incredible Clickimin Broch. After seeing this remarkable site, we will drive back to the centre and spend some time visiting some of the main attractions in this amazing village: Fort Charlotte- Hay´s Dock is a beautifully restored historic dock. Visit the Shetland Museum and Archives where the galleries are split into different zones. Enjoy the picturesquely grouped house and stores built on lodberry. Enjoy the views over Victoria Pier. You will visit the Scalloway area, until 1708 it was the capital of Shetland Island but now it is a fishing port, really worth a visit, on your way to Scalloway you can have a quick look some famous ponies of Shetland PLEASE NOTE: Walking is involved MISSING YOU ALREADY!!

Places to check out around Lerwick

Discover Museums, Scenic Lookouts, Bars and more…

Douglas Arms (Marlex)

Bar
Fjara Cafe Bar

Café
Fort Charlotte

Historic and Protected Site
Hay's Dock Cafe

Café
Jarlshof Prehistoric Site

Historic and Protected Site
Jubilee Flower Garden

Park
Lerwick Harbour

Harbor or Marina
Loch Of Clousta

Lake
Mareel

Movie Theater
Peerie Shop Cafe

Coffee Shop
Sands O' Sound

Beach
Scalloway Castle

Castle
Scalloway Museum

Museum
Shetland Museum

History Museum
Shetland Textile Museum

Art Museum
The Dowry

Beer Bar
The Knab

Scenic Lookout
Ward Of Bressay

Scenic Lookout

Explore more nearby Lerwick

Credit: Ronnie Robertson

Scalloway

60°8'15"N, 1°16'55"W

Aurora probability in Scalloway: 21%

Scalloway, a historic village in the Shetland Island has a rich heritage, including the Scalloway Castle and the Shetland Museum, as well as picturesque coastal scenery and a vibrant local culture.
Credit: Roine Johansson

Bressay

60°9'6"N, 1°5'16"W

Aurora probability in Bressay: 21%

Bressay, an island in the Shetland archipelago, is known for its stunning coastline, abundant wildlife and historical sites such as Bressay Lighthouse and the ruins of St. Mary’s Church, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Credit: Martin Neill

Unst

60°44'29"N, 0°54'17"W

Aurora probability in Unst: 28%

Unst, the northernmost inhabited island of the Shetland Islands, is renowned for its rugged landscapes, wildlife including puffins and otters, and historical sites such as the Viking longhouse at Haroldswick. It offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.