Shetland
Shetland is the most northerly part of the British Isles, an archipelago of around 100 islands at 60°N in the North Atlantic, roughly equidistant between Scotland and Norway. While further south than the classic Scandinavian aurora destinations, the islands’ minimal light pollution, treeless terrain and wide open horizons mean the Northern Lights are a regular sight during periods of strong geomagnetic activity. Locals know the aurora as the “Merry Dancers.”
Lerwick, the capital, is the main base for visitors, but the best viewing is from the darker west and north mainland. Eshaness, with its dramatic coastal cliffs, the tombolo at St Ninian’s Isle and the remote island of Unst (the most northerly inhabited island in Britain) are all excellent spots. The flat, open landscape means the horizon is low in every direction, giving the widest possible view of the sky.
Shetland has a rich Norse-Scottish heritage, most spectacularly celebrated during Up Helly Aa, the fire festival held each January in Lerwick in which a Viking longship is set ablaze by torch-bearing guizers. The islands are also renowned for birdwatching (puffins, gannets, great skuas), fiddle music, hand-knitted textiles and exceptional seafood. Flights operate from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and Inverness, with an overnight ferry from Aberdeen as an alternative.
-
Lerwick
60°9'11"N, 1°8'55"W
Aurora probability in Lerwick: 0%
Lerwick, capital of the Shetland Islands at 60°N, is the most northerly point in the British Isles. Minimal light pollution and wide open horizons make the islands a surprisingly good spot for Northern Lights viewing, with a distinct Norse-Scottish cultural heritage.
Book an amazing adventure in Shetland
Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Shetland.
-
Private Tours of Shetland
5.0 (10)
1 - 8 hours From £450.00
Discover Shetland your way with a private, tailor-made tour designed around your interests. Whether you want to visit Shetland’s best-known sights, explore hidden gems off the beaten track, or enjoy a mix of both, your tour can be shaped to suit you. From dramatic coastal scenery and outstanding wildlife to ancient prehistoric sites, local history, culture and island life, you will see more of Shetland at your own pace. A bespoke private tour gives you greater flexibility, personal attention and more value, helping you make the most of your time in the islands. Perfect for visitors looking for an authentic, flexible and memorable Shetland experience.
-
4 Hours Rugged Northern Exposure Private Guided Tour from Lerwick
5.0 (7)
4 hours From £725.00
Join us for a private guided tour to Shetland's rugged & dramatic North Mainland. Explore Northmavine's history at Tangwick Haa Museum, admire the spectacular Eshaness Cliffs and visit the pretty village of Hillswick. Along the way we will see the finest scenery Shetland has to offer, it is truly breath-taking.
-
Shetland Pony Express
4.6 (78)
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.
-
Full-Day Private City Tour in Lerwick
4.9 (40)
6 hours 30 minutes From £365.95
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!!
-
Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland
4.9 (49)
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.
-
Explore Shetland Island on a Private Tour with a Local Guide
5.0 (5)
3 hours From £300.00
We offer small bespoke tours. Tell us what you want to do in Shetland - eg: knitwear, golf, wildlife, Jimmy Perez, fishing, etc - and we will produce a bespoke experience that will exceed your expectations. Discover the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Shetland with a local guide tailored to your interests. Whether you’re arriving via cruise ship or by ferry, enjoy personalised half or full day tours. Experience the best of Shetland, including its unique wildlife, historical sites, and local traditions. Each tour is designed to ensure you get the most out of your visit, with convenient pick-up from your arrival point and drop-off at your accommodation or your cruise ship. - Choose from half-day or full-day tours based on your schedule - Knowledgable local experts provide insider knowledge and personalised experiences - Convenient pick-up from cruise ships, airports, or accommodations - Suitable for all interests, ensuring a memorable exploration of Shetland
Other countries to explore
Canada•Faroe Islands•Finland•Greenland•Iceland•Norway•Svalbard•Sweden•USA