shetland scotland tourism

• Scottish Isles

The Shetland Islands in Scotland are the most northerly point of Scotland and a stunning place to spend your holiday! The archipelago of islands that make up the Shetland’s islands is an incredible destination to travel to, and you’ll be surprised to discover the sheer number of things to do in Shetland while you’re here.

The Shetland Islands have a fascinating and detailed history, from their Iron and Bronze Age ruins, prosperous Norse settlements inhabited by Vikings that travelled from Denmark to the proud Scottish heritage that populates all corners of Shetland.

One of the biggest attractions of the Shetland Islands is their remote isolation from the rest of the bustling cities of Scotland. In fact, the Shetland economy is built primarily on fishing and maritime produce! But rest assured, there is an excellent selection of Shetland accommodation that allows you to experience the tranquil coast and islands of the region without sacrificing comfort.

So, when you’re planning to travel to Scotland, make sure to turn your attention north of the Scottish Mainland and consider checking out these unique and fascinating islands – you’ll be surprised at the sheer amount of things to do on the Shetland Islands.

Things to do in Shetland

The Shetland Islands are stocked full of activities, events, and amazing sights to see. You won’t go a day without making a memory at one of Shetland’s attractions that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

The many islands that make up Shetland are gorgeous, and the fans of the Shetland TV series will realise that many of the stunning attractions look far better in person! You can fill your whole holiday with exciting and spectacular sights, from the beautiful coast and surprisingly accessible historical sites that detail Shetland’s history to the cultural events that show the blend of Shetland and Norse cultures.

We’re sure that a holiday to the Shetland Islands will be one of your favourite places to visit, so don’t hold back and book yourself a ticket as soon as you can! See our list for the top things to do in Shetland!

Enjoy a visit to Shetland’s Islands

Many islands make up the wondrous Shetland, and each contains a special and unique opportunity for your next holiday destination. The largest island is known as Mainland Shetland and includes most of the region’s population.

The Mainland of Shetland holds many beautiful natural landscapes, including a UNESCO global geopark, and can provide accommodation and local amenities for your travel. Shetland’s smaller islands contain hidden gems that you cannot miss out on seeing.

We’ve detailed our favourite choices that you should undoubtedly consider while exploring Shetland and its islands.

Fair Isle is a jewel of an island found on the southern tip of Shetland. It’s famous for its many natural attractions and wildlife.

You can enjoy bird spotting a wide variety of seabirds that make their home on this quaint Isle, most common around the island’s fishing village of Stonybrek. There is also an abundance of shipwrecks you can see around the coast of Fair Isle, which is the perfect addition to any hiking trail.

Start your visit off to the Shetland Islands with a trip to the lovely Fair Isle and get a taste of how beautiful Scotland can be.

Isle of Noss

The Isle of Noss holds a fantastic reserve isolated by the narrow Sound of Ness and is an incredible attraction for those who came to the Shetland Islands for its picturesque wildlife.

The Isle’s cliffs tower a staggering 180-metres above the sea and are like skyscrapers for the immense density of bird species you can find here. You can even spot distant whales and porpoises that breach the waves while walking along the coastline, with jaw-dropping views from these high vantage points.

The Isle of Noss is on the east side of Bressay and is an excellent day trip if you want the best scenery that the Shetland islands offer.

If fishing is your favourite pastime, then look no further than the island of Whalsay for some prime angling on the Shetland Islands.

Whalsay can be found just off the northern Mainland of Shetland and welcomes visitors with a warm atmosphere and friendly locals. You can try your hand at loch angling while hearing the history of Shetland Island’s fishing roots from one of the local anglers. Those that want to dive deeper into the profound account of Whalsay can do so at the Whalsay Heritage Centre.

The gorgeous fields of Whalsay are famous for their beautiful wild flowers and wildlife, so much so that the first 19-century explorers gave the island’s arable land the nickname of ‘the bonnie island’.

Fetlar is called the ‘Garden of Shetland’ and holds the most stunning natural landscapes in the Shetland Islands. If you have the chance to wander through the lush and verdant islands in Shetlands, take it as fast as you can!

Fetlar is also on the precipice of Norway, the Danish Faroe Islands, and the Shetland Islands, making it a great destination to travel to when you want to experience a cultural blend of all three of these regions.

It’s essential to the Scottish Government that the arable land and natural beauty of Fetlar is maintained, and two-thirds of the island is considered to be a heritage site.

Fetlar is truly a wildlife paradise filled with rolling green landscapes and wild flowers – there’s no better place to get away from the hustle and bustle of your life than the island of Fetlar.

Jarlshof Prehistoric and Nordic Settlement

The Jarlshof Settlement is an extraordinary attraction that you have the chance to see while you’re in the Shetland islands, combining over 4000-years of history into one incredible location.

From the ancient Neolithic to Viking communities from Denmark, exploring the massive complex of ruinous homes and farmsteads allows you to glance back in time and walk amongst the settlement as if you were there when it was built!

You can receive a full scope of Scotland’s history when you visit Jarlshof Prehistoric and Nordic Settlement, with sites from the Bronze and Iron Ages and proof of Nordic communities in the most northern region of Scotland.

Shetland Museum & Archive

This 5-star attraction in Lerwick is one you can’t miss out on if you’re interested in the heritage and culture of the Shetland Islands.

The Shetlands Museum & Archive is filled with not only one of the most expansive collections in the British Isles but also holds many spectacular cultural events throughout the year. The Museum contains artefacts exclusively from the Shetland Islands, most of which were generously donated by generations of Shetlanders.

You can also gain access to the Shetland Archive, a necessary step for anyone who wants to see if their ancestry extends to these remote islands.

Broch of Mousa

Within the remote Island of Mousa in Shetland sits the most well-preserved broch in Scotland and a fantastic sight to see while you’re visiting the Isle of Mousa’s Natural Reserve.

Found east of the Shetland’s Mainland, the Broch of Mousa towers above its surroundings, standing at a staggering 13-metres tall! This historical site is believed to have been constructed over 2000-years ago, and it’s an artefact of Scottish prehistory that is daunting to see. The Broch of Mousa is one of the most impressive sights you’ll see exploring the breadth and width of the Shetland Islands.

You can reach Mousa Broch can be visited with a brief boat trip that takes you to the island, an excellent day trip to undertake while in the Shetland Islands.

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse

The Sumburgh Head Lighthouse holds a breath-taking view of the North Sea and is a grand, beautiful lighthouse you can visit while on the Southern tip of the Shetland’s largest island.

Home to a visitor centre and nature reserve, this lighthouse is a magnificent building that complements the ocean views and is a bastion of heritage covering the region’s history back to the Iron Age! You can learn about the lighthouse keepers and the abundant wildlife you can see in the area, from whales, puffins, and many more!

The Sumburgh Head Lighthouse is one attraction you need to see while on the south coast of the Shetland Islands – you won’t regret it!

Shetland Crofthouse Museum

If you’re ever lucky enough to head down to the delightful setting of Dunrossness, the Shetland Crofthouse Museum offers you an opportunity to explore a recreation of a 19th-century croft house.

The passionate tour guides here provide an unparalleled description and history of what Shetland life would have been like for those living in the Shetland Crofthouse. This spirited retelling, combined with the smell of the peat fire, the atmosphere of the old thatched cottage roofs, and its artefacts, make this experience one that you won’t soon forget.

The Shetland Museum also holds many cultural events throughout the year, so check out their website.

Hermaness National Nature Reserve

The sheer cliffs of the Hermaness National Nature Reserve are as daunting as they are beautiful. It’s hard not to be impressed as the waves crash against these stalwart cliffs, accompanied by whipping wind and vocal sea birds.

This national reserve is stunning, especially with the wide variety of wildlife displayed here. You can watch dexterous Gannets dive into the waters at blinding speeds and puffins meander and hop from rock to rock below.

The Hermaness Reserve takes about an hour to navigate to Britain’s most northerly point, Muckle Flugga, and is an excellent way to experience the wildlife that makes its home this far north!

Scalloway Castle

Scalloway Castle is a magnificent building that automatically commands your attention with its impressive design and aged structure.

This Castle was once the home of Black Patie, an Earl of Shetland and Orkney infamous for oppressing and exploiting the labour of the people of Mainland Shetland. This unsavoury figure was executed in 1615, but their impressive 15-century castle still stands and can be explored in this harbour town.

The fascinating history of this Castle makes this an exciting attraction to visit as you explore the Shetland Islands, especially while in Scalloway.

Banna Min Beach

On the south side of Shetland mainland sits one of the more gorgeous beaches on the entire Isle of Shetland, Banna Min Beach.

Boasting clear blue waters, fine white sands, and a peaceful atmosphere, you’d be forgiven for mistaking this beach for one in the Caribbean. On a beautiful sunny day, there’s no place you’d rather be on the Mainland than soaking up the sun on Banna Min Beach and that’s a fact!

And if you’re fortunate, you may even be joined by a few plump seals who love sunbathing as much as you do!

Check out Bobby’s Bus Shelter

One of the unique attractions on the Shetland Islands is Bobby’s Bus Shelter, a decorated shelter that gains a new theme every year.

Located on the Isle of Unst, Bobby’s Bus Shelter is one of the most popular local attractions, equally kooky and charming. The Shelter usually features a colourful array of signs and decorations and is fully equipped with a microwave, table, chair, and carpet!

The mastermind behind the novel attraction has made a point to include a particular theme each year to decorate the Shelter after – Queen’s Jubilee, outer space, and African have all been prominent themes throughout the years! This fantastic local attraction is fun and exciting and well worth your time to visit.

Clickimin Broch

The Clickimin Broch is an excellent broch you can see and is just outside the town centre of Lerwick on the Shetland Islands.

This surprisingly accessible attraction is the perfect place to stop by and spend some time before catching one of the many ferries that will take you to the Northern Isles of Orkney. You can explore the Broch free of charge, and you’d be surprised how big it is on the inside.

Near Clickimin Broch are other historic site ruins dating back to almost 3000-years ago, including a sculpted set of stone feet speculated to be created during the Iron Age and symbolise kingship!

See the Northern Lights

The spectacular sight of the Northern Lights, or ‘Mirrie Dancers’ as they’re known locally, are the highlights of many people’s travel and is an incredible experience you have whilst on the Shetland Isles.

The Shetland Islands are the most northerly point in Britain, making it the best place in the UK to see these gorgeous dancing lights. Although you can see them throughout the year, your highest chance of seeing the Northern Lights are during the winter months, from mid-October to mid-March.

We highly recommend spending as much time as you can and visiting the many other lovely attractions of the British Isles of Shetland to make sure your holiday has the highest chance of seeing them and is also filled with things to do while you’re not!

See Shetland Ponies

Wandering the hills and moors of Scotland’s Shetland Islands are animals that will undoubtedly put a smile on your face – Shetland ponies!

These patchy-patterned equines have been living on the isles for over 4000-years! You’ll see herds of them throughout your travels, so make sure to stop by and take a picture. Although keep in mind that crofters of the Isles own all the Shetland ponies, so respect that fact!

Otherwise, these fantastic and resilient ponies are as part of the Shetland Islands as the people, and they’re a friendly face you’ll be seeing as you explore the islands.

Visit Lerwick, Shetland’s Capital

The beautiful Lerwick is the only proper town on the Shetland Islands, with a population of 7,500 people and many amazing things to do!

You can visit the historic 18-century buildings that line the town’s waterfront, boasting sandstone structures and ornate Dutch-style architecture. The Lerwick Town Hall also is an excellently designed building, resembling a miniature castle.

While you’re here, why not attend a tour and tasting at Lerwick Brewery, the most northerly distilleries in Scotland or cap off your day of touring the Shetland Isles at Mareel, the town’s beautifully made musical theatre and cinema!

You’ll likely be passing through this picturesque town when you arrive in the Shetland Islands, but we recommend thoroughly exploring the city before seeing the rest of the islands.

West Voe Beach

One of the most stunning beaches in the Shetlands Islands is West Voe Beach, which even won an award from Keep Scotland Beautiful!

You can find this beach just south west of the Sumburgh Airport, the main airport of Mainland Shetland. It treats you to spectacular views, complete with clear turquoise waters and white sands. The West Voe Beach is also remarkably close to Sumburgh Head and the two great historical sites of Jarlshof and Old Scatness!

If you’re landing at the Sumburgh Airport on the Shetland Islands, check out this tranquil beach when the weather’s shining!

Culswick Circular Walk

On the West Side of Mainland Shetland, the Culswick Circular Walk attracts hundreds of visitors with incredible sights every year.

With dramatic views of valleys, freshwater lochs, and the Culswick Broch – one of the best-preserved ancient ruins you can find in Mainland Shetland! The walking trail takes around 2 hours to complete, perfect for an early morning wake up to begin your journey through the Shetland Mainland.

The Shetland Islands don’t lack fantastic walking trails, but the Culswick Circular Walk is undoubtedly one of the best on the Mainland.

Tangwick Haa Museum

As you explore the area of Tangwick on the West Side of the Shetland Mainland, make sure to stop by the Tangwick Haa Museum, which holds a collection of unique artefacts and exhibits that show off the region’s history.

You should undoubtedly treat yourself to a tour through this Museum, and we guarantee that your knowledge and experience of the things to do in Shetland will be heightened because of it! The guides and volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate individuals and make the tour through the Museum a joy to behold.

If you have time when you’re enjoying your outdoor activities in Shetland, the Tangwick Haa Museum is one place you shouldn’t miss.

The Hollanders Grave

Near the town of Hillswick stands the Hollanders Grave, a monument grave dedicated to the naval war that took place between the Dutch East India Company and the English Navy in 1654!

This historic battle is marked and is a small monument with tranquil and spectacular scenery along the west coast of the Shetland Islands. This Grave is a must-see if you have any heritage or ancestry from these places and marks a monumental battle that this archipelago was involved in.

The Cabin Museum

Any history buffs will love the Cabin Museum in Shetland, especially the rare and unique World War II artefacts, photos, and items that detail Shetland’s history during this turbulent time.

The Cabin Museum is open from May to September every year and was founded in 1978, so make sure to book your holiday around this time if you’re interested in checking this attraction out! You can also discover a wide array of Shetland’s crafting history from whaling and fishing.

Fort Charlotte

Equipped with cannons that overlook the Sound of Bressay, Fort Charlotte was the fortress used by the English to deter Dutch and French ships. This imposing fort is a must-see while visiting the beautiful Shetland archipelago.

Interestingly, a deterrence was all that this Fort actually was, and Fort Charlotte never actually fired their cannons. Today, you can see the outside grounds of the Fort, complete with a series of cannons, informative signs, and beautiful views of the Sound of Bressay.

If you’re a history buff looking to complete your holiday with some extraordinary sights, then Fort Charlotte is your choice!

Red Pool Virkie

If you follow the coastline north from the Ness Boat Club, you may come across the peculiar sight of Red Pool Virkie – a natural phenomenon that you won’t want to miss seeing!

This strange attraction can only be seen during the summer months, one of the best times to visit the Shetland Islands! Due to algae decomposing, the colour of the pool shifts to the brilliant crimson hue that gives the Red Pool Virkie its ominous look.

You can fully climb down the cliff edge and get superbly close to the Red Pool if you can withstand the smell of algae and be treated to a beautiful view of the South Mainland of Shetland, with the North Sea stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village

Uncovers the mysterious histories of the Iron Age and Scotland when you visit the magnificent Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village!

You can receive an excellent guided tour that takes you through multiple ancient ruins discovered in 1975, making this historic site relatively new and untouched. There is even a reconstructed Iron Age Village with a peat fire that evokes your imagination and immerses you into a world over 3000-years ago!

You can enjoy a guided tour on Fridays of every week, but you can still visit the site anytime by yourself – We highly recommend you do so!

Muness Castle

On the northernmost island of Unst sits the mighty Muness Castle, an impeccably fine tower house that’s an excellent attraction to add to your to-do list while you’re on the Shetland Islands.

This remote Castle is a must-visit destination while you’re in Unst and provides travellers with informative learning boards that tell the castle’s fascinating history as you tour its interior and the grounds around it. Enhance your exploration by grabbing the torches from their sconces and touring the rooms as if you lived there!

The Isle of Muness itself boasts the spectacular scenery that Shetland is known for, and there’s no better place to enjoy its history than at Muness Castle.

Shetland Textile Museum

While you’re exploring the town of Lerwick, make sure to stop by the Shetland Textile Museum and dive deep into one of the unique historical museums you can find in the Shetland Isles.

The Shetland Textile Museum focuses on the evolution of textiles in Shetland, moving from history to contemporary! There’s a particular focus on hand knitting and its role, with plenty of exhibits that showcase how knitting is used on the island. The occasional live demonstration gives you unparalleled insight into its complicated process.

This Textile Museum is too close to Lerwick to miss out on and makes for the perfect afternoon destination to stop by and explore.

Bonhoga Gallery

Bonhoga combines incredible artistry, generations of craftsmanship, and a splendid café with a wide selection of food and drink – what more could you ask for?

You’ll be treated to beautiful and provoking artworks made by local Scottish Mainland and Shetland artists, ranging from recreations of the spectacular scenery of Mainland Scotland to the Coastlines of Shetland. The Gallery has adopted an old barn house to house its artworks, creating a homely sense of warmth.

The Bonhoga Gallery is situated right in the centre of Shetland Mainland, making it a great destination to visit wherever you are in Shetland.

Eshaness Lighthouse

On the North of Shetland sits the incredible Eshanness Lighthouse, one of Scotland’s most remote and northern lighthouses!

The Eshannes Lighthouse sits on the craggy and cliff coastline of the Shetland Islands, offering some of the best views that you can receive of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s not uncommon for the area to be covered in a dense fog, which is why the Lighthouse is there in the first place, but there’s a webcam available online that allows you to scout the weather before you go!

Take a walk along the coastline and experience the beautiful scenery that this small portion of Scotland is known for.

Other Things To Do in Scottish Isles

• Things to do in Arran
• Things to do in Brodick
• Things to do in Harris
• Things to do in Islay
• Things to do in Isle of Lewis
• Things to do in Isle of Mull
• Things to do in Isle of Skye
• Things to do in Kirkwall
• Things to do in North & South Uist
• Things to do in Orkney
• Things to do in Portree
• Things to do in Stornoway

Graham Grieve

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Close enough to Norway geographically and historically to make nationality an ambiguous concept, the Shetland Islands are Britain’s most northerly outpost. There’s a Scandinavian lilt to the local accent, and streets named King Haakon or St Olaf are reminders that Shetland was under Norse rule until 1469, when it was gifted to Scotland in lieu of the dowry of a Danish princess.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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…

Old and new collide here, with Sumburgh airport right by this picturesque, instructive archaeological site. Various periods of occupation from 2500 BC to…

St Ninian's Isle

A couple of miles beyond Bigton is the largest shell-and-sand tombolo (sand or gravel isthmus) in Britain. Walk across to beautiful, emerald-capped St…

Scalloway Museum

This enthusiastic modern museum by Scalloway Castle has an excellent display on Scalloway life and history, with prehistoric finds, witch-burnings and…

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Shetland and beyond

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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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An insider's guide to Shetland, Scotland's wild and captivating islands

By Toby Skinner

The lonely muckle flugga rock – buffeted by sea-crash, topped by a little lighthouse – is simply there. This is the northernmost point in the British Isles , visible up close only on a little boat or via a two-hour hike across the Hermaness headland – where bleak peat bogs and circling bonxies give way to hulking Middle-earth cliffs, glaikit sheep tottering on precipices, terns springing like boomerangs over waters churning with a steady basso profondo.

There’s an epic beauty to it all – but try the words ‘Muckle Flugga’ on most Brits and watch the blank expression. There are no postcards of the lighthouse, no cheery guides in branded fleeces. Just a laminated sign on a wooden post at the edge of the crag, informing visitors that beyond there’s nothing but grey sea until the North Pole.

This understatement is typical of Shetland, the subarctic archipelago that includes 16 inhabited islands that largely sit unadorned, unfertilised, unsold, untouristed. It is a lonely walk across a few muddy fields to the Bergman-esque stacks at Silwick, where vertical cliffs are pocked with nests like an avian Hong Kong. Yell’s white-sand Breckon – probably my favourite beach on the planet – usually sits as empty as a Hollywood dream sequence. The appeal is less about seeing anything in particular than simply being and feeling; waiting for ferries and otters, watching the shifting light and bobbing seals, surrounded by a capricious and unknowable sea, curiously at peace.

Pictured: The bridge at Muckle Roe to the west of the Mainland

I’ve been coming here since I was young. My stepmother Shona has family connections with Cullivoe, a fishing and crofting village on the North Isle of Yell, known for its four-day weddings and terrifyingly liquid Hogmanay, which culminates in a New Year’s Day tug o’ war between the Uppies and the Doonies from either end of the village. Her father, Adam Robson, a charismatic man who played flanker for Scotland and painted wild seas, grew up in Hawick but would visit often with his Cullivoe-born mother, amusing the locals and free-roaming sheep by running up and down the hills. His Shetland blood could be discerned in both his gentle egalitarianism and bone-crushing handshake.

Pictured: Ninian knitwear and gift shop in Lerwick

We used to stay at New House, the ‘but and ben’ two-room croft house that had been in the family since the 1850s and which Papa Adam renovated in the 1990s. We’d drive around in Dad’s Saab convertible, listening to Sade, Meat Loaf and Annie Lennox, shouting ‘Basta!’ at the top of our lungs every time we passed the sign for the little voe where famously plump mussels cling to ropes in the face of roaring tides – still a strictly enforced tradition, and a test of nerve for first-time visitors.

Pictured: Commercial Street in Lerwick

Before Papa Adam died, Dad and Shona’s retirement plan was to move from St Katharine Docks to the Languedoc for a life of Grange des Pères, foie gras and watching Narbonne play rugby. But every time my artist stepmother came to clear out New House for sale, something would stop her. On the 90-minute drive back to the airport, she’d find herself weeping. To cut a long story short, they moved here in 2010 – leaving Dad staring blankly at his Anderson & Sheppard suits and Shona wondering if she’d ever wear her Chanel pumps again.

Pictured: A Shetland pony, a native breed adapted to the harsh climate of the islands

They built an extension to New House, with glassy views across the Bluemull Sound to the cliffs of Unst, the northernmost island – a hundred feet high but dwarfed by the fiercest winter swells. A few years later, they opened The Shetland Gallery, Britain’s northernmost art space, showing Shona’s free-machine embroidered seascapes alongside works by other artists and makers drawn to the island seas and skies. They bought two beautiful Shetland ponies, Fortnum and Mason, who soon had their own little hut, were cuddled daily but couldn’t be induced to cross their field without treats. Up at the pebbledash village hall, where even the most generous round rarely exceeds a tenner, Peerie Brian the ship captain rechristened them Aldi and Lidl. Dad and Shona did their best to be amused.

Pictured: Belmont House mansion on Unst

Aside from Dad’s ill-fated run for a council seat and a few minor spats conducted via the pages of The Shetland Times, they have been welcomed like family, as have we all. Shona is actually related to half the village, but on one Famously Groused Hogmanay my sister had a de facto marriage to Lee the bus driver, about which his actual fiancée seemed only faintly unamused. Netta, the late twinkling, mischievously formidable Queen of Cullivoe, became a surrogate granny. The charming Lawson children could soon remember not just our names but how we took our gin and tonics, and who was best at the cereal-box game.

Pictured: Sumburgh beach

Over time, I’ve become soaked in a place which is really British only in name. Closer to Bergen than Inverness, the islands were Viking-conquered and under Norse rule until the 15th century. Shetlanders have voted Liberal/Lib Dem at every election since 1950, and oil-driven public funds have helped deliver folk and wool festivals, shiny roads and remote leisure centres. It feels more Scandi-socialist than two-party British. Place names reflect the Norse mash-up: Cunnister, Wadbister, Huxter, Cuppa Water, Twatt. The local dialect, virtually impossible to imitate, can sound almost Icelandic – long-vowelled, with ‘o’ drifting towards ‘au’ and ‘i’ turning to ‘u’ (‘Dunna chuck bruck’, read the anti-littering signs). But the people are no insular separatists. A history of seafaring has fostered an outward-looking perspective, a resourcefulness, a gentle humility and a broad-church tolerance. It’s just that the islands haven’t much needed the rest of the world. Unlike the Western Isles or the more manicured Orkneys, Shetland’s healthy economy relies much more on fishing and oil than tourism.

Pictured: Eshaness cliffs

Hence there are smart stays, but also grotty hotels that were built in the 1970s for oilmen who wanted little beyond a bunk and a Tennent’s tap; a slowly growing number of places to sample the wonderful seafood, if not as many as there might be, given that more fish is landed here than England , Wales and Northern Ireland combined. Flights remain expensive, though passengers are rewarded with Tunnock’s wafers and tea, and thrilling views as the tiny propeller plane swoops over the lighthouse and the Jarlshof pre-historic settlement at Sumburgh, on the Mainland’s southern tip.

Pictured: Sumburgh lighthouse

Adding to the sometime assertion that this is a Marmite destination, Shetland’s rolling, largely treeless interior doesn’t fit some Romantic ideals of beauty. Yet I adore its peaty bleakness – a landscape of sinking bogs, ancient bones and ferocious winds; a great moss-green canvas for the sky. The sense of space leaves room for imagination, which helps explain all the artists and poets; makers of fiddles, fine tweeds and impossibly delicate lace shawls; why so many gatherings tend to end with impromptu jams, a tradition that dates beyond Peerie Willie Johnson, the ‘dum chuck’ guitarist who combined Django Reinhardt licks with classic folk.

Pictured: 18th-century lodberry stone store in Lerwick

The ultimate creative space is the sea, which is like a god, albeit one you’re never more than four miles from. It crashes and caresses, and shapes everything: the stacks at Eshaness, one of which looks like a giant horse supping the sea; or the hourglass-shaped tombolo leading to St Ninian’s Isle, which disappears with a whimper at high tide. Up at Hermaness, great Arctic swells rip into the cliffs, before dementedly swirling down the Bluemull Sound.

Pictured: Diving off Scousburgh, South Mainland

The sea also provides Muckle Flugga’s mythology. The story goes that the giants Herma and Saxa fell in love with the same mermaid, hurling rocks at each other, one of which became Muckle Flugga. Eventually, the mermaid offered to marry whichever giant could follow her to the North Pole. Neither could swim, so both drowned in pursuit. I often think, too, of the poor young couple who died at Hermaness on New Year’s Day in 1992, caught by a 200mph storm that shattered the lonely bird hide they were sheltering in. Nature at its most ruthless.

Nothing and no one will tell you these stories. Hermaness, like much of Shetland, isn’t a place for explanations, let alone soupy endings. It’s a place to watch the blues and whites of waves that growl like thunder, or the brief glide of a gannet before it swoops and kills. It is what it is. A place to wonder.

Pictured: Cliffs at Sumburgh Head

Where to stay

The best hotel has long been the waterside Scalloway Hotel , in the eponymous old capital, six miles from Lerwick, with cosy tweed-clad rooms – though its owners recently put it up for sale. Seascape artist Ruth Brownlee’s Airbnb Sea Winds is the one to book in Lerwick, with its spiral staircase and view over Jimmy Perez’s cottage in the Shetland TV show. The most elegant stay is Belmont House , on Unst, a Georgian country pile with landscaped gardens. Twelve guests can cosy up in the light-dappled drawing room, watching the little ferry drift in while perhaps looking up from a game of Cluedo.

Pictured: Ruth Brownlee’s Airbnb

Where to eat

The best of Lerwick's new breed of restaurants is The Dowry , a Scandi-minimal deli/bar that does local scallops, lobster and Scotch eggs; while, up in Brae, Frankie’s has won national awards for its fish and chips, with the menu showing the boats bringing in today’s catch.

Pictured: Tacos at The String in Lerwick

Founded by naturalist Brydon Thomason, Shetland Nature lays on everything from otter- and orca-spotting expeditions to week- long trips. Sea Kayak Shetland in Lerwick offers tours around the South Mainland cliffs, also great for coasteering. Serious anglers head out from Cullivoe on Oberon, skippered by hail-fellow-well-met Glaswegian Kenny Graham, and Compass Rose runs fishing day trips from the same pier to see the Muckle Flugga lighthouse up close.

Pictured: The Dowry in Lerwick

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Pictured: Bressay lighthouse

Pictured: Puffin

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• 11 Reasons Everyone Should Visit...

11 Reasons Everyone Should Visit Shetland

Located 60 degrees north between Norway and mainland Scotland, Shetland’s people consider themselves Shetlanders first and Scots second. Brimming with more beaches than you can count, a dramatic Viking past (which echoes through the place names) and 1,700 miles (2,700 kilometres) of glistening cliff-trimmed coastline, this subarctic archipelago is as breathtaking as it is unique. Here, we give you just some reasons why the Shetland Isles are a must-visit.

There are over 100 beautiful islands to explore.

Each with their own distinct characteristics, Shetland is made up of over 100 islands, only 15 of which are inhabited. Armed with boats to transport from a to b, island-hopping is a total breeze. From Yell with its golden beaches and status as the UK’s otter capital, to Foula or the ‘island at the edge of the world’, and Fair Isle with its globally renowned bird observatory, there are endless adventures to be had.

Some of the best birdwatching in the world

Shetland has long been world famous as a mecca for bird enthusiasts. From the ultra-rare to the quirky, birds of all breeds flock to the isles in their droves. Hermaness , Noss and Sumburgh Head Nature Reserves host seabird colonies, including puffins, kittiwakes, fulmars and razorbills, while rare ‘Bonxies’ or Great Skuas can be spotted dive-bombing as they wish. Fair Isle’s beloved Observatory is a feast for the mind and offers a truly memorable birding experience.

Whales, dolphins and seals are known to roam Shetland’s seas

With around 21 cetacean species (whales, dolphins and porpoises) and five seal species documented, it’s no surprise that Shetland’s waters are some of the richest in Europe. The most favourable time to spot these sea beauties is between May and October. While minke and killer whales, harbour porpoises, rissos, white-beaked and white-sided dolphins are famously fond of the seas surrounding Fair Isle, places around South Mainland play host to humpback and long-finned pilot whales.

St Ninian’s Isle is the UK’s largest active sand tombolo

St Ninian’s Isle is one of Shetland’s many star jewels. Surrounded by jade-hued waters and swathes of soft golden grains, the tombolo or ayre (as it’s called locally) forms a bridge between the isle and Mainland. Aside from the spellbinding cliff scenery and reputation as a dreamy walking destination, St Ninian’s is famous for its treasure — 28 Pictish silver and silver-gilt decorated objects and a porpoise jaw bone! Dating back to the second half of the eighth century, these ancient relics were found during a dig in 1958, buried under a cross-adorned slab on the site of the former medieval church.

Frankie’s Fish & Chips is the best chippie in Scotland

Scotland is renowned for its sea-fresh fish and fluffier-than-clouds chips, but none deliver quite like Shetland’s Frankie’s . Showered with rewards, it was voted the Best Independent Takeaway Fish and Chip Shop in the UK at the National Fish & Chip Awards. Found in the charming village of Brae, this modern family-owned gem delivers time after time with picks like haddock and chips, crab, mussels and king scallops. Better still, Frankie’s champions sustainably caught or harvested seafood, with all of their ocean fruits hailing from Shetland.

Traces of Norse heritage are everywhere

Since the Viking invasions of around 800 CE, Shetland’s Norse heritage has been inextricably linked with the islands, shaping and carving the unique culture. The place names are almost all Norse, especially in Lerwick, where many Norse figures are recognised. Sites like Jarlshof and Old Scatness demonstrate evidence of Viking occupation, but perhaps the most significant of all is the Shetland dialect. Many words are rooted in Old Norse, just as Shetland’s boats, personal names and music show Scandinavian roots.

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You can visit Britain’s northernmost inhabited island

A real beauty, Unst is a dream of a Shetland destination and the northernmost inhabited island in the UK. Visitors can gaze out at Britain’s most northerly lighthouse on Muckle Flugga from Hermaness National Nature Reserve, or enjoy the solo serenity on Skell, the UK’s most northerly beach. From the White Wife to Bobby’s Bus Shelter, Unst is overrun with compelling attractions and lovely people.

To stay in a lighthouse

The perfect holiday pad for any maritime enthusiast or those who love to go against the grain, three of Shetland’s historical lighthouses are available to stay in. Whether at the southernmost point in Sumburgh, the dramatic Bressay outcrop or the spellbinding cliffs of Eshaness, each lighthouse is graced with its own individual flair, yet all have the most stunning sea-stamped views.

Up Helly Aa, Scotland’s biggest fire festival

Every year on the last Tuesday in January, come ferocious gale or sleet-strewn skies, Shetlanders congregate in Lerwick to celebrate Shetland’s Viking heritage at Scotland’s biggest fire festival . Quite the spectacle, Up Helly Aa is fueled by fire, history, comradery and community, and lasts for 24 hours. The festival’s high heid yin (supervisor), known as the ‘Guizer Jarl’, dresses as a character from a Norse saga (his garb remains a secret until the grand unveiling), while an array of marches and visitations set spirits high. The torchlight procession results in the burning of a galley.

You can visit the island where Fair Isle knits were born

Whether self-confessed fashion guru or avid trend avoider, it’s safe to say that Fair Isle is a widely known knitwear term. The famous and colourful knitwear pattern has been showcased and imitated by numerous top-tier fashion houses and high-street brands. Knitwear fans can explore Fair Isle , the place where it all began, and meet the actual craftspeople still creating the perennially popular knitwear using traditional techniques.

Scotland’s best-preserved broch

Located in Mousa, the enigmatic Mousa Broch dates back to the Iron Age and holds the title of the best-preserved broch in Scotland . The term ‘broch’ refers to a type of roundhouse native to Scotland. Standing at 13 metres (42 feet), this double-walled stone tower makes a guest appearance in Norse sagas. While exploring, make sure to soak up the striking scenery and look out for the resident bird families.

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The Viking Voyage

Adventure Shetland

Adventure Shetland provides guided tours, walks and hikes showcasing the best of Shetland scenery, archaeology and heritage

Guided Walks Mon 3rd St Ninian's Isle, Tue 4th Eshaness, Wed 5th Fethaland - Email to book

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Retracing A Legend

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We only have one set tour itinerary - The Viking Voyage.

This action-packed 2 day tour takes in all of Shetland's key Viking Age sites and stories, from North to South and East to West. No stone is left unturned in exploring Shetland's Saga.

Archaeology, Scenery, History, Wildlife, Photography, 

Wild Camping, Wild Swimming

Whatever your interest, we have your Shetland adventure covered.

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Jon Pulley is a native Shetlander and qualified archaeologist, with over a decade of experience working in the tourism industry here in Shetland.

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Tourism Insider | Scotland The Perfect Stage

June enewsletter.

Today (20 June) we sent out our latest Tourism Insider. It includes news of the refreshed national events strategy, marketing activity and results, plus news from across our regions. Here’s a taster of what you can find inside…

Across the country our iconic venues and picture-perfect backdrops play host to world-leading cultural, business and sporting events of all sizes, all year round. Recently event fever was in full force with Taylor Swift and her 220,000 fans descending on Edinburgh. And coming up, this summer is filled with even more events including HebCelt Festival, The 152nd Open and AIG Women’s Open, the Edinburgh Festivals and the Sprint World Orienteering Championships. At the end of last month, the refreshed national events strategy was launched. Scotland the Perfect Stage 2024 - 2035 aims to build on the event industry’s many achievements to date, as well as respond to the ongoing challenges faced by the sector. Events are ideally placed to continue to deliver tangible results against a range of national priorities. They not only provide world leading and authentic experiences, but they can drive positive change on multiple fronts. Scotland has an enviable global reputation as a major events powerhouse. The refreshed strategy will ensure that the events industry continues to be an established global leader, delivering world-class events and experiences that contribute vital economic, social, and cultural value for Scotland. Take a look at the latest Tourism Insider enews. Malcolm Roughead OBE, Chief Executive, VisitScotland

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Filmmaking Summer Intensive with Barnum

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