The Shetland Islands are the northern most islands of Scotland and the British Isles and lie at 60 degrees north, over 100 miles from the Scottish mainland and as far north as St Petersburg or the southern tip of Greenland! The climate, however, is much milder due to the warming North Atlantic Current. The islands have a wonderfully wild and varied coastline, superb wildlife, history, archaeology, fascinating geology and friendly people. The capital and largest settlement, Lerwick, is a thriving and cosmopolitan town and a great base to stay – you can search for accommodation here.
I’ve only made one visit to the Shetland Islands so far, an excellent two week holiday in the summer of 2021, but all being well I’ll be back. I was blown away by some of the coastal scenery, the sense of space, the tranquillity, how much more extensive and varied the islands are than I’d imagined; and, not least, the kindness and friendliness of the people we met. It was a busy trip visiting a wide variety of places from Sumburgh Head in the far south, to Esha Ness in the west; Herma Ness in the far north of Unst; Mousa, Nibon, Fethaland and Ronas Hill in North Roe; boat trips around the islands of Bressay and Noss and more. Shetland has a huge amount to offer and explore.
Discover and explore the wonderful sights of Shetland through the articles and links below.
| Search for accommodation using Booking.com |
| Buy maps from the Ordnance Survey |
| Buy guide books and maps from Amazon |
Photos and articles by area
Shetland Islands
Shetland Islands select photo gallery
Shetland Islands interactive map
Scotland Landscapes – select photo gallery – my favourites
Exploring Ronas Hill, the Lang Ayre and Turls Head – North Roe, Shetland
Shetland – Highlights of a Summer Visit
Purchase prints of my photos in a wide range of sizes and media at my online store at Redbubble.
