1. Overview of Traveling to Shetland
If you’ve been inspired by stories about wildlife spotting in Shetland, known as the sea otter capital of the UK, or dining on the archipelago’s fabulous salt grass-fed lamb and cold water seafood, you may consider including a visit to this remarkable destination during your UK vacation.
2. Essential Planning for Your Journey
Planning is crucial in your adventure to Shetland, which is an archipelago made up of 100 islands, located 100 miles from Scotland’s North coast. This enchanting destination requires time, logistics, and patience, making it uncrowded and rewarding for travelers. Here are your main options for reaching Shetland:
3. Traveling by Air
FlyBe, operated by Loganair, provides flights to Shetland, but first, you need to arrive in Scotland. If you’re coming from Heathrow, British Airways offers flights connecting through Aberdeen or Edinburgh.
Your onward flights will land in the south of Mainland, at Sumburgh Airport, which serves Lerwick, the capital of Shetland. Sumburgh is notable for being one of only two airports worldwide with a road crossing its runway—a memorable experience as you watch a plane take off right in front of you. Direct flights to Sumburgh are available from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Inverness.
However, keep in mind that flights connecting through Scotland can be expensive and time-consuming. Some travel combinations may involve long layovers, which can last between five and eleven hours.
4. Traveling by Sea
A romantic and relaxing alternative to flying is to board the Northlink ferry from Aberdeen, which sails north overnight and docks in Lerwick the following morning.
The ferry, named Hrossey, may not be a cruise ship, but it offers a unique experience. Weather permitting, you can enjoy the stunning view of the mainland fading into the horizon while dolphins gracefully break the water’s surface. Cozy private cabins come with en-suite bathrooms and complimentary movies, while the Feast restaurant serves delightful, locally sourced meals. The Longship Lounge provides an array of local ales to enjoy as the night unfolds.
This travel option can also be more economical, although prices vary based on factors like the season, vehicle transport, cabin choice, and meal preferences. To obtain accurate fare estimates, experimenting on the Northlink website is advisable.
Once you arrive in Shetland, both national and local car rental brands are available in Lerwick and at the airport.
5. Getting Around Shetland
Shetland’s interisland ferries operate regularly and affordably, making it easy to explore the islands. The friendly ferry captains often invite travelers onto the bridge, enhancing the experience. Spotting marine life while sailing between islands is an essential part of your visit to Shetland.
Operated by Shetland Islands Council, these ferries are subsidized, ensuring low fares. Additionally, the outer isles, such as Foula, Fair Isle, Papa Stour, and Skerries, can be reached by plane. For those interested in visiting Foula, flights are available with day returns possible throughout summer on specific weekdays. Directflight operates these flights.
6. Understanding the Local Culture
Shetland is often misunderstood, and it’s important to refer to the region as simply Shetland, not “the Shetlands.” Locals take pride in their identity as Shetlanders first, Scottish second, and British third. Lerwick, the capital, is significantly distanced from major UK cities, yet it is closer to Bergen in Norway, reflecting Shetland’s ties to Nordic cultures.
