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As far north as it’s possible to go in the UK, Shetland is the ultimate Scottish destination for winter adventures.
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Image: Spiggie Beach
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Shetland
The Shetland islands have some of the most incredible landscapes in the UK and a Viking heritage second to none. Whether you enjoy adrenaline-soaked adventure or a slower approach to travelling, you can visit Shetland in your own way, in your own time.
Explore the seaside and enjoy miles of breathtaking coastline, fringed by towering clifftops, pristine beaches and crystal-clear blue shores. You will also experience spectacular wildlife on the Shetland islands, from seabirds and seals, to otters and orcas, not forgetting the famous Shetland ponies.
Find experiences
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Travel to and around Shetland
Getting to Shetland
Ferry
Planning to take the ferry to Shetland? You can visit Shetland with a safe and comfortable overnight crossing from Aberdeen or Kirkwall with NorthLink Ferries
Find out more on travelling to Shetland
Flying
Shetland may be the most northerly point of the British Isles, but it is also surprisingly accessible. Take a direct flight to Sumburgh Airport with Loganair from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness or Kirkwall with connections from Birmingham, Belfast City, Bristol, Exeter, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich and Teesside.
Getting around Shetland
Cycling
Shetland is part of the National Cycling Network and the North Sea Cycle Route passes through the islands.
Shetland offers quiet roads in excellent condition for cycle touring. There are bike hire shops in Lerwick, with electric, road and mountain bikes available.
Find out more about cycling in Shetland
Ferry
Getting from A to B in Shetland is simple. In fact, when it comes to hopping between the isles on a ferry, or whizzing around empty roads by car or bike, the journey is just as fun as the destination itself.
Travel around Shetland using inter-island ferries
Driving
Shetland is beautiful to drive around, however it is important to take care as many of the roads here are single track.
Find out more about driving in Shetland
Flying
Inter-islands flights which take off from Tingwall are frequent, fast and used as much by the locals as they are visitors.

A couple on the beach at Meal Beach in Burra, Shetland
Places to Stay
Stay in a stunning Shetland hotel, or what about a cosy lighthouse?! From B&Bs to budget-friendly hostels and campsites, there are spectacular places to stay in Shetland.
A tip from your local expert

VisitScotland Information Centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Help and advice
You can also get advice from our accredited iKnow partners, with excellent local expertise, travel advice and insider tips about must-see attractions and great accommodation in the local area.
Find our iKnow Partners in this area
Smoked salmon served at the Busta House Hotel
Food & Drink Ideas
From Shetland pubs to amazing island restaurants, you're sure to eat well on these islands.
Map of Shetland
Explore Shetland
Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.
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Things to do in Shetland
From incredible nature to contempory arts, Shetland is a real adventure and a truly cosmopolitan place - not on the edge but in the centre of the northern seas.

A couple exploring Mousa Broch
© Promote Shetland / Euan Myles
Explore Shetland
Discover Shetland for the very first time or fall in love again with the islands.

Shetland ponies roaming the hills on Foula
Unique Experiences
Shetland is an archipelago of extremes, where life is shaped by the ocean. You will find freedom, wildlife and beauty here, but also rich culture and a dynamic, forward-looking community.

The Eshaness Cliffs
Routes, Trails & Tours
Shetland provides visitors with many miles of stunning landscapes and glorious island scenery to explore on foot and by bike. Here are some wonderful walks, trails and tour ideas.
Up Helly Aa, Shetland's Viking Fire Festival
© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale
Events
Enjoy an event or festival in Shetland this year, here are some ideas.
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