Shetland UNESCO Global Geopark

The islands of Shetland have been on an incredible geological journey. This land has travelled from near the South Pole, across the equator, to its current spot at the crossroads of the North Atlantic and the North Sea.

Due to the lack of trees and the abundance of stone, Shetland has some of the best-preserved archaeology in Europe.

The geology of the islands influences every part of life – they provide a home for unique biodiversity and they influence human settlements, their activities, and their industries.

An aerial shot of Ayre of Clickimin, the sea sitting in a circular spot between the green land and cliffs

An aerial shot of Clickimin Broch, the stone-built roundhouse circling around on a green hill

Looking across the rocks and sea to Dore Holm, a natural sea arch on the Shetland coast

The rock pillars and cliffs known as the Heads of Groken just off the Ness of Hillswick, Shetland

Looking down on St Ninian's Isle, a small island connected by the largest sand tombolo in the UK

Discover why Geopark Shetland is so special

Where else can you walk on an ancient ocean floor, explore an extinct volcano and stroll across shifting sands all in the space of a day?

Shetland is like a giant geological jigsaw, each part with a different history. Some of these rocks range from 3 billion to just over 300 million years, and their variety has influenced the diverse natural and culture heritage of the islands.

Whether folk are looking for adventure and action or peace and rest – Shetland has it all - in spades.”

Val, Shetland Amenity Trust

Explore the local area

See the place names which reflect the geological features, explore some of the 100 geosites which showcase the landscape, and imagine what the world once was in the museum and gallery exhibits.

There are leaflets, walking trails and other guides to help you know what to see and learn more about Shetland’s geology.

Sustainable Local Businesses

These Green Tourism businesses are assessed on everything from energy efficiency to biodiversity and awarded bronze, silver or gold.

We want Scotland's UNESCO Trail to be an opportunity to explore the country in a sustainable and responsible way.

The global geopark has a number of partner businesses who are committed to respecting the landscape and nature of Shetland, and work to protect, improve and promote the environment. Check out the northern isles journey below to see some of these businesses.

Monuments & Ruins

Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement, Sumburgh

The Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements in Shetland are one of the most important and inspirational…

Country House Hotel

Busta House Hotel

Owner run Busta House is a former 16th Century Lairds House now serving as a 3 star Hotel.

Best Local Attractions & Experiences

We've highlighted some of the best sustainable businesses around the Geopark Shetland.

Sea cliffs at Braewick, Mainland, Shetland

Braewick Café and Caravan Park

Get back to nature at Braewick Caravan Park, in one of Shetland’s most spectacular locations. With cosy timber wigwams, a shop brimming with local crafts, knitwear and gifts, and a café serving fresh produce harvested from the local croft, this fully equipped campsite has everything you need for a comfortable stay.

The main section of Sumburgh Lighthouse, against a blue sky

Sumburgh Head

Sumburgh Head is home to some of Shetland’s finest world-class attractions: Sumburgh Head Lighthouse with its visitor centre, Katja’s Café, and a nature reserve which is home to one of the UK’s busiest seabird colonies. It’s also a place teeming with rare flora as well as a great spot to observe sea creatures, from porpoises and minke whales to dolphins and even orcas.

Looking across the stone ruins to Jarlshof, surrounded by grass and a blue sky

Island Vista

This local tour company offers guided day trips and other excursions through the Shetland Isles. Discover the archipelago’s unique culture, archaeological heritage, amazing scenery, geology, and incredible wildlife through the eyes of native Shetlanders. With them, you’ll gain an authentic appreciation of the isles as you explore off the beaten track.

A flock of sheep on the sandy beach at Banna Minn, the hills in the background

The silhouette of the stone cross monument at Eshaness against the sea, land and sky

The exterior of the Mareel building at the harbour at night

Mousa Broch sits on the shore, the rocky shore and sea, surrounding land

A rowboat berthed on the edge of the Loch of Spiggie, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Protection Area (SPA) for wildlife conservation, located on the South Mainland of Shetland

How to get here

Public transport

You can take public transport up north to the Shetland islands – you can travel to Aberdeen by train and by Citylink coach. You can then catch the ferry over to the islands.

Ferries

The Northlink ferry overnight crossing runs from Aberdeen directly to Lerwick, three times a week taking around 12 hours. The other four weekly crossings see it stop at Kirkwall before Lerwick, which takes around 14 hours.

Airports

Planes also fly direct to Sumburgh Airport from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness or Kirkwall with Loganair, with connections from Birmingham, Belfast City, Bristol, Exeter, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich and Teesside.

Getting around Shetland

Shetland is part of the National Cycling Network and the North Sea Cycle Route passes through the islands. There is an extensive public bus network, an inter-ferry service which takes both foot passengers or vehicles, and inter-island flights take off from Tingwall, 6 miles outside Lerwick.

Find travel information for getting to Shetland

Check the Shetland Travel Information website for travel within the islands

The Northlink ferry

Experience more UNESCO sites

Make the Geopark Shetland part of a longer trip - we can help you plan a trip to all of the UNESCO sites in the area, including Orkney.

View all Journeys

Cuween Chambered Cairn made of stones, sits on the top of Cuween Hill as the light fades against the water

UNESCO Sites to Explore in Scotland's Northern Isles

Explore the two UNESCO sites in Scotland's northern isles. Shetland is a recognised Global Geopark, while Orkney is home to the World Heritage Site of Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

View Journey

Learn more about the UNESCO Trail

Geopark Shetland works to conserve the geological heritage of the archipelago, demonstrate its ties to the natural and cultural heritage of its islands, raise awareness and understanding of that history, and promote sustainable development that supports heritage and geotourism.

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Every UNESCO designation tries to include the UN Sustainable Development Goals in their work.

WHAT ARE THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS (SDGS)?

An urgent call for action from a global partnership of countries.

Recognise that ending poverty and other deprivations comes from strategies to:

improve health and education
reduce inequality
encourage economic growth
tackle climate change

Check out all the UN Sustainable Development Goals

Mousa Broch

Geopark Shetland's Sustainable Development Goals

Here’s how the Geopark Shetland is working towards three of the goals.

Goal 3

Good Health & Wellbeing

By encouraging people to explore the outdoors we are contributing to healthy lifestyles and combating obesity. This is achieved by visiting sites, walking, and events such as Nature Week.

Goal 4

Quality Education

By actively educating the local community and visitors of all ages, the geopark serves as an outdoor classroom and incubator for sustainability, cultural diversity, and peace. Museums such as the Shetland Museum and Archives explore these themes through their learning programmes and exhibitions.T

Goal 11

Sustainable cities & communities

Instilling in the geopark community a sense of pride and regional identity. This is achieved through high-profile events like the excavation of Old Scatness, and small actions, such as introducing residents to new places during Nature Week.