Stretching off Scotland’s north coast are Shetland and Orkney, two very special archipelagos where Scotland meets Scandinavia.
Lying in the North Sea around 100 islands comprise Shetland, with 16 of them inhabited and many others accessible by boat.
On Mainland the capital, Lerwick, has a good range of shops, restaurants and pubs as well as the outstanding Shetland Museum and Archives and a thriving music scene. In nearby Scalloway an excellent museum tells the story of the topsecret WWII Shetland Bus operation. Further south on Mainland is Sumburgh Head, an ideal spot for twitchers with unobstructed views of the seabird colonies; Old Scatness, a recently excavated Iron Age village; and the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse settlements, with archaeological treasures from over 4,000 years.
Enchanting Orkney is a smorgasbord of must-see sites and cultural attractions scattered across 70 islands, of which just 16 are inhabited. On Mainland, is the capital Kirkwall whose sights include St Magnus Cathedral, the Bishop’s and Earl’s palaces and the Orkney Museum. The nearby seaport of Stromness is famed for the Pier Arts Centre which showcases the work of artists and sculptors from Orkney and beyond. In West Mainland, don’t miss the hauntingly beautiful Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. This area of great archaeological significance includes Skara Brae, Europe’s best-preserved Stone Age village; the Ring of Brodgar; the Stones of Stenness and the Maeshowe chambered tomb.
Both Shetland and Orkney offer a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights, particularly in autumn and winter. You will also find no end of delicious local produce to tempt you and a busy programme of annual festivals.
Open all year Situated directly across from the ferry terminal in Lerwick and 15 minutes walk from the town centre,…
Discover MoreOpen all year Enjoying a great location just 10 minutes walk from the town centre, the restaurant and many of…
Discover MoreOpen all year Perfectly situated on the picturesque harbour with stunning views to the north, this historic hotel is ideally…
Discover MoreOpen all year The Ayre overlooks Kirkwall harbour and is just a couple of minutes walk from the town centre…
Discover MoreAvailable on (01642) 232777 or (01652) 680327.
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