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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Highlands And Northern Islands, Scotland

Noss National Nature Reserve

A spectacular, uninhabited island known for its towering sea cliffs. These cliffs teem with immense numbers of breeding seabirds, including over 20,000 gannets, puffins, guillemots, and razorbills.

Access from Lerwick involves a short passenger ferry to Bressay, followed by a seasonal small boat trip across to Noss Sound. An organized boat trip around Noss presents the best views of the cliffs and birds from the sea.

Aspects

  • Two-stage journey: Lerwick to Bressay ferry, then small boat to Noss.
  • Home to over 20,000 gannets and diverse seabirds.
  • Organized boat trips offer prime viewing from the sea.
  • Plan for a half-day to full-day excursion.

Nearby Island Explorations

Explore Shetland's neighboring islands, each with its own distinct character and attractions.

Unst via Yell

The northernmost inhabited island of Shetland, with Hermaness National Nature Reserve, Muckle Flugga lighthouse, Muness Castle, and the quirky Unst Bus Shelter.

Travel & Activities

  • Requires two inter-island ferry crossings.
  • A rental car is highly suggested for full exploration.
  • A full day is needed; an overnight stay is ideal.

Burra Isles

These picturesque islands connect to Mainland Shetland by bridge. They contain charming fishing villages like Hamnavoe and beautiful sandy beaches like Meal Beach.

Access & Experience

  • Easily accessible by rental car from Lerwick.
  • Enjoy coastal walks and relaxed island atmosphere.
  • Plan for a half-day to full-day excursion.

Dramatic Landscapes

Eshaness & Northmavine

  • Showcases a dramatic volcanic coastline with cliffs and sea stacks.
  • Excellent for walking and photography, a raw sense of nature.
  • Best explored by rental car, approximately 1-hour drive from Lerwick.
  • Plan for a half-day to full-day visit.

Foula or Fair Isle

  • Britain's most remote inhabited islands, unparalleled nature and birdwatching.
  • Fair Isle renowned for its Bird Observatory and knitting.
  • Requires flights or weather-dependent ferry crossings.
  • Not practical for day trips; an overnight stay is needed.

Choosing Your Day Trip Focus

  • For Nature Lovers:Noss, Hermaness (Unst), Eshaness
  • For History Buffs:Jarlshof, Scalloway Castle
  • For Beach Enthusiasts:Meal Beach (Burra), St Ninian's Isle
  • For Remote Escapes:Foula or Fair Isle (requires longer)
  • Self-Guided Exploration:Rental car freedom
  • Guided Comfort:Organized boat or bus tours
  • Local Insight:Engage with residents
  • Booking Ahead:Especially for boat trips

Travel Tip

For organized day trips and excursions, explore options on GetYourGuide's day trip section to discover available tours and activities.

Cultural Excursions

Discover Shetland's heritage and traditional way of life through its museums and cultural centers.

History & Heritage

Explore ancient settlements and preserved historical sites.

Arts & Crafts

Experience Shetland's artistic and textile traditions.

Local Life

Connect with local communities and their unique customs.

Shetland Croft House Museum

A preserved 19th-century croft house offering a glimpse into traditional Shetland life, complete with period furnishings and exhibits.

Visit Details

  • Located in Boddam, near Voe, Central Mainland.
  • Accessible by car or local bus (check times).
  • Allow 1-2 hours for your visit.

Hoswick Visitor Centre

A small, community-run museum and café featuring displays on local history, fishing, textile machinery, and a working knitting machine.

Visit Details

  • Found in Hoswick, South Mainland.
  • Accessible by car or local bus.
  • Allow 1-2 hours for your visit.

Multi-Day Extensions

Orkney Islands (Norse heritage, archaeology)3-5 days
Scottish Mainland (Highlands, Skye)Varies by region
NorthLink Ferries (Lerwick-Kirkwall-Aberdeen)Overnight/Daytime
Loganair Flights (Sumburgh-Kirkwall)Short connection
Flights to Edinburgh/Glasgow/AberdeenDirect from Sumburgh
Explore Scottish North Coast 500From Aberdeen

Consider a Scottish Adventure

  • After Shetland, a journey to the Orkney Islands deepens your exploration of Northern Isles history.
  • Travel to the Scottish Mainland unveils the rugged Highlands or the famous Isle of Skye.
  • Direct flights from Sumburgh to major cities or overnight ferries to Aberdeen connect you to wider Scottish experiences.
  • Combine your trip for a comprehensive Scottish island and mainland adventure.
  • Each region offers distinct landscapes and cultural immersion.

Tailoring Your Excursions

Shetland offers a range of day trip opportunities, suited to various interests.

Experience Shetland's Highlights

1

Southern Wonders

Visit Jarlshof for prehistoric remains and Sumburgh Head for seabird colonies (May-July).

2

Lerwick & Central

Explore the Shetland Museum, Clickimin Broch, and Scalloway Castle.

3

Northern Frontiers

Journey to Eshaness Cliffs or embark on a multi-ferry trip to Unst.

Day Trip Pointers

  • Check ferry schedules in advance for inter-island trips.
  • Weather can influence travel plans; remain flexible.
  • Bring appropriate clothing for changeable conditions.
  • Pack snacks and water, especially for remote walks.
  • Book tours (e.g., Noss boat trips) ahead of time, especially in peak season.
  • Consider a rental car for maximum freedom.

Extended Stay Ideas

  • Explore more remote islands like Fetlar, Papa Stour, or Whalsay.
  • Allocate dedicated days for extensive hiking or birdwatching.
  • Participate in local workshops, like knitting.
  • Attend more local events beyond Lerwick.
  • Discover off-the-beaten-path locations like Fethaland.
  • Rent a self-catering cottage for an immersive experience.

Transportation & Access

Rental Cars

The preferred method for exploring Shetland due to widespread attractions.

Public Buses

Available on Mainland, but frequency varies, especially in rural areas.

Inter-Island Ferries

Connect Mainland to various islands; check schedules for planning.

Making the Most of Your Day

Early starts allow for more exploration, especially when ferry connections are involved. Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenery in remote areas.