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Resources & References

Resources & References

Highlands And Northern Islands, Scotland

Digital Resources

Modern technology presents many valuable instruments for planning and navigating your Shetland adventure.

Essential Applications

  • Met Office:

    For current and precise UK weather forecasts, including Shetland. Useful for daily activity planning due to changeable weather.

  • Google Maps / OS Maps App:

    Google Maps offers general navigation. Download offline maps for areas with inconsistent mobile signal.

  • Shetland Islands Council:

    The council's website (shetland.gov.uk/buses and shetland.gov.uk/ferries) digital resource for local bus and inter-island ferry timetables. Save these links for swift access.

  • Digital Copies:

    Keep digital copies of important documents and bookings on your phone or cloud storage.

  • Camera Apps:

    Specialized apps enhance photo capture in Shetland's unique light.

Online Platforms

  • VisitShetland:

    Shetland.org/ (The official tourism site for the Shetland Islands, with information on attractions, lodging, and events).

  • Shetland Islands Council:

    Shetland.gov.uk/ (For public transport data, local services, and general island governance).

  • NorthLink Ferries:

    Northlinkferries.co.uk/ (For booking ferry travel to and from Mainland Scotland).

  • Loganair:

    Loganair.co.uk/ (For booking flight travel to and from Sumburgh Airport).

  • Historic Environment Scotland:

    Historicenvironment.scot/ (For information and booking for sites like Jarlshof and Scalloway Castle).

Community & Specialized Resources

Social Media Feeds

Follow official Shetland tourism accounts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. These often supply real-time updates on weather, events, and inspiring photos of the islands. Search for "VisitShetland" or "Shetland Islands".

Audio & Visual Content

Explore podcasts relating to Scottish history, island life, or specific Shetland topics (e.g., discussions on the Shetlandic dialect, local music, or historical events). The BBC TV series "Shetland," though fictional, presents much of the island's dramatic landscape and atmosphere.

Specialized Sites

Access dedicated websites for specific attractions or services. These resources contain detailed operational hours, booking procedures, and visitor information for a smooth experience.

Print Resources

Recommended Guides & Maps

  • General guidebooks covering Scotland or specifically the Scottish Islands. These contain a broad overview and practical information.
  • Ordnance Survey (OS) Maps: Highly advised for detailed exploration, notably for walkers, hikers, and independent drivers. Look for OS Explorer maps covering Shetland (e.g., Explorer 467 for South Shetland, 468 for North Shetland).
  • These maps provide detailed topographical information and walking paths, aiding navigation and discovery.
  • Carry physical copies as backup for digital devices.

Destination Literature

  • "Shetland" by Louise Black: A comprehensive introduction to the islands' history, culture, and natural environment.
  • "The Shetland Bus" by David Howarth: A compelling non-fiction account detailing the undercover naval operation during World War II, providing deep historical context.
  • Novels by Ann Cleeves: Her "Shetland" crime fiction series (which inspired the TV show) presents atmospheric views into island life and landscapes, even though the stories are fictional.
  • Local memoirs or poetry collections offer intimate glimpses into the islanders' way of life.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance, Coastguard): 999
  • Non-emergency Police: 101
  • Gilbert Bain Hospital (Lerwick): 01595 743000
  • NHS 24 (non-emergency medical advice): 111

Medical Facilities

  • Gilbert Bain Hospital stands in Lerwick. Local GP practices and smaller clinics also exist in larger communities for non-emergency medical care.
  • Pharmacies dispensing medications are available in Lerwick and some larger settlements.
  • For minor injuries or illnesses, walk-in clinics or local pharmacies sometimes offer quicker solutions than emergency rooms.
  • Always carry any necessary personal medications with you, along with copies of prescriptions.

Consular Assistance

  • Retain contact details for your country's embassy or consulate in the UK. Most reside in London or Edinburgh. They supply consular aid in case of lost passports or serious incidents.
  • Lost or stolen passport procedures: Report to local police immediately (dial 101 for non-emergencies), then contact your embassy or consulate for replacement documents. Keep document copies separate from originals.
  • Visa issues: For any visa-related concerns, your embassy is the main point of contact.
  • Natural Disaster Protocols: Monitor weather warnings from the Met Office. In severe weather, follow local authorities.

Safety Preparedness

Know these numbers before you embark on your Shetland journey. Access to immediate help safeguards against unforeseen situations.

Further Reading & Exploration

Deepen your connection with Shetland before or after your visit.

Documentaries & Films

The BBC TV series "Shetland" offers scenic views of the islands and can provide a visual taste of the atmosphere. Seek documentaries on Scottish island life, puffins and other seabirds, or the Northern Lights, which frequently feature Shetland.

Music & Art

Immerse yourself in traditional Shetland fiddle music. Local craft markets showcase the unique art and knitting traditions. Visiting local galleries displays island-inspired creations.

Online Communities

Search for "Shetland travel" or "Visit Shetland" groups on social media platforms (e.g., Facebook). These communities supply advice from locals and fellow travelers, and offer a place to ask specific questions before or after your visit.

Language & Learning

Language Learning Resources

  • Explore resources on Scottish English and, if interested, the Shetlandic dialect.
  • Listen to audio samples of the dialect for an authentic ear.
  • Small phrasebooks sometimes contain local terms.

Learning Opportunities

  • Some local museums sometimes host talks or workshops on island history.
  • Birdwatching groups or guided nature walks offer educational experiences.
  • Stargazing events sometimes occur, especially during darker months, for astronomy lovers.