Geopark Shetland

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? 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.

Hermaness National Nature Reserve
© Nature Scot / Lorne Gill

Why is Shetland so special?

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

Shetland Geopark showcases a wide range of geological formations, spanning over 3 billion years of Earth's history. You can discover and learn more about rocks from different geological periods, such as ancient Lewisian gneisses, Devonian sandstones, and ophiolites. The geopark also features dramatic coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills, creating ideal habitats for a variety of wildlife and bird species as well as stunning scenery to admire.

Delve into the rich human history, with evidence of Neolithic, Viking, and more recent settlements. Visit sites like the ancient settlement of Jarlshof and various broch towers, highlighting the range of people that have lived on the islands throughout time.

Shetland by Area

This archipelago is ancient and historic, with many areas and corners of the islands unique in their own way.

Lerwick

Start planning your perfect Lerwick holidays now.

Unst

Unst is Britain’s most northerly inhabited island.

Yell

Yell is the largest of the Northern Isles.

Whalsay

Whalsay is an island with a strong fishing heritage and is half-an-hour by ferry from the east coast of Mainland Shetland.

Fair Isle

The Fair Isle lies midway between Orkney and Shetland.

Foula

Foula is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the British Isles and lies 20 miles west of Mainland Shetland.

Fetlar

Fetlar, south of Unst and east of Yell, is the fourth largest island in Shetland and is known as the ‘Garden of Shetland’.

Bressay and Noss

Bressay lies east of Lerwick and is just a short ferry trip, while Noss is off the east coast of Bressay and is a paradise for nesting birds.

Papa Stour

Papa Stour is a small rugged island off the west coast of Mainland Shetland and is popular with walkers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The Out Skerries

The Out Skerries are three tiny islands 4 miles off Whalsay and are Shetland’s most easterly outpost.

Explore more corners of Shetland

Exploring 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.

Jarlshof Prehistoic and Norse Settlement

Discover Shetland's Best Attractions and Experiences

Shetland’s geological wonders are all around, you just have to know where to look. From walking trails and tours, to guided excursions and incredible coastal formations, there’s plenty to explore.

Sustainable Local Businesses

These Green Tourism businesses are assessed on everything from energy efficiency to biodiversity and awarded bronze, silver or gold. Explore places to stay and fascinating attractions to explore.

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, six miles outside Lerwick.

Find travel information for getting to Shetland

Check the Shetland Travel Information website for travel within the islands