Shetland Attractions

Shetland as a whole has so much to offer visitors with its breathtaking scenery, undisturbed wildlife and timeless culture. We have a great selection of visitor attractions throughout the islands, including Noss Nature Reserve (which can be seen from The Decca), Old Scatness Broch Excavations, Bonhoga Gallery, community history museums...to name only a few. Then of course there is our new custom built waterfront museum which is open from May 2007.

In Lerwick we have an impressive swimming pool and sports complex and there are several modern sports centres and swimming pools throughout Shetland.

If you prefer your holiday to be more laid back you can sit back and relax in one of the town’s cosy café’s, bars or restaurants or browse the local shops.

There is an excellent coast line walk all around Lerwick, which can easily start from the top of Staney Hill (if you are staying at The Decca), where view of Lerwick is great (the page header in our website!), and finish off in the town at a cafe or bar.

Each property has maps and excellent up-to-date information on where to go, what to see, where to eat etc, helping you to make the most of your time in Shetland.

For more information about what to do in Shetland visit some the web links in our Links page.

Walking/Hiking

Shetland’s open hills and panoramic views make it a fantastic destination for walking and hiking.

Things For Bairns To Do

The beaches are great, sandy ones and stoney ones. If your going to a stoney beach then take your rubber boots and a big bucket so you can go exploring the wild life in the rock pools.

Throughout Shetland are localised playing parks, each one slightly different. This is a great way to take the children for a run in the car, so that you can sight see, and they can get out and stretch there legs every now and then, and then everyone is happy.

On a wet day our many swimming pools offer a great pastime. At the Clickimin Leisure complex there are also many dry sport facilities available, to try out.

Archaeology

Shetland history is both rich and diverse. Lying at the cross roads of the North Atlantic, Shetland has been visited by many cultures throughout its history nearly all of whom have left their mark on our lands. Whether it be the ancient setlements of Jarlshof or Mousa Broch or the live dig at Scatness there is plenty to intrigue.

Fishing (both sea and loch)

Deserted lochs and a pristine ocean provide for perfect fishing. Whether you prefer deep sea angling or fly fishing for trout you’ll find your own little spot of paradise in Shetland. See the local tourist office’s Trout Fishing Leaflet

Wildlife

Grey Seal
Shetland has an abundance of wildlife. The independent traveller may prefer to explore the island of Mousa or Hermaness Nature Reserve. There are also fantastic boat trips around the island of Noss with local wildlife expert Jonathan Wills.
Nature in Shetland

Cycling (both on and off road)

An undulating landscape and quiet country roads allow the cyclist to explore Shetland in peace and safety. What is more, in the summer daylight extends round the clock allowing cyclists to take advantage of the conditions to cycle where they want when they want.

Diving

Be it Spanish galleons or the vast kelp forests divers in Shetland are in for a treat. Our clean coast line means that divers unhindered by low visibility or poluted waters when diving round Shetland

Golf

Shetland has 4 golf courses of various sizes and standards, and a golf range. The largest (18 hole) golf course is just 3 miles from the Decca...only over the hill! www.shetlandgolfclub.co.uk