Shetland.org

New study opportunities in Shetland's marine sector

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:10:29 +0100

In Shetland, the sea has always shaped the way people live and work. It feeds communities, drives the economy and inspires generations to build careers connected to the water. Now, a new wave of study opportunities is opening up, giving people the chance to turn that connection into something more.

Deckhand course offers new route into fishing

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:56:46 +0100

A new training course at UHI Shetland is offering young people an opportunity to take their first steps into the fishing industry.

How Shetland agriculture continues to thrive

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:32:10 +0100

In Shetland, modern agriculture lives alongside traditional crofting, sustaining a network of suppliers, skilled workers, and guardians of the rural landscape.

Shetland cruise industry set for another bumper year

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 14:55:50 +0100

Shetland is set to welcome around 130,000 cruise passengers in 2026, with over 100 cruise ships visiting Lerwick Harbour between spring and autumn.

Shetland in 7 fiddle tunes: A musical journey across the islands

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:23:00 +0100

Deeply rooted in place and tradition, Shetland fiddle music has long been one of the islands’ most distinctive cultural expressions – and for many visitors, it is a powerful reason to visit the islands.

Outwith: Valda, MacDiarmid and Whalsay

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 22:47:00 +0100

This absorbing new exhibition at the Shetland Museum and Archives in Lerwick illuminates the lives of the Scottish poet, essayist and journalist Christopher Murray Grieve – pen-name Hugh MacDiarmid – and his wife Valda during the nine years that they lived in Whalsay…

From Navy to North Yell: A nurse's journey home

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:09:15 +0100

NHS Shetland health visitor Alice Jamieson was born in the islands, left to join the Royal Navy, where she served for 11 years as a military nurse before choosing to come home to Yell.

Full circle: Catriona Macdonald returns, with a new mission

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 23:29:00 +0000

Catriona Macdonald, the celebrated Shetland fiddler, fiddle teacher and composer who has performed all over the world, has come home to Shetland. Towards the end of 2025, she left her professorial role at Newcastle University to become Director of Creativity and Impact at Shetland Arts in Lerwick.

Why Shetlanders love spring

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:35:00 +0000

The early signs of spring start arriving in Shetland in March, along with noticeably longer days and the promise of warmer days. Catherine Munro hears several Shetlanders’ reflections on the promise that this time of year holds for them.

Shetland Folk Festival: A visitor's Q&A

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:51:24 +0000

If you’re visiting Shetland in spring, the Shetland Folk Festival is one of the most exciting times to be here. Held each year across the islands, it’s a lively celebration of folk and traditional music that brings together local musicians and performers from around the world.

5 birds to look out for in Shetland in spring

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:50:00 +0000

Each spring, Shetland becomes a destination for migratory birds returning from distant wintering grounds. With abundant food in surrounding waters and wide, undisturbed breeding habitats, the islands attract seabirds, waders and small migrants that travel thousands of miles to nest here.

Finding purpose in children’s social care

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:31:35 +0000

Working in the Short Breaks for Children team in Shetland is a hugely rewarding job embedded in the community, which makes a real difference to the young people the service supports.

Celebrating Shetland's successful women

Sat, 07 Mar 2026 22:04:00 +0000

In this post, we're celebrating the remarkable women shaping Shetland's future: in boardrooms, council chambers, and businesses across the islands.

Strongest brothers discover fire, folklore and community spirit

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 15:19:00 +0000

Scotland’s strongest brothers, Luke and Tom Stoltman, travelled north to Shetland to witness the Up Helly Aa fire festival for themselves. They discovered the event is about much more than Vikings, flaming torches, and celebration. Up Helly Aa is underpinned by Shetland’s strong community spirit.

New reasons to visit Shetland in 2026

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:27:00 +0000

Shetland has never been short of reasons to get outside and explore, but 2026 is adding some particularly good new ones. From the depths of the voes to fine dining straight from the land, here’s a flavour of what’s happening in 2026. And trust us, this is just the start.

Shetland dolphin watchers help conservation efforts

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 12:45:00 +0000

UHI Shetland and the Whale and Dolphin Conservation called on the public to share photos of Risso’s dolphins. Catherine Munro ventured out in the hope of spotting one of the beautiful marine mammals.

Run, Rabbit Run! The arrival of the Second World War in Shetland

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 17:24:00 +0000

Shetland's fascinating history is celebrated, from the Iron Age through to the modern era, via the Vikings. What is less well-known is that the first bombs to fall on British soil landed in Shetland's North Mainland in the mid-20th century.

Teaching at the edge of the world: life as a teacher in Fair Isle

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:33:00 +0000

Fair Isle is best known for its rugged beauty, world-renowned birdlife, and iconic knitwear, but it’s also home to one of the UK’s most geographically remote primary schools.

A Viking's view: what is it like being in an Up Helly Aa Jarl's Squad?

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:58:00 +0000

Regular contributor Ryan Nicolson was part of the Up Helly Aa Jarl's Squad in 2026, led by his father, Guizer Jarl Lynden Nicolson. Ryan offers an insider's insight into what it is like to be so involved in the festival.

5 walks in Viking footsteps

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 19:44:00 +0000

If you dream of walking in Viking footsteps, Shetland rivals anywhere in the world. Here are 5 favourite walks to explore Viking heritage in the islands.

Why spring is the best-kept secret in Shetland

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 10:54:00 +0000

Five reasons why this often-overlooked season is one of the best times to experience Shetland.

Up Helly Aa 2026 – fire, folklore and a night to remember

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 10:42:00 +0000

Lerwick came alive once again as Up Helly Aa lit up the town with fire, music and tradition.

Junior Up Helly Aa celebrates 70 years

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 16:53:00 +0000

The first Junior Up Helly Aa was held in 1956. Seventy years later, Junior Jarl Frankie Walterson is feeling excited about the big day along with his relatives Brydon and Bryan Peterson, who were Junior Jarls in 1966 and 1990 respectively.

What happens on Lerwick Up Helly Aa day?

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Lerwick’s spectacular Up Helly Aa celebration is the largest of Shetland’s winter fire festivals featuring Vikings, flaming torches and all-night partying. Here we explain what visitors should expect on a day full of drama, fun and tradition.

Art exhibition celebrates Shetland's magnetic pull

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:53:00 +0000

The Scottish Gallery in Edinburgh places The Northern Isles at centre stage for its latest exhibition featuring the work of several artists and makers inspired by the archipelagos of Orkney and Shetland.

Up Helly Aa: The Feast, The Dance, The Song

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 13:56:00 +0000

Every Shetland fire festival is different, but the songs heard at each of them are the same – The Up Helly Aa Song, The Galley Song, and, The Norseman's Home.

Highlights from around Shetland in 2025

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:36:00 +0000

As 2025 comes to a close, we’re celebrating a year rich with community spirit and creativity. From new sporting successes and musical milestones to creative collaboration, these stories reflect the vibrancy and variety of life across the Isles.

Make Your Move to Shetland 2026

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Make Your Move to Shetland in 2026 and make the UK's most northerly islands community part of your life's adventure.

Christmas film: Da Elves an da Oo-makker

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 10:10:00 +0000

Promote Shetland worked with Shetland ForWirds and ALICE Theatre Project to create “A woolly wye o tellin…The Elves and the Shoemaker”, a Shetland retelling of the classic tale from The Brothers Grimm.

Sullom Voe, at 50, looks to the future

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:04:00 +0000

When work began on the construction of the Sullom Voe oil terminal in 1975, few if any of those who watched the first peat being stripped would have imagined that, fifty years later, it would still be handling oil.

New pitch, same bold ambition

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:25:00 +0000

The latest addition to Shetland's excellent sports facilities is a synthetic all-weather pitch in the heart of Lerwick, highlighting the islands' sporting ambitions as well as an exceptional place to build a balanced life.

Shetland’s year in events: always a good time to visit

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:13:00 +0000

Each year, Shetland plays host to a wide range of events and festivals. From our world-famous fire festivals up and down the islands to the most northerly food and craft festivals in the UK. These events stretch from January into December, meaning it is always a good time to visit Shetland.

Shetland winter words

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:38:00 +0000

There is something special about winter in Shetland, and there are many dialect words inspired by the season.

A Fair Isle jumper is for life, not just for Christmas

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 18:25:00 +0000

In Shetland, our famous knitwear and Fair Isle jumpers are made to last, sometimes being handed down through the generations. We're celebrating the high-quality, long-lasting ganseys and searching for your stories of knitted heirlooms.

Shetland cruise sector growth continues

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 15:42:28 +0000

Shetland’s tourism industry is being buoyed by the increasing success of the cruise sector, which brings well over 100 vessels to Lerwick’s shores every single year.

What’s on this December in Shetland

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 12:07:46 +0000

Party season arrives in Shetland in December, with music, feasting, and celebrations as islanders get ready for Christmas and the New Year. It’s a busy month, and there’s something for everyone.

Innovation and quality: Why fish processing is big business in Shetland

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 13:55:00 +0000

The continued success of Shetland’s fishing industry does not rely just on the number of vessels heading out to sea every day before landing their catches in the islands. Back onshore, several enterprising firms have built their businesses on the back of the thriving fishing industry.

Reasons to celebrate: Shetland business triumphs

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 12:06:00 +0000

When it comes to entrepreneurial spirit, Shetland has it in spades. Across these islands, businesses in varied sectors are thriving, innovating, and earning recognition that reaches far beyond our shores.

Ferries to Shetland – have your say

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 13:42:00 +0000

The Northern Isles Ferries Service is a vital part of life in the islands, carrying passengers, vehicles and goods between Shetland and the Scottish Mainland every day. You can now share your experiences of using the ferries and your views on what the future of the service should look like.

Flight: a memorable journey through the life and work of Paul Bloomer

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:32:00 +0000

In his retrospective exhibition in Lerwick, entitled ‘Flight’, Paul Bloomer presents a wide-ranging, powerful and thought-provoking collection of paintings and drawings drawn from 25 creative years.

Edge of the Fire - a Bonfire Night cocktail

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:29:00 +0000

To celebrate Bonfire Night, why not try this special whisky cocktail, complete with its own warming flavour to add spark to your celebrations?

Favourite Shetland storm-watching spots

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:26:09 +0000

Shetland is shaped by the weather, including winter storms that bring impressively huge swells, roaring winds, and a sense of excitement and invigoration. Catherine Munro shares some of her favourite spots to wrap up warm and enjoy the natural spectacle.

Shetland's First World War heritage sites

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 13:29:00 +0000

Shetland's location at the edge of the North Sea meant the islands were strategically crucial before, during, and after the Great War. Local historian Jon Sandison shares his research on 10 sites.

Shetland lamb and neep moussaka

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:14:18 +0000

This delicious winter warmer recipe uses Shetland lamb and neeps (or swede) to create a moussaka-style dish packed with the flavour of the islands.

Enterprising communities: Hoswick

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0100

The small community of Hoswick in Shetland's South Mainland shows how a strong sense of community and an enterprising spirit can combine to make a place more than the sum of its parts. Genevieve White discovers more...

7 things to see and do in Fair Isle

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 16:17:00 +0100

Tucked between Orkney and mainland Shetland, Fair Isle is the most geographically remote inhabited island in the UK - and there is plenty to see and do for anyone who makes the journey.

Visitors flock back to Fair Isle Bird Observatory

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 16:09:00 +0100

Fair Isle Bird Observatory was established in 1948, and since then there have been five iterations of the Observatory building. The latest was lost to a fire in March 2019, and after six years and a challenging rebuild, the new Observatory building welcomed its first guests in May 2025.

What’s on this October in Shetland

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:30:00 +0100

October in Shetland brings crisp air, shorter days, and a full calendar of things to see and do. Whether you're a visitor soaking up the islands' culture or a local looking for something new, there’s plenty happening across Shetland this month.

Shetland's autumn bird migration

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:37:00 +0100

Shetland is an exceptional year-round destination for birdwatching, attracting people from far and wide to experience the ornithology. During September and October, the autumn migration leads to a peak in the number of rarities spotted in the islands.

Stars, planets and mirrie dancers

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:05:00 +0100

October ushers in a period of change in Shetland. Autumn turns into winter and the clocks go back, signifying the return of long winter nights. This is the time to embrace the darkness, and those nights when the skies feel huge and every star stands out.

Shetland: where sport is for everyone

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:13:06 +0100

Sport is an important part of life in Shetland. Excellent facilities, including leisure centres, all-weather and grass pitches, and a supportive network of clubs stretch across the islands, making sport accessible for all.

Enterprising communities: Bigton

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 13:12:00 +0100

From Kirk to Community Hub... Genevieve White tells the story of Bigton's Hymhus and how a can-do attitude and enterprising spirit make for an energetic and lively community in Shetland's South Mainland.

Butchers, bakers, and candlestick makers!

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 14:41:00 +0100

At the heart of Shetland's food and drink scene is a desire to use as much high-quality local produce as possible. This is reflected in the network of excellent butchers and bakers across the islands. We also have candlestick makers too...

Exhibition beautifully evokes crofting heritage and memory

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:40:00 +0100

In a remarkable exhibition in Lerwick, inspired by Shetland’s crofting heritage, artist Helen E Acklam explores the stories of Shetland’s women and the crofting communities they helped sustain. The works in Mootie’s Hoos come in many different forms and use a range of materials.

The story of Shetland wool

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 15:57:00 +0100

There are few materials more closely woven into the fabric of a place than Shetland wool. From hill crofts to catwalks, this fine, resilient fibre has told the story of an island and its people for generations. But what is it that makes Shetland wool so special?

Leading the way: Preparing to enter the space industry

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 13:57:00 +0100

SaxaVord Spaceport in Unst is preparing for the UK's first vertical rocket launch, carrying satellites into orbit. Chief executive Scott Hammond explains how Shetland's experienced supply chain, engineering and construction industries played a key role getting to this stage.

More than wool: 7 ways to weave yourself into Shetland life

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 17:15:11 +0100

Shetland Wool Week is one of the most popular and busiest of the islands' annual festivals, attracting global visitors to celebrate the textile industry, native sheep and the community. Apart from the wool-themed events, there is much more to see and do around Shetland.

Community, creativity and collaboration in Unst

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:39:58 +0100

With a proactive community partnership, a charity inspired by ever-changing skies, and a vibrant festival, Unst is a shining example of a vibrant and well-connected island community.

Wilderness Family: returning to Shetland

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:58:00 +0100

Christian Lewis visited Shetland in 2019 as part of an ambitious journey to walk the UK coastline, raising funds for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. He fell in love with the islands and returned in 2025 with his fiancée, Kate, and son, Magnus.

Wilderness Family: Wild nature and fascinating geology

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:27:00 +0100

Shetland's dramatic and fascinating geology and the amazing wildlife that it attracts inspired Christian Lewis and Kate Barron. Read on to discover why Chris chose to focus on geology for the second episode in the Wilderness Family's documentary series.

Wilderness Family: Discovering Whalsay and Skerries

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:20:00 +0100

Chris Lewis and the Wilderness Family venture to Whalsay and Skerries to the east of Shetland, as their adventures in the islands near the end.

Dark skies shine: Stargazing and skywatching in Shetland

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 14:19:19 +0100

Dark sky tourism, sometimes known as ‘noctourism’, is increasingly popular. Away from the mainland and the glow of large conurbations, Shetland is an exceptional place for skywatching and stargazing.

Why Shetland is a bucket list destination for fly fishing

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 11:15:00 +0100

Angling journalist Fin Wilson and photographer Euan Myles return to Shetland to fish for trout in spectacular lochs around the islands. Fin's fascinating account of the visit helps explain why the islands are so alluring for anglers.

Fact file: Trout fishing in Shetland

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 10:38:00 +0100

The trout season in Shetland runs from March 15 to October 6, and sea trout from February 25 to October 31. Permits cost just £30 and allow anglers to fish on all the lochs for the entire season. Juniors (under 16) go free.

Things to do on a September visit to Shetland

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:23:00 +0100

Shetland is never crowded, but if you’ve dreamed of visiting outside the busier summer season, September is the perfect time to discover our rugged and beautiful islands.

Enterprising communities: North Yell

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 18:13:00 +0100

Living well in North Yell – the story of a connected, creative island life where a community-owned wind farm generates income for reinvesting locally.

Shetland: Awesome for paddle boarding

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 12:58:33 +0100

The range of spectacular cliffs, caves, coves, and crannies makes Shetland a stunning place to explore on a stand-up paddle board. And the 'complete escape' ensures the adventure is like 'nothing on the mainland'.

7 guidebooks to help plan your visit to Shetland

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 15:56:00 +0100

When planning a visit to Shetland, a guidebook is an invaluable resource, along with local leaflets and online information. Here we look at a selection of books to help you make the most of a trip to Shetland.

Where to eat in Shetland

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 14:13:28 +0100

A handy new 'Where to Eat' guide featuring restaurants, bars, takeaways, cafes, and Shetland's famous cake fridges has been launched.

Shetland otter family stars in BBC documentary

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:14:05 +0100

Shetland otters are among the natural stars of a new BBC wildlife documentary, narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

Country shows: a perfect Shetland day out

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:13:00 +0100

For many around Shetland, their local show is a favourite part of the summer. Country shows take place around the islands between August and September, providing an excellent day out for locals and visitors.

Still growing: Shetland's gardening success story

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:48:00 +0100

From Greenland to the Falkland Islands, an invention dreamed up in Shetland helps gardeners in the windiest of places grow a surprising array of crops. Welcome to the Polycrub story.

New decommissioning partnership for Shetland

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 17:01:00 +0100

Shetland’s potential as a future hub for the offshore decommissioning industry has been further boosted by the news a leading demolition and dismantling firm will set up base in Lerwick.

Beyond the classroom: How Shetland is keeping young talent at home

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 11:58:00 +0100

A groundbreaking schools collaboration programme now allows senior students to try their hands at vocational courses while still at school, and their approach has earned national recognition.

Shetland's world leading fishing industry

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 13:59:26 +0100

Shetland's location, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the North Sea, means the waters surrounding the islands are home to some of the richest fishing grounds in the world. A successful fishing industry has grown over centuries and continues to be key part of the local economy.

A travel blogger's tips for a summer trip to Shetland

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:40:00 +0100

In June, travel blogger and podcast host Kathi Kamleitner made her way to Shetland in hopes of experiencing the Simmer Dim, a truly Shetland experience. In mid-June, Shetlanders experience up to 19 hours of daylight a day, about two more hours of daylight than London.

Museum exhibition features exquisite art by Ron Sandford

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 12:53:00 +0100

The work of Ron Sandford, an artist who moved to Shetland in 2002, forms the latest exhibition at Da Gadderie, the gallery in the Shetland Museum and Archives. Spirit of Places brings together over 60 original pieces. They’re largely pen, ink and watercolour but there are also striking linocuts.

Ann Cleeves – 20 years of Jimmy Perez

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 17:52:00 +0100

Ann Cleeves' crime drama series featuring DI Jimmy Perez, which later became the BBC show 'Shetland' was inspired in part by the author's time working in Fair Isle (pictured above). Here she reflects on her time in the islands and 20 years of the much-loved character.

Variety, energy, and connections: Why Emma swapped the city for Shetland

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:45:00 +0100

MRI radiographer Emma Caffery swapped a hectic city hospital for the Gilbert Bain in Lerwick, where she discovered a varied workload, forged stronger connections with patients, and found a new hobby. She explains how she settled into life in Shetland.

Lerwick Harbour dredging begins

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 15:57:58 +0100

A new two-phase scheme to deepen sections of Lerwick Harbour will enhance the port's ability to support various sectors, including fishing, oil and gas, renewables, and the cruise industry.

Lee Child announced as first headliner for Shetland Noir 2026

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 15:52:00 +0100

Shetland Noir, the islands’ renowned crime fiction festival, will return from 11th to 14th June 2026.

Career moves: the folklore-inspired heritage apprentice

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:25:00 +0100

Jordan Clark works as a collections assistant at Shetland Museum and Archives, where he completed a Modern Apprenticeship and studying for a degree. It's a role that feeds his passion for Shetland heritage, folklore, and archaeology.

From ponies to parkruns: embracing life in Shetland

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 14:23:00 +0100

Eric Kilonzi moved to Shetland to take up a post as staff nurse at Gilbert Bain Hospital. He shares his experience of moving from Kenya to Shetland and updates us on how he's settling in.

New books explore language and place-names

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:26:00 +0100

For a community of its size, Shetland’s bookshelf is astonishingly extensive and embraces fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Two books just published focus on language. One is a comprehensive guide to Shaetlan, the first of its kind; the other surveys the place-names of the island of Papa Stour.

Exploring Burra's coastline

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 15:28:34 +0100

Summer is the perfect time to explore Shetland, with landscapes filled with flowers and the long daylight hours allowing plenty of evening adventures. This walk in Burra includes archaeology, wildlife spotting and spectacular views.

Business and investment opportunities

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 12:33:00 +0100

Shetland’s enterprising community reflects the varied businesses in the isles, from major industries including fishing, aquaculture, and clean energy, through to small enterprises and craft industries.

How Shetland's energy sector is transforming

Fri, 30 May 2025 12:55:00 +0100

Shetland has been a vital energy hub for decades, playing a leading role in developing Scotland’s offshore oil and gas industry. As the world transitions to clean energy, the islands are set to make a significant contribution to the new generation of energy solutions.

Graduate roles in Shetland – the housing services officer

Wed, 28 May 2025 16:29:31 +0100

After graduating from Aberdeen University with a degree in Politics and International Relations, Sam Cowan was driven to find a rewarding career where he could make a difference.

10 things to see and do on the Westside of Shetland

Wed, 28 May 2025 09:18:00 +0100

Stretching from the hills of Weisdale to the dramatic cliffs of Sandness, Shetland’s Westside is a place where nature, heritage, and community come together in quietly impressive ways.

Sport in Shetland

Mon, 26 May 2025 17:03:00 +0100

With eight leisure centres, well-maintained grass pitches, several all-weather surfaces, and a 400m athletics track, Shetland is an exceptional place to be if you're interested in sports and fitness.

Shetland food and drink production

Fri, 23 May 2025 13:40:00 +0100

At 60º North, with nowhere more than three miles from the sea, there can be little doubt that producing land-based food in Shetland presents challenges.

A spring walk to Burland Broch

Wed, 14 May 2025 19:23:35 +0100

Spring evenings are a perfect time to enjoy a walk. As the daylight lingers a little longer each evening, there are many more opportunities to explore Shetland’s incredible places.

Life in Shetland: the music-loving engineering apprentice

Tue, 13 May 2025 13:19:00 +0100

Ewan Hutcheson is engineering a bright future in Shetland by following a Graduate Apprenticeship with Malakoff Limited, earning a wage and getting real experience while getting his qualifications.

Shetland Folk Festival 2025 – a 'superb year'

Thu, 08 May 2025 09:16:00 +0100

Shetland hosted another memorable folk festival, the 43rd in the event's incredible history. Louise Jamieson, one of the volunteer committee that helps organise the world-renowned festival reflects on a brilliant few days of music, friendship, and celebration.

Convoy commemorates Shetland Bus contribution to Victory in Europe

Tue, 06 May 2025 17:19:00 +0100

During many conflicts, Shetland occupied a strategic position between the North Atlantic and the North Sea.

Historic 'Swan' celebrates 125 years

Tue, 06 May 2025 11:39:00 +0100

It’s no surprise that Shetland’s history and economy are intimately linked to the sea and to fishing. Since the first settlers arrived, the prolific fishing grounds around our coasts have been a source of food and the main basis for trade.

Spring babies

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:56:19 +0100

April and May in Shetland are when most lambs and pony foals are born. Not only are they exceptionally cute, but their birth keeps the islands' crofting heritage alive.

Visiting Shetland in 2025

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:11:46 +0100

Check out our inspirational ideas for things to do and places to see when visiting Shetland in 2025 and experience the best culture, heritage, wildlife, food and drink, and stunning natural scenery.

The sights and sounds of spring

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 08:54:23 +0100

Spring in Shetland is a favourite time of year for many as the cliffs, coastlines, fields and moors come alive with the sound of birdsong and flowers begin blooming. RSPB Shetland's Helen Moncrieff describes the sights and sounds.

Boppapalooza returns this May

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 10:29:00 +0100

A one-day, multi-venue musical extravaganza run by music lovers, for music lovers – Boppapalooza is back bigger than ever for its third run this May.

Exploring Shetland's World War Two heritage

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 17:46:00 +0100

Shetland's geographical location led to the islands playing a crucial strategic role in World War Two and defending the 'Northern Front'. Many of the archaeological sites connected to that history remain visible and are worth exploring.

Inspired by literature: Peerie Ooricks bring Shetland folklore to life

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 17:02:43 +0100

Some Shetland folklore characters are familiar, like trows (mischievous fairies) and nyuggles (the legendary water horses). But have you encountered any Ooricks? The Ooricks are little folk, created by artist Ann Marie Anderson who has also written several books about their adventures.

Inspired by literature: exploring Lerwick's lanes and lodberries

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 15:47:00 +0100

Lerwick has been a thriving harbour town for centuries, with maritime trade playing a crucial role in the history of Shetland's capital and its development. Inspired by one of her favourite books, Catherine Munro explores the historic old town.

Marian Armitage's huffsie recipe

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 15:32:00 +0100

If you live in Whalsay then this type of cake is a huffsie; in the Ness, South Mainland - then a similar mixture is called a doofie.

7 outdoor activities to enjoy in Shetland in spring

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:15:00 +0000

The Shetland spring is a season of remarkable transformation. After a winter spent enjoying creative pursuits and social gatherings, spring is a chance for islanders to embrace the great outdoors and all the natural environment has to offer.

Shetland mussels – a shellfish success story

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:25:24 +0000

Shellfish farming provides a low-impact, nutrient-packed, affordable, and delicious form of protein. Shetland leads the way, producing around 80% of the mussels grown in Scotland, worth almost £10 million annually.

Youngsters highlight things to do in 'Shetland for Bairns'

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:12:00 +0000

Shetland is full of fantastic places for children to explore, learn, and have fun. The recent film Shetland for Bairns 2, created by young people from Short Breaks Shetland, highlights some of their favourite spots in Lerwick.

7 reasons why Shetland captivates skywatchers

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:51:00 +0000

Located at the northernmost point of the United Kingdom, Shetland offers a uniquely captivating experience for sky enthusiasts. From the longest days of midsummer to the spectacular northern lights, here are seven reasons why Shetland should be on your sky tourism bucket list ...

Shetland engineering - deep experience, world-class expertise

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 13:12:00 +0000

With expertise developed over decades working with the oil and gas, fishing, clean energy industries and even the emerging space sector, combined with unrivalled local knowledge, Shetland engineering firms are looking forward to working on ‘new and exciting’ projects for many years to come.

Tradition and transformation: Cullivoe Up Helly Aa

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:17:00 +0000

The last Friday in February is always a red-letter day for the island of Yell, when the Cullivoe Up Helly Aa festival is celebrated. In 2025, for the first time, the Viking fire festival will be led by a female Guizer Jarl.

What to pack for Shetland: A guide for every season

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 11:30:00 +0000

Shetland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and the best way to prepare is by dressing for all seasons—no matter when you visit.

Make Your Move: The family who swapped Brunei for Shetland

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 18:00:00 +0000

If you're considering relocating to Shetland, it's unlikely your move will be as big as that made by the Chittick Family, who swapped life in the Asian coastal country of Brunei to settle in Shetland.

Shetland captured in fascinating and diverse photographic exhibition

Sun, 16 Feb 2025 13:33:00 +0000

Dramatic landscapes, beguiling seascapes, impressive wildlife and infinite variations in weather and light: Shetland has all the ingredients for wonderful photography.

Shetland music events in 2025

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 18:05:58 +0000

Shetland’s music has a global reputation and a proud history. The music scene continues to thrive, with opportunities to watch performances year-round. Here are some of the festivals, concerts and sessions to enjoy in 2025.

Shetland inspired Valentine's menu

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 15:15:00 +0000

It’s always a good time to enjoy Shetland's excellent food and drink. But as it’s Valentine’s Day this month, we’ve created a menu with a choice of delicious dishes to make a stunning meal for two (whatever the occasion!)

What is it like watching Up Helly Aa with kids?

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 14:27:34 +0000

Each of Shetland's Up Helly Aa fire festivals includes a spectacular torchlit procession. They are friendly events and especially exciting for children and families who join the crowds lining the procession route. Catherine Munro and her boys enjoy the view at Lerwick Up Helly Aa.

Up Helly Aa 2025: A fiery spectacle worth experiencing

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 14:31:00 +0000

For those fascinated by history, tradition and immersive celebrations, Lerwick Up Helly Aa offers an unparalleled experience.

Bringing Chinese traditions to Shetland

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 13:01:00 +0000

We asked Oi Lin Wong (known as Sophie in Shetland) to write a recipe that brought together the best of Shetland produce with Chinese cuisine. She delivered with this grilled salmon with black bean sauce. Get the recipe below!

A day in the life of an Up Helly Aa Guizer Jarl

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 11:22:00 +0000

It is an honour and privilege to be selected as the Guizer Jarl to lead one of Shetland's Up Helly Aa fire festivals. This is how it feels to be Chief Viking for a day...

Viking Islands: Shetland's Norse heritage

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 16:26:05 +0000

Shetland is sometimes called the Viking Isles because of the rich Norse heritage here. And you might be surprised at just how often you can encounter Vikings in the islands today.

Junior Up Helly Aa – a festival for all

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 15:17:00 +0000

On the same day as Lerwick's famous fire festival a Junior Up Helly Aa is held with it's own Jarl's Squad of Vikings and a torchlit procession. Among those involved is a squad of youngsters from Anderson High School's Additional Support Needs Department.

Visitors invited to enjoy a Taste of Shetland

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 16:10:23 +0000

Shetland’s excellent food and drink sector is working together to offer an exciting new culinary tour of the islands. Ryan Nicolson gets a taste of what’s to come.

5 reasons Shetland is the ultimate winter escape during fire festival season

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 18:00:51 +0000

While the Up Helly Aa fire festivals might be the headline act of Shetland winters, there are countless other reasons to embrace the islands for a winter escape.

Your Up Helly Aa questions answered

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 16:41:00 +0000

If you'd like to witness an Up Helly Aa in Shetland for yourself, we've compiled a list of useful FAQs to help you plan your visit.

25 reasons to move to Shetland

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 11:18:00 +0000

Why not make this the year you move to Shetland? With thriving communities, life-changing career opportunities, and an array of fantastic festivals and activities, the islands are a fantastic place to call home. Here are 25 compelling reasons to consider a move...

Using Shetland dialect in education

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 21:32:00 +0000

Bruce Eunson talks about supporting local schools in dialect projects, accumulating in Cunningsburgh Primary School recording their very own 12 Days of Christmas, Shetland dialect version.

Midwinter swimming in Shetland

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 12:26:00 +0000

At the winter solstice in Shetland, we have less than six hours of daylight – in contrast to the long days of simmer dim when it barely gets dark.

Five Shetland knitters and their favourite books

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:21:00 +0000

When a Shetland knitter doesn’t have their hands full with yarn and needles, they’re likely seeking inspiration for their next big textile project. Luckily, there are many informative books about Shetland knitting. We asked five local textile experts to name their one go-to publication.

Shetland's thriving arts and crafts culture

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 14:38:00 +0000

Shetland’s arts and crafts culture blends centuries-old traditions with modern creativity, from Fair Isle knitting to innovative design. Inspired by the islands’ natural beauty, local artisans create unique works celebrated worldwide.

Embracing the UK's shortest day

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 15:43:00 +0000

Situated at 60º North, Shetland enjoys the UK’s shortest day at the winter solstice, with just six hours of daylight. Far from being a time to hunker down, it’s one of the busiest times of year for socialising, enjoying excellent Shetland food and drink, and embracing the season.

Whalsay Golf Course is 'best in the world'

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:22:00 +0000

Golfing YouTuber Liam Harrison has published a new film in which he names Whalsay Golf Course as the “best in the world”. Liam runs the Golf Mates YouTube channel, which has 225,000 subscribers, and visited Whalsay in September as part of a visit to Shetland and Orkney.

Shetland's construction industry – building careers, futures and legacies

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 14:50:47 +0000

The construction industry in Shetland boasts a diversity of skills and experience, having helped build everything from award-winning social housing schemes to nationally significant energy infrastructure and even a spaceport. Ryan Nicolson considers the industry’s future.

Two exciting roles as Fair Isle Bird Observatory prepares for reopening

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 17:20:00 +0000

Anticipation is building as a new “£10 million hotel” in one of the world’s most famous birdwatching locations nears completion. Fair Isle Bird Observatory is recruiting for the rare opportunity to join its permanent staff team.

Shetland Christmas traditions

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 12:31:00 +0000

As the festive season approaches, Alastair Hamilton explores Christmas traditions from Shetland's past, highlighting how many continue to resonate and thrive across the isles today.

Recipe: Cullen Skink

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 15:26:00 +0000

Looking for a hearty Shetland recipe to warm you up? Look no further than this classic Cullen Skink from Shetland Food and Drink. Perfect for chilly evenings, this creamy smoked haddock soup brings a taste of tradition straight to your table.

Exploring Shetland archaeology: Ness of Burgi

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 12:15:00 +0000

History whispers through Shetland's windswept landscapes, where you can connect with the past and explore remarkable archaeology. The trek to Ness of Burgi is worth the effort to experience a lesser-known site.

Billy & Molly: A Shetland tale of love, loss and otters

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 11:13:00 +0000

Shetland is renowned for its amazing natural landscape and wildlife. Yet the award-winning documentary, Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story, shares a tale that goes beyond most naturalists’ wildest dreams.

Shetland's autumnal glow, spectacular waves and woodland walks

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:45:27 +0000

Light and colour tell the story of Shetland’s changing season. The intense clarity of summer light is slowly replaced with gold as the sun lingers closer to the horizon, gilding the landscape, and deepening and intensifying shadows.

Essential Shetland wartime reads

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 09:32:00 +0000

Historian Jon Sandison shares a selection of books highlighting the impact of the two world wars on Shetland and its people.

Football in Shetland

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 14:17:43 +0000

Football is the most popular team sport in Shetland. With excellent pitches, high-quality coaches, senior and junior leagues and county representative teams for men and women, it is easy to understand why.

Business in Shetland Q&A - Phoenix Decom

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 10:39:00 +0000

Phoenix Decom is headquartered in Aberdeen but has a base in Shetland operating from Lerwick Harbour and decommissioning North Sea infrastructure. Managing director Craig Smith explains why investing in Shetland was the right decision and why there is more potential work to come.

Shetland: Your Essential Travel Guide, by Laurie Goodlad

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 13:05:00 +0000

Over past decades, travellers to Shetland have had the choice of several guidebooks. Some of these have included chapters about Shetland as part of volumes on Scotland, or the Highlands and Islands, and – inevitably – the amount of space that can be allocated to Shetland is very limited.

Shetland knitting is the star in Chris Morphet's memorable photographic exhibition

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 13:36:00 +0000

A new exhibition, “Allover”, at the Shetland Museum and Archives, takes us back more than 50 years to June 1970, when a photographer, Chris Morphet, was inspired to visit Shetland by Fair Isle knitwear he’d seen in London.

Da Fateful Tale o Marion Pardone: Witchcraft in Shetland

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 14:12:00 +0000

Shetland fiddler and singer-songwriter Claire White launches a short film about Marion Pardone, a Shetland woman who was executed in 1644 under the Witchcraft Act of 1563.

The Shetlanders: the free-diving craftsman

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 09:57:27 +0100

From land-locked Hungary to exploring Shetland’s seas – Peter Szücs speaks about his fascinating journey and passion for exploring the islands on land and underwater.

Winning Shetland summer images shine

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 12:51:00 +0100

Congratulations to Stephen Johnson and Els Gielen who were selected as the winner and runner-up in Promote Shetland's summer photography competition.

Ready for a clean energy future

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:15:00 +0100

Shetland is ready to play a central role in a new clean energy boom, with the prospect of high-quality training, skilled jobs and fulfilling careers in the islands.

Unexpected adventures in Shetland

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 15:44:00 +0100

Take your time exploring Shetland, and you'll discover many delightful things to see and do. Aussie couple 'Travelling with Crowsfeet' enjoyed a five-week summer stay in the islands, and here they share their favourite 'unexpected adventures' in Shetland.

Pulling together: Shetland's rowing community

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 10:47:00 +0100

In Shetland, rowing is more than just a sport. It’s a community affair, with camaraderie, competition and a shared love of being out on the water. Local rowers made national headlines in September with phenomenal performances in London’s Great River Race.

Staying safe in the water

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 13:42:46 +0100

Many people enjoy leisure time exploring Shetland's seas, lochs and burns. It is important to remember to do so safely and responsibly. You'll discover lots of water safety advice in this blog post.

Pet-friendly Shetland

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 14:07:00 +0100

Planning on holidaying in Shetland with your four-legged friend? Here are some places that happily open their doors to animals…

Reasons you should visit Shetland in October

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 09:08:00 +0100

Excellent cultural festivals, impressive migratory bird and native wildlife spotting opportunities, and the thrill of wild coastal explorations, make October a great time to visit Shetland.

Summer Photography Competition top 10 - vote for your favourite

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 17:12:00 +0100

The top 10 in Promote Shetland’s 2024 Summer Photography Competition have been chosen. Vote for your favourite image that best represents Shetland in the summertime and help us decide the winner. This competition is now closed.

Exploring Fetlar

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 15:28:00 +0100

With so many wonderful places to visit in Shetland, there is always an opportunity to discover a new adventure. In this blog post, Catherine Munro explores the island of Fetlar.

Walking in Shetland - 5 fantastic routes

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:30:00 +0100

Those who enjoy walking in Shetland’s great outdoors know it’s tough to outshine the islands. With almost 1700 miles of dramatic coastline, unspoilt moors, and remarkable geographic landscapes, there’s a lot to explore.

Favourite things about Shetland: Seashore discoveries

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 18:18:06 +0100

With so much beautiful and rugged coastline to explore, Shetland is a fantastic place for adventures by the sea. Catherine Munro suggests some of her favourite beaches for exploring, spotting marine wildlife, and treasure hunting.

Things to do in Shetland this autumn

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 10:06:02 +0100

There’s no need to stay indoors as the season turns in Shetland. Opportunities abound for locals and visitors to experience some of the finest events and outdoor escapades this autumn.

The story of a Shetland summer

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 11:21:35 +0100

University student Rhona Clark returned to her Shetland home to spend the summer with friends and family. We hope you enjoy the story of how to fill your days and have a great summer in Shetland.

Significant investment and surge in harbour activity

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:59:45 +0100

The first six months of 2024 have been busy in Lerwick Harbour with increased marine traffic in the fishing, energy, and decommissioning sectors. Combined with proposed investments and capital projects, it points to a bright future for the commercial port.

5 routes that make Shetland a cyclist's paradise

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 16:42:00 +0100

Cycling in Shetland is an excellent way to explore and witness the best of the islands. Biking is a truly eco-friendly way to travel and it’s good for the body and the soul.

Rising North Festival: The power of community and music

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 10:56:00 +0100

Music is at the heart of Shetland’s community, and the Rising North Festival brought a fresh and exciting twist to the local music scene.

Hidden depths: Diving in Shetland

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:36:05 +0100

The landscape of Shetland is renowned for its wild and rugged beauty, but according to local diver Billy Arthur, there's an even more stunning world beneath the waves— an underwater realm just waiting to be explored. Discover why diving in Shetland is so spectacular.

Whalsay – a perfect summer adventure

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 12:39:00 +0100

Sunshine danced on the water and the boat’s wake glowed turquoise. The bairns jumped excitedly, trying to catch a glimpse of Whalsay as we approached the harbour.

Favourite things about Shetland: spotting puffins

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 18:30:22 +0100

Regular blog contributor Catherine Munro shares her favourite things to do in Shetland. Unsurprisingly, spotting puffins is on the list. Here she shares her experience as the little birds prepare to leave their clifftop burrows for another year.

A formidable hike: Ronas Hill and da Lang Ayre

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 17:51:00 +0100

This formidable 7-hour hike is not to be underestimated, but an unrivalled vista rewards those prepared to tackle the trail in this beautiful part of Shetland's North Mainland.

Shetland’s wild swimming boom

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 14:11:00 +0100

With gorgeous beaches and dramatic coastlines, Shetland has always been a great place for open-water swimming. The activity has soared in popularity recently with an active and growing community of sea swimmers.

Shetland Fiddle Week – music and friendship

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 16:27:00 +0100

Shetland Fiddle Week brings expert musicians together with enthusiasts from around the world to learn about and celebrate Shetland’s incredible musical heritage.

Favourite things about Shetland: exploring 'Smuggler's Cave'

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:37:00 +0100

Shetland is full of fascinating historical sites, many with interesting stories. One of the most curious is the Smuggler's Cave in Burra, where you can descend into the cave that is said to have been a secret route into the island.

How to spend a day in Lerwick

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 13:04:00 +0100

Lerwick is Shetland’s capital town offering many opportunities for beautiful walks, exploring fascinating historical attractions and enjoying fun family activities.

Sea Kayaking in Shetland – an expert's favourite locations

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:32:00 +0100

With an incredible coastline including vast caves, huge sea arches and internationally important seabird colonies, Shetland is an excellent place for kayaking. But don’t take our word for it … Doug Cooper from Scottish Sea Kayaking recently spent 3 weeks paddling in Shetland.

“Storm Pegs: A Life Made in Shetland” by Jen Hadfield: an extraordinary journey

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 16:17:00 +0100

Most books written about Shetland – and there are many – can be easily categorised: fiction, poetry, history, environment, culture, food, and so on. Storm Pegs, by Jen Hadfield, is not one of them. Jen’s memoir weaves all these traditional literary themes, and more, into one extraordinary whole.

Tall Ships Lerwick - reflections on a spectacular Shetland celebration

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 17:54:00 +0100

The summer of 2023 will long be remembered in Shetland as the year the spectacular International Tall Ships Races returned to Lerwick. One year on some of those involved reflect on the joyous occasion and what it means for Shetland.

Shetland's newest music festival: Rising North

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:20:00 +0100

Shetland is known around the world for its exceptionally talented musicians. A new festival will be launched in 2024 celebrating the diversity of contemporary talent across many genres.

20 things to do in Shetland when it's raining

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:45:00 +0100

Like the rest of the UK, the weather in Shetland can be unpredictable, and summer days don't always promise summer weather. But even when it's raining, Shetland is a beautiful and busy island with plenty to do.

Shetland through the lens: Locals share their 5 favourite spots

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 15:55:00 +0100

Shetland is every photographer's dream. Everywhere you go, you’re greeted by wide open skies, amazing landscapes, and a quality of light that you won't find anywhere else. The best part? This stunning scenery isn’t just in one place—it's all over the islands.

Voices of Shetland: stories from the 'Wondrous Isles'

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 12:57:32 +0100

Channel 5’s recent five-part series Shetland: Scotland's Wondrous Isles is more than just a documentary series – it's a celebration of Shetland’s dramatic beauty, the strength of community, and the people who call these islands home.

5 reasons to study in Shetland

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Studying in Shetland can be a wise choice, especially for those with roots in the islands, offering excellent opportunities to study a wide range of courses, develop rewarding careers and forge meaningful relationships with potential employers.

Junior Up Helly Aa: uniting generations

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 16:39:00 +0100

On Up Helly Aa day in Lerwick young people from across Shetland participate in the Junior Up Helly Aa festival. The occasion marks the end of a year's work that sees youngsters working closely with multiple generations.

Jen Stout’s ‘Night Train to Odesa’ wins universal acclaim

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 13:17:00 +0100

Jen Stout, from Shetland, is a journalist and author whose new book, Night Train to Odesa, has won unstinting praise from reviewers. Recently featured as a BBC Radio 4 book of the week, it chronicles her visits to Ukraine and her love of the country and its people. Its humanity is deeply affecting.

Midsummer fun in Shetland

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0100

With the longest daylight hours in the UK, there is always a lot to do in Shetland in June. The sun barely sets at this time of year, known locally as the simmer dim, meaning there's lots of time for fun. Here are some highlights of midsummer activities in Shetland.

An 'extra' benefit to life in Shetland

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 17:36:03 +0100

The benefits of living in Shetland include our vibrant communities, spectacular scenery, and stress-free commutes. A less obvious one may be the occasional opportunity to appear as an 'extra' on the popular television drama, 'Shetland'.

7 unmissable museums and heritage centres in Shetland

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 09:44:00 +0100

The museums and heritage sites dotted around Shetland aren’t just handy shelters from the elements (although they are the perfect place to while away a rainy afternoon!): they are gateways to the islands’ history.

Recipe: Shetland Lamb Burgers

Fri, 31 May 2024 14:32:00 +0100

We've raided the Shetland.org archives and found this yummy recipe for Shetland lamb burgers.

Bopping along with Shetland's music hub

Thu, 30 May 2024 15:20:00 +0100

Loads of the best things about life in Shetland start with people getting together to organise fun events for themselves. Whether that’s a cake fridge, an Up Helly Aa squad act or a music festival, people make things happen.

Shetland: perfectly positioned to support the energy transition

Thu, 23 May 2024 17:35:42 +0100

A delegation of Shetland energy industry experts travelled to Glasgow for the All Energy Conference to demonstrate why the islands are perfectly placed at the centre of Europe’s energy transition.

The UK's Most Northerly Gig

Tue, 14 May 2024 12:57:00 +0100

Over more than four decades Shetland Folk Festival has built an enviable reputation as one of the best musical events in the UK’s trad scene, including the UK’s most northerly gig.

Facebook group preserves Sullom Voe memories

Mon, 13 May 2024 12:51:00 +0100

More than fifty years have passed since oil was discovered in the waters north-east of Shetland and, over that period, the islands have hosted all the activities associated with it, the largest single investment being the terminal at Sullom Voe.

7 off-the-beaten track adventures in Shetland

Tue, 07 May 2024 10:40:00 +0100

Just being in Shetland can feel like you’ve discovered a well-kept secret. What could be more enticing than the promise of finding your own secret portion of paradise?To help you on your way, we’ve compiled a list of Shetland’s hidden gems.

Visiting Shetland in 2024

Fri, 03 May 2024 17:22:53 +0100

As Shetland begins welcoming visitors for 2024, we spoke to some of the guides, attraction owners, and writers about what they’re most looking forward to.

Enjoy Shetland Folk Festival - Wherever You Are!

Fri, 03 May 2024 10:28:00 +0100

It's that time of year again – the Shetland Folk Festival is back, bringing with it a whirlwind of traditional tunes and lively performances that are sure to get your toes tapping.

May means ... Shetland pony foals

Thu, 02 May 2024 10:13:12 +0100

One of the most joyful parts of a Shetland spring is when Shetland pony foals start to appear across the islands.

Shetland whale and dolphin sightings recorded by volunteers

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:04:00 +0100

An array of sea mammals including orcas, humpback whales and Risso’s dolphins can often be spotted from the Shetland coastline, exciting locals and visitors alike. Catherine Munro is one of those residents trained by Shorewatch to record cetacean sightings.

What dates are cruise ships visiting Shetland in 2024?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:46:00 +0100

Every summer, Shetland welcomes thousands of visitors to the islands, and many arrive by cruise ship.

Sauna culture comes to Shetland

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 09:46:00 +0100

Shetlanders have warmly embraced a touch of Scandinavian cultural wellbeing thanks to the introduction of an outdoor sauna next to the islands’ famous tombolo beach at St Ninian’s Isle.

Artist Lesley Burr records a thought-provoking visit to the Polar North

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 13:05:00 +0100

The gallery in the Shetland Museum and Archives has hosted many notable exhibitions over the years. These have often featured local artists, of whom there are many, but works by Hans Holbein and Grayson Perry, among others, have also been shown.

When to see Puffins in Shetland

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 17:11:00 +0100

Shetland's Puffins return to their clifftop colonies in early April, two to three weeks later than colonies further south in Britain. As with all other seabirds, they only return to land to breed and raise their young and so may only spend one third of the year in and around their colonies.

Why spring is a perfect time for exploring Shetland

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 12:31:23 +0000

It is often said that spring walks up the country, making its way from south to north, each new leaf and bud evidence of its journey. After a winter of snow and storms, when spring reaches Shetland it is spectacular, our landscapes filling with birds and wildflowers.

A Shetland fire festival fit for a king

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 17:46:00 +0000

Documentary filmmaker Matthew Somerville visited Shetland to experience South Mainland Up Helly Aa, one of the larger Shetland Fire Festivals. His trip represented the most northerly point of a year travelling the UK documenting the rituals and ceremonies that bring Britons together.

Investigating Lerwick: 'Shetland' crime drama trail

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 13:31:00 +0000

Much of the ‘Shetland’ crime drama series is filmed in the islands, providing stunning scenery and historic landmarks as the backdrop to the popular show. Join us on a tour of Lerwick spotting locations made famous by Jimmy Perez, Alison ‘Tosh’ McIntosh and Ruth Calder.

Things to do on a winter family visit to Shetland

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:01:00 +0000

The warmest of memories can be forged on the coldest of winter days, especially when a Shetland Fire Festival is involved. Jenny Eaves and her family visited Shetland in February and enjoyed a wonderful time exploring the islands.

Cake fridges, Sunday teas, and how they're baked into Shetland life

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 15:20:45 +0000

Cake fridges and honesty boxes selling delicious home bakes are common across Shetland, while community Sunday teas selling sandwiches, cakes, and fancies are a special Shetland institution. Hungry to discover more? Then, read on…

Fascinating Shetland seashore discoveries

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:31:00 +0000

The feeling of seasonal change is undeniable, with daylight now reaching past 5 O’clock and warmth returning to the sun. Despite the spring-like feel, this can be a time of wild winds and stormy seas, weather that is a beachcomber’s dream.

Rosin up for inaugural Shetland Fiddle Week

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 16:33:00 +0000

Shetland is internationally famous for its fiddle music tradition, and in August 2024 a new event, Shetland Fiddle Week, opens its doors for the first time.

The Shetlanders: the home-restoring joiner

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 15:08:00 +0000

Jay Wyllie’s joinery skills helped him embark on a valuable career when he moved to Shetland. He also puts his knowledge to good use renovating the home he and partner Lauren Bulter bought together in the beautiful North Mainland.

Expert coaching keeps Shetland cross country athletes on track

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 12:14:08 +0000

Three young Shetlanders’ athletics careers are gathering pace thanks to the islands’ inclusive and supportive sporting culture, first-rate facilities, and opportunities to compete at a high level.

'Strands' album intertwines Shetland traditions and contemporary influences

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 16:03:00 +0000

Pianist Amy Laurenson's musical foundation was built in Shetland, and honed at the Royal Conservatoire in Glasgow. Her debut album 'Strands' blends traditional Shetland tunes and contemporary influences.

Arts and crafts Valentine's gifts from Shetland

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 15:00:00 +0000

Inspired by Shetland’s spectacular landscapes, stunning scenery, and dramatic light, the islands are home to a thriving and diverse arts and crafts scene. With skilled craftspeople creating beautiful pieces across a range of disciplines, there are gifts to suit every taste and budget.

Mike McDonnell: A man of remarkable talents

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 13:48:00 +0000

Over the years, many people have adopted Shetland as their home and made valuable contributions to the community. One of them was the late Dr Mike McDonnell, who, as well as practising as a GP, was a man of many other talents, not least artistic ones.

Things to see and do during Shetland Fire Festival Season

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 13:45:00 +0000

Shetland’s Fire Festival Season lasts from early January until late March each year, with fiery celebrations held in 11 different communities, attracting visitors from around the world.

Lerwick Up Helly Aa 2024 highlights

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 14:21:00 +0000

Lerwick Up Helly Aa, held on the last Tuesday in January each year, is Shetland’s Fire Festival Season to celebrate the passing of winter. Similar fiery events take place from early January to the end of March with festivals held in communities all over the islands.

Shetland in the snow

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 12:37:56 +0000

People often ask if we get a lot of snow in Shetland. The truth is that varies, and while snow isn’t uncommon during the winter months, there's not always huge amounts.

The community spirit underpinning Shetland's Up Helly Aa fire festivals

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 14:21:00 +0000

It’s a Friday in early January and despite the wind and rain, the village of Scalloway is teeming with people. Teenagers perch on high walls, bobble-hatted children sit on their parents’ shoulders and old folk smile from the windows of the local care home.

Shetland port selected as energy development hub

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 14:08:14 +0000

Shetland’s supply chain and energy industry expertise has been recognised with the islands’ main port selected as the primary marine support hub for a major offshore project.

Da Nicht Afore Yöl

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:52:00 +0000

Created in collaboration with Shetland ForWirds, here's a peerie (Shetland for small) festive treat for you to enjoy. Shetlanders young and old(er) came together to recite the famous poem, The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore, with a Shetland twist.

Community's Christmas spirit shines bright

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:10:00 +0000

Christmas lights add a festive sparkle to the winter nights all over Shetland. In the island of Burra a new community tradition sees an extra effort made, brightening the landscape for the enjoyment of all.

'What do you do in a Shetland winter?'

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 15:20:53 +0000

As the winter solstice approaches, with its promise of returning light, I find myself thinking about the question I get asked most often, ‘but what do you do in winter?’

7 reasons to visit Shetland this winter

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 17:08:00 +0000

Most of Shetland’s visitors arrive during the summer months, enticed by the promise of exploring beautiful landscapes, witnessing spectacular wildlife and enjoying endless hours of sunlight. While no one can deny the charms of a Shetland summer, these islands have a magic of their own over winter.

Four talented Shetlanders named in Scotland's 'Hot 100'

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 16:16:00 +0000

Shetland’s thriving and supportive creative culture has nurtured an array of terrific talents over many generations. Several Shetlanders are among the cream of Scottish talent named as the “Hot 100 of 2023”.

"Wild Shetland" book is “nature photography in a new league”

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 21:49:00 +0000

Shetland’s natural environment is exceptional by any standard. The islands and their surrounding seas offer encounters with a huge variety of wildlife, enriching the lives of all who live here and drawing visitors from around the world.

Love to Ride in Shetland with Winter Wheelers

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 17:42:16 +0000

Shetland is a wonderful place for cycling, with the chance to boost health, fitness, and fun this winter with Love to Ride’s annual biking challenge.

Autumn is prime time for Shetland bird spotting ... even in the kitchen!

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 17:54:00 +0000

Autumn is one of the best times of year for spotting birds in Shetland, with many species recorded each year during the autumn migration. Catherine Munro even encountered a rare bird in her kitchen!

Winter in Shetland – a time to explore your creativity

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 11:57:42 +0000

Shetland’s vibrant arts and crafts community comes together each winter, offering many opportunities to explore your creativity while socialising on the colder, darker evenings.

Shetland Arts and Crafts thriving on tradition

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:09:00 +0000

Shetland's tradition of creativity, inspired by the islands' rugged beauty and dramatic landscapes, forges social connections and cultivates an enterprising spirit.

Proposed 'Shetland Way' finds route to success

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 18:16:00 +0000

Shetland’s coastal scenery and dramatic landscapes make exploring the islands on foot one of the favourite pastimes for locals and visitors.

Iconic locations from BBC crime drama Shetland

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:11:38 +0000

As the popular BBC crime drama Shetland returns to our TV screens with Jimmy Perez’s replacement DI Ruth Calder leading the investigations, we highlight several spectacular locations that have featured in the series.

Hallowe'en skekling in Shetland and other guising traditions

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:49:00 +0000

Blogger Catherine Munro gets ready for Halloween by learning more about an old Shetland tradition, and making a skekler hat.

Exploring castles, Vikings, heritage and nature in Unst

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:58:56 +0000

Memories of a packed day in Unst, with an itinerary including Muness Castle, Unst Boat Haven, the replica Viking longship and house, Unst Heritage Centre, Saxavord, Hermaness, Bobby's Bus Shelter, seals, gannets and ponies.

'The opportunity to make things better'

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 12:42:00 +0100

Shetlander Elaine Hodge feels fortunate to have found the perfect work-life balance, enjoying living with her family in a beautiful location, close to friends, surrounded by nature, and with a rewarding career as a social care team leader.

Broad and varied role helping others

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 14:54:00 +0100

Growing up in the North Mainland of Shetland Sophie Jamieson opted to complete a Modern Apprenticeship in Social Care after leaving school. She explains why it was a great choice.

Reasons why social care is a rewarding career

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 11:40:00 +0100

When she left high school in Shetland, Paige Buggy was unsure whether university was the right option. She chose to study a Modern Apprenticeship in Social Services and Health Care instead – and hasn’t looked back.

Sumburgh Head foghorn blast beckons in autumn

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 09:07:00 +0100

The iconic Sumburgh Head Foghorn which formerly protected Shetland seafarers, is still sounded twice a year to mark the opening and closing of the visitor centre. It's a sound that delights the crowds as much as it resonates through the ages.

Supporting Shetland Dialect Through Film

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 13:00:00 +0100

Shetland ForWirds was formed in 2004 after a conference where many members of the Shetland community came together and expressed a desire to see our unique language survive and thrive.

Shetland Made: celebrating islands' crafts, food and drink

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 17:39:18 +0100

A series of four fascinating workshops will take place in venues around Shetland as part of an innovative new event to celebrate the islands’ producers and craft makers.

Promoting Shetland's musical future

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:14:18 +0100

Shetland’s thriving music scene, famous fiddle tradition and packed calendar of musical events are well-known. Now a new breed of young musicians, of all genres, is making its mark, thanks to the Shetland Young Promoters Group.

Dynamic range of Shetland career opportunities showcased

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 10:22:00 +0100

Shetland offers a wealth of career opportunities for ambitious young individuals. Some of them were showcased at a Developing the Young Workforce careers fair in Lerwick.

Kate Humble – Shetland's incredible 'treasure island'

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:01:00 +0100

The discovery of the St Ninian’s Isle treasure in Shetland is the stuff of legend. A hoard of Pictish silverware had been buried for centuries until the 1950s, when it was discovered by a schoolboy…

Kate Humble – 5 'must do' activities in Shetland

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:01:00 +0100

Renowned broadcaster and wildlife enthusiast Kate Humble, a regular visitor to the islands for almost two decades, picks her five "must see" places and "must do" activities in Shetland.

Kate Humble - Shetland, why go anywhere else?

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:01:00 +0100

“There are obvious things about Shetland that take me back and make me feel very connected to the landscape and wildlife, because it’s not full of towns, full of roads.

Kate Humble – wild about Shetland's skies

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Television presenter Kate Humble visited Unst to discover more about Wild Skies Shetland from founding member Catriona Waddington. Here Catriona reflects on her morning spent with a suitably impressed celebrity.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Shetland

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 16:25:00 +0100

As the nights get longer and Shetland skies get darker, the stage is set for one of nature's most spectacular phenomena: the aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights. Enjoy our guide to spotting the northern lights in Shetland

Shetland: At the centre of Europe's energy transition

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:50:00 +0100

A partnership of Shetland businesses and renewable energy developers is coming together to drive home why the islands are strategically located at the centre of Europe's energy transition.

The story of how Shetland wool became world famous

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 06:30:41 +0100

Textile maker and designer Ella Gordon is passionate about Shetland wool. Inspired by the fascinating history she believes there is a long and bright future for Shetland's famous textiles industry.

Shetland Museum shows work by renowned US photographer

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 12:43:00 +0100

A new display of powerful and iconic photographs by Diane Arbus, one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century, can be seen in Da Gadderie, in Shetland Museum and Archives.

7 reasons to visit Shetland in autumn

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 14:14:00 +0100

Autumn is an excellent time to visit Shetland and experience the islands' dramatic beauty, incredible wildlife, rich cultural heritage and wonderful food and drink. We highlight seven reasons why you should visit Shetland in autumn.

New Bonhoga Gallery exhibition features outstanding work by artists and makers

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 16:02:00 +0100

Artists and makers practising in Shetland are invariably inspired by the islands’ environment, whether that be the sometimes-dramatic weather, the colours and textures of coast, sea or landscape or the range of wildlife that surrounds us.

The future is bright for women's football in Shetland

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 10:53:28 +0100

Women’s football, once overshadowed by its male counterpart, has now taken centre stage, captivating audiences and inspiring a new generation of women footballers.

Hooked on smoked salmon: tasting revelations with Dave Parham

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 19:30:00 +0100

For many years, Dave Parham’s smoked salmon has been delighting folk in Shetland and beyond. It has been on the menu in some of Britain’s finest hotels, has graced royal tables and for some time was available in London’s Borough Market, that mecca for those in search of fine food.

New coffee shop brings taste of Japanese culture to Lerwick

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 11:47:33 +0100

“We’ve been to Shetland a couple of times to visit friends. Last time we came for Up Helly Aa and we loved it, so we were thinking to maybe move here and looking to find something to do.

On a high level: Shetland's hot club carrying the musical flame

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 19:05:00 +0100

Barely out of primary school when they formed, High Level Hot Club have been a regular fixture on the islands’ live music scene for the past six years. We caught up with them to hear about how they’ve benefited from the abundant cultural opportunities the community offers.

Tall Ships Lerwick brings the world to Shetland

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 16:34:00 +0100

For four days in July 2023 Shetland's capital town Lerwick hosted the international Tall Ships Races for a festival of sailing, fun and friendship.

International Tall Ships start arriving in Shetland

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 14:06:00 +0100

Tall Ships Lerwick 2023 gets under way from 26th-29th July, bringing a buzz to communities across the islands.

Isles of Unst & Yell lay on pre-Tall Ships spree

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 14:52:00 +0100

Shetland’s main town Lerwick might be the focal point as it hosts the return of the Tall Ships Races for four days in late July – but there’s no stopping the North Isles of Yell and Unst from getting in on the fun...

Midnight trip to Mousa

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:18:00 +0100

The incredible Iron Age broch on the island of Mousa is one of Shetland's many ancient marvels. It is also a summertime home for thousands of tiny storm petrels – and it makes a wonderful location for a midnight visit.

The Tall Ships Races Lerwick Music Line-Up

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 14:26:00 +0100

Check out Promote Shetland’s Spotify playlist to get in the mood for this summer’s biggest event, Tall Ships Lerwick. The playlist includes tracks by some of Shetland's best known bands, as well from the visiting headliners.

Midsummer in Shetland... surrounded by the light

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 15:03:00 +0100

There is a magic to summer nights in Shetland. At sixty degrees north, the sun barely dips below the horizon. It sets after 10pm giving 19 hours of daylight. But numbers tell us little about how it feels to be surrounded by the simmer dim, Shetland's almost perpetual summer light.

Team Shetland off to Guernsey for international sports meet

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 14:45:00 +0100

Shetland has a network of sporting facilities that would be the envy of most rural communities around the world - and the benefits will be there for all to see this week as over 100 islanders set off for Guernsey to take part in the Natwest International Island Games...

5 things I love about Shetland archaeology

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 16:01:30 +0100

Val Turner, Shetland’s first, and so far only, Regional Archaeologist came to Shetland to take up the post in 1986. She was captivated to discover that Shetland’s archaeology, although a well-kept secret, is second to none. So much so that she has never left.

Enjoying time with Shetland's puffins

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 15:36:00 +0100

Watching Shetland's famous puffins is a treat that many locals enjoy each summer. As a tour guide, Catherine Munro gets to enjoy the colourful birds more than most. It's an experience that she never tires of...

5 things I love about living in Fetlar

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 13:21:25 +0100

Lucy Cummings moved to Fetlar seven years ago with her sister and brother-in-law. Together they farm cattle and sheep with a few pigs, and run the island shop, post office, café and guest house. Here are 5 things she loves about living in Fetlar...

Walking the length of Shetland

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0100

A proposed 80-mile "Shetland Way" hiking route, traversing the length of the islands, is still in its early stages. That did not stop journalist Simon Parker stepping out from Sumburgh to Hermaness in Unst ...

Shetland's innovative climate change response

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 14:17:41 +0100

From hosting world-leading clean energy projects, to pioneering new technologies and developing strategic plans, innovation is at the forefront of Shetland’s contribution to the international response to climate change.

Top 10 Shetland summer birds - and their dialect names

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:17:00 +0100

Juan Brown is one of NatureScot's Lerwick-based operations officers and is a keen birder. Here he shares 10 of his favourite Shetland birds to watch in the summer months.

All-terrain wheelchair routes in Shetland

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 11:13:27 +0100

Enjoying the great outdoors is one of the most popular activities in Shetland, whether you’re visiting on holiday or call the islands home.

Developing a social care career in Shetland

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 14:55:00 +0100

As a teenager Shannon Causby headed north to start a new life in Shetland and began studying an Introduction to Care course. A decade on, she’s an experienced senior social care worker and continues to develop her professional skills.

Renewables and fishing spearhead busy start to 2023 at Lerwick port

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:23:00 +0100

Shetland’s thriving fishing industry and renewable energy sector have helped drive a better-than-forecast start to the year at the islands’ main port of Lerwick.

Opportunities for Young People in Shetland: Sail Training Shetland

Tue, 23 May 2023 16:19:00 +0100

When you’re never three miles from the ocean, it’s no surprise Shetlanders are defined by their relationship with the sea. The islands have a long history of sailing, going back to the arrival of Vikings around 2,000 years ago.

10 ways to enjoy the best of Shetland this summer

Mon, 22 May 2023 13:05:00 +0100

Summer is the perfect time to explore the rugged and beautiful landscapes of Shetland. With its diverse wildlife, rich culture, and stunning coastline, there is something for everyone.

Hatchery Bookshop does justice to Shetland Noir

Thu, 18 May 2023 15:03:26 +0100

A generation ago, with a crime rate among the lowest in the UK, Shetland was one of the last places you would have expected to find a book festival entitled "Shetland Noir".

Radio show celebrates 'powerful and magnificent' Shetland

Thu, 18 May 2023 10:31:00 +0100

The sounds, stories and music of Shetland will be broadcast over the airwaves in Ireland, and around the world via a podcast. Radio Kerry presenter Frank Lewis tells us more about the programme, and his highlights of visiting Shetland.

Shetland's bookshelf: Eight ‘Shetland Noir’ classics

Tue, 16 May 2023 16:00:00 +0100

The islands’ favourite literary celebration of all things dark and dastardly makes a comeback in 2023, with the return of the Shetland Noir festival. We asked the staff at Shetland Library to select their deadliest recommendations …

Fly from London Heathrow to Shetland

Fri, 12 May 2023 14:00:00 +0100

A new scheduled flight has launched making it easy to fly from London Heathrow to Sumburgh Airport in Shetland for business or leisure – without the need to pack a passport ...

E-vehicle charging points in Shetland

Thu, 11 May 2023 12:10:00 +0100

It is increasingly important for tourists and business visitors to ensure that any trip to Shetland is as sustainable and responsible as possible.

Things to do in Shetland with children – rock pooling

Tue, 09 May 2023 13:30:00 +0100

Exploring beautiful beaches is part of many a happy childhood in Shetland. Catherine Munro's young family enjoy the innocent fun of rock pooling and searching for crabs.

Beachcombing in Shetland – inspiration for artists

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 11:55:00 +0100

With almost 1,700 miles of coastline, and nowhere in Shetland more than three miles from the sea, the ocean has shaped much of life here. Many island artists seek inspiration in the gems they discover when the tide ebbs.

10 things to do in Shetland this spring

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 15:16:00 +0100

If you are looking for somewhere unique to explore this spring, look no further than Shetland. Our stunning archipelago is home to incredible wildlife, breath-taking landscapes, excellent local food and drink, and plenty to keep you busy.

10 ways to discover the best of Shetland

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 15:34:00 +0100

Find inspiration in our list of 10 classic ways to get out and enjoy Shetland life to the full.

How nature signals spring's arrival in Shetland

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 13:53:52 +0100

If you’re considering moving to Shetland, it’s important to think about life at different times throughout the year. Catherine Munro made the move with her young family and here she considers the attractions of different seasons and explains why spring is a special time in Shetland.

Having time with patients lets you be a caring GP

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 15:15:00 +0100

Deepa Shah has lived and worked in inner city London, New Zealand and South Africa during her time as a doctor and left behind an “exciting and diverse” decade-long career in the UK capital to begin a new life in Shetland during the second Covid-19 lockdown at the end of 2020.

A modern way of working and an easy commute

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 14:49:00 +0100

“It’s been a brilliant move,” says Eilidh Cameron of her decision to relocate from the Scottish mainland to further her career as a doctor – and start a family – in Shetland. Having grown up in the Scottish Borders town of Biggar, Eilidh always intended to be a rural GP.

Family freedom and a strong professional community

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 13:31:00 +0100

Newly qualified GP Jacqueline Gray says Shetland’s strong sense of community both professionally and away from work make the islands an ideal place to work in medicine.

Bringing the 'Wild Isles' to life

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 16:34:00 +0100

Shetland played a starring role in the BBC nature documentary Wild Isles with stunning footage of orcas, landscapes, puffins, and otters among the highlights.

Recipe: Mary's simple Shetland seafood stew

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 14:23:00 +0000

Mary Andreas grew up in the south mainland of Shetland before moving away and working in the oil industry in London for over quarter of a century. She returned to the islands in 2006 and is now finance officer for Shetland Food and Drink.

Calm after the storm reveals Shetland is a 'treasure' island

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 18:43:00 +0000

With 1,700 miles of spectacular coastlines, Shetland is shaped by the power of the seas. But winter storms also bring unexpected treasure to the shores. Catherine Munro goes beachcombing.

When is the best time to see orcas in Shetland?

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:35:00 +0000

Karen Hall is one of those lucky people whose job is also the same as their passion. In her case, spotting orcas and other marine wildlife in Shetland. Karen’s research is valuable for anyone hoping to witness killer whales, and confirms the creatures regularly visit the islands all year round.

Twelve tips for responsible orca watching in Shetland

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:26:00 +0000

We are lucky in Shetland that amazing marine wildlife including orcas can be seen from the shore. Any sighting of these majestic creatures is exciting whether you live in Shetland or are visiting.

South Mainland Up Helly Aa: a celebration of community spirit

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 09:55:00 +0000

Shetland’s Fire Festival Season is famous for its roaring Jarl’s Squads, torchlit processions and the burning of replica Viking longboats. The series of Up Helly Aa festivals are also underpinned by community spirit and pride. South Mainland Guizer Jarl for 2023 Jamie Laurenson explains more.

5 things I love about living in Unst

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Artist and designer Cheryl Jamieson was born and raised in Unst, Shetland’s most northerly isle, where she still lives and runs her business Glansin Glass. She feels fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful landscapes and a supportive community. Here are 5 things Cheryl loves about living in Unst.

How Shetland’s thriving music scene inspires award winner Amy

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 17:20:39 +0000

Shetland's musical culture is deep-rooted, with the islands being home to many talented musicians. There is also an incredibly supportive network that encourages and nurtures young musicians to develop their talents.

Weaving connections: straw, history and home

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 10:32:58 +0000

When you think of Shetland, design and crafts might be one of the first things that comes to mind, particularly island knitting traditions. Intricately woven lace shawls and complex Fair Isle patterns are famous worldwide.

Exploring Shetland's labyrinth of sea caves and rich array of wildlife

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 13:19:00 +0000

Shetland's 1,700 miles of coastline offer endless opportunities to soak up its fascinating natural environment.

Searching for Vikings

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 13:53:00 +0000

Shops in Shetland's capital, Lerwick, stage mini treasure hunts throughout the year, giving young families a fun activity to complete while visiting businesses in the town. The Up Helly Aa themed Viking hunt is one of the favourites.

Shetland's Fire Festival Season 2023

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 13:43:00 +0000

Fire Festival Season in Shetland is under way, marking the start of a unique series of fiery celebrations that take place in communities across the islands between January and March every year. We will be sharing some of the highlights.

Shetland's Vikings provide a heart-warming spectacle for all the family

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 12:52:00 +0000

The return of Shetland's winter fire festivals in 2023, after two barren years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, is giving hundreds of youngsters throughout the islands their first taste of Viking processions.

Clear Sight: Peter Davis draws endless inspiration from land, sea and weather

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 23:42:00 +0000

Shetland is home to many artists, some born in the islands, and some drawn here by the light and landscapes. Peter Davis is one of those adopted Shetlanders and his exhibition at the Shetland Museum and Archives, entitled Clear Sight, presents almost 40 watercolours inspired by those landscapes.

Live streams to herald return of Shetland's fire festivals

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 15:08:00 +0000

Shetland’s winter fire festival season has generated huge interest all over the world for many years, and the events’ long-awaited return after a Covid-enforced layoff will be marked with a live broadcast of the Lerwick Up Helly As’s torchlit procession on Tuesday (31 January).

Clickimin broch, where young minds are inspired by ancient footsteps

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 17:21:00 +0000

In Shetland, those periods of calm between rain and inevitable winter storms are referred to as a 'day between weathers'. Catherine Munro and her young family enjoy making the most of those days.

Shetland is just the right prescription for ambitious pharmacists

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 15:28:00 +0000

Far from limiting career opportunities, working within a small-scale healthcare system like Shetland’s can enhance professional development and job prospects – with the local health board’s director of pharmacy Anthony McDavitt a prime example.

Oysters: the latest addition to Shetland’s superb seafood menu

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 21:18:00 +0000

Shetland has always enjoyed an excellent reputation for its seafood. Fish has long been exported to the UK mainland and many parts of Europe. Much more recently, Shetland mussels have become familiar in restaurants and fishmongers.

The dancing sky – Shetland's mirrie dancers

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 08:27:07 +0000

Witnessing spectacular starry skies or the northern lights, known in Shetland as the mirrie dancers, is always a magical experience. Catherine Munro recalls a memorable moment sky-watching with her son.

‘Seeing whales is one of my favourite things about living in Shetland’

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Since joining the ‘Shetland Orca Sightings’ Facebook page the opportunity of spotting the incredible creatures has become one of Catherine Munro's greatest pleasures. And a distraction from work. Read her post to discover more about the islands' whale watching community.

Magical moments spotting a Shetland seal pup

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 16:31:00 +0000

Shetland-based author Catherine Munro is joining our team as a regular contributor to the Promote Shetland blog. In her first article she recalls the breath-taking moment she spotted a seal pup on the beach.

An epic road-trip from Ireland to Shetland

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 17:06:00 +0000

Journalist Thom Breathnach travelled from Cork in southern Ireland to Shetland to marvel at the islands' many winter wonders. After spotting otters, enjoying delicious meals, and watching the Northern Lights, he is desperate to return.

KIMO and Fishing for Litter: Shetland’s enduring commitment to cleaner seas

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 12:53:00 +0000

In recent decades, Shetland has been active internationally in two organisations combatting a contemporary threat, marine pollution. That sort of collaboration is nothing new, because, for centuries, the islands have benefitted from international links and networks.

'Career progression ... and so many other benefits'

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Shetland is as good a place as any to pursue a career in pharmacy, according to native islander Lisa Robertson, who has spent a decade working at Brae Pharmacy having completed her studies…

'A Year in my Shetland Garden' inspires seasonal dishes

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 10:27:00 +0000

As a girl in the Czech Republic Misa Hay dreamt of having her own garden. When she moved to Shetland her garden wishes came true and, after many years’ experimentation, she now loves growing and cooking her own food.

Recipes from "My Shetland Garden"

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 10:26:56 +0000

Misa Hay recently told Promote Shetland about her book "A Year in My Shetland Garden", which combines her passions for spending time outdoors, growing fruit and vegetables, and cooking seasonally inspired dishes. Here she shares a selection of recipes from the book for you to try at home.

Why Shetland is 'our favourite whale watching destination'

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 17:18:00 +0000

Shetland is a favourite place for whale watching for Charlotte Rutherford and Nick Owen from Finding Fins (@findingfins). And when you see some of their dramatically close orca encounters, it’s easy to understand why.

Recipe: Reestit mutton and tattie soup

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 12:26:00 +0000

This traditional reestit mutton and tattie soup from the team at Taste of Shetland is the perfect fuel to keep you going over the winter months.

He’s electric: the sparky shooting Shetland from the sky

Thu, 24 Nov 2022 11:50:00 +0000

Shetland’s breathtaking scenery, from the rugged splendour of its clifftops to the ever-changing kaleidoscope of colours in the sky and seas surrounding the islands, is being captured with greater regularity in the digital media age than ever before.

Shetland Folk Festival in the running for trad award: vote now!

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 16:06:00 +0000

At the dawn of 2022 Shetland Folk Festival’s organisers didn’t even know whether their much-cherished annual jamboree would happen in May.

The Shetlanders: the long distance lawyer

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 14:28:00 +0000

Many city-based office workers would give their eye teeth for a working environment offering scenic window views and screen breaks that involve taking a leisurely lunchtime stroll through the countryside.

Shetland businesses win a brace of tourism awards

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 15:24:00 +0000

Shetland enjoyed a highly successful night at the Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards as two isles businesses came out on top in their respective categories. Wild Skies Shetland, based in Unst, won an award in the ‘working together for tourism’ category at the HITA ceremony in Inverness.

New novel injects drama into crofting life in Shetland 250 years ago

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 17:15:00 +0000

Shetland dialect writer Christine de Luca's latest work is something of a love letter to Walls, the West Side village she grew up in, turning the clock back to the late 18th century as hundreds of incomers spill ashore into the tiny hamlet.

Birding in Shetland – a privilege and responsibility

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 15:29:01 +0100

The popularity of birding in Shetland continues to grow thanks to the regular appearance of rare and scarce species in spectacular island locations.

Shetland food and drink: a rich and varied larder

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 13:48:00 +0100

Shetland has long enjoyed a reputation for excellent food. In centuries past, salt cod and herring were exported to many parts of Europe. Local vegetables, fish, meat and dairy produce were always part of the Shetland diet.

Campaign gets Shetland 'Women into Cycling'

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 17:27:55 +0100

With well-maintained roads and beautiful surroundings, Shetland is an excellent place to enjoy cycling. But fears over safety and unpredictable weather remain a barrier to many. Two women have been doing their bit to change that.

Peatland action – restoring Shetland's natural carbon store

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 13:49:00 +0100

Although peatland only makes up about three percent of the world's land mass, it holds a third of the planet's carbon – twice as much as all of the world's forests.

Unique attractions entice Shetland cruise passengers

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 18:15:00 +0100

Shetland’s rugged coastlines, impressive archaeology and stunning landscapes proved a winning combination for thousands of cruise ship passengers who visited the islands in 2022.

Fetlar community eyes an ambitious future

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 14:59:00 +0100

Ambitious new ideas are emerging from Fetlar that the community hopes will inspire fresh investment and attract more families to live in the isle.

Leading climate change 'transformation' in Shetland

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0100

With a background in mechanical and architectural engineering, Claire Ferguson is delighted to have returned to Shetland to lead the local council's climate change strategy team. She is embracing the challenge, and the freedom that comes with island living.

Shetland – the clean energy islands

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 16:58:00 +0100

With abundant natural resources and a track record of innovation and specialist energy sector experience, Shetland is ideally located to capitalise on emerging clean energy opportunities.

The family who found 'home'

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 12:44:00 +0100

Shetland ticked all the boxes for one family wanting to escape the rat race and enjoy a slower, safer and happier life in the country. Sam Belokon-Dennis and husband Mark have embraced island living since moving with their daughters in 2019 and haven’t looked back.

Remembered: Queen Elizabeth II's visits to Shetland

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:40:00 +0100

Many folk in the Shetland community have joined other parts of the country in paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II after she passed away at the age of 96.

Shetland: a good career move and 'more quality time'

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 18:09:00 +0100

Pharmacist Laura Toulson is no stranger to island communities having spent three years living and working in the Falkland Islands. She tells Promote Shetland why she decided to take up a new role in Lerwick.

'Proud to be an NHS Shetland pharmacy technician'

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 17:30:00 +0100

Lerwick woman Cara-Brooke Fraser began her career as a support worker in the Pharmacy department at the town’s Gilbert Bain Hospital. She is now a senior technician and played a core role in vaccinating the Shetland community throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

New Shetland accommodation site goes live

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 16:47:00 +0100

A NEW online service has been launched to help visitors to Shetland find the perfect place to stay.

Casting on: Shetland Wool Week offers an impressive programme

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 22:18:08 +0100

After operating for two years in virtual, on-line form, admirers of Shetland knitting and weaving will once again head for the islands this autumn. This, the 13th Shetland Wool Week, gets under way on 24 September and runs until 2 October.

Explore Shetland’s incredible treasure trove of history

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 09:57:00 +0100

History enthusiast and YouTuber Bruce Fummey spent a week in Shetland delving into some of the islands’ most fascinating stories. Watch his films here and discover why he was blown away by Shetland’s amazing history.

Recipes from 'Food Made in Shetland'

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 12:38:03 +0100

Following the successful launch of her new Shetland recipe book this summer, Marian Armitage, author and chair of the Shetland Food and Drink Association, kindly shared four of her recipes that you can recreate from the comfort of your own kitchen...

Perez's last stand as BBC’s Shetland returns

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 14:16:00 +0100

Fans of the Shetland TV series will be delighted to hear that the series returns this week for its seventh season. Here’s what we know about the upcoming episodes…

Winter film nominated for prestigious travel award

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 16:19:00 +0100

A film showcasing Shetland’s spectacular wildlife and winter scenery has been shortlisted in the UK-wide Travel Media Awards.

Tall Ships Lerwick – get on board for fleet's return to Shetland

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 13:20:00 +0100

The Tall Ships Races will return to Shetland in 2023 when Lerwick welcomes back the visiting fleet as a host port. The Tall Ships Races has excited towns and cities throughout Europe for over 60 years and anticipation is growing across Shetland as plans for the return gather pace.

How one young family found freedom in Shetland's wonderful Westside

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 17:05:00 +0100

Hannah Timbol and her young family moved to Shetland from Nottingham and quickly settled into the community. She loves the freedom that her boys have, and she even started a group to help others interested in making a new life in the islands.

Five Shetland outdoor adventures for families

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 14:56:00 +0100

Building dens, splashing through streams and scooping up minibeasts in a net. These are just some of the activities you can enjoy as you get back to nature in Shetland. Jackie Darbyshire picks out five popular locations for a free family fun day out.

Dazzling 'Fancy Boy' exhibition shows how far Harry has travelled

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 14:05:00 +0100

This month a colourful and captivating exhibition gives islanders a first-hand opportunity to see the handiwork of costume designer Harry Whitham, who is enjoying a flourishing career in London.

A crofter's diary: exploring 6,000 years of history

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 12:51:00 +0100

July is a busy month on the croft as hay and silage crops are taken, sheep shearing continues and early soft fruit and vegetables are harvested. Conservation fields subject to an absence or minimal grazing are replete with a variety of brilliantly coloured wildflowers, including spectacular orchids.

Community celebrates 'incredible success' of first Shetland Pride festival

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 11:01:00 +0100

Shetlanders came together to celebrate the first Shetland Pride festival and demonstrate widespread support for the LGBTQ+ community ...

Puffins and ponies star in glorious new Shetland wildlife books

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0100

Two iconic Shetland species – puffins and ponies – are celebrated in print with the publication of a pair of new books. Genevieve White catches up with the authors ...

Producers make their mark at Highland Show

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 15:48:00 +0100

Food producers and craft-makers spent midsummer weekend at the Royal Highland Show just outside Edinburgh. There were three awards for Shetland's agricultural sector, highlighting the innovation and the high quality of produce coming out of the islands...

Return of Bergen-Shetland Race creates buzz around town

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 13:37:00 +0100

There was a real buzz around Lerwick Harbour over midsummer weekend as the port welcomed back the Shetland Race from Bergen for the first time since Covid restrictions were lifted.

"Food Made in Shetland" offers eclectic cooking inspiration

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 18:04:00 +0100

It shouldn’t surprise us that Shetland produces wonderful food. Fresh fish and shellfish have been part of islanders’ diets for thousands of years. Heather and seaweed, as well as grass, sustain Shetland sheep and we have cattle and pigs.

Five ways visitors can help protect Shetland's spectacular environment

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 14:07:00 +0100

Shetland’s incredible scenery and fascinating wildlife make the islands a perfect getaway for those seeking an exhilarating outdoor adventure. We’ve created a simple guide to help you plan your visit and protect the environment …

Classic Car Show draws enthusiasts from far and wide

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 20:54:00 +0100

People visit Shetland – and some decide to stay – partly because it’s a great place to pursue particular interests, be that bird-watching, archaeology, music or textiles. Over recent decades, local enthusiasts have added another incentive.

Get involved in Shetland nature events this summer

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 11:49:00 +0100

One of Shetland's greatest assets is its wonderful nature and wildlife. For your chance to get up close with the natural wonders of Shetland this summer, check out the exciting programme of nature events...

Why young family swapped Isle of Man for 'special' Shetland

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 18:01:19 +0100

Shetland’s wildlife and rugged scenery proved a big draw for Manx woman Jackie Darbyshire and her family, who have swapped one island community for another.

Platinum Jubilee events planned around islands

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 09:22:00 +0100

Organisations and firms around Shetland are all set to extend the islands' history of commemorating royal jubilees dating back to the 1800s.

Gallery: Simmer dim in Shetland

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Summer is a magical time in Shetland, when 'da simmer dim' or summer twilight, casts a unique light over the islands' spectacular locations and the sun barely dips below the horizon.

Exciting chance to teach at the 'edge of the world'

Sat, 28 May 2022 07:37:00 +0100

A rare opportunity to take up a teaching post looking after five young children in Foula, one of the UK's most remote and spectacular inhabited landmasses, is on offer through Shetland Islands Council...

A dream teaching job in Shetland

Fri, 27 May 2022 09:05:00 +0100

Moving to a new place can be daunting, not least when it's an island community where you don't now a soul, but for teacher Ashley Robertson, who took up a probationary post in 2020, it turned out to be a wonderful, life-changing decision.

Enjoy a virtual tour of treasured brochs and settlements

Wed, 25 May 2022 11:06:00 +0100

A rich tapestry of historically significant archaeological monuments abounds throughout the islands - and now you enjoy an virtual trip around three of them thanks to the launch of a new interactive book.

Family unlocks new way of life and embraces Bressay community spirit

Tue, 24 May 2022 23:13:00 +0100

Data analyst Richard Burrell and his family swapped city life for island living, moving from West Yorkshire to the beautiful Shetland island of Bressay...

Long and busy days on the croft as Simmer Dim approaches

Thu, 19 May 2022 12:54:00 +0100

With the lambing season complete and an array of fruit and vegetables growing in the yard and polycrub, the ever-lengthening days of June are a special time as Shetland approaches the Simmer Dim. It’s a busy time across the islands, as Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer explains.

Marvel at Hermaness' natural wonders

Tue, 17 May 2022 14:26:00 +0100

New recycled plastic walkways have been installed to protect wildlife and guide visitors around the spectacular Hermaness National Nature Reserve in Unst.

Fair Isle designer celebrates Shetland artisans

Wed, 11 May 2022 12:40:12 +0100

Fair Isle knitwear designer Mati Ventrillon celebrates the luxurious quality of Shetland wool, craftwork, and produce at a high end hotel for London Craft Week …

Exhibition highlights two centuries of Shetland fine knitted lace

Mon, 09 May 2022 17:56:29 +0100

Today, Shetland is recognised worldwide for its knitting tradition, particularly Fair Isle patterns. However, the fine knitted lace produced in the islands is perhaps less well known than it once was, and a new display at the Shetland Museum and Archives aims to put that right.

A crofter's diary: Made of stone

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 06:00:00 +0100

For thousands of years, the drystone walls of Shetland have provided protection and shelter for humans and their livestock, together with a myriad of purposes associated with subsistence agriculture.

Shetland Folk Festival – celebrating music and community

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 14:46:00 +0100

When the final notes rang out at the conclusion of the epic Sunday night foy concerts at venues across Lerwick in May 2019, no one would have predicted it would be nearing 1,100 days before Shetland Folk Festival audiences would congregate again.

Shetland’s contemporary architecture wins plaudits in new book

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 11:14:00 +0100

Over the past forty years or so, many hundreds of new buildings have been added to the Shetland scene. Numerically, houses dominate the list, but the tally also includes a wide range of public and commercial buildings.

Shetlanders' role in Shackleton's funeral

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 14:50:43 +0100

In this guest blog post, historian Jon Sandison shares the fascinating story of the Shetlanders who played a role in the funeral of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, 100 years ago.

Recipe: Seed Cake

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 15:00:00 +0100

This Easter, why not don your baker's apron and make a nice cake, like this recipe from Taste of Shetland?

Incredible community effort guides 'trapped' sperm whale from Shetland voe

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 13:47:46 +0100

The Shetland community pulled together in an incredible way to help a stricken sperm whale, after the huge animal became disorientated and trapped in one of the islands' narrow voes.

Shetland’s calendar looks much more familiar as the islands re-open

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 11:31:04 +0100

Thanks to the pandemic, islanders and visitors have been denied the wealth of activities that usually punctuate the Shetland year. But in 2022, festivals and events of all kinds resume. Here are some of the highlights.

Dentists, can you keep Shetland smiling?

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 15:41:00 +0100

NHS Shetland is on the lookout for new recruits to join the dental service. Director of Dentistry Antony Visocchi explains why the islands present an excellent career opportunity.

Art students' creative skills on show in new exhibition

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 16:11:00 +0100

UHI Shetland has built an enviable reputation in fostering creativity in the islands and developing the talents of those who choose to study here. A new exhibition at the Bonhoga Gallery in Weisdale presents work by four third-year students on the BA (Honours) Fine Art degree course.

A crofter's diary: Lambing goes live

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

From mid-April, lambs will start arriving across Shetland and crofters and farmers hope for settled weather to provide the new arrivals with the best start to life. This is the calm before the storm of the busiest time of year ...

Riding Out from Shetland ... and back

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 15:49:00 +0000

Journalist Simon Parker completed an epic cycle journey in 2021 that began and ended in Shetland. Simon's book Riding Out is published in April and here he answers 10 questions about the adventure and why he loves Shetland so much ...

Views sought on proposed 'Shetland Way' walking route

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 15:51:41 +0000

A new 80-mile walking route called the Shetland Way that would stretch from Sumburgh Head to Hermaness in Unst is being proposed. VisitScotland is gathering views on the idea ...

Three charities that embody the 'best of Shetland'

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 10:17:23 +0000

It’s often said that Shetland’s strong sense of community is one of its greatest assets. The islands are home to a thriving charitable and voluntary sector, with the goal of looking after people and helping them thrive. Genevieve White looks at three examples …

Spring in Shetland: 'The fight of the year'

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Shetland's nature jumps out of bed in the springtime as the days lengthen and roadsides and cliffs bursting into a riot of colour. Genevieve White outlines some of the reasons to celebrate the changing of the seasons.

Shetland in winter, 'we had a blast'

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 14:34:30 +0000

Blogger Bethanie Wardell visited Shetland with her young family as part of our Find Your True North campaign. She explains why winter is a special time to visit and why they fell in love with the islands…

Eagles return to Shetland

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 11:21:00 +0000

White-tailed eagles, also known as sea eagles, have visited Shetland regularly over recent years including a juvenile bird that over-wintered in Unst in 2021/22. Naturalist Brydon Thomason is excited by the prospect that the islands may again become home to breeding pairs of eagles ...

A crofter's diary: Green shoots – the pig, the plough and the polycrub

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000

As the days lengthen and with spring around the corner, Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer breaks new ground and turns the soil to establish favourable conditions for growing fruit, vegetables and seasonal produce.

Seasonal fish dishes

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 13:31:00 +0000

Looking for some lighter dishes to liven up your winter table as the days begin to lengthen? Cast off the stodge of winter comfort food and try something new with these seafood recipes.

Top 5 things to see in Shetland

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 13:58:04 +0000

Travel blogger Graeme Johncock from Scotland's Stories visited Shetland in February. Here are his top five highlights of a winter trip to the islands.

Harnessing the power of the sea

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 12:22:00 +0000

A pioneering new tidal energy development which could meet a third of household electricity demand in Shetland has been confirmed, adding to the islands' ambitious clean energy plans.

Valentine's Day in Shetland

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 11:12:00 +0000

Shetlanders, much like most people in Britain, aren't known for their overt displays of affection, but that doesn't mean they're not romantics at heart!

Northern Lights make Shetland skies dance

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 10:40:00 +0000

At 60º north, Shetland is closer to the Arctic Circle than London, making it the ideal location in Britain to witness the spectacular Northern Lights. When the 'Mirrie Dancers' illuminate the skies it can be awe-inspiring. Enjoy our gallery which gives a sense of the magical experience...

Curious Fair Isle puffin soars high on Instagram

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 14:33:00 +0000

VisitScotland has ranked the most popular Instagram posts of Shetland in 2021 - with a Fair Isle puffin leading the way with almost 60,000 likes.

Shetland's history in 100 sites

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 09:39:00 +0000

Ever wondered how Shetland’s dramatic cliffs were formed or how life was lived in an Iron Age broch? An exciting new course run by Shetland UHI is set to reveal all, as Alex Garrick-Wright finds out…

Re-creating Scalloway, Shetland’s former capital

Sun, 06 Feb 2022 19:55:00 +0000

The village of Scalloway is undergoing a renaissance. Detailed plans for improvements have been agreed, new housing is being built and the population is growing. The future looks bright.

New skipper for historic sailing vessel

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 15:21:00 +0000

Shetland’s sail training vessel the Swan has a new skipper for 2022 – who first sailed on the vessel as a schoolgirl.

Your images: Impressive winter storm scenes

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 17:14:00 +0000

Wild storms are a feature of any Shetland winter, but island residents know how to embrace those moments. There is something enjoyable about hunkering down in the teeth of a storm before venturing out as conditions improve.

The fascinating world of the Shetland otter

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 13:07:00 +0000

Otter watching has been a lifelong passion for naturalist and wildlife guide Brydon Thomason. He explains what makes Shetland's otters unique and how to enjoy them responsibly and on their own terms...

A crofter's diary: Icy adventures in Bressay

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer continues to explore the island of Bressay and recalls an early morning adventure through snow drifts and across frozen burns as the sun rose against a perfect sky on a crisp February morning.

Cross country running in Shetland

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 09:44:03 +0000

Cross country running is not for everyone, but it is a favourite pastime for a hardy group of Shetlanders who enjoy getting outdoors come snow, hail or sunshine. Read on to discover how winter racing helps them "breathe in nature's prescription".

New exhibition features beautiful weaving

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 12:40:00 +0000

One of the things for which Shetland is best-known is, of course, knitwear; the patterns associated with Fair Isle are admired - and copied - around the world. What’s less well known is that the islands have a very long weaving tradition.

Your images: Winter in Shetland

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 12:12:00 +0000

At this time of year, the weather is ever-changeable and the days veer from flat calm to whirling a full-blown hoolie. No matter what the weather, hardy Shetlanders know the value of getting outdoors, embracing the elements and gulping down breaths of fresh air. There's nothing quite like it.

Shetland fire festivals 2022 update

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 10:21:00 +0000

We've had a few queries about the status of this year's winter fire festivals, so here's what you need to know...

Investing in Shetland's future

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 16:48:04 +0000

Shetland has enjoyed high employment rates for many years thanks to its vibrant and varied economy. A new Young Person's Guarantee will help ensure that continues for the next generation as they prepare to enter the workforce.

A crofter's diary: A winter's tale from Bressay

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 12:17:44 +0000

Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer recalls exploring a spectacular section of Shetland coastline during a New Year’s Day walk.

An alternative Christmas pudding

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 12:58:00 +0000

Christmas pudding. Are you for or against? If you’re looking for a lighter alternative but still want all the theatre and tradition of a steamed Christmas pudding, read on.

What makes Shetland, Shetland?

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 18:31:00 +0000

A visitor arriving in Shetland for the first time soon realises that this is a distinctive place. But what creates that sense of difference? What’s Shetland’s particular identity?

Embracing Shetland’s winter wonders

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 13:24:00 +0000

Shetland wildlife tour guide Brydon Thomason joins the team of Shetland.org bloggers, and starts by reflecting on his favourite winter wildlife moments. It is an incredible time of year to experience the natural world in Shetland.

The angling marine planner

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 10:50:00 +0000

Shetland is naturally beautiful but is also home to nationally significant energy infrastructure, a nascent space industry and a multi-million-pound aquaculture sector. That makes it an exciting place to live and work as a planner, says team leader Simon Pallant.

Christmas cocktails from Shetland

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 15:11:00 +0000

The Christmas season has arrived and to celebrate we are sharing some Shetland-themed cocktail recipes to help you get in the festive spirit.

Reflections on Shetland's musical culture

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 17:10:14 +0000

Lewie Peterson is a stalwart of the Shetland music scene, playing with several bands and helping to organise the annual Shetland Folk Festival.

Shetland music celebrated at Celtic Connections

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 17:10:00 +0000

Shetland will take centre stage on the opening weekend of Glasgow’s Celtic Connections festival in January. A programme of concerts is planned to mark the 550th anniversary of Shetland being pawned from Norway to Scotland.

On a plate: Shetland's finest food

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 14:45:46 +0000

Chef Andrew Spence honed his skills at one of Scotland’s leading hotels and has worked at five-star European resorts. But his Shetland upbringing and passion for local food had a massive influence on his cooking

Shetland lamb – a true winter delicacy

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 17:59:00 +0000

Though we often think of lamb as a spring delicacy, especially at Easter, the best season for buying British lamb is late autumn into winter.

A crofter's diary: Shorter days signal countdown to lambing

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 11:55:17 +0000

Winter is still a busy time in the agricultural calendar and as the shortest day approaches Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer is preparing for springtime lambs by making sure the needs of the flock are accommodated.

Hearty winter warmers

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 14:38:00 +0000

As autumn turns to winter there is something undeniably comforting about tucking into a warming plate of hearty food. Tom Morton offers one or two Shetland-inspired recipes.

Getting weather wise

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 08:44:00 +0000

Shetland's weather can be unpredictable but intuitive islanders can learn to read the signs in their natural environment to forecast what's to come, as natural history writer and photographer Jon Dunn explains.

Otter spotting adventures

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 11:11:00 +0000

Alex Garrick Wright joins local naturalist Richard Shucksmith for a spot of otter watching.

Shetland's winter wildlife highlights

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 11:07:00 +0000

From orcas and humpback whales to otters and white-tailed eagles: for nature enthusiasts, Shetland has so much to offer in the winter time, as Brydon Thomason explains.

From city lights to Northern Lights

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:24:00 +0000

Katie Rose-Hester travelled to Shetland to star in our new winter film campaign. As a first-time visitor to Shetland we wanted to capture her authentic experiences of the place. Here she shares, in her own words, what she enjoyed about her trip and why she's already planning a return visit.

A bright new future for the Shetland Library

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:23:00 +0000

The Shetland Library in Lerwick has a new home; or rather – after almost 20 years in another nearby building – it has returned to its old home. Bigger and better than ever, it’s a real asset to the islands.

Shetland winter stories

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 13:21:00 +0000

Growing up, Marjolein Robertson was entranced by her father’s storytelling which brought to life the many characters described in Shetland tales. Her fascination with folklore continues to develop and here she shares some of her favourite winter stories.

Climate change: the challenge for Shetland

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 18:23:00 +0000

This is widely agreed to be a crucial moment in the history of our planet and of humanity. In Glasgow, many of the world’s politicians, scientists and civic society leaders have been conferring at COP26 to make progress on the issue of climate change.

What to pack for a Shetland winter

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 14:44:00 +0000

Whether you're visiting for a long weekend or an extended holiday, it pays to pack practically when planning a trip to Shetland.

A new start for Shetland UHI

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 16:44:00 +0000

With a mixture of courses that represent Shetland’s heritage, big industries, and innovative emerging sectors, Shetland UHI offers a unique learning opportunity. Here you can study everything from archaeology to space age technology.

What are the Mirrie Dancers?

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 12:33:00 +0000

The Mirrie Dancers are the Shetland name for the Northern Lights, with the word 'mirr' meaning 'to shimmer'. But what causes these lights to shimmer and dance across northern skies in winter? And where do they come from? Aurora expert Richard Ashbee explains all.

Photographing the Northern Lights

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 11:58:00 +0000

If you're lucky enough to see the Mirrie Dancers blazing across a wintery Shetland sky, you'll most probably want to capture the memory in a photograph. Richard Ashbee is a Shetland-based photographer and here he shares his guide to capturing the Northern Lights.

Wheelchair accessible routes in winter

Tue, 09 Nov 2021 09:57:00 +0000

The Hauxwell family live in Yell and are Ordnance Survey GetOutside Champions, motivating people to get outdoors whatever the weather and make the most of their surroundings. Here, mum Kim Hauxwell shares some of their favourite places to visit during the colder winter months...

Decommissioning: A huge opportunity on the horizon

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 12:03:00 +0000

When an enormous ship sails into Lerwick Harbour carrying an oil industry topside it is a conspicuous symbol of the scale of decommissioning work that Shetland could benefit from. The emergence of a new industry brings huge potential.

Embraced and inspired by Shetland's musical culture

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 19:26:00 +0000

Shetland has a special place in the heart of acclaimed jazz musician Seonaid Aitken. She explains why the islands mean so much to her and how she is encouraging a group of young Shetland players.

A crofter's diary: History on my doorstep

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 15:41:00 +0000

As the clocks go back, Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer makes the most of shortening daylight hours and explores the landscape of his historical neighbours closer to home.

Looking to the skies in Unst

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 12:02:00 +0000

Known as the “island above all others” Unst has set its sights even higher – thanks to a new community project celebrating the skies over the island.

Guizing, skekling and kale casting

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 13:49:00 +0100

Laurie Goodlad shares some of the folklore and traditions associated with Halloween and the changing seasons in Shetland times past.

Kale casting and autumn feasting

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 11:34:25 +0100

Like many of our annual holidays, Halloween is the descendant of a truly ancient celebration that goes back to pre-Christian nature-worshipers. If you’re up for a bit of nature worshiping and a simple way to revere the king of Shetland’s vegetables, read on!

7 facts about TV's Shetland

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:51:00 +0100

Whether you're new to the series or an avid fan already, here are some interesting facts about the BBC TV series 'Shetland'...

Salmon: Helping Shetland leap ahead

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 17:02:00 +0100

Salmon farming has become one of Shetland’s most valuable sectors. Offering employment and supply chain opportunities for hundreds of people, the region’s salmon farms provide food for millions of meals annually and underpin island communities.

Investing in a sustainable future for Shetland salmon

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 16:19:00 +0100

Shetlander Tavish Scott is chief executive of Salmon Scotland. He believes the industry is well-placed to tackle environmental challenges and capitalise on opportunities for economic growth.

Welcoming the season of sociability with fuss-free fish

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 17:16:00 +0100

Tom Morton ventures to Lerwick at last and whips up a couple of offshore feasts.

Young photographer charmed by Shetland's wildlife

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 15:54:00 +0100

The lure of incredible wildlife, amazing scenery, and the chance to become part of a tight knit community was enough to convince young photographer Ben Dalgleish that he should move to Shetland. He explains why he loves the place so much.

Lively Sandwick reflects on the past and looks to the future

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 13:24:00 +0100

Two years ago, I learned about the ways in which the people of Sandwick, in Shetland’s south mainland, had set about improving facilities for locals and visitors.

English teacher's new chapter in Shetland

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 16:03:00 +0100

English teacher Catherine Bradley, from County Durham, coveted a different lifestyle for her family. After taking the plunge and applying for a job at the Anderson High School in Lerwick she has never looked back. The family moved to Shetland in October 2020 and are now settled in Scalloway.

A crofter's diary: Much ado about mutton!

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 13:20:00 +0100

Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer continues to trace the agricultural calendar within Shetland by looking at the sales season and the crucial work of Shetland Livestock Marketing Group.

Sample the best of Shetland's food and drink

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 09:29:43 +0100

Shetland is widely celebrated as being home to some of the most beautiful islands in Scotland. But, this is far from its only attraction. The isles are ideal for foodies wishing to sample fantastic produce or for those interested in working or investing in this expanding sector, writes Chloe Irvine.

Mussel farming – a Shetland success story

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 15:44:00 +0100

The cold, clean waters around Shetland make the isles a perfect location for cultivating mussels. Carlton Boyce visited one mussel farm in Yell to find out more about the industry.

"Treasured" exhibition highlights strength and diversity of art and craft skills

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 17:02:00 +0100

Many artists and craftspeople practise in Shetland and, as a current show demonstrates, the strength and diversity of skills are remarkable.

'Some of the finest wild trout fishing'

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 18:01:00 +0100

Trout fishing in Shetland was a long-term ambition for writer Finlay Wilson and photographer Euan Myles. They found the experience of casting flies in Unst, Fetlar and the North Mainland exceeded their expectations.

Five things to love about Shetland

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 09:04:34 +0100

Travel writer Samantha Grant, the woman behind The Wee White Dug blog, spent six "wonderful" summer days exploring Shetland with her dog Casper. Here are her top five highlights.

Shetland – autumn birding gold

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 17:14:00 +0100

Jon Dunn first visited Shetland as a naive youngster keen on spotting rare birds, and left amazed. Thirty years later he lives here and still enjoys the thrill of witnessing the autumn migration.

Seven questions with Wordplay festival curator Malachy Tallack

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 17:51:00 +0100

Shetland's literary festival Wordplay is one of the highlights of September's cultural calendar. Getting lost in a new place can reap great literary rewards, as has been proven by Malachy Tallack, award-winning author and Wordplay curator.

Shetland whale watching adventure

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 16:57:00 +0100

Travelling to Shetland to watch whales was a long-time ambition for bloggers Charlotte Rutherford and Nick Owen. Here they describe their excitement at spotting, filming and photographing orcas and other marine mammals as their dream came true.

Fascinating audio-visual installation explores fishing heritage

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:55:00 +0100

Shetland’s heritage – natural or human – is a continuing source of inspiration for artists in every medium. An installation that honours the islands’ fishing traditions will be seen in the coming year in Shetland and elsewhere.

Cycle hire in Shetland

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 10:32:00 +0100

Fancy a cycle? Instead of passing through Shetland looking out the glass of a car window, why not experience it firsthand with the breeze in your hair, smell of the ocean and sound of birds calling above?

A crofter's diary: Making hay in Bressay

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 10:12:42 +0100

In the second of his "crofter's diary" series, Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer enjoys the late summer days and endeavours, quite literally, to make hay whilst the sun shines.

Gallery: New artwork brightens Lerwick street scene

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 14:30:00 +0100

The installation of several pieces of new artwork in Lerwick town centre have added colour and intrigue to the town centre – and caught the eye of locals and visitors alike.

Autumn brings a rich blend of festivals and events

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:29:37 +0100

As summer draws to a close, Shetland folk have lots to look forward to in the coming months, with four great festivals and much else to enjoy.

Exploring Skerries with Leah

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 14:16:00 +0100

Skerries is an archipelago of small islands that lie on the far east of Shetland. Local lass and influencer Shetland Islands with Leah paid a visit for a day trip to see what the islands had to offer.

Dentists: Shetland needs you

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Shetland needs more dentists. A move to Shetland could mean the opportunity to learn fresh skills on the job, or to run a successful practice, all while discovering the unique joys of Shetland life.

“Why I keep coming back to Shetland”

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 09:00:00 +0100

Dentist Nick Cole lives in Devon, but has worked in Shetland as a locum for over a decade. He explains what it is about the islands that keep him coming back.

Exploring Foula with Leah

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:20:00 +0100

Foula is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the British Isles and known for its fantastic birdlife and dramatic peaks. For her latest island adventure, Shetland Islands With Leah explored all it had to offer.

A crofter's diary with Chris Dyer – August 2021

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 12:01:00 +0100

In the first of a series of monthly diary posts embracing the changing seasons and varied tasks within the beautiful coastal landscape of Shetland, Garths Croft Bressay owner Chris Dyer will be donning appropriate clothing…

Once in a lifetime role in Fair Isle

Tue, 17 Aug 2021 09:15:00 +0100

Britain's most remote inhabited island is looking for a head teacher. Do you have what it takes to become part of this dynamic and welcoming community and help shape the future of its next generation?

Exploring Papa Stour with Leah

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 11:43:00 +0100

Papa Stour has the smallest population of Shetland’s inhabited islands with just a handful of permanent residents.

Shetland heritage dairy with Pearl Young

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 16:21:08 +0100

Shetland’s summer months bring lush carpets of wild-flower speckled grazing for Shetland kye and sheep. This makes them the months that bring the best quality milk and dairy produce.

An insider's guide to Whalsay

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 14:24:00 +0100

The island of Whalsay caters to a variety of tastes whether it be wildlife, hiking, sport, history or a fun place to have a night out.

“Sound Walk” evokes 19th century history through 21st century technology

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 18:14:00 +0100

Visitors to a former fishing station in Shetland’s north mainland will soon be able to imagine themselves there when it was active in the 19th century.

Exploring Fair Isle with Leah

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 13:31:00 +0100

The island of Fair Isle is synonymous with knitwear but the southernmost Shetland island is also a fantastic place for a holiday, as local lass and influencer Leah recently discovered.

Exploring Fetlar with Leah

Tue, 27 Jul 2021 11:04:00 +0100

If you’re looking for travel inspiration in Shetland this summer, why not consider Fetlar? Local lass and influencer Leah gave us her take on the places to go and things to see on the island.

In pictures: summer in Shetland

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 14:39:00 +0100

With so many amazing pictures of Shetland online, we thought we'd share some recent highlights from our social media feed.

Young tourists inspired by Shetland's rugged beauty

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:46:00 +0100

Two young tourists who stepped into Shetland this summer for the first time are already longing to return after being mesmerised by the natural beauty, wildlife and remoteness.

Code for success – the digital enterprise training a new generation

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 15:39:00 +0100

Shetland is “one of the best places in the world” to build a digital economy, according to the director of a Lerwick-based software firm which is helping train the next generation of coders.

Shetland cocktail maker shakes things up

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 14:18:00 +0100

As the market for craft drinks and spirits continues to thrive, Shetland’s first home delivery cocktail service will launch soon. The man behind the idea Jonny Sandison tells us more and shares one of his new recipes.

The sea-loving engineer

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 10:19:00 +0100

Shetlander Tom Wills has travelled the world working in marine energy. Now he’s in Shetland leading the world’s first tidal energy array.

The great Shetland bucket list: Part V

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 11:42:00 +0100

With summer in full swing, welcome to the fifth and final part of our Shetland bucket list – from Jimmy Perez to uninhabited islands and the islands’ highest sea cliff.

New Lerwick art trail is inspired by islands’ past, present and future

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 22:07:00 +0100

A public art trail, known as LOCUS, has brought four new works to the town centre, inspired by Shetland’s past, present and future. Two more, in the form of murals, are to be added later in the summer.

Four weeks in Shetland – 'the most incredible experience'

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 12:34:00 +0100

RSPB visitor experience and marketing manager for England, Annabel Rushton, enjoyed a four-week summer sabbatical in Shetland. During that time she visited several islands, watched incredible wildlife, and had an "unbelievable" time.

Whalsay gets its own 'Swan Lake'

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 11:36:00 +0100

A family of whooper swans has set up home in the "Bonnie Isle" of Whalsay – the first time on record that the birds have bred there.

Roberta Fulford’s ‘Rooted, Flowing, Wild’ exhibition

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 17:15:00 +0100

The latest exhibition in Da Gadderie – the gallery space at the Shetland Museum and Archives – features more than 40 pieces by Roberta Fulford, an artist who moved to Shetland eight years ago and – like many others – is inspired by the islands’ natural environment.

Investment pays off as Lerwick named Fishing Port of the Year

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 15:11:00 +0100

Lerwick has been named Port of the Year, in recognition of a multi-million pound project to create a state-of-the-art hub for the fishing industry.

Shetland engineers keep the turbines turning

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 15:38:00 +0100

The developing wind industry in Shetland will provide dozens of jobs for skilled engineers.

Delight for Shetland readers as secondhand bookshop opens

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 11:23:00 +0100

For many of us, one of the pleasures of exploring new places is browsing the shelves of second-hand bookshops and, with the recent opening of The Kergord Hatchery Bookshop, visitors or locals in Shetland now have their best-ever opportunity to do that.

The great Shetland bucket list: Part IV

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 10:44:00 +0100

For locals and visitors, Shetland offers as much adventure and opportunity as it’s possible to find anywhere in the UK. In the fourth part of our Shetland bucket list, we reveal ten more great things to do on the islands

5 of the best things about Shetland in June

Mon, 31 May 2021 13:44:00 +0100

Spring creeps into Shetland slowly, rhythmically, and then, bang, June bursts forth in all her glory. Here, Laurie Goodlad shares some of the reasons why she thinks it is such a special month...

New national TV ad promotes Shetland

Mon, 24 May 2021 14:15:00 +0100

If you're thinking about visiting Shetland this summer, we hope this new TV ad showcasing the best of what the islands have to offer will encourage you to go ahead and book your trip.

Grasping the nettle

Fri, 21 May 2021 12:35:00 +0100

Osla Jamwal-Fraser explains the joy to be found in foraging for food and shares a delicious recipe using nettles, which are abundant across Shetland.

The great Shetland bucket list: Part III

Mon, 17 May 2021 10:22:00 +0100

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Shetland is an adventure waiting to happen, whether discovering deep nature, ancient history or the best Shetland seafood. In the third part of our Shetland bucket list, we reveal ten more great things to do on the islands

Shetland on Film

Fri, 14 May 2021 13:21:00 +0100

Laurie Goodlad caught up with Greg McCarron at the Shetland Film Archive to find out about Shetland on Film – a newly digitised collection of film clips showcasing Shetland life in the 1950s and 1960s.

Shetland's best burns

Tue, 11 May 2021 09:39:00 +0100

As we all start to think about what to do in the summer holidays, Laurie Goodlad shares a few of her favourite burns to visit with bairns.

It's simply Shetland

Sun, 09 May 2021 15:21:00 +0100

From time to time, debates about Shetland in social media touch on the question of how the islands are described. It’s a fair bet that, if someone refers to ‘the Shetlands’, someone else will quickly jump in to point out that the right term is simply “Shetland”, or possibly “the Shetland Islands”.

The great Shetland bucket list: Part II

Fri, 07 May 2021 10:25:00 +0100

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Shetland is an adventure waiting to happen, whether discovering deep nature, ancient history or the best Shetland seafood. In the second part of our Shetland bucket list, we reveal ten more great things to do on the islands

Caravanning and camping in Shetland 2021

Wed, 05 May 2021 14:07:00 +0100

As visitors and islanders get out and about across Shetland, we’ve had a few enquiries asking which campsites are open for business and the facilities available. Here’s a quick round-up…

The great Shetland bucket list: Part I

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:22:00 +0100

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Shetland is a great adventure waiting to happen, whether discovering deep nature, ancient history or the best Shetland seafood. Over the next few months, we’ll unveil the ultimate Shetland bucket list as inspiration to get out there and get exploring.

Gaada explores diverse new avenues in Shetland’s art scene

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 11:39:00 +0100

Shetland enjoys a developing reputation as a place where many forms of creativity are flourishing. One striking expression of that is Gaada, a visual art workshop that’s been based in a former Methodist chapel in Bridge End, Burra since 2018.

Shetland's top picnic spots

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 12:06:00 +0100

One of the most satisfying things to do in Shetland, particularly on a fine day, is to pack up your stuff and head to a scenic spot for a family day out and a picnic. Laurie Goodlad, an avid picnicker herself, shares some insider tips on the best places to dine al fresco...

Root and branch – the story of Shetland’s trees

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 10:56:00 +0100

Shetland is often described as 'treeless' but this wasn't always the case and, in fact, trees could be set to flourish across the islands once more, as natural history writer and photographer Jon Dunn explains.

Chasing the silver darlings

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 15:27:00 +0100

Fishing is Shetland's largest and most lucrative industry and has helped to sustain the islands' economy for centuries. In her latest blog post, Laurie Goodlad looks at how herring fishing made Shetland, for a time, one of the busiest ports in Europe.

Shetland’s best kayaking spots

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 16:02:00 +0100

With almost 1,700 miles of geologically diverse coastline, from stacks to caves and remote beaches, Shetland is a paradise for kayaking. Angus Nicol, who runs the Sea Kayak Shetland tour company, explains some of its best spots.

The life of an island leatherworker

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 13:33:00 +0000

Leatherworker Lisa Sumner runs a creative business from her croft on the island of Fetlar. Lisa moved to Shetland, with husband Dave and teenage children Mykala and Jack, from the Cumbrian countryside in 2018.

Green shoots of success in Shetland

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 14:57:00 +0000

Against wider plans for Shetland to become a green energy island, small businesses with a focus on sustainability have been thriving, even during Covid restrictions.

Meet the maker: Cecil Tait

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 09:46:00 +0000

Cecil Tait is the owner of Paparwark and designs and makes furniture. He created the beautiful Reestit Mutton Serving Platter we're giving away in this month's prize draw. We spoke to him to find out a bit more about his work and what inspires him.

Making a new life in Fetlar

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 14:13:28 +0000

In January, Heather and Norman Humphrey, five dogs and a cat all arrived on Fetlar – Shetland’s remotest North Isle – to begin a new life. Laurie Goodlad caught up with them seven weeks after their arrival to find out what island life has been like so far...

Shetland's remarkable women

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 09:37:03 +0000

To mark International Women's Day on 8th March, Laurie Goodlad shares the stories of some of Shetland's fascinating females.

Studying in Shetland: a fresh start

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 15:44:00 +0000

The Shetland College, NAFC Marine Centre and Train Shetland are merging to become a single tertiary education college for the islands – meaning a more unified vision as Shetland tools up for the future.

Shetland’s green hydrogen future

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 12:17:00 +0000

Green hydrogen could be one of the key energy sources of the future – and Shetland’s Orion Project has one of the world’s most ambitious plans to generate it on a large scale.

Creativity flourishes between Northern and Western Isles

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 21:40:00 +0000

A project called Between Islands, which was developed by An Lanntair, the Western Isles’ arts centre, aims to explore the arts and heritage of that island group alongside those of Orkney and Shetland. With funding from a range of sources, there’s now a wealth of material online.

What is Shetland dialect?

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 11:37:00 +0000

To mark International Mother Language Day on 21st February, Laurie Goodlad explores the origins of the Shetland dialect and looks at how it lives on today.

Valentine's cocktails from Shetland

Sat, 13 Feb 2021 11:31:00 +0000

Valentine’s Day is almost upon us and what better way to celebrate with a loved one than to make some decadent cocktails?

Shetland folklore

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 16:23:16 +0000

While Shetland is blanketed in snow, there's nothing quite like gathering round the fire of an evening and spinning a good yarn, particularly if there are tales of trows and selkies involved.

Creating a more sustainable Shetland

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 11:11:00 +0000

Alex Armitage recently moved to Bigton from London with his wife Deepa and their seven-year-old son. As well as being a trained paediatrician, Alex has a keen interest in ecology and food production, particularly in the context of the climate emergency.

The returning jeweller

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:17:00 +0000

Living in Shetland offers people a real work-life balance and a high quality of life. It was these attributes, along with a desire to be nearer family, that prompted jeweller Karlin Anderson to move across country from London to Shetland.

The Norse influence on Shetland culture

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 10:37:00 +0000

The Vikings arrived in Shetland around 850 AD and settled here, giving rise to a period of almost 600 years of Norse rule. This period has distinctly shaped culture and traditions despite the transfer of the islands to Scotland in 1469, as Laurie Goodlad explains

A ramble on the Ness of Sound

Sat, 23 Jan 2021 13:58:00 +0000

Walkers in Shetland are spoilt for choice. Those of us who live in the country can easily set out on an inspiring trek from our garden gate, but it’s really no more difficult for folk living in Lerwick, Scalloway or Brae.

2021: A year of innovation

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 18:25:42 +0000

Last year was a challenging one for Shetland and its economy. But 2021 looks set to be a year of change and innovation, from fishing to renewable energy and space.

Shetland's Viking legacy

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 09:15:00 +0000

Shetland’s Viking heritage is strong, formed through generations of Norse rule and close Scandinavian ties, but it’s not all flaming torches and burning galleys, as Laurie Goodlad explains.

Shetland’s garden birds

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 15:02:16 +0000

In his latest blog post, natural history writer and photographer Jon Dunn explains the pleasure he gets from birdwatching from the comfort of his island home.

Shetland’s top archaeological sites

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 11:39:19 +0000

With thousands of scheduled sites and monuments, you may be at a loss as to which archaeological treasures to visit when you’re only in Shetland for a limited time. We outline the top archaeological attractions and take you on a voyage of discovery through 6,000 years of human history.

2021: The year to make your move

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 10:54:00 +0000

After a challenging 2020, why Shetland offers a real chance of a fresh start in 2021.

Fair Isle chairs exhibition

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 20:42:00 +0000

Thanks to the work of artist and maker Eve Eunson, the craft of Fair Isle chair making has been properly recorded and may now have a brighter future.

Spectacular Shetland footage in Stormborn

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 12:31:00 +0000

If you're looking for something wintery to watch this festive season head to BBC iPlayer and watch Stormborn – a wildlife series featuring footage from Shetland. We caught up with drone operator Nick McCaffrey who shared his experience of working on the series.

Heating homes with waste

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 16:37:00 +0000

A new video has just been launched to showcase a forward-thinking community partnership that takes unrecycled waste from Shetland and Orkney and turns it into low-cost, green heating.

Storytelling in Shetland

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 10:43:00 +0000

As we mark another midwinter, Laurie Goodlad explores Shetland's relationship with storytelling and ponders whether this long-held oral tradition can survive in the digital age.

Festive Recipe: Whipkül

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 10:30:00 +0000

If you're looking for festive recipe inspiration, Whipkül is a rich and creamy dessert, which originates from Scandinavia. Here, Osla Jamwal-Fraser from Shetland Food and Drink shares her version.

Shetland’s Christmas larder

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 14:16:00 +0000

With Christmas approaching, the thoughts of many – in Shetland as elsewhere – have turned to Christmas preparations. What part does food play in the islands?

The Shetland Bookshelf: The fiction section

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 19:09:00 +0000

Shetland has long stimulated writers of both fiction and non-fiction. There is much to enjoy in the fiction section, as well as a remarkable range of poetry.

Art inspired by landscape and folklore

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 13:33:00 +0000

Shetland-based artists draw so much inspiration from the world around them and the ever-changing landscape, wildlife and rich lore of the isles.

Inspired by Shetland's knitwear tradition

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 12:30:00 +0000

In the run up to Christmas, we focus on some of the amazing creative talent within the isles, giving you a flavour of some of the multi-talented creative businesses that help shape Shetland’s economic landscape.

How the sea inspires creativity in Shetland

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 11:34:00 +0000

Shetland-based artists draw so much inspiration from the world around them, like the ever-changing seas, the rich heritage of fishing and how the weather can dramatically alter the landscape in a heartbeat. In this blog, we look at how the sea inspires some local artists' work.

Welcome to the Islands of Opportunity

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 13:35:40 +0000

You might have noticed that shetland.org looks a bit different. The site has been completely redesigned and redeveloped, and we are excited to share it with the world.

How Shetland inspires me: artist Ruth Brownlee

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 12:00:00 +0000

The painter explains her long-held fascination with Shetland’s dramatic skies and stormy seas.

Cosying up with Shetland textiles

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 15:43:00 +0000

Misa Hay is the founder of the Shetland Wool Adventures, running knitting tours of the islands and a beautiful new magazine. She explains her longstanding passion for the islands’ rich knitting culture.

Project sheds light on remarkable archaeology

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 18:00:00 +0000

A plan to build a shed has led to some remarkable archaeological discoveries.

21 great reasons to visit Shetland

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:41:00 +0000

From secret beaches to epic adventures and fresh seafood, why you need to start planning a trip to Shetland.

Meet the naturalist family

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 16:18:00 +0000

Brydon Thomason is one of Shetland’s best-known naturalists – and his family on the northern island of Unst are similarly wildlife-obsessed.

Shetland’s Bookshelf: The non-fiction section

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 14:00:00 +0000

Shetland has inspired an extraordinary volume of writing, both fiction and non-fiction, for a community of its size. This time, we look at what’s to be found in the non-fiction section, where the range of topics and writers is extensive.

What’s it like to teach in a small Shetland school?

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 17:05:00 +0100

Hannah Irvine is the headteacher at North Roe Primary School, in a tiny community in Shetland’s North Mainland. She talks about her work and life.

Finding energy in the Shetland tide

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 14:39:00 +0100

Tidal energy has been a largely untapped source of renewable energy – but the world first tidal energy array in Shetland’s Bluemull Sound could be at the forefront of changing that.

Bobby's Bus Shelter

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 14:36:00 +0100

How a bus shelter became one of Shetland's top tourist attractions.

Finding the perfect career in Shetland

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 12:11:00 +0100

Advanced nurse practitioner Vicky Schofield didn't just find her perfect job when she moved her family up from Chester – she found a new home and a safe, happy childhood for her kids.

Meet the modern Shetland knitter

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 11:37:00 +0100

Ninian owner Joanna Hunter-Coe left London for family life in Shetland – and to bring a fresh twist to traditional Shetland knitwear.

Ann Cleeves on falling in love with Shetland

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 09:56:00 +0100

The author Ann Cleeves on how a chance meeting in a London pub brought her to Fair Isle – and a lifelong love affair.

The best thing about living in Shetland is...

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 10:17:00 +0100

We asked ten locals, and here’s what they said.

Taste of Shetland Festival 2020 preview

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 14:11:00 +0100

This year, with mass gatherings cancelled, Taste of Shetland's annual food festival is going online.

Shetland’s best beaches: by the locals

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 15:57:00 +0100

Shetland locals and regular visitors share their favourite beaches across the islands.

Video highlights aquaculture opportunities

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 14:34:00 +0100

A student from Shetland has created a video highlighting the opportunities available in the islands’ aquaculture industry.

21 great reasons to move to Shetland

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 17:06:00 +0100

Shetland isn’t just about freedom, nature and community. The islands are home to world-class schools and infrastructure, with the opportunity of life-changing career opportunities. Here are some compelling reasons to make the leap.

Winning the space race in Unst

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 17:56:00 +0100

A corner of Britain’s northernmost island is preparing to be the site for the UK’s first ever commercial satellite launch – putting Shetland at the heart of a fast-growing global space industry.

Good times for Shetland’s fishing industry

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 16:44:00 +0100

With new fish markets in Lerwick and Scalloway, and plans to expand its aquaculture offerings in Yell, Shetland is preparing for more growth in its biggest industry.

Taking on Britain’s northernmost golf course

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 16:05:00 +0100

The Whalsay Golf Club, on a beautiful headland on the edge of the famous fishing island, has been run by the community since 1976 – and they’ve kept it devilishly tricky.

Building a dream home in Shetland

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 14:26:00 +0100

With great architects and well-priced plots, often with stellar sea views, Shetland makes a great place to build a perfect home from scratch.

The artist inspired by the sea

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 13:59:00 +0100

Why photographer and ceramicist Ellie Duncan has always been inspired by the colours and shifting shapes of the Shetland sea.

Shetland’s hidden underwater world

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 11:37:00 +0100

Underwater photographer Billy Arthur, aka Lona Brak, documents the rich and little-understood world beneath the waves around Shetland.

Why Shetland music is special

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 15:11:00 +0100

Shetland is a musical place, with a long history of folk but also a thriving and surprisingly diverse modern scene. We explore what makes the music happen.

A photographer’s guide to Shetland nature

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 14:05:00 +0100

Richard Shucksmith is a Shetland-based nature photographer and ecologist who was the first photographer to capture humpback whales and diving gannets underwater in the UK. Here, he shares some of his secrets.

An expert’s guide to the Shetland outdoors

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 11:25:00 +0100

Local boy Ritchie Williams on a lifetime of coasteering, surfing, cliff-jumping, kayaking and more in Shetland – and why he isn’t done discovering yet.

Guidance for walkers in Shetland

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 09:20:00 +0100

Useful guidance to follow when you're out and about roaming the Shetland countryside.

Brynn breaks down barriers

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 17:57:00 +0100

Fifteen-year-old Brynn Hauxwell is pushing himself by wheelchair around Shetland's coastline for Ability Shetland.

Jarlshof: More than 5,000 years of occupation

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 18:00:00 +0100

Shetland has thousands of archaeological sites: in fact, there are more than 8,000 in the islands' Sites and Monuments Record. All kinds of historic and prehistoric remains are present, from Second World War defences right back to the Neolithic period.

Hairst in Shetland

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 10:22:00 +0100

Hairst, the Shetland word for autumn, is upon us. Laurie Goodlad explains some of the traditions of the season from Shetland's past.

The joy of beachcombing

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 19:02:00 +0100

Natural history writer and photographer Jon Dunn on his love of finding treasures along Shetland's coastline.

Travel blogger shares highlights of Shetland visit

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0100

This summer, travel blogger Kay Gillespie, aka The Chaotic Scot, travelled to Shetland.

Lerwick's iconic buildings

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 09:12:00 +0100

Shetland's capital is rich with history, as Laurie Goodlad explains as she takes us on a tour of some of the town's best-known buildings.

Ship brings oil platform to Lerwick for recycling

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 18:00:00 +0100

An enormous ship - the largest construction vessel in the world - has brought the topsides of the Ninian North oil platform to Lerwick in a hugely impressive operation.

Museum collection inspires new knitwear

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 18:00:00 +0100

Not for the first time, a Shetland knitwear pattern from the collection in the Shetland Museum and Archives has provided inspiration for a fashion house.

Rediscover Shetland: Your highlights

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 13:49:00 +0100

When lockdown restrictions were eased in Scotland in July, we encouraged islanders to get outdoors to 'Rediscover Shetland'.

Fair Isle Bird Observatory appeal launched

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 08:29:00 +0100

Crowdfunding appeal launched to help rebuild the world-famous bird observatory.

Ness of Burgi: An Iron Age Mystery

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 23:00:00 +0100

Shetland is rich in archaeological remains spanning more than four thousand years and this walk on Scatness takes in one of the lesser-known - and more mysterious - sites, the Ness of Burgi.

A walk to Deepdale

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 09:35:00 +0100

Laurie Goodlad shares her latest Shetland adventure, a walk to Deepdale in Shetland's West Mainland.

Walker and his dog capture islanders' hearts

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 07:43:00 +0100

Charity walker Christian Lewis and his rescue dog Jet bid farewell to Shetland after memorable nine month stay.

Stacks of scenery: a coastal walk in Northmavine

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 18:30:00 +0100

Shetland offers an astonishing range of walking opportunities. Some - like the Eshaness cliffs - are very well known, others less so. This easy walk gives wonderful views over St Magnus Bay, with a dramatic foreground of cliffs and sea stacks.

A walk (or cycle) to Burland Broch

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 12:17:00 +0100

As we continue to get out and about to Rediscover Shetland, Laurie Goodlad pays a visit to Burland Broch in Sandwick.

Shetlanders praised for response to Covid-19

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 11:58:00 +0100

NHS Shetland's Chief Executive Michael Dickson commends islanders community spirit during lockdown and Shetland Public Health team provide ongoing guidance for locals and visitors.

A remarkable man: the world of James Teit

Sat, 25 Jul 2020 23:30:00 +0100

Wendy Wickwire's excellent account of the life of James Teit, who worked with Indigenous peoples in Canada, also offers fascinating insights into the Shetland of his day.

More of Shetland's abandoned places

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 10:35:00 +0100

In the second in a two-part series, Laurie Goodlad explores some of Shetland’s abandoned buildings and delves into their history.

Shetlanders encouraged to buy local

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 16:41:00 +0100

Islanders are being urged to support local businesses and the economy by shopping locally.

10 ways to Rediscover Shetland

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 10:40:00 +0100

As part of our Rediscover Shetland series, here are 10 classic ways to get out there and enjoy Shetland life to the full. For non-locals, consider it inspiration for whenever we can welcome you again.

Shetland’s abandoned places

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 16:46:00 +0100

In the first in a two-part series, Laurie Goodlad explores some of Shetland's abandoned buildings and delves into their history.

Lerwick: An island capital's past and present

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 13:30:00 +0100

Lerwick, home to around a third of Shetland’s 23,000 people, is a relatively recent arrival on the Shetland scene. How did it grow to become Shetland’s capital?

New community wildlife project

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 11:51:00 +0100

Shetlanders are being encouraged to get up close to nature with the launch of an exciting new community initiative.

The weather: It's all about location

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 11:00:00 +0100

What's the weather really like in Shetland? Whether visiting or thinking of moving to the islands, that's a question everyone asks. The weather and climate are largely the result of latitude and the influence of the sea, but there are some surprising local variations.

A new green deal for Shetland energy

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 12:08:00 +0100

Ambitious new plans for a renewable energy hub in Shetland could eventually mean £5bn revenue and 1,750 new jobs.

North Yell: A small community with big ideas

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 15:05:00 +0100

With a population of just 200, the northeastern corner of Yell has become a dynamic centre of fishing, aquaculture and renewable energy. Now, driven by an active community development group, it’s looking to the future with a bold new plan.

Why Shetlanders love ‘da simmer dim’

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 10:49:00 +0100

Why does midsummer mean so much to Shetlanders and where does the tradition of 'the simmer dim' come from?

Dreaming of a Shetland adventure?

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 17:33:00 +0100

Shetland is currently closed to visitors but that doesn't mean you can't start planning for when we do reopen, as Laurie Goodlad explains.

Gilly B's Shetland

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 10:36:00 +0100

Artist Gilly Bridle shares her experience of moving to Shetland and what she loves about living here.

Scalloway: A walk through history

Sun, 31 May 2020 15:33:00 +0100

Scalloway, Shetland's ancient capital, enjoys a beautiful setting and is rich in history. We take a walk through the village.

At da eela

Tue, 26 May 2020 16:38:00 +0100

A glimpse into a long-held Shetland fishing tradition that endures to this day.

Self sufficiency in action: Shetland’s ancient mills

Sat, 23 May 2020 15:00:00 +0100

There was a time, not so long ago, when Shetland's crofters milled their own grain, mostly in scores of tiny watermills. At a time when flour has been in short supply, it's a reminder of how self-sufficient islanders used to be.

The sisti moose saga

Thu, 21 May 2020 16:42:00 +0100

Jon Dunn reveals the history of the remarkable Shetland wren and its rare Fair Isle counterpart.

Kickstart your career in Shetland

Tue, 19 May 2020 11:29:00 +0100

Take the first step into your future in our thriving island community.

My life in Fair Isle

Fri, 15 May 2020 14:46:00 +0100

Ever wondered what it's like to up sticks and follow your island dream? Rachel Challoner did just that when she took on a croft on Fair Isle.

Future of Shetland textiles

Tue, 12 May 2020 07:46:00 +0100

Shetland is known worldwide for its knitwear but it has a rich tradition of other textiles, too.

Growing and cooking with rhubarb

Mon, 11 May 2020 10:32:00 +0100

As rhubarb is in season, we thought it timely to revisit this blog from the archives, written by Misa Hay.

7 classic Shetland dishes

Fri, 08 May 2020 12:25:00 +0100

Laurie Goodlad shares some traditional meals and food often eaten in Shetland homes.

Away to the peats

Thu, 07 May 2020 11:08:00 +0100

Natural history writer Jon Dunn explores the centuries-old Shetland tradition of working the peats.

Shetland Mandolin Band

Fri, 01 May 2020 11:47:00 +0100

The Shetland Mandolin Band is a 30-strong community band featuring performers of all ages and abilities.

TV chef James Martin visits Shetland

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 09:19:00 +0100

As part of his TV series Islands to Highlands, chef James Martin visits Shetland to explore the local food scene.

Recipe: Shetland Paella by James Martin

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 09:15:00 +0100

TV presenter and chef James Martin's shares a Shetland-inspired recipe from his new book Islands to Highlands.

Community spirit copes with Covid-19

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 19:00:00 +0100

Like communities across the UK and in many other parts of the world, our islands have had to embrace new ways of living since the novel coronavirus arrived earlier this year. We look at how the public services, the private sector and the people of Shetland have coped.

Shetland happy tunes playlist

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 16:33:00 +0100

Uplifting music from Shetland to help you stave off those lockdown blues.

A Lerwick waterfront walk

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 16:00:00 +0100

These days, our exercise takes a little more planning than usual, so combining a walk with a shopping trip can make sense; this time, we explore the sights and history of Lerwick's waterfront.

Voar in Shetland

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 12:23:00 +0100

The sun is out and voar has finally arrived in Shetland, as Laurie Goodlad explains.

5 favourite Shetland words

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 11:25:00 +0100

Jewellery designer Karlin Anderson shares her favourite Shetland words.

Recipe: Burra Brönnie

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 08:30:00 +0100

Shetland with Laurie shares a favourite Shetland recipe that makes for a perfect winter pick-me-up with a hot cup of tea.

Enjoying Shetland on screen

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 11:19:00 +0100

Explore the history of Shetland through the people and places depicted in photographs and film.

Shetland on Instagram - Part 4

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 13:47:00 +0100

The fourth in a series of blog posts celebrating the best of Shetland on Instagram.

Shetland Unlocked festival announced

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:27:00 +0100

Shetland Arts launch a community-driven event to take place once restrictions are lifted.

Moving to Yell: A catch up with the Cook family

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 14:46:00 +0100

An interview with Gen Cook who recently relocated from Exeter to Yell with her family.

Shetland on Instagram - Part 3

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0100

The third in a series of blogs showcasing the best of Shetland photography on Instagram.

Shetland knitwear: Old foundations, new directions

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 19:00:00 +0100

All over the world, Shetland and Fair Isle are associated with knitwear; but where did the knitting tradition come from? How has it evolved over the years? And what does the future hold?

Shetland on Instagram - Part 2

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 08:09:00 +0100

Shetland is a photographer's dream. In this second part in our series, we share some of our favourite Instagram accounts featuring the islands.

Shetland on Instagram - Part 1

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 12:55:00 +0100

Shetland is a photographer's dream. We share some of our favourite Instagram accounts featuring the islands.

Recipe: Shetland Shortbread

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 16:46:00 +0100

Our latest recipe from the Shetland.org archive is this delicious shortbread recipe.

Experience Shetland at home

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 12:17:00 +0100

Make the most of your time indoors with some inspirational free online content from Shetland.

The pleasures of local exploring: West Burra

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 21:46:00 +0100

With limits to movement in force, local exploring has come into its own - and there are riches on our doorsteps that it's time to redicover. Here, we visit West Burra.

Childcare in Shetland wins inspectors’ praise

Sat, 28 Mar 2020 17:29:00 +0000

Two recent reports from Scotland’s Care Inspectorate have praised the quality of childcare available in the islands; and for anyone contemplating a move to the islands, there are opportunities to work in the field.

Shetland’s links with Norway take musical form

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 16:00:00 +0000

In basing himself in Norway, internationally-known Shetland musician Kevin Henderson is not only helping to maintain Shetland’s strong Scandinavian connections. He’s also demonstrating the value of today’s technology in promoting culture and learning.

Learn traditional Shetland skills at home

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 14:19:00 +0000

Bring a little bit of Shetland life into your own home by learning one of these traditional skills.

Remote working in action

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 17:08:00 +0000

Businesses in Shetland are looking at ways they can keep their companies running whilst keeping their staff and customers socially distant to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Where to buy Shetland knitwear online

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 16:07:00 +0000

Shetland is famed worldwide for its iconic knitwear. We celebrate some local suppliers who sell their wares online.

10 good reads about Shetland

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 15:44:00 +0000

From natural wonders to history and fiction, there are lots of books about Shetland. Here are a few of our current picks...

Shetland otters: The tale of a draatsi family

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 13:56:00 +0000

Shetland wildlife expert and nature guide Brydon Thomason shares his experience of making a film on Shetland otters.

Our March 2020 diary

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 20:00:00 +0000

Our busy March diary brings a range of music plus lots of drama, the last three fire festivals of the season and a typically eclectic film programme.

Shetland offers great sports opportunities

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 11:00:00 +0000

Whether you’re a visitor or a local, the range and quality of sporting and recreational opportunities in the islands is really impressive.

Warmth from waste

Wed, 19 Feb 2020 22:32:00 +0000

For more than twenty years, Shetland’s waste to energy system has successfully used combustible rubbish to heat homes, businesses and public buildings in Lerwick.

Lerwick Up Helly Aa 2020: In Pictures

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 10:22:00 +0000

Shetland's Fire Festival Season lasts from January until March. Here are some highlights from the biggest event in the calendar, Lerwick Up Helly Aa, which took place on the last Tuesday in January.

Exhibition explores migration

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 18:30:00 +0000

An exhibition at the Bonhoga Gallery evokes positive and negative expereinces of migration through beautifully-executed sculptural work in a range of media.

Clever canines strike a pose

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 14:50:00 +0000

Kaylee Garrick's photogenic dogs are making headlines with their model behaviour.

Up Helly Aa 2020 Virtual Sailing Race

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 17:10:00 +0000

Virtual sail racing platform Sailonline.org is bringing its fleet to Shetland in time for the Up Helly Aa celebrations.

Making the move to Shetland

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 14:30:00 +0000

In January 2010, Lauren Doughton moved from the outskirts of Manchester to make a new life in Shetland. We caught up with her 10 years on to get her perspective on the process of moving to Shetland.

Happy Newerday

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 12:38:00 +0000

Discover how Shetlanders celebrate New Year.

A very Shetland Christmas

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 10:40:00 +0000

Today Christmas in Shetland is much like the rest of the UK, but what about in days gone by?

Book review: Seabirds and Seals

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000

In his new book, "Seabirds and Seals", Jonathan Wills recounts his quarter-century of wildlife guiding around the islands of Bressay and Noss. It's a thought-provoking but also highly entertaining journey.

A day in the life at Belmont House

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 11:47:00 +0000

Belmont House in Unst, is one of Shetland's grandest self-catering accommodation options. We chatted with house manager Sharon Calladine about the efforts it takes to keep it running all year round.

Sumburgh: A walk through history

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Shetland’s south mainland is a fascinating part of the islands, and nowhere is that fascination more concentrated than in a couple of square miles at Sumburgh, the southern limit of the mainland.

Lerwick voted second most beautiful high street

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 13:42:00 +0000

Lerwick has come runner-up in a poll of Scotland’s most beautiful high streets, being just pipped to the post by our island neighbour Kirkwall, in Orkney.

ALICE brings theatre skills to youngsters

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 17:03:00 +0000

Shetland’s theatrical scene is a lively and bustling one. And, thanks to one local entrepreneur, even the youngest budding thespian has a chance to hone their skills.

Grayson Perry Exhibition: More than one kind of genius

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 12:00:00 +0000

A remarkable exhibition featuring ceramics by contemporary British artist, author and broadcaster Grayson Perry recently opened at the Shetland Museum and Archives in Lerwick.

Shetland childcare business sets a high standard

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 10:06:00 +0000

Scalloway-based childcare facility Hame Fae Hame is featured in 2019 Parliamentary Review.

The Shetland Open: a rich palette

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 12:00:00 +0100

This year’s Shetland Open exhibition at the Bonhoga Gallery in Weisdale features a rich mix of applied art and craft from a number of makers, some of whom are well-known but others less so.

Tenth Wool Week a huge success

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 21:56:00 +0100

From modest beginnings, Shetland Wool Week has grown, over ten years, into an extraordinarily eclectic event that draws knitters from all over the world.

Exploring islandness through art

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 12:49:00 +0100

An interview with artists Vivian Ross-Smith from Fair Isle and Jane Walker from Newfoundland in Canada, talking about how being islanders brought them together and inspired them to work on a collaborative art project.

Textile inspiration: Nielanell

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 15:00:00 +0100

One of the most innovative designers and makers active in Shetland is Nielanell, established by Niela Kalra.

Creative learning opportunities at Mareel

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 13:07:00 +0100

The breadth of opportunity for people of any age to study the creative arts is impressive, and each year more and more students enrol in the film and music courses available through Mareel, Shetland's premier arts venue.

Dynamic Sandwick looks to the future

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 12:00:00 +0100

The recent completion of work on a new visitor centre is just one example of the efforts made by the Sandwick community to invest for the future.

Awards and accolades put Shetland on the map

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:47:00 +0100

With Shetland being recognised as a top tourist destination by Lonely Planet recently, we thought we’d list some of the other great accolades our islands have been celebrated for…

Craft display at Bonhoga

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 15:35:00 +0100

The third and last of this year’s “Made in Shetland” exhibitions at the Bonhoga Gallery in Weisdale has demonstrated, once more, the range and quality of work made by local craftspeople.

OK commuter: a Shetlander's journey to work

Wed, 21 Aug 2019 16:31:00 +0100

Do you dread the journey into work in the morning? Do you race to get back home in the evening? Join local naturalist Jon Dunn on his daily commute and see why he traded London for Shetland. Watch out for otters crossing? Yes please!

Shetland acts at the Edinburgh Fringe

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 11:11:00 +0100

Promote Shetland spoke to fiddler Chris Stout, harpist Sophie Rocks, and comedian Marjolein Robertson about their 2019 Edinburgh Fringe performances.

Honesty boxes in Shetland

Tue, 13 Aug 2019 11:58:00 +0100

From cakes and home bakes to eggs, meat and veg, you can find all sorts of delicious produce to buy along Shetland's roadsides...

Shetland boats: At the heart of our heritage

Sat, 10 Aug 2019 16:00:00 +0100

As a very successful Shetland Boat Week 2019 draws to a close, the thoughts of many local people and visitors to the isles will no doubt have turned to our distinctive maritime heritage.

Gold in the hills

Tue, 06 Aug 2019 08:48:00 +0100

You don't need to head to the coast to view Shetland's entrancing bird population, the golden hills are filled with treasure, as Jon Dunn explains

The race to space

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 16:09:00 +0100

Commercial space flight is now becoming a reality and the new frontier to tame and standardise. In this setting, the island of Unst finds itself at the forefront of this new industry.

Remarkable perspective on Shetland's coast

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 14:00:00 +0100

An absorbing new book recounts an extraordinary adventure by kayak that took historian David Gange all the way down the western coasts of the British Isles, beginning in Shetland.

The best places to take photos in Lerwick

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 18:18:00 +0100

Allison Christie rounds up the best spots for taking photos in Lerwick

Shetland: one of Europe's best cruise destinations

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 13:50:00 +0100

Shetland’s tourism industry goes from strength to strength as it was announced this week that Lerwick has been recognised as one of the best destinations in Britain and Western Europe to visit by cruise ship.

Praise for Roseanne Watt’s new poetry collection

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 13:00:00 +0100

Roseanne Watt recently launched her new poetry collection in Lerwick. It has already won praise from many reviewers.

Superb end of year show at Shetland College

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0100

The excellent work done by students on the fine art and textiles courses at Shetland College, part of the University of the Highlands and Islands, was once again on display in their end-of-year show, 'Vision 18'.

Unst – a botanical treasure island

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 11:38:00 +0100

Fancy a treasure hunt with a difference? You could do this anywhere in Shetland at the height of summer, when the islands are a sea of colour, but there’s nowhere finer to look for wildflower treasures than on Unst, our very own Treasure Island.

Why Shetland is a hot spot for yachts

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 16:12:00 +0100

Two international yachting events have sailed through Lerwick Harbour this month.

Foula - a taste of island life

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 12:44:00 +0100

Imagine living on one of the most remote island in Britain. Read on to find out what life is like in Foula...

Coding for kids in Shetland

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 13:32:00 +0100

Children in Shetland are getting a taste for technology thanks to the introduction of code clubs at schools and libraries.

15 of the best places to take photos in Shetland

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 15:15:00 +0100

Shetland is a photographer’s dream – clear light, ever changing skies, stunning backdrops and seas that change from flat calm to wild and dramatic, sometimes within the space of an hour. There’s lots of space to explore and capture Shetland from your own fresh perspective.

Local firm makes its mark in Antarctica

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 10:13:00 +0100

Shetland-based marine engineering firm Ocean Kinetics are proving that when it comes to growing a business there are no geographical boundaries

Local makers feature in Bonhoga exhibition

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 15:00:00 +0100

The latest "Shetland Made" exhibition offers a chance to see the work of six more of Shetland's numerous and highly skilled craftspeople.

Leading photographers explore life at sixteen

Wed, 05 Jun 2019 21:00:00 +0100

During June, an unusual venue in Lerwick - a building site - is hosting a major touring exhibition of photography that explores the lives of sixteen-year olds in Shetland and around the UK.

Shetland: The perfect slow living destination

Mon, 03 Jun 2019 11:56:00 +0100

We caught up with with writer and blogger Jessica Rose Williams following her trip to Shetland to find out her highlights.

Partnership prepares pupils for work

Tue, 28 May 2019 11:25:00 +0100

An innovative approach to the transition between the world of work and school life has been introduced at Sandwick Junior High School.

Shetland makes Lonely Planet hot list!

Tue, 21 May 2019 12:31:00 +0100

With dramatic, rugged coastlines, glistening white sandy beaches, outstanding wildlife and unspoilt beauty, it’s little wonder that our northern island archipelago has made the top 10 in the Lonely Planet’s list of best places to visit in Europe in 2019.

Exhibition presents fine art and textiles

Mon, 20 May 2019 18:00:00 +0100

A new exhibition at the Shetland Textile Museum displays the diverse work of students at Shetland College.

Hospitality opportunities in Shetland

Wed, 15 May 2019 15:00:00 +0100

Several hotels and a guest house are on the market in Shetland, offering possible business opportunities.

Shetlander goes to Medieval World Championships

Wed, 15 May 2019 11:54:00 +0100

The isles have a varied and successful sports scene, with Shetland athletes and sports teams regularly participating in national and international competitions- 18 year old Varik Miller is the latest such athlete to travel far and wide for sporting glory.

A new generation of Shetland seafarers

Fri, 10 May 2019 12:32:00 +0100

Interested in a career at sea? Mark Burgess explores the options on offer throught he NAFC's sea cadet training schemes.

Mareel: A sparkling addition to Shetland life

Sat, 27 Apr 2019 12:00:00 +0100

Mareel, a strikingly modern addition to Lerwick's waterfront, is much more than an arts centre, with a wide range of superb facilities.

Makers’ work on display at Bonhoga

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 16:00:00 +0100

Once again, the Bonhoga Gallery, in Weisdale, is displaying some of the best of the craft work produced by the many talented makers living and working in Shetland.

Special diets in Shetland

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 12:21:00 +0100

Following a special diet, whether through choice or for health reasons, is often manageable except for at one time: travelling. Whether you are vegetarian or vegan or have to avoid gluten, dairy or eggs, trying to plan where the best places to eat are becomes part of your life.

Video Games League at The Bop Shop

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 12:06:00 +0100

Local record store and creative hub The Bop Shop has launched a new computer games league. Alex Garrick-Wright went along to see who would be crowned 'Street Fighter II' champion.

Meet the marine educator

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 14:58:00 +0100

Beth Mouat is a senior scientist at the NAFC Marine Centre in Scalloway, putting her at the forefront of research into Shetland’s vital fishing and aquaculture industries.

Museum and Archives welcome millionth visitor

Tue, 26 Mar 2019 18:00:00 +0000

On Thursday 21 March, staff at the Shetland Museum and Archives greeted their millionth visitor, Dr David Malcolm, accompanied by his grandson, Oliver.

Good Nude Food

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 11:59:00 +0000

Louise Thomason catches up with local entrepreneur Evonne Morrison to learn more about the story behind the development of her health food company 'Good Nude Food'.

Apprenticeship opportunities in Shetland

Thu, 21 Mar 2019 11:29:00 +0000

With such a wide range of industry and enterprise, there are lots of opportunities for young people in Shetland, as showcased at the recent Developing the Young Workforce apprenticeship fair.

A walk to Culswick Broch

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 12:00:00 +0000

A walk to the Broch of Culswick blends stunning scenery with archaeological mystery.

Historic Swedish wreck may receive protection

Wed, 27 Feb 2019 21:47:00 +0000

Shetland lies on international trade routes, and with a coastline stretching for nearly 1,700 miles, it’s not surprising that many ships have met their end around the islands. Now, there’s a proposal that an outstanding example should enjoy permanent protection.

Wedding exhibition chronicles change

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 21:00:00 +0000

A new exhibition at the Shetland Museum and Archives explores the history of Shetland weddings through a stunning display of wedding attire, illuminated by many insights into the lives of those who wore it.

The Tengmalm's Owl in Tumblin

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Opening their curtains on the morning of 19th February, Jackie and Erik Moar were pleasantly surprised to see a small owl, roosting in a conifer outside a window at the rear of their home in Tumblin, Bixter. Little did they know just how significant their garden visitor would transpire to be...

Shetland comedy at Edinburgh Festival

Wed, 20 Feb 2019 16:51:00 +0000

After a triumphant appearance at the first Edinburgh International Improv Festival, Shetland’s only comedy group, the Imposters, have spoken to Promote Shetland about their first experience of being funny off-island.

Lasses Trust in Providence: Love the Lasses

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 14:25:00 +0000

In the final of her three part blog series profiling inspiring northern women Claire White talks about the modern day Shetland lasses who inspire her.

Love and Courtship Traditions in Shetland

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

St Valentine’s Day isn’t a holiday traditionally observed in Shetland, but there’s plenty of traditions surrounding courtship and relationships. Especially important were traditional holidays, when it was believed that young, love-lorn lasses could perform rituals to predict their future husbands.

Top wildlife spotting locations

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 18:06:00 +0000

Alex Garrick-Wright asks a number of local wildlife experts about their favourite places to experience Shetland’s nature.

Lasses Trust in Providence: Aud the Deep Minded

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

In the second of her three part blog series profiling extraordinary women, Shetland fiddler Claire White explores the story of Aud the Deep Minded.

Exploration of nests and eggs

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 22:46:00 +0000

Natural Selection, an exhibition about nests and the social history of egg collecting, is a remarkable project conceived and produced by Andy Holden and his father, Peter.

Wild Shetland: Behind the scenes

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 11:08:00 +0000

Brydon Thomason gives us a glimpse behind the scenes of the filming of the new BBC Scotland Documentary, Wild Shetland: Scotland's Viking Frontier, narrated by Ewan McGregor

Lasses Trust in Providence: Betty Mouat

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 11:04:00 +0000

In the first of a three part series profiling extroardinary northern women, Shetland fiddler and singer-songwriter Claire White explores the incredible story of Betty Mouat.

A local larder

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 21:00:00 +0000

Alex Garrick Wright explores some of the options for shopping locally this winter.

Winter in Shetland - FAQs

Thu, 27 Dec 2018 21:00:00 +0000

Alex Garrick Wright runs through some of our most frequently asked questions about life in Shetland during the winter, and explains that, far from it being cold, snowy and isloated, winter in Shetland is suprisingly mild - if a little breezy.

Gingerbread Ganseys

Sat, 22 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Emma Johnson of @emsdailyhealthdiary shares her amazing festive gingerbread gansy recipe. Just what we need to put us in the Christmas spirit.

Shetland in winter

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 19:00:00 +0000

Shetland can be simply stunning in winter. The winter light, and the spectacular changes in weather, offer a truly rewarding experience.

Shetland’s emergency ‘sisters’

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 22:20:00 +0000

Coastguard worker Kaylee Stevenson and paramedic Emma Stevenson are actually only sisters-in-law – but, best friends since school, they might as well be the real thing.

Janette Kerr’s ‘North’ exhibition opens in London

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 17:00:00 +0000

A new London exhibition by Dr Janette Kerr features her stormy Shetland seascapes as well as work made in Svalbard.

The multi-tasking maestro

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 14:13:00 +0000

Liam Brannan studied music at the Mareel cultural centre before getting a job as a sound assistant. He’s also a youth worker and coastguard volunteer. He shares the way that Shetland has enabled his busy life.

Young Enterprise

Tue, 20 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000

For many Shetland high school students, their first foray into the world of business is through the Young Enterprise scheme. We spoke to some of the groups involved to find out what benefits it has brought them.

Jonny Sandison, Brewer

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Shetland’s food and drink industry is an up-and-coming sector for the isles economy. Promote Shetland spoke to Lerwick Brewery’s Jonny Sandison, to find out more about why the sector is becoming increasingly attractive to young people.

Meet the rock ’n’ roll oilman

Wed, 14 Nov 2018 09:43:00 +0000

Adam Priest doesn't just work at Sullom Voe, long the centre of Shetland’s oil and gas industry. He’s also a prominent bass player, family man and coach to the Shetland girl’s football team.

Meet the boat builder

Tue, 13 Nov 2018 17:07:00 +0000

Ryan Stevenson leads the new boat-building department at Lerwick firm Malakoff – putting him at the heart of a new era for a traditional Shetland industry.

Shetland Remembers

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 20:00:00 +0000

The centenary of the 1918 armistice was movingly marked by several events in Shetland.

Another world first for Shetland’s tidal energy

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 17:00:00 +0000

The latest development at the tidal power site in Bluemull Sound represents another world first.

The female farmers of Bigton

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 16:07:00 +0000

Kirsty and Aimee Budge run the family farm at Bigton, opposite the beautiful St Ninian’s Isle – using sustainable modern methods that have seen them win the Countryfile Farming Heroes award. Here, Kirsty tells their story.

The footballing fisherman’s agent

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 11:44:00 +0100

James Aitken isn’t just an agent for the fishermen that form the backbone of the Shetland economy – he’s also a star player for the islands’ football team. He shares what he loves about Shetland life.

The fun-running jeweller

Wed, 24 Oct 2018 11:43:00 +0100

Sophie Whitehead is one of life’s great enthusiasts – about making jewellery, about running marathons, and about getting out into Shetland nature with her many friends.

Photographers' visit yields a rich portfolio

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 21:55:00 +0100

A new and fascinating collection of photography, resulting from a visit to the islands earlier this year, touches on many aspects of Shetland and its people.

Shetland Rocks

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 12:00:00 +0100

What started as something to keep bairns entertained has grown into an isles-wide movement – Shetland Rocks – enjoyed by adults and children alike, with visitors to the isles and even some businesses getting involved.

The Bop Shop - Shetland's independent record store

Fri, 05 Oct 2018 17:00:00 +0100

Independent record shops are an endangered species in the UK, but Shetland is bucking the trend, thanks to The Bop Shop, a not for profit, independent record store in Lerwick. Alex Garrick Wright went to find out more about it.

An interview with Roseanne Watt

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 12:00:00 +0100

In honour of National Poetry Day 2018, we have a chat with Shetland poet Roseanne Watt.

The mussel man of Yell

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 12:23:00 +0100

The mussel man

Meet the star welder

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 12:23:00 +0100

Katie Roe is a highly regarded and respected welder working for Ocean Kinetics.

Shetland’s cultured crofters

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 12:22:00 +0100

Tim and Floortje are creative crofters of Shetland

Promoting Shetland in London

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Did you know that you can leave Shetland first thing in the morning and be in London by lunch time? Promote Shetland were in the capital recently for a couple of special events.

25th Great British Beach Clean Weekend

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Pupils from Hamnavoe Primary School in Burra help to take part in some vital beach cleaning and survey work.

Our October diary

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 21:00:00 +0100

There's lots to do in Shetland in October, with two of our annual festivals taking pride of place.

Shetland: Cooking On The Edge Of The World

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 23:00:00 +0100

A new cook book by James and Tom Morton is about so much more than Shetland cooking and perfectly captures the essence of the isles.

#ScotFoodGoals: Eat Local

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0100

As part of Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight, we asked local food blogger Emma Johnson to share some of her plant based recipes and talk about why she prefers buying local produce.

School students sign up for ‘Skills For Work’

Tue, 11 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0100

If it's true that, in Britain, we don't put enough emphasis on vocational training, Shetland's 'Skills for Work' programme is resetting the balance.

Entertainment for babies and children in Shetland

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 11:30:00 +0100

Shetland is a great place to bring up children. Allison Christie has been chatting to Jenny Teale about her two child focused businesses and a relatively new event in the Shetland calendar - the Baby and Children Show.

A woodland walk

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 03:00:00 +0100

A favourite walk in Weisdale offers a woodland ramble and glimpses of Shetland's history.

Where's Wallaby? (Much further north than you think!)

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 16:30:00 +0100

Wallabies in Burra? Who would have thought! Australia might be 10,000 miles away from Shetland, but you can get there in about half an hour thanks to one enterprising expat and his Outpost.

Lerwick’s fine Victorian Town Hall is reborn

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 14:00:00 +0100

After around two years of painstaking work, the fine Victorian Town Hall in Lerwick has emerged renewed, with its remarkable story brilliantly re-told for a 21st century audience.

Da Street 2018

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Commercial Street, Lerwick, known locally as 'Da Street,' is the heart of local and independant retail in Shetland. We spoke to local shops and businesses to find out what it's like to run a small business in Shetland, and why Da Street is a great place to do it.

Hillswick Health Centre polycrub

Sun, 05 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Patients and doctors in the northerly village of Hillswick have been getting green fingered in a new community Polycrub scheme, hosted by the local health centre. Lauren Doughton headed north to meet with local GP Susan Bowie, and see what has been going on.

The zero carbon house: Ten years on

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 14:00:00 +0100

On Shetland’s northernmost inhabited island, Unst, a pioneering house aimed at demonstrating practical ways of reducing carbon emissions has recently passed its tenth anniversary.

Beautiful craft work impresses at Bonhoga Gallery

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 22:00:00 +0100

Another display at the Bonhoga Gallery underlines the breadth and depth of Shetland makers' creative skills.

Da Voar Redd Up: Shetland's spring clean

Wed, 04 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Have you heard of Da Voar Redd Up? Over the past 31 years over 100,000 volunteers have dedicated their time to keeping Shetland's environment clean, collecting over 1,900 tonnes of rubbish from Shetland's coastlines, beaches, roadsides and public spaces.

A superb spring of rare birds in Shetland

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 16:01:00 +0100

Sitting between two Oceans, where the North Sea and North Atlantic meet, Shetlands geographical position makes it an ideal landfall for migrating birds.

Sisters from Bigton are Britain’s Farming Heroes

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 13:00:00 +0100

Two sisters from Bigton, in Shetland's south mainland, have won a BBC award and hailed as farming heroes.

Shetland's Classic Motor Show is better than ever

Tue, 05 Jun 2018 14:00:00 +0100

This year’s Classic Motor Show underlined, once again, the depth of Shetland’s enthusiasm for every form of wheeled transport.

Bright hopes for future of fishing industry

Fri, 25 May 2018 11:02:00 +0100

The new fishmarket in Lerwick and the arrival of new boats show that confidence in the fishing sector is increasing

Compelling account of cod fishing

Fri, 18 May 2018 21:00:00 +0100

A new book tells the story of one of the lesser-known parts of Shetland's fishing heritage.

High-tech Shetland future dawns

Fri, 11 May 2018 11:26:00 +0100

New Shetland software company just one of several local firms involved in worldwide digital development.

On the trail of Shetland's first thriller

Thu, 10 May 2018 10:08:00 +0100

As the number of Shetland-set novels increases inexorably, Tom Morton takes a tour of the various locations used in Taffrail's The Shetland Plan, published before World War Two - the first thriller set in the isles.

Family fun at the Shetland Folk Festival

Tue, 08 May 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Louise Thomason writes about the events available to children and families at the Shetland Folk Festival.

Creative Craft Skills On Show At Bonhoga

Sat, 28 Apr 2018 22:43:00 +0100

The variety and quality of craft work produced in Shetland is remarkable, and some of it is currently on show at the Bonhoga Gallery in Weisdale.

Thomas Fraser and the launch of Shetland's first vinyl LP this century

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 21:31:00 +0100

The launch of Shetland's first vinyl album this century, and the genius of the late Thomas Fraser.

‘Shetland Bus’ Vessel Returns

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 13:00:00 +0100

The return of one of the vessels used in the wartime Shetland Bus operation was marked by ceremonies in Scalloway.

The Northernmost: a passion for the North Isles

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 09:32:00 +0100

Tom Morton looks at the impulse to go ever northwards, to the ultimate isles - and examines the attractions of Shetland for spiritual pilgrims. A new song from Brunt Hamersland, with scenic slideshow. To The Northlands!

Out and about in Shetland: Free family fun

Tue, 17 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0100

We share a list of some of our favourite places to take the family for a fun day outside.

New BP fields illustrate model for offshore development

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 20:16:00 +0100

BP has announced that it will develop two new, smaller fields in the North Sea and the Atlantic west of Shetland

The Swan & The Serene

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0100

As Shetland prepares to welcome a brand new addition to its modern fleet, trips aboard the Swan offer an insight into what fishing was like a century ago

Mead Will Flow As Viking Enters Valhalla

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Alex Garrick Wright learns about the newest product on the drinks scene in Shetland: Viking Mead.

Shetland's orca season begins again

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 10:35:00 +0100

The past two years have seen a fantastic and most welcome upturn in orca sightings in Shetland's inshore waters.

Naturalists and doctors

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 21:00:00 +0100

If you’re a medical professional with an interest in wildlife, a move to Shetland would be entirely in keeping with a longstanding island tradition.

Photographers seek inspiration In Shetland

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 20:00:00 +0100

A photographers’ collective is heading for Shetland in April, with plans to cover a wide range of subjects.

Walking Shetland - Old & New Books

Sun, 25 Mar 2018 19:54:00 +0100

A look at a brand new pocket guide to walking in Shetland, and remembering some older ones

Remote learning from Shetland

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 12:50:00 +0000

Shetland's NAFC Marine Centre has successfully developed online learning modules for the aquaculture industry which are attracting demand from across the world

Magellan arrival signals start of record cruise ship season

Tue, 13 Mar 2018 14:28:00 +0000

Shetland set for 2018 cruise ship season record as first ship, former Sochi Olympics 'flotel', arrives

10 Years of Frying at Frankie's

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 10:19:00 +0000

Frankie's Fish and chip Shop in Brae, Shetland, is 10 years old this year. Family owned, it's proved a success locally and internationally, with its commitment to ethical, sustainable fishing and local produce.

Theatre in Shetland

Tue, 27 Feb 2018 11:00:00 +0000

While Shetland’s traditional music scene might be world-famous, the theatre scene is an active and bustling one. There are a variety of plays, pantos and shows to choose from throughout the year, and plenty of opportunities for locals to tread the boards.

Shetland To Host Hans Holbein Masterpiece

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 22:00:00 +0000

Shetland Museum and Archives is set to play host to a Holbein masterpiece, A Lady with a Squirrel and a Starling.

Young Designers’ Work Will Be Seen in Dundee V&A

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 22:00:00 +0000

Young people in Shetland have been involved in a design project that will show their work in Dundee's new V&A.

Knitwear Business Set for International Expansion

Thu, 08 Feb 2018 12:10:00 +0000

Hoswick-based knitwear business Nielanell has received support from Highlands and Islands Enterprise in its quest to reach new international markets.

Up Helly Aa 2018: a media round up

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 14:50:00 +0000

A round up of the media coverage of Up Helly Aa 2018.

Opera stars perform favourites

Sat, 03 Feb 2018 22:00:00 +0000

On 28 February, Lerwick’s Garrison Theatre will once again welcome performers from Scottish Opera, who’ll be performing favourites from the works of Rossini, Mozart Così fan tutte and Bernstein, among others.

Shetland Architects and Builders Excel

Wed, 31 Jan 2018 16:00:00 +0000

Shetland's architects and builders have shown that they're not only well able to meet the demands of clients and the Shetland climate, but can make their mark internationally.

2017 LPA Records Set

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 11:53:00 +0000

2017 statistics for Lerwick Port Authority show record whitefish landings and cruise passengers, plus the biggest ever single decommissioning project

Musseling in

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 09:56:00 +0000

Shetland's pioneering Stepping Stone mussel hatchery project could open up a new era for mollusc farming, far beyond the isles

Up Helly Aa for kids!

Wed, 24 Jan 2018 00:00:00 +0000

Up Helly Aa is a highlight of many Shetland children's calendar - here are some of the ways they can be involved.

Shetland Folk Festival Countdown

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 22:59:00 +0000

The provisional line-up for the 38th Shetland Folk Festival has been revealed and it looks set to be yet another one that's not to be missed.

Oil and Gas Upturn in 2018

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 18:04:00 +0000

The variable oil price is leaning upwards and industry predictions are for much more exploration activity in 2018, especially in waters west of Shetland

Virtual Up Helly Aa Race

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 09:50:00 +0000

Take part in a virtual race to Shetland with SailOnline and their Up Helly Aa event! Virtual sail racing platform Sailonline.org is a community owned navsim game which provides a realistic, entertaining and educational platform for those who love the sea and sailing.

The ‘Arnold Schwarzenegger of polytunnels’

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 18:20:00 +0000

The superstrong polytunnel designed and manufactured in Shetland, and exported all over the world. Now eligible for crofting grants and constructed in the Western Isles by a local company.

“Island Medics” Gets to the Heart of Health Care

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 21:55:00 +0000

Over ten episodes, BBC1 viewers were given an intimate insight into the work of Shetland’s Gilbert Bain Hospital and the other healthcare services in the islands.

Award-winning recycling enterprise

Thu, 30 Nov 2017 03:00:00 +0000

A Shetland social enterprise company that specialises in re-use has become the latest organisation in Scotland to be certified by Revolve, the national re-use quality standard offered by Zero Waste Scotland.

Artists and Makers Show Superb Work

Mon, 27 Nov 2017 18:16:00 +0000

Eight artists and makers with Shetland connections are currently showing their work in an excellent exhibition in the gallery at the Shetland Museum and Archives.

Satellites Launched From Shetland? It’s Possible!

Sun, 19 Nov 2017 16:00:00 +0000

According to a study co-sponsored by the UK Space Agency and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Shetland’s northernmost island of Unst is an ideal place from which to launch satellites.

Northernmost Librarian Is Champion

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 19:00:00 +0000

Julie Thomson, who runs the community library in Shetland’s northernmost inhabited island, has become Public Library Champion 2017.

Anderson High School new home

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 22:00:00 +0100

After 155 years, Shetland’s largest secondary school is moving from its original site to an impressive new building.

Burrastow House: Best Hotel In Scotland!

Sat, 14 Oct 2017 21:25:00 +0100

Burrastow House, a small and beautifully-situated Shetland hotel, has been rated the best in Scotland in the 2018 edition of the Good Hotel Guide.

Autumn brings out the best in Shetland food

Tue, 12 Sep 2017 20:00:00 +0100

Fresh, local food from land and sea, plus an expanding range of drinks, are among Shetland's highlights.

Shetland by motorhome

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 14:00:00 +0100

A caravan or motorhome is a great way to see Shetland. Touring sites are available in many parts of the islands.

Wilderness Walk to Best Beaches

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 19:48:00 +0000

A walk on the extremely wild side of Ronas Hill to (arguably) the best beaches in Shetland. In the opinion of Tom Morton, anyway...

10 Blackcurrant Recipe Ideas

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 11:37:00 +0100

Shetland blackcurrants are falling off the bushes right now, ripe for the picking - but what to do with them all?

Lovely Fresh Shetland Eggs

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 14:56:00 +0100

All over Shetland, near crofts and at the roadside - if the hens are laying, folk will sell their surplus eggs. You will find mixed colours - pale, dark and lovely green ones too. You may also get fine big 'deuk's' eggs.

Fossil Hunting in Shetland

Thu, 27 Aug 2015 14:28:00 +0100

It's funny how one thing can often lead to another, in the most unexpected of ways. Being a food blogger means I get sent all sorts of weird and wonderful things to try out, and payment for work doesn't always involve cash. I often receive products as payment in kind.

Abby's Mug Cake - a fuss free fruity fruit cake

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 19:00:00 +0100

I have a confession to make - it's not really my Mug Cake - it's my Auntie Pam's recipe and she gifted it to me a while ago. Thank you Auntie Pam, who is currently holidaying in Santorini (I hope you're having a lovely time and don't forget to bring me back a tea towel). I digress.

Lerwick Brewery and Tushkar Brownies

Sun, 26 Jul 2015 14:00:00 +0100

The other week I had a fab tour of Lerwick Brewery - it's a hard life but someone has to do it! Lerwick Brewery manager, Rhanna guided me around the premises and showed me the brewing process - all very technical, temperature controlled and quite scientific.

Kevin's Reestit Mutton Soup Recipe

Sun, 10 May 2015 19:25:00 +0100

Kevin Henry wears many different hats: husband, father, grandfather, businessman, mechanic and RNLI engineer among them. This afternoon I found him tending a large pot of reestit mutton soup in the kitchen at the Aith Hall, on the west side of Shetland.

Shetland Vanilla Fudge Cheesecake

Sat, 07 Feb 2015 09:45:00 +0000

This tasty cheesecake recipe from the team at Frankie's Fish & Chip Shop is a delicious and easy to assemble dessert.

Spiced Shetland Beef

Tue, 03 Feb 2015 10:40:00 +0000

I recently bought an eighth of a 'Coo'. This fine animal was reared in Cunningsburgh by Hazel and Kenneth MacKenzie. He was a Saler/Simmental Cross and his name was Chooka Parker.

Shetland Shortbread

Sat, 17 Jan 2015 13:23:00 +0000

Over the festive period one of our Canadian readers requested that I share a traditional Shetland shortbread biscuit recipe. After much searching by many people in the Taste of Shetland headquarters (everyone has their own version!) we came up with this recipe as being the most popular.

Local and Seasonal

Sun, 19 Oct 2014 18:05:00 +0100

In September I was asked to prepare some food for a function at Mareel for the end of screenplay.

Mushroom Feast

Wed, 01 Oct 2014 15:59:00 +0100

At this time of year when my children Sophie and Peter were small we used to pass the time on the drive out of Lerwick by playing spot the Mushroom in the nearby fields and roadside. We always had a plastic bag in the car for our trophies.

How to deal with a glut of courgettes

Wed, 03 Sep 2014 15:02:00 +0100

It is now August and vegetable producers have had a bonanza this year. Growing conditions have been good for vegetables grown outside, but some need a little more nursing. Given a little protection and a couple of courgette plants they will give you an unlimited supply throughout the summer.

Asparagus

Sun, 22 Jun 2014 13:44:00 +0100

The arrival of bundles of asparagus on the supermarket shelves made me think of my time at Burrastow house and heralds the first taste of summer.I loved to go into the warmth of the polytunnel and cut the first spears.The large amount of space that asparagus takes to grow and the very short season…

Rhubarb Chutney

Tue, 17 Jun 2014 22:06:00 +0100

Rhubarb, Ginger and Orange Jam

Mon, 19 May 2014 10:06:00 +0100

All over Shetland, Jam makers are 'oxter' deep in rhubarb in May. Pull the rhubarb stalks from the plant and then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Try to use the more tender stems that are pink at the root end as this will enhance the colour of the finished jam.

Blueshell Mussels with White Wine & Thyme

Wed, 14 May 2014 15:16:00 +0100

Recently, while researching a series of articles I am writing on sustainable fishing in Shetland, I found myself at the premises of Blueshell Mussels. Based in Brae, Blueshell Mussels is the UK's leading rope-grown mussel farm.

Tray Baked Shetland Salmon

Sat, 05 Apr 2014 12:59:00 +0100

After spending a day in Lerwick busily running errands and shopping with small children in tow, we often return home very hungry, wanting something quick, tasty and most importantly, something made with minimum effort for dinner.

Ceviche

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 18:04:00 +0000

Ceviche (pronounced seh-vee-chay) is basically very fresh fish which is marinated and 'cured' using fresh lime juice, chilli, red onion, a little salt and a big handful of roughly chopped coriander leaves.

Hot Smoked Peppered Mackerel Pate

Sun, 23 Mar 2014 11:58:00 +0000

Fish did not become a regular part of my diet until I became a parent and I really started to pay attention to what I was feeding myself and my family. I wanted to make sure my growing children were getting a full range of nutrients from a varied, healthy diet.

Sourdough

Fri, 21 Mar 2014 09:35:00 +0000

My sourdough starter is quite lively at the moment and as we have had friends here for the South Mainland Up Helly Aa I have been busy making extra bread. I recently made a plain loaf and also a sultana and walnut loaf.

So Much To Sea: Shetland Seafood

Sat, 01 Mar 2014 20:46:00 +0000

Shetland's seafood industry is worth a staggering £300 million to the local economy, according to So Much to Sea, surpassing the value of the oil, gas, agriculture, tourism and creative industries combined. For every £1 spent on local produce £2.59 is generated for the local economy.

Shetland Bannocks

Sun, 09 Feb 2014 12:16:00 +0000

In addition to a wide variety of other talents, Peter Sinclair of Hillswick makes excellent Shetland bannocks. I first heard of Mr. Sinclair through The Shetland Times newspaper last December when Maree Hay wrote about his bannock making skills in her regular column North Mainland Notes.