Shetland Islands
in Great Britain

Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands are an archipelago of more than 100 islands located off the north coast of Scotland, about 110 miles to the north of mainland Scotland. The Shetland Islands are the northernmost islands in the British Isles and form part of the United Kingdom.

The Shetland Islands are divided into two main groups – the North Isles and the South Isles – and cover an area of approximately 1,468 square miles. The largest island is known as Mainland and is home to around 22,000 people, the majority of the Shetland Islands population.

The Shetland Islands are renowned for their rugged beauty and stunning scenery, with a landscape that is dominated by rolling hills, moorland and lochs. The islands are also home to a wealth of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, otters and whales.

The Shetland Islands have a rich and varied history, stretching back to the Iron Age when they were inhabited by the Picts. In the 8th century, the islands were raided by Norsemen, who eventually settled in the islands and established a Norse kingdom. The islands came under Scottish rule in the 15th century and have been part of the United Kingdom since the Act of Union in 1707.

The Shetland Islands played an important role in the two World Wars, with the Royal Navy establishing a base in Lerwick during the First World War, and a number of airbases during the Second World War. The islands were also the site of the world’s first commercial oil production in the 1970s.

Today, the Shetland Islands are a popular tourist destination, with visitors drawn to the islands’ stunning scenery, unique culture and rich history. The islands are also renowned for their traditional music and festivals, such as the Up Helly Aa fire festival, which is held in Lerwick every January.

Experience Shetland Islands with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Shetland Islands. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Shetland Islands

The climate in Shetland Islands in Great Britain is generally mild, with cool summers and mild winters. Spring is usually quite wet with some snow, while summers are generally warm and sunny with temperatures ranging from 10-15°C. Autumn is generally mild and wet, with temperatures ranging from 5-10°C. Winter is cold and wet, with temperatures ranging from 0-5°C and snowfall possible. Despite the cold temperatures, the Shetland Islands have a relatively mild climate compared to other parts of the British Isles.

Cruise weather for Shetland Islands

Our weather forecast for Shetland Islands helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Shetland Islands

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