Shetland & Orkney

An Immersive Wildlife & History Holiday

Travel Tips

• The wild northern isles are best visited by tour or car, but it is possible to see quite a lot travelling by public transport. Aberdeen is the best starting point, with direct rail connections from London, and good rail links to much of the rest of the UK.
• Aberdeen, often called the "Granite City" due to its stunning grey stone architecture, is a vibrant port city located on the northeast coast of Scotland. Known for its rich maritime history, thriving oil industry, and proximity to beautiful coastlines and Scottish Highlands, Aberdeen offers a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor experiences.
• Allow time to visit Footdee (locally known as Fittie) - a quirky and charming fishing village located at the mouth of the harbor. It is known for its quaint cottages, colorful houses, and narrow streets. A visit here feels like stepping back in time, with a cozy, tight-knit community atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for photography and a peaceful walk by the sea.
• NorthLink provide a direct ferry link between Aberdeen, Lerwick and Kirkwall. Book early to secure a comfy overnight cabin and consider paying extra for access to the Magnus Lounge.
• Lerwick, is the northernmost town in the United Kingdom, offering a unique mix of Viking heritage, maritime culture, and rugged natural beauty. A compact town, the main sights are all walkable, although there is also a reliable bus service. Allow at least a day to explore the town and be sure to visit the Shetland Museum & Archives for a fascinating insight into the islands’ past.
• A lot of the main sights can be visited by public bus from Lerwick, although car hire and day tours are also possible – and essential for those wishing to travel out to one of the many smaller islands. Places to visit on the mainland include Sumburgh Head (for puffins and Jarlshof – a prehistoric archaeological site) and Scalloway (for the Shetland Bus Museum).
• Mousa is one island that can be visited by bus to Sandwick, followed by a short 10-minute walk and a ferry crossing. Mousa island is an RSPB nature reserve, home to one of the UK's largest Storm Petrel breeding colonies and the best-preserved broch in the world. The Mousa Boat operates April-September, daily except for Saturdays.
• Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands, is a charming town with a rich Viking heritage, stunning landscapes, and historic sites. It’s an excellent base for exploring Orkney, with good bus connections.
• The local bus services reach most corners of the Orkney mainland, with many routes passing close to some of the iconic sites, including the Ring of Brodgar, the Standing Stones of Stenness, the Churchill Barriers and the Italian Chapel.
• For milder weather and longer daylight hours, the summer months are the best time to visit. This is also when many festivals and cultural events take place. If you want to experience the unique winter atmosphere, visit during the colder months, but be prepared for shorter days and possible storms. If you’re lucky, you may even see the Northern Lights.