10 things to do in Shetland this spring

Here are 10 activities to add to your list of things to do in Shetland this spring:

If you love top quality music and a fantastic atmosphere, you can’t beat Shetland Folk Festival. Some of the world’s best traditional musicians descend on Shetland every year for the renowned event to play concerts at venues around the islands. Highlights include the festival-ending “foys” and partying at the ever-lively festival club.

The islands have some fantastic birdlife, and some amazing places to watch them in their natural habitat. Shetland is home to spectacular seabird colonies including gannets, razorbills, black guillemots, and puffins – known in Shetland as tammy nories. Spring is also a great time to spot migratory birds such as skylarks (laeverick), whimbrels (peerie whaup), and Arctic tern (tirrick).

With almost 1,700 miles of coastline, it's no surprise that Shetland is home to many beautiful beaches. Whether you prefer expanses of white or golden sand, pebble strewn beaches, or love trekking to find the perfect secluded spot, Shetland has them all. Don't just take our word for it, here are some of the favourites, chosen by locals.

Located in Britain’s most northerly inhabited island, Unst Heritage Centre provides an insight into life in the island throughout history using audio-visual displays, interactive exhibits, and a reconstructed croft house. Unst is also home to the fantastic Unst Boat Haven, a maritime museum that opens in May. And no visit to Unst is complete without exploring the island’s incredible Viking heritage.

Shetland is home to world class archaeological sites, including the amazing Jarlshof in the South Mainland. Explore the site which has been occupied since 2700BC and provides a fascinating insight into how people lived thousands of years ago. Don’t forget to visit the nearby restored Iron Age broch and village Old Scatness. This is history so real that you can feel it. Literally. If you’re visiting Jarlshof, why not also plan a walk to the blockhouse fort at the Ness of Burgi.

Wherever you head in Shetland, there are spectacular locations to explore on foot. And with so much coastline to explore, along with fascinating geological features, amazing views and beautiful landscapes to enjoy, you can’t really go wrong. We have chosen some of our favourite Shetland walking routes to help inspire you. Always remember the weather can change quickly so you must take appropriate clothing. And don’t forget to pack a picnic and take your camera to capture these incredible views.

As well as being home to Shetland's cinema, The Mareel arts centre in Lerwick also hosts regular live music events throughout the year from both local and international acts (including some Shetland Folk Festival concerts). With a café-bar overlooking Lerwick Harbour, Mareel is a great choice for an evening out.

For most visitors spotting seals is an exciting opportunity too good to miss. If you spend enough time at the beach or walking the coast, you are almost certain to see seals. Otters are more elusive, but there are expert guides who know the best places to spot them. Sightings are also often reported in Lerwick Harbour and at many of the inter-island ferry terminals! The abundance of so much sea life also attracts apex predators – orcas. Sightings are never guaranteed but killer whales visit Shetland throughout the year. Follow the Shetland Orca Sightings Facebook page to increase your chances.

Shetland’s food and drink sector has blossomed in recent years, and there is a great variety of delicious local treats to indulge in. The seafood landed in Shetland is excellent quality and whether you fancy fish and chips, Shetland mussels, or fresh lobster you’re in for a treat. There are dozens of restaurants selling tasty Shetland lamb, beef, and pork while vegetarians and vegans are well catered for too. Don’t forget the drinks – with breweries and a distillery there is plenty of drams to choose from or why not try a shake made with ice-cold Shetland milk?

If you deserve a treat after all that activity, you’ll find plenty of choice in Shetland. For a unique experience look out for one of Shetland’s famous cake fridges. You’ll find these culinary delights at roadsides, packed with home-made sweet treats and traditional Shetland fancies. An ‘honesty box’ system applies, allowing you to take what you want and leave the appropriate amount of cash (although many accept card payments, too). If you want to sit down and enjoy coffee and cakes, keep an eye out for Sunday Teas. These traditional events are hosted at community halls around Shetland, usually raising money for good causes by selling volunteer-made delights. Delicious!

There you have it –10 things you must experience during a visit to Shetland this spring. Have fun exploring our incredible islands, and we hope it will be an unforgettable experience.

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