We have gathered activities for all ages across Shetland, from historic sites to indoor sports and luxury spa days. Check out the top twenty family activities in Shetland to do when it's raining.
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.
1. Shetland Museum and Archives
Rain or shine, Shetland Museum and Archives is always worth a visit. It's a fantastic day out for all ages and is always free (donations are always welcome).
The museum is a treasure trove that brings Shetland's rich history to life with its unique and diverse exhibits and displays. From ancient artifacts to modern art, there's something to fascinate every visitor.
2. Shetland's Leisure Centres
Shetland offers a diverse range of leisure activities across its eight excellent facilities. Whether you're interested in yoga, swimming, or climbing, there's something for everyone. The West Mainland location in Aith is home to the most northerly climbing wall in the UK.
The main wall, standing up to 7.5m high x 11m long, is a thrilling sight. It features a variety of vertical and overhanging sections, with routes covering everything from a child-friendly grade 3 to a challenging grade 7. This means that even the youngest climbers can join in the fun.
3. Shetland Libraries
The Shetland Library in Lerwick allows readers of all ages to borrow books, ebooks, magazines, or computers.
Visitors to Shetland are also very welcome to join the library. To do so, you'll just need to fill in a membership form, show some ID, and provide your Shetland and home address.
Join the library's Bookbug session for babies and toddlers for songs, rhymes, and fun. Bookbug sessions take place every Tuesday from 10:30 to 11 a.m. and from 2:00 to 2:30 p.m. in the Shetland Library.
4. Aa Fired Up
Aa Fired Up is the perfect choice for artists and non-artists alike.
Located on the main high street of Lerwick, it's easy to spend hours painting pottery. Choose your pottery of choice from the back room and get painting. The painted pottery will be fired in the Aa Fired Up kiln and available for pickup from the shop within a few days or weeks.
Find out more via their Facebook page.
5. Da Mad Hoose Softplay
Based in the Voe Centre, Da Mad Hoose is Shetlands' only dedicated soft play for Children under 12 and up to 15 at certain booking times.
The Voe Centre is family-run and includes the soft play and a cafe.
Visit their Facebook for the most up-to-date information and opening times.
6. Shopping on the street
Commercial Street, known locally as 'Da Street', is a vibrant and busy main shopping street in Lerwick. You'll surely find something to see with locally owned gift shops, knitwear, and plenty of cafes and restaurants.
Living Lerwick is a great resource for discovering shops in Lerwick, using a business and a product directory if you're looking for something specific. There are plenty of services on the street, too, if you're in the mood for a makeover or a relaxing spa treatment.
7. Wild swimming
Shetland is a fantastic place to experience wild swimming if you're brave enough.
Because of the endless coastlines found in Shetland, there are many places around the island to try wild swimming, be it your first or tenth time.
Watch the video below for more about wild swimming in Shetland.
8. Up Helly Aa - Lerwick Galley Shed
If you're in Shetland during the summer and autumn, you'll have missed the Winter/Spring Up Helly Aa activities. However, during the summer months, the Galley Shed hosts the Up Helly Aa Exhibition.
The exhibition contains information on the history of Up Helly Aa and many photographs documenting the event. The Jarl Squad suits for the previous ten years are on display, along with various other suits used by squads participating in the festival.
The 2024 exhibition runs from May to September and is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 18:30 to 20:30 and Saturdays from 14:00 to 16:00.
9. Spectacular coastlines
Even in the rain, Shetland's dramatic coastlines are a sight to behold. Eshaness offers rugged cliffs and roaring waves that showcase the raw power of nature. Burra and Sumburgh provide stunning vistas where you can watch the waves crash against ancient rocks.
On Unst, the northernmost island, the coastline is equally breathtaking and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and photography.
10. Play in the Trees at Kergord or Loch of Voe
Kergord and Loch of Voe provide excellent opportunities to play amongst the trees for families looking for outdoor adventures. Kergord is known for its beautiful woodlands and is an excellent spot for a family picnic or a game of hide and seek.
Loch of Voe offers scenic trails perfect for a leisurely walk or an energetic playtime.
11. Scalloway Museum
Scalloway Museum is a gem that delves into the rich history of Shetland's second-largest settlement. The museum highlights Scalloway's role during World War II, particularly its significance in the Shetland Bus operations.
It's an educational and engaging visit for all ages, with interactive exhibits and detailed displays.
12. Tangwick Haa
Located in the North Mainland, Tangwick Haa Museum is set in a traditional laird’s house. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the domestic life of Shetland’s past inhabitants. The museum is home to various artefacts, photographs, and stories that capture the essence of Shetland life over the centuries.
13. Unst Boat Haven
Unst Boat Haven offers a unique collection of traditional Shetland boats. This small but comprehensive museum showcases the craftsmanship and history of boat building in Shetland, emphasizing the importance of these vessels in the islanders' daily lives. It's a must-visit for maritime enthusiasts.
14. Old Haa Burravoe
The Old Haa Museum in Burravoe, Yell, is housed in a 17th-century building and presents a rich history of the island through its extensive collections. From genealogy records to maritime artifacts, the museum provides a deep dive into Yell’s heritage, making it an informative stop for history buffs.
15. Textile Museum Lerwick
Shetland’s textile heritage is celebrated at the Textile Museum in Lerwick. The museum showcases the intricate knitting and weaving skills that the islands are famous for. Visitors can learn about the history and techniques of Shetland's renowned textiles and even see some of the traditional tools and garments on display.
16. Hoswick Visitor Centre
The Hoswick Visitor Centre offers a variety of exhibitions and is a great place to learn about the local culture and history. It displays Shetland’s knitting traditions, historical photographs, and a restored croft house.
The centre also has a café, making it a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy some local fare.
17. Quendale Water Mill
The Quendale Water Mill, located in the South Mainland, is a beautifully restored 19th-century water mill. It provides a fascinating look into the agricultural history of Shetland. Visitors can tour the mill, see the machinery in action, and learn about the milling process that once played a crucial role in the local economy.
18. Historic Scotland
Shetland's historical landscape is dotted with remarkable sites that offer deep insights into the island's rich and varied past. Here are some of the most significant sites that history enthusiasts should not miss:
Jarlshof
Jarlshof is one of Shetland's most important archaeological sites near Sumburgh in the South Mainland. It provides a fascinating look at over 4,000 years of human settlement. The site reveals layers of history from the late Neolithic era through the Bronze and Iron Ages, the Viking period, and the medieval era.
Clickimin Broch
Clickimin Broch is another prime example of Shetland's Iron Age architecture located in Lerwick. This broch dates back to around 100 BC and is notable for its well-preserved structure and strategic location on a small islet in Clickimin Loch, connected to the mainland by a causeway.
Fort Charlotte
Fort Charlotte is a five-sided artillery fort situated in Lerwick, named after Queen Jarlshof's wife of King George III. It has a commanding position overlooking Bressay Sound and has a storied history dating back to the 17th century.
Scalloway Castle
Scalloway Castle is an imposing structure located in Shetland's northern capital, Scalloway. Built in the early 17th century by Patrick Stewart, Earl of OrShetland, the castle symbolizes the Stewart earls' power and ambition.
19. Ideal weather to go fishing
Shetland’s waters are teeming with fish; even on rainy days, fishing can be rewarding. Whether you prefer sea angling or freshwater fishing, Shetland offers abundant opportunities. Local guides and charters can provide equipment and expertise for a successful outing.
You can find out more about fishing in Shetland and where to go here.
20. Voe House Spa
Whether you're looking to relax after a day of exploring Shetland or want to indulge in a luxurious spa experience, Voe House Spa offers the perfect retreat with its stunning views and top-notch amenities.
The patio is furnished with external furniture that can be used both inside the spa and outside on the patio, allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking scenery in comfort. The spa area includes a sunken 6-person hot tub, perfect for unwinding with family or friends. Additionally, there is a 4-person steam room to relax and rejuvenate.