Reasons you should visit Shetland in October

As October approaches and the long, light days of summer start to fade Shetland undergoes its annual change of pace. As the sun shifts lower in the sky, the solar-powered 'buzz' of the previous season fades into something more muted.

We say farewell to the carnivals, country shows, cruise ship visits, and the sailing and rowing regattas that punctuate summertime. But that means October is the perfect time to experience another side of the islands and relish the gentle cadence and golden light of hairst (the Shetland dialect word for autumn).

Throughout the month, plenty keeps locals and visitors entertained.

The islands have a vibrant cultural timetable. And October is no exception, hosting two of the year’s most popular events: Shetland Wool Week and the Shetland Fiddle and Accordion Festival.

Wool Week, a festival dedicated to Shetland sheep, wool and knitting, falls at the beginning of the month. In Shetland, wool is never out of season but in October, it really comes into its own. Each autumn, the islands host hundreds of visitors from around the world, united in their love of natural fibres and textile history.

The Wool Week posse roams the islands, attending workshops, visiting shops and learning about spinning wool, Fair Isle patterns, felting, wire knitting and more. They are always identifiable by their hand-knitted toories (hats), as each year the festival releases a hat pattern designed by its patron.

If you’re a knitter, you’ll be in heaven. And even if you’re not, it’s delightful to be around for Wool Week as the knitters’ camaraderie and community are so apparent.

And, just days after Wool Week, it’s time for the music lovers to have their moment. The Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Festival celebrates two instruments synonymous with Shetland, and traditional Scottish dance music.

In a busy programme of live performances and informal tune-swapping, one of the most popular festival events is the Grand Dance, which has been described as a “traditional rave”. It’s an occasion that sees revellers spin and whirl the night away with over a thousand fellow traditional music enthusiasts accompanied by tunes from some of the best musicians in the genre.

Festivals aside, the lengthening nights mean many Shetlanders start to busy themselves with indoor pursuits. Look around, and you’ll find a range of workshops and classes: from well-being writing to yoga. Many events are drop-in, meaning you’ll be guaranteed a warm welcome if you fancy joining in.

Despite these activities and festivities, October is generally quieter than the busy summer months. For one thing, the local children are back at school and fewer visitors are aware of the charms of the islands’ autumn months.

This means there’s a chance that you’ll be able to drink in the atmosphere of some of the islands’ world-class archaeological sites in perfect solitude. You’ll also be able to walk along beautiful beaches, which you may have to yourself. And after you've walked up an appetite, you can dine at Shetland’s top cafes and restaurants.

Though things are quieter on the ground, overhead is a different story. October is one of the best times to visit Shetland to see impressive migratory birds.

The islands are a rest stop along the way for many rare and exotic avian visitors, returning to warmer climes. You might be lucky enough to see a Siberian Thrush or a Pechora Pipit, both regular autumnal guests. Occasionally, even rarer birds, seeking respite from October storms, find their way to Shetland, much to the delight of birdwatchers.

And, while thinking about the sky, one consolation of the nights “drawing in” is the chance to see the most famous light show in the world – the northern lights, or mirrie dancers as they’re called locally. Join local social media groups to ensure you have the best chance of knowing when and where the action is happening. Remember that spotting the northern lights is never guaranteed, and clear skies are needed to witness them. Even if you don't see the mirrie dancers, Shetland's skies are always fascinating and you should check out the Unst-based Wild Skies Shetland.

October offers rich pickings for wildlife enthusiasts. Perhaps you dream of spotting seals on the rocks or yearn to see an otter in the wild. You’ll find various wildlife tour companies offer you to chance to get up close with Shetland’s wildlife while you benefit from the knowledge of local guides.

If you’re one of those people who believes there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong kind of clothes, you’re likely to find the October weather invigorating. A blustery cliffside walk with fresh sea spray blasting into your face is worth a hundred facial peels. You may even enjoy the warmth of a new jumper or toorie knitted from Shetland wool. And, of course, exploring the spectacular landscape is free!

It’s not all wind and rain in October though. The windiest days are often preceded by golden days of calm, where the air smells of peat smoke – burnt as a fuel in many Shetland homes – and the sun tinges everything golden. You’ll see glorious sunrises and sunsets and, unlike in summertime, you won’t need to stay up all night to see them.

The cooler days and the fresher air which arrives in October may put an edge on your appetite. Luckily, there is an array of heartwarming local food and drink. After a blustery hillside walk, what could be better than a plate of hot reestit mutton soup with a buttered bannock on the side? Followed, of course, with some fine Shetland beef, lamb, or seafood and seasonal veg washed down with a locally brewed beer.

There’s something special about these islands at this time of year. October offers you the chance to relax and revitalise in equal measure and shows a different side to Shetland.

Plan your autumn visit to Shetland to experience the thrill of the season.