visit scotland lerwick

• How to spend a day in Lerwick

Lerwick is Shetland’s capital town offering many opportunities for beautiful walks, exploring fascinating historical attractions and enjoying fun family activities.

Lerwick’s rich history can be uncovered everywhere, from the Knab to the Lerwick lanes and beyond. Sun, rain, wind or snow, there is always something to do in the town, such as having a cozy day at the cinema or paddling at the beach. This blog post suggests how to spend a day in the town, and helps you to make the most of your visit to Shetland’s capital.

Explore Lerwick by foot

Lerwick is a stunning town full of history and beautiful buildings, all telling a story. Some of the most interesting buildings are the Lodberries overlooking Lerwick Harbour. One of the most photographed places in the town stands on the waterfront, a house that became famous as the home to fictional detective Jimmy Perez from the Shetland crime drama TV show .

The Lodberries area is part of a lovely coastal stroll leading south from the town centre. If you keep walking along the waterfront, past Bains Beach , then Twageos Road, and keep going up that curved hill, you’ll make it to the Knab.

If you fancy an evening stroll there, you may spot the NorthLink Ferry on its way to Kirkwall and Aberdeen. This is the perfect spot to enjoy some fish and chips bought in Lerwick and enjoyed while watching the horizon. Keep an eye out for orcas, the apex predators sometimes swim very close to the shore near the Knab.

Another historic building is Lerwick Town Hall , with its stained glass windows and history dating as far back as 1883. On your way there from Commercial Street (Lerwick’s main shopping street), you can explore the Lerwick Lanes and Fort Charlotte . The lanes of Lerwick are narrow and steep thoroughfares which run up and down from the main street in the town. The spaces between these tightly packed town buildings offer hidden quirky spaces and forgotten gems from a time long ago. Look closely and you’ll spot some unusual street names.

The street itself offers a wide range of shops, including many independent stores selling items like Shetland knitwear, homemade soap and unique souvenirs. Bring a little bit of Shetland home with you or send a present to someone overseas who you think should make the journey north.

Part of Shetland’s charm is its crazy weather. An old saying states that you may experience ‘four seasons of weather in one day’. And it’s true! So if you need something to do indoors, Mareel should be on the list of places to find shelter.

Mareel is Shetland’s modern arts and music venue and consists of a cinema, a cafe and auditoriums for live events. To see what’s coming up, check out the ‘What’s on’ page.

Museum and Archives

Situated next to Mareel is the Shetland Museum and Archives . With its world-renowned collection of items and changing exhibitions, the museum is the perfect place to learn about Shetland’s heritage. Shetland’s rich history of fishing, textiles and more is portrayed through interactive and expressive storytelling. There are often speakers and tours happening which can be found on the museum’s ‘What’s On calendar’.

No booking is required and while you’re there, you can try Hay’s Dock by the Dowry . It’s a lovely restaurant with an amazing view. There is also a little gift shop in the museum foyer, which is the perfect place to find a Shetland souvenir and discover Geopark Shetland Geoproducts.

On your way back to the street, take the waterfront route back. There is a pathway along the front of Mareel where people can sit and watch the boats coming and going to the harbour.

Flower Park and Playpark

Between King Harald Street and St Olaf Street, there is the beautifully maintained Jubilee Flower Park with a tennis court and bowls ground. In spring and summer, the flower park is full of vibrantly coloured plants and is the perfect place to sit down and relax on a warm sunny day.

If you have kids with you, there is the King George V play park right across the road which has lots of space and things for the kids to play with. Sometimes you’ll even find the ice cream van outside the play park on a sunny day … or if you visit at the end of January, you’ll discover that is where the Up Helly Aa Viking galley is burnt!

Discover Viking Heritage at the Up Helly Aa Exhibition

Speaking of Vikings, just five minutes away from the flower park and play park is the Shetland Up Helly Aa Exhibition . During the summer months, the galley shed (which is used to build the galley, the torches, and is where the jarl squad gather throughout the year) becomes an exhibit for visitors to see the outfits of the jarl squads from the past 10 years.

There’s also the opportunity to see different shields, swords and outfits from the sillier squads from over the years. If you’d like to know more about Up Helly Aa, don’t miss our Fire Festivals page .

Eat top-notch Shetland food on the street

Lerwick’s Commercial Street doesn’t only have wonderful independent retailers, but it has many excellent small cafes and restaurants. If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Shetland food, you’ll find bannocks, cullen skink, tattie soup, reestit mutton, mussels, seafood, and Shetland beef & lamb. You can also tuck into plenty of tea and fancies (cakes) in Shetland’s capital.

If it’s a fine day, there are many places which sell homemade ice cream, which can be enjoyed at the waterfront, on Bains beach or while window shopping. Outside the town centre you’ll find a few restaurants and cafes dotted around town, and you can even buy a treat from one of Lerwick’s cake fridges .

Clickimin Leisure Centre and Clickimin Broch

One of the best places to go with kids on a rainy day in Shetland is the Clickimin Leisure Centre . Clickimin includes a large swimming pool with many different pools and activities such as flooms, rapids and a baby pool. Clickimin also offers different sensory rooms which either relax or energise.

There’s also a cafe in the leisure centre, so you can fuel up before your next adventure!

Near to the leisure centre is the Clickimin Broch , a large and well-preserved stone-built round house which was built on a small island in the Clickimin Loch. Less than a mile from the town centre, this ancient fort has stood since the Iron Age, with signs of life from at least the Bronze Age. Clickimin Broch is free to enter, check out their opening times here.

Tour a working brewery

The award-winning Lerwick Brewery hosts frequent tours during the peak summer season. Their tours take you through the manufacturing process from the raw ingredients through to the tap room where you can enjoy a taste of the final product. Enjoy learning how Shetland’s only brewery manufactures their different drinks, and why not have a look at their gift shop on your way out? Advanced booking is required 24 hours prior.

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7 Best Things To Do In Lerwick Cruise Port (Shetland Islands) + Port Info

Welcome to Lerwick, the charming capital of the Shetland Islands located in the northeast of Scotland, United Kingdom! Shetland Islands is an archipelago that comprises over 100 islands known for spectacular vistas, abundant wildlife, and a rich history.

The town of Lerwick is located on the Shetland archipelago’s main island called Mainland. Cruise ships typically anchor and use tender boats which dock at a small harbour, located within a short walk from downtown, where you can explore the town’s landmarks such as the iconic Shetland Museum and Archives.

Cruise ships frequently stop at Lerwick as part of the British Isles cruise or on their way to the Norwegian fjords and Iceland.

In this article, I share practical information about the Lerwick cruise terminal and the 7 best things to do in Lerwick port .

Visit also our cruise port guides to Edinburgh , Kirkwall , Newcastle , Glasgow (Greenock) ,  Invergordon (Inverness)

Lerwick Cruise Port

Cruise ships up to 230 meters in length can dock at either Mair’s Pier (1.8 miles from Lerwick downtown) or Holmsgarth 5 (1 mile from downtown). In this case, due to the distance, the Port of Lerwick usually offers free shuttle buses to transfer passengers to the town center.

More frequently, large cruise vessels anchor in front of the town and use tender boats to transfer passengers to  Victoria Pier , a pontoon pier adjacent to a small parking lot for tour buses and taxis. This dock is located within a short walk from Lerwick’s old town. Here, you’ll find essential amenities such as a taxi stand and public toilets.

Nearby, you’ll find a great tourist information office known as VisitScotland Lerwick iCentre where you can get maps and gather information on local attractions, activities, tours and car rentals. Supermarkets, shops and cafes/restaurants are available within an easy walk from there.

For anyone looking to explore beyond the port’s nearby area, Lerwick has a reliable local transportation system. Bus schedules are available at the Lerwick iCentre and you can also check them on the official webpage https://www.zettrans.org.uk/

7 Best Things To Do In Lerwick Cruise Port, Shetland Islands

From wandering through the quiet streets of Lerwich Old Town to spotting Shetland ponies and exploring the archaeological sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this small, yet beautiful port of call!

1. Lerwick Old Town

The historic streets of Lerwick are conveniently located within short walking distance from the dock. Take your time to wander around its cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, traditional houses, and historic buildings. Here’s a list of the must-see landmarks:

1.1. Shetland Museum and Archives

This impressive museum, located within a 15-minute walk from Victoria Pier, is the perfect place to learn about the Shetland Islands’ local history and culture.

The museum features a wealth of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that showcase the diverse heritage of the Shetland Islands, from the maritime history that shaped its identity to the Norse influences that are still evident today. The best thing is – it’s free, so everyone is welcome to visit! Of course, donations are appreciated.

1.2. Commercial Street

This picturesque street, lined with traditional stone buildings, is the main shopping area in the town offering a delightful mix of independent shops, local boutiques, and inviting cafes. Here, you can find unique Shetland crafts, high-quality knitwear, and a variety of local products.

Commercial Street lies parallel to Victoria Pier and is not fully pedestrian, so be mindful of cars passing by.

1.3. Fort Charlotte

If you keep walking uphill toward the end of Commercial Street, you’ll come across the historic Fort Charlotte, a 17th-century fortress perched atop a hill overlooking Lerwick Harbor.

Built to protect the harbor from Dutch attacks, this well-preserved fortification features robust stone walls and five bastions. Visitors can explore the grounds, its ramparts, cannons, and exhibitions while enjoying panoramic views of Lerwick, Bressay Sound, and the surrounding area.

Fort Charlotte is located within a 5-minute walk from the dock and the admission is free of charge.

1.4. Lerwick Town Hall

Overlooking Commercial Street, this historic gem is another city landmark that can be visited free of charge! Built in the 19th century, the Town Hall is known for its distinctive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows depicting important historical figures and events.

Inside, you can explore its ornate interior, which often hosts local events and exhibitions. It is not just a civic building; it’s a peek into Lerwick’s rich heritage and community spirit.

1.5. The Lodberrie

Located at the other end of Commercial Street, within a 5-minute walk from the port, the Lodberrie is one of Lerwick’s most iconic and picturesque landmarks, known for its charming row of 18th-century waterfront buildings.

Originally used as a trading post and storage area for goods arriving by sea, the Lodberrie now stands as a symbol of Lerwick’s rich maritime heritage.

The buildings, with their distinctive stone exteriors and wooden doors, have been carefully preserved, and one of them even featured as the home of Detective Jimmy Perez in the popular TV series “Shetland.”

Explore Lerwick tours and activities

2. Broch of Clickimin

The Broch of Clickimin (or Clickimin Broch) is an archaeological site located 1 mile (a 25-minute walk) from Lerwick’s town center. This well-preserved Iron Age broch, dating back over 2,000 years, is situated on a small islet connected by a causeway and offers a fascinating glimpse into Shetland’s ancient past.

The site includes a round stone tower and surrounding structures, providing insights into the architectural skills and daily life of its early inhabitants.

Aside from the broch itself, the surrounding area provides opportunities for leisurely hikes and relaxing nature walks with beautiful views of the sea.

Located along Lerwick’s scenic waterfront, within a 5-minute walk from the archaeological site, is the iconic Fjarå Café Bar which offers a delightful dining experience with stunning views of Bressay Sound.

Explore the Broch of Clickimin tours and activities

3. Böd of Gremista

The Böd of Gremista is a historic 18th-century fishing booth located at the north end of Lerwick, right next to Lerwick Marina, around 1.8 miles (a 40-minute walk) from Victoria Pier. If your cruise ship docks at Mair’s Pier or Holmsgarth Pier, you can reach it in a 5-10 minute walk.

Built in 1780, the Böd of Gremista originally served as a storehouse and lodging for fishermen and traders. Today, it has been transformed into a fascinating museum that offers insights into Shetland’s fishing heritage and traditional way of life.

Visitors can explore the preserved interior, which includes period furnishings and exhibits on local history, including the story of Arthur Anderson, a Shetlander who co-founded the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O).

4. Wildlife Spotting

The Shetland Islands boast a rich and diverse array of wildlife, making them a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Among the most famous residents are the sturdy Shetland ponies , known for their small size and remarkable strength. These ponies, with their thick, weather-resistant coats, can be seen grazing in the island’s lush pastures.

The rugged coastline and remote landscapes also provide ideal habitats for a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, which nest in the cliffs.

The surrounding waters are home to seals, otters, and occasionally visiting orcas and dolphins, offering spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities.

Inland, the moorlands and wetlands support diverse birdlife and small mammals.

The best ways to see the Shetland Islands’ wildlife from Lerwick include boat tours that navigate around scenic spots like Noss National Nature Reserve , offering views of seabirds, seals, and occasionally whales.

Guided wildlife safaris and walking tours take visitors to key locations for spotting otters, Shetland ponies, and diverse bird species.

Kayaking trips along the coastline provide close encounters with marine life, while local nature reserves like Clickimin Loch and Loch of Spiggie offer excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Explore wildlife spotting tours from Lerwick

5. Explore Archaeological Sites

The Shetland Islands are known for numerous ancient archaeological sites scattered across the archipelago. Besides Clickimin Broch, a few other remarkable sites are accessible from the port of Lerwick.

One of these sites is the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement , which lies 25 miles (a 35-minute drive) south of Lerwick cruise port and spans over a fascinating 4,000 years of history.

This archeological marvel features remains from the Bronze Age, Iron Age, Pictish era, Norse settlement, and medieval period, including stone structures, a broch, and a medieval farmhouse.

Exploring Jarlshof allows you to walk in the footsteps of ancient peoples, marvel at their craftsmanship, and gain insights into their daily lives, customs, and societal evolution over thousands of years.

Broch of Mousa is another archaeological site you can visit, reachable by ferry from Lerwick. This remarkably well-preserved broch, located on the uninhabited island of Mousa 15 miles south of Lerwick port, is one of the finest examples of its kind in Scotland.

Rising majestically to over 13 meters in height, this broch offers a glimpse into ancient construction techniques and features fantastic panoramic views of the coast.

Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village , located near Jarlshof, is the third ancient site well worth visiting. The site features a well-preserved Iron Age broch and Pictish and Norse settlement remains and offers guided tours and interactive exhibits.

6. Scenic Coastal Walks

The Shetland Islands are known for their stunning natural landscapes and scenic coastal walks are an ideal way to explore them.

You can circumnavigate the town of Lerwick on a Lerwick coastal walk , which starts from the Lerwick Esplanade and goes around the town to the renowned Fjarå Café Bar. The walk takes about 2 hours and involves walking on partially hilly terrain. It’s also a great way to explore the local life as the route will take you to some local neighborhoods.

The Lerwick Esplanade offers another great stroll along the waterfront promenade and provides beautiful views of the harbor, traditional fishing boats, and the surrounding islands.

For a longer walk, the Knab , located only a 20-minute walk south of Lerwick, offers panoramic vistas of rugged cliffs, the open sea, and glimpses of seabirds soaring overhead.

7. Sample Local Cuisine

A visit to Lerwick cruise port is not complete without tasting the fresh local seafood, hearty stews, and traditional Orcadian dishes, perfectly complemented by a pint of local ale or a warming dram of whisky.

Begin your culinary exploration with delicious Shetland mussels , harvested from the pristine waters surrounding the islands. Steamed, baked, or served in a creamy sauce, the Shetland mussels are a seafood lover’s dream!

You must also try the famous Shetland salmon . This famous fish, whether smoked to perfection or eaten fresh, is of great quality and flavor because of the cold, clear waters in which it lives.

For a taste of traditional Orcadian cuisine, hearty stews are the perfect choice. Warm up with a hearty broth filled with root vegetables, barley, and succulent chunks of meat, and enjoy local dishes such as reestit mutton , a local delicacy made from salted and dried mutton that’s been slow-cooked to tender perfection.

To top off your day, try “ Beremeal Bannock “, a traditional Scottish flatbread often enjoyed with sweet toppings like butter, honey, or jam.

Visit also our cruise port guides to  Liverpool , Dover , Dublin , Reykjavik , Bergen , Geirangerfjord , Amsterdam , Copenhagen , Le Havre

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

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1 thought on “7 Best Things To Do In Lerwick Cruise Port (Shetland Islands) + Port Info”

My father was stationed on HMS Fox during WWII, based in Lerwick, he was a member of the RNVR, at some time during this time he was on a ship that downed a German submarine for which he was awarded a medal from the then King of England. Patrick C Cother met Muriel the office worker at the base………and she wrote to my mother in Sussex England asking her to divorce my father as they were in love and wanted to get married. This letter arrived before I was born. Mum refused to get a divorce, I dont know what happened to Muriel, she obviously did not know the old adage a sailor has a woman in every port. Maybe not all sailors, but my father was a tremendous flirt with an ego that needed to be flattered by feminine sweet talk. Sadly he had an affair with a London woman prior to going up north and she had two sons by him……….and again my mother refused to divorce him. After WWII my father went to work on yachts and boats in Europe….. having met a French lady with who he lived with until finally when I was 19 my mother divorced him. And he blamed her affair with a neighbor for her unfaithfulness. He was a charmer that is for sure.

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• Shetland Visitor Guide

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Lerwick is the capital and administrative centre of Shetland and the only sizeable town. Though the islands have been inhabited for many centuries, Lerwick only dates from the 17th century, when it began to grow as a trading port for Dutch herring fishermen, thanks to its superb natural sheltered harbour, the Bressay Sound.

The town spread along the waterfront, where merchants built their lodberries, which were houses and warehouses with their own piers so that they could trade directly with visiting ships. By the late 19th century Lerwick had become the main herring port in northern Europe.

Lerwick has continued to grow and is now home to a third of Shetland's population. The discovery of oil in the North Sea in the early 1970s led to the building of the Sullom Voe Oil Terminal, and the effect on Lerwick has been dramatic. It is now the main transit point to the North Sea oil rigs and there have been major extensions to the harbour area, bringing increased shipping and prosperity to the town. Phone code: +44 (0)1595 Population: 7,600

The best place to eat in Lerwick is Monty's Bistro & Deli, 5 Mounthooly St, Tel. 696655. It offers good modern Scottish cooking in a cosy, informal setting. Lunch cheap; dinner mid-range. Closed Sun. The next best choice is dinner or bar lunch at the Kveldsro Hotel and Lerwick Hotel (see above). Best place for a curry is the moderately-priced Raba Indian Restaurant, 26 Commercial Rd, Tel. 695585. Osla's Café, Tel. 696005, on Mounthooly St, is a cosy café serving a wide range of coffees, pancakes and other snacks and boasting the islands' only beer garden. Open Mon-Sat till at least 1900, Sun 1200-1600.

Despite a ready supply of fresh local produce, Shetland is a gastronomic desert

Travel Directions to Lerwick

Ferries from Aberdeen arrive at the main Holmsgarth terminal, which is about a mile north of the old harbour. There's a regular bus service between Lerwick and Sumburgh airport (50 mins) run by John Leask & Son, Tel. 693162. Taxis (around £25) and car hire are also available. All island bus services start and end at the Viking bus station, which is on Commercial Road, a short distance north of the town centre. The town is small and everything is within easy walking distance.

The main Tourist Information Centre is at Market Cross, on Commercial St, Tel. 693434, Shetland Tourism As well as booking accommodation, they are an excellent source of information, books, maps and leaflets, and will change foreign currency. Open May-Sep Mon-Fri 0800-1800, Sat 0800-1600, Sun 1000-1300; Oct-Apr Mon-Fri 0900-1700.

There are regular daily buses (Nos 3 and 4) to and from Sumburgh airport which connect with flights. These buses also stop at several main sights, including Jarlshof, Sandwick (for Mousa Broch) and St Ninian's Isle. Bus No 2 runs to Scalloway (Mon-Sat). There are also buses (daily except Sun) to Walls, Sandness, Aith, Skeld, North Roe, Hillswick, Vidlin, Toft and Mossbank. Buses depart from the Viking bus station. Full details are given in the Shetland Transport Timetable.

Bolts Car Hire, Toll Clock Shopping Centre, 26 North Rd, Tel. 693636. John Leask & Son, Esplanade, Tel. 693162. Star Rent-a-Car, 22 Commercial Rd, Tel. 692075. Both also have offices at Sumburgh Airport. Cycle hire Grantfield Garage, North Rd, Tel. 692709, Mon-Sat 0800-1300 and 1400-1700. There are several taxi companies in Lerwick: 6050 Cabs, Tel. 696050; Sheilds Taxis, Tel. 695276; Abbys Taxis, Tel. 696666.

Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale and Royal are on Commercial St. Lloyds TSB is on the Esplanade.

Communications

Post office Commercial St (open Mon-Fri 0900-1700, Sat 0900-1200), also in Toll Clock Shopping Centre, 26 North Rd.

Embassies and consulates

Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands and Sweden at Hay & Company, 66 Commercial Rd, Tel. 692533; Finland, France, Germany and Norway at Shearer Shipping Services, Garthspool, Tel. 692556.

Lerwick Laundry, 36 Market St, Tel. 693043, closed Sun. Service washes only. Medical facilities Gilbert Bain Hospital, Scalloway Rd, Tel. 743000. Opposite is the Lerwick Health Centre, Tel.693201.

Travel agents

John Leask & Son, Esplanade, Tel. 693162.

Local Sights & Activities for Lerwick

The town's heart is the attractive Commercial Street, which runs parallel to the Esplanade. At the southern end are many old houses and lodberries, and you can continue south along the cliffs to the Knab or to lovely Bain's beach. Lerwick Walks is a leaflet detailing many interesting walks in and around town.

Overlooking the north end of Commercial Street is Fort Charlotte, built in 1665 and later rebuilt in 1780 and named after Queen Charlotte, George III's consort. It has since been used as a prison and Royal Naval Reserve base and, though there's little to see in the fort, there are fine views of the harbour from the battlements. Info - Jun-Sep daily 0900-2200; Oct-May 0900-1600. Free. One of Lerwick's most impressive buildings is the Victorian town hall, on Hillhead. The stained-glass windows of the main hall depict episodes from Shetland's history. Info - Mon-Fri 1000-1200 and 1400-1530. Free.

Opposite the town hall, above the library, is the Shetland Museum, which gives a useful introduction to the islands' history. Amongst the artefacts on display is a replica of the St Ninian's Isle treasure. Info - Mon, Wed and Fri 1000-1900; Tue, Thu and Sat till 1700. Free. Tel. 695057.

Also in town is the Up Helly-Aa Exhibition, in the Galley Shed off St Sunniva Street. This gives a taste of the famous Viking fire festival held annually in Lerwick on the last Tuesday in January, when a torch-lit procession through the town by hundreds of people dressed in Viking costumes (guizers) is followed by a replica Viking longship built especially for the event. At the end of the procession the ship is set ablaze when the guizers throw their flaming torches on to it. Info - Mid-May to mid-Sep Tue 1400-1600 and 1700-1900, Fri 1700-1900, Sat 1400-1600. Adult £3.00, concession £1.50.

A mile west of town are the substantial remains of Clickimin Broch, a fortified site occupied from 700 BC to around the fifth or sixth century AD. A path leads to the site from opposite the Safeway supermarket on the A970. Info - Always open. Free.

A mile west of town are the substantial remains of Clickimin Broch , a fortified site occupied from 700BC to around 5th or 6th century AD.About a mile north of the ferry terminal is the Böd of Gremista, a restored 18th-century fishing böd (booth) which was the birthplace of Arthur Anderson (1791-1868), co-founder of the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, now P&O. One of the rooms features an exhibition on Anderson's life and involvement with P&O. Info - Jun to mid-Sep Wed and Sun 1000-1300 and 1400-1700. Free.

The best place for a drink is the upstairs bar in the Lounge, on Mounthooly St near the tourist office, where local musicians usually play on Sat lunchtimes and some evenings. The town's only nightclub is Posers, at the Grand Hotel. Folk music has a strong following in Shetland and the islands play host to 2 of Scotland's top folk events. In mid-Apr the islands are alive with the sound of music as musicians from around the globe come to play at the Shetland Folk Festival. Later, in mid-Oct, is the Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Festival. For details of both events, contact the Folk Festival office, 5 Burns Lane, Lerwick, Tel. 694757. To find out what's going on, buy a copy of the Shetland Times on Fri, or check out their website, www.shetland-times.co.uk Also check the tourist board's Events phoneline, Tel. 694200. Sport

Clickimin Centre, Lochside, Tel. 741000. Sports and fitness centre open daily 0800-2300.

You can also join local guided walks given by Douglas Sinclair who shows you the history and hidden nooks and crannies of the town -  http://www.douglassinclair.co.uk/  and use the contact form on the contact page to get in touch

Castles Nearby

Castle Holm, Shetland

Castle Holm stands on an islet in Loch Strom in Shetland connected to the surrounding land by a causeway which can only be crossed at low tide. Only low walls remain.

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Nearby Ancient Monuments

Broch of Clickimin

Large well-preserved Broch or tower close to the centre of Lerwick

Lerwick Hotels & Accommodation

Shetland's best accommodation is outside Lerwick , whose hotels are mostly geared towards the oil industry. During the peak months of Jul and Aug and the Folk Festival in Apr, it's a good idea to book in advance.

The most luxurious hotel in town is the B Kveldsro House Hotel, Greenfield Pl, Tel. 692195, Kveldsro House Hotel Pronounced 'kel-ro', it overlooks the harbour and has an upmarket (and expensive) restaurant as well as cheaper bar food. Directly opposite the ferry terminal is the modern B Shetland Hotel, Tel. 695515; and 10 mins from the centre is the B Lerwick Hotel, 15 South Rd, Tel. 692166,  which has a reputation for fine cuisine. In the centre is the Grand Hotel , Commercial St, Tel. 692826, which features Shetland's only nightclub; and by the harbour is the rather faded B-C Queen's Hotel, Commercial St, Tel. 692826.

There are several pleasant guest houses and B&Bs, including Fort Charlotte Guest House, 1 Charlotte St, Tel. 695956; The Old Manse, 9 Commercial St, Tel. 696301;  Alder Lodge Guest House, 6 Clairmont Pl, Tel. 695705, Carradel Guest House, 36 King Harald St, Tel. 692251; and next door, Solheim Guest House, Tel. 695275. Lerwick's clean, well-run SYHA hostel is at Islesburgh House, King Harald St, Tel. 692114, open Apr-Sep. There's camping at Clickimin Caravan & Camp Site, Tel. 741000, near Clickimin Leisure Centre and loch on the western edge of town.

Hotels near Lerwick

Rocklea Villa sleeps 8

It is situated on the west side of the Shetland mainland in the picturesque village of Walls.

Shoreside Holiday Cottage Sleeps 4

Shoreside holiday cottage is a detached Croft House situated in a seafront location just a few feet from the waters edge. Built around 1863 on Shetlands, using local stone and wood from a grounded German cargo ship, this cottage has a fascinating story to tell. Sleeps 4

• Sleeps: 4-5

South House sleeps 6

South House is a homely, quirky  cosy Shetland Croft house which sits on the southern shores of Ronas Voe, about 50 yards from a beach and ruins of a historic fishing station.

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• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
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• 3.3 By boat
• 3.4 By taxi

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Lerwick\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Lerwick ( Norwegian : Leirvik , "clay bay") is the largest town and capital of the Shetland Islands , with a population of 6760 in 2022. It's the obvious base for touring Shetland.

The town dates back at least 3000 years, initially centred a little to the west by the freshwater Clickimin Loch. A wooden town grew up but was burned down by the inhabitants of Scalloway in the 17th century, ostensibly because they objected to the drunken immorality of the Lerwick sailors. Their real motive was fear that Lerwick would supplant Scalloway as capital of Shetland, as indeed it did in 1708. Stone buildings came to predominate in the 18th and 19th centuries and Lerwick became a busy fishing and shipping port. It still is.

VisitScotland iCentre is the tourist information centre. It's on Market Cross, south end of the harbour, open Apr-Sep daily 9AM-5PM and Oct-Mar M-Sa 10AM-4PM.

Sumburgh Airport ( LSI   IATA ) is Shetlands' main airport, 25 miles (40 km) south of Lerwick. Loganair fly from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, Kirkwall and Bergen. One flight a day is local, to Lerwick-Tingwall. Bus 6 runs between Sumburgh and Lerwick every hour or two, taking 60 min, and there is car hire at the airport.

Northlink Ferries sail overnight from Aberdeen . These carry vehicles and sail every afternoon: on 4 days direct, the other 3 days via Kirkwall in Orkney. See Shetland page for practical info. Ferries no longer sail to Scandinavia, Faeroes or Iceland.

60.163 -1.159 2 Holmsgarth Terminal is the ferry pier, on A970 main road about 2 miles north of Lerwick centre, opposite the Shetland Hotel. Bus 4 (Lerwick to Scalloway) runs past the terminal every hour or so and there are taxis. Cruise ships often visit Shetland in summer and may dock here, or anchor up and bring passengers into Kirkwall by tender.

Most visitors either fly into Sumburgh and hire from the airport, or bring their own car on the ferry: for a family the extra fare is more than offset by the convenience and saving of self-driving to Aberdeen. This means that Lerwick has only a small hire fleet, which also serves the airport, so you need to book. As of 2024 the car hire firms in Lerwick are Europcar , Star , Grantfield Garage , and Bolts who are agents for Avis. They're all open M-Sa 9AM-5PM and closed on Sunday.

You're unlikely to use the bus within town, but for Holmsgarth Terminal use Bus 4 hourly towards Scalloway. Bus 1 circles town hourly and runs north near the terminal and south by Broch of Clickimin. Bus 6 hourly to Sumburgh also passes the Broch. For timetables see Zetrans

60.157 -1.146 3 Viking Bus Station is north end of the centre, just beyond Fort Charlotte.

The only inter-island ferry from Lerwick is the hourly ten-minute crossing to Bressay . It's a little roll-on, roll-off ferry sailing from the harbour in town centre, not Holmsgarth.

The other inter-island ferries ply from different points around Mainland, but their sailing status is shown on a big display board at the harbour, worth checking if the day looks doubtful. Those ferry piers are sometimes altered in rough weather, and Lerwick is a "port of refuge" for the Out Skerries ferry — don't go visiting in such conditions.

Taxi firms in Lerwick include Sinclair's (+44 1595 696060), Allied Taxis (+44 1595 690069), and Gee's (+44 7827 641222).

There's a taxi rank by Victoria Pier in town centre, and taxis await the ferry from Aberdeen.

• Commercial Street is scenically the best of town, pedestrianised and one block back from the shoreline, which is a sprawl of quays and marine industries.
• 60.1459 -1.1386 5 The Knab is the breezy headland, small park and golf course south of town. A coastal hiking trail heads off in both directions. The cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
• 60.17 -1.1648 6 Shetland Textile Museum , Böd of Gremista, Lerwick ZE1 0PX , ☏ +44 1595 694386 . May-Oct Tu-Sa 11AM-4PM . A böd is a traditional fisherman's booth. This one, built in 1780, houses the textile museum. Much of the work is for sale. Adult £3 . ( updated Sep 2024 )

• Up Helly Aa events are held around New Year in several locations in Shetland, but by far the biggest and most spectacular is in Lerwick. The name means "end of holidays" but it's slipped back in the calendar to attract more visitors, and is nowadays on the last Tuesday in January. The programme starts with a morning procession at 9AM, followed by a civic reception before the "guizers" embark on a series of visits to schools, care homes and the hospital. The evening torchlight costume procession starts at 7:30PM (by which hour it's black night in Shetland), culminating in burning the Viking longship. The guizers are then entertained at a series of "Halls": private receptions to thank volunteers for their work over the year.
• Screenplay Film Festival is held at Mareel, late Aug to early Sep.
• Garrison Theatre is on Market St behind Fort Charlotte.
• Golf: Shetland GC is 3 miles west on A970. It's 5562 yards, par 68, visitor £32 per day.
• 60.1533 -1.1618 2 Clickimin Leisure Complex , North Lochside ZE1 0PJ ( north end of Clickimin Loch ), ☏ +44 1595 741000 . M-F 7AM-10PM, Sa Su 9AM-8PM . Shetland's largest leisure centre with swimming pool, steam room, gym and other facilities. Good for kids and reasonably priced. ( updated Sep 2024 )

• Coop is at the ferry terminal, open daily 6AM-10PM.
• Anderson & Co , 60 Commercial Street ZE1 0BD , ☏ +44 1595 693714 . M-F 9AM-4PM, Sa 10AM-4PM . Range of knitware clothing. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• High Level Music , 62 Commercial Street ZE1 0DL , ☏ +44 1595 692618 . M-Sa 10:30AM-5PM . Music including tuition, instruments, accessories, CDs and books of music. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Island Larder ( formerly Shetland Fudge Company ), 97 Commercial St ZE1 0BD , ☏ +44 1595 694324 . M-Sa 9AM-P4M . Very nice fudge, locally handmade. Care to try the "puffin poo"? ( updated Sep 2024 )
• The Wine Shop , 113 Commercial Street ZE1 0DL , ☏ +44 1595 693580 . M-F 10AM-9PM, Sa Su 10AM-20PM . Wines from around the world and a good selection of whisky. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Harry's Department Store , 2 Charlotte Place, Esplanade ZE1 0LL , ☏ +44 1595 693097 . M-Sa 9AM-5PM . Department store selling a good range of items. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Westside Pine , Esplanade ZE1 0LL , ☏ +44 1595 696003 . M-Sa 10AM-5PM . Gift shop with items made from pine wood. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• 60.15796 -1.15499 1 Toll Clock Shopping Centre at 26 North Rd has some two dozen shops within. Open 9AM-5:30PM, a good refuge if the weather turns bad.
• Tesco is on South Rd near the Broch, open daily 7AM-11PM.
• C'est la Vie , 181 Commercial St ZE1 0HX ( by ferry terminal ), ☏ +44 1595 697154 . M-Sa 10AM-9:30PM . Small bistro with French / Iberian cuisine. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Peerie Shop Cafe , Campbell's Close, Esplanade ZE1 0LL . Tu-Sa 8AM-4PM . Tiny place with a couple of outdoor tables, good coffee and brownies. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Fort Cafe , 2 Commercial Road ZE1 0HY . M-F noon-9PM, Sa noon-7PM, Su 4-9PM . Fish & chips takeaway. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Great Wall at the bus station is Cantonese, open M-F 11:30AM-2PM, 4:30-11PM, Sa Su noon-11:30PM.
• Raba opposite the bus station is Indian, open Th-Tu 4-10PM.
• Phu Siam is now within Glenorchy Hotel, open noon-3PM, 6-9PM.
• No 88 Kitchen and Bar , 88 Commercial St ZE1 0EX ( in pedestrian precinct ), ☏ +44 1595 692139 . W-Sa 11AM-10PM . Great reviews for their modern British cuisine. Reservations recommended. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• The Dowry , 98 Commercial St ZE1 0EX ( in pedestrian precinct ), ☏ +44 1595 692373 . M-Th 9:30AM-10PM, F Sa 9:30AM-11PM . Scandi-style bistro. ( updated Sep 2024 )

• Thule Bar , Esplanade ZE1 0LL . Daily 11AM-1AM . Not the most salubrious of bars but busy at the weekend. Boilersuits and work boots are perfectly acceptable dress. Pool tables. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• The Lounge Bar , 4 Mounthooley St ZE1 0BJ . Daily 11AM-1AM . The bar downstairs is very basic. Upstairs the lounge bar is more comfortable. Often has live traditional music. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Trench Bar , 13 Commercial Rd ZE1 0LX . M-Th 3PM-1AM, F Sa 3PM-3AM . Cocktail bar and late spot. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Douglas Arms ( Marlex ), 67 Commercial Street ZE1 0NL ( by museum ), ☏ +44 1595 693787 . M W Th 3PM-1AM, F-Su Tu noon-1:30AM . The public bar is basic, the lounge bar is more cosy with dark wood tables and a fireplace, occasional live music. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Grand Hotel and Shetland Hotel have bars, see Eat and Sleep.
• Lerwick Brewery is 2 miles west of town on Ladies Drive and has tours.
• 60.1537 -1.1494 1 Islesburgh House Hostel , Islesburgh House, King Harald Street ZE1 0EQ , ☏ +44 1595 745100 . 64-bed hostel open Jan-Nov. It's run by the local council, affiliated to SYHA, book by email or phone. Oct-Mar is cheaper, but Up Helly Aa in Jan is peak rate. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Solheim Guest House is at 34 King Harald St just south of Islesburgh House.
• Shetland Hotel , Holmsgarth Road ZE1 0PW ( opposite ferry terminal ), ☏ +44 1595 695515 , [email protected] . Slabby building, but comfy 3-star, handy for ferry and a short walk to town. B&B double £160 . ( updated Sep 2024 )

• 60.1542 -1.1441 2 Grand Hotel , 149 Commercial St ZE1 0AN , ☏ +44 1595 697425 . Elderly baronial building but comfy rooms and friendly service. B&B double £160 . ( updated Sep 2024 )
• 60.1531 -1.1402 3 Queens Hotel , 24 Commercial St ZE1 0AB , ☏ +44 1595 692826 . Creaky but pleasant old hotel just south of the harbour. B&B double £180 . ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Aald Harbour is a B&B at 7 Church Rd, 50 yards south of Queens Hotel.
• Varis House B&B is at 26 Church Rd, by the roundabout.
• Eddlewood is a B&B at 8 Clairmont Place, 100 yards west of Varis House.
• 60.1496 -1.1408 4 Glenorchy Hotel , 20 Knab Road ZE1 0AX , ☏ +44 1595 692031 . Needs a good clean but comfy enough. B&B double £110 . ( updated Sep 2024 )
• 60.1513 -1.1524 5 Lerwick Hotel , 15 South Road ZE1 0RB , ☏ +44 1595 692166 . Comfy mid-range hotel south side of town. B&B double £180 . ( updated Sep 2024 )
• Kveldsro House Hotel , Greenfield Place, Lerwick ZE1 0AQ . This remains temporarily closed. ( updated Sep 2024 )
• As of September 2024, there is 4G in Lerwick from all UK carriers, but the signal is patchy, with little coverage on the approach roads. 5G has not reached Shetland.
• 60.1533 -1.1466 1 Shetland Library , Lower Hillhead ZE1 0EL , ☏ +44 1595 743868 . M Th 10AM-8PM, Tu W F Sa 10AM-5PM . 16 computers in the Library Learning Centre, you need to register to use them. ( updated Sep 2024 )

Most of Shetland can be visited on a day-trip from Lerwick. Highlights include:

• Jarlshof, the prehistoric settlement at Sumburgh , next to the main airport 30 miles south.
• Scalloway , Shetland's second largest town and home to Scalloway castle, is a 6-mile drive.
• Noss is a small island nature reserve with spectacular sea-cliffs, reached via the island of Bressay , a short ferry-ride from Lerwick.
• Yell and Unst are the two islands north of Mainland, linked by short ferry crossings; here you reach the north tip of the British Isles and UK.

Further out, Foula and Fair Isle vie with each other for the title of "Britain's most remote habitation". So they need a longer stay; nevertheless by air a day-trip may be possible.

Otherwise, return south (perhaps via the Orkney Islands ) to the Scottish mainland. You have to return there to reach other island groups such as the Hebrides.

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Live & Travel Well for a Healing Journey...

The charming lerwick in shetland islands – a scenic walking tour.

The ancient and maritime charm of Lerwick is a welcoming gateway to Shetland Islands’ magic. I spent one day on an independent walking tour, absorbing the intriguing landscapes and historic culture here.  So, read on to learn about what to do tour-free, while walking to the Knab coastline, lodberries, Broch of Clickimin and Town Center.

About Lerwick in Shetland Islands

The Shetland Islands are a subarctic archipelago in the Northern Isles of Scotland.   The Atlantic Ocean lies to the west and the North Sea to the east of Shetland.  Just 16 of about 100 islands are inhabited. Its landscapes dramatically vary in form, such as, rocky crags, lofty sea-cliffs, fertile farmlands, pebble beaches, heather moors and sand dunes.

Even though the Shetlands are part of UK, their roots also connect with Old Norse.  The Norse heritage shows in their archeological sites, culture and unique dialect using Old Norse.  Also, Shetland is home to the iconic Shetland ponies, with their short legs and heavy fur.

Lerwick is the capital with a population of about 7,000 on the main island. It’s sheltered from the south-westerly gales by Bressay Island across the sound. Lerwick means ‘muddy waters’ in Old Norse. In the 1700’s it was the unofficial marketplace for the Dutch herring fishing fleets and smuggling days.

Check out my YouTube Video!

Lerwick in Shetland Islands – Commercial Street and the Lodberries

First, from Victoria Pier I headed south along Commercial Street.  This is the main street for shopping and eating.  However, I left the town center for later, heading straight to the Knab coastal walk.  

Pleasantly surprised, firstly I discovered the lodberries . These landmark buildings symbolize the Lerwick waterfront.  This Old Norse term means ‘landing rocks.’  Since the 18 th century these private wharves are where merchants transferred items to and from boats or vessels.  These notorious buildings are known for being a hub for the Lerwick smuggling days. Some houses connected underground tunnels to the lodberries to avoid taxes for goods, such as, alcohol, tea and tobacco. Today, the lodberries are known as the setting for a BBC detective series called Shetland . Additionally, next to the lodberries is Baines Beach .

Knab Lerwick Coastal Walk

I continued on from the Commercial Street south past the lodberries to the Knab Lerwick coastal walk .  I leisurely enjoyed walking, sitting and daydreaming on the breezy precipices among the heather moorlands and harbor.  It was a magical day, enjoying my solitude with no schedule, just going with the flow…

Also, I walked by these boat-roofed houses.  Cleverly, these boats serve their purpose at sea or as a roof to keep the water out.  Plus, I enjoyed bird-watching for endemic species, such as puffins, curlews, red-throated divers and northern gannets. 

Da Sletts Pier

Between the Ayre of Breiwick and Ayre of Clickimin is Da Sletts (Norse meaning a level place).  Here, a large area of rock extends into the sea along the shore. It is a flat and even rock platform that appears almost manmade.  Over the years, Da Sletts served as commercial and leisure pier to load and unload goods. 

Broch of Chlickimin and Shetland Ponies

A broch is a drystone roundhouse from the Iron Age in Scotland. Mysteriously, historians don’t know for sure what their purpose was. Clickimin Broch is situated on the south shore of the Clickimin Loch, about 1 mile south-west of Lerwick. Mysteriously, it sits on a small promontory jutting into the loch.  Overall, this is one of the most well-preserved broch sites in Shetland.

It’s encased by a stone-walled fort consisting of a blockhouse and ringwork.  The blockhouse is a free-standing drystone gateway set just within the entrance to the fort.  I found these ruins gorgeous and intriguingly harmonious with the heather moorlands and loch.  Consequently, the stonework seemed to organically grow from the land like a tree or rock.  Overall, I felt the deep history penetrate my bones here. 

Afterwards, I pet the Shetland ponies in a fenced grassland next to the ruin.  Even though touristy fanfare surrounded them, I got a glimpse of the ponies in their natural element. 

Lerwick Town Center

Walking along Commercial Street takes you to the heart of Lerwick for shopping and cafes.  The sandstone buildings line up creating a labyrinth with narrow passages and stairways.  Tunnels lie beneath Commercial Street, left over from the Dutch smuggling days.  Fort Charlotte entrance is on the corner of Charlotte and Commercial Street, guarding the harbor since 1665.  It’s a pentagon-shaped fort that protected Shetland from the Dutch attack in the Third Anglo-Dutch War.  The fort is free admission and provides breathtaking views of the harbor and town. 

Up the hill on Charlotte Street is the iconic Town Hall made from sandstone.  It’s known for the stained-glass windows, depicting Shetland’s history and prominent clock tower.  The Town Hall is only open Monday – Friday.  On the northern waterfront of the Town Center is the historic Hay’s Dock area.  This was the heart of the herring industry, where fish were cleaned and packed.  Today, in this area stands the Shetland Museum & Archives and Mareel Art Center . 

Enjoy Lerwick!

Lerwick is the perfect gateway to the Shetland Islands. The dramatic landscapes, along with the ocean, ruins and history make for the best day. And, most importantly, visitors can see everything on their own as a walking tour. Walking helps to slow down and connect with the flow and essence of this unique destination. Also, if your travels bring you here, please share comments on how to make the most of your day in Lerwick!

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Trudy Wendelin, L.Ac

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You’re so interesting! I don’t think I have read through anything like this before. So good to find another person with a few original thoughts on this subject. Seriously.. thanks for starting this up. This website is one thing that’s needed on the internet, someone with some originality!

I appreciate your kind words. The Shetland Islands are so inspiring it’s easy to have original thoughts. I will be returning there next month for a day trip and can’t wait!

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Lerwick Brewery

Welcome to Lerwick Brewery - the home of truly great lagers and beers.

With the first beers launched in June 2013, the Lerwick Brewery offers an exciting new dimension to Shetland’s larder. This family run business aim to produce products which exemplify everything that is great about our beautiful islands. The brewery is tucked into the heathery hillside on the edge of Lerwick and comprises of the very latest 12 barrel plant,  in-house bottling and labelling machines.

Sitting on the latitude line of 60° North, the Lerwick Brewery has a unique location which provides a consistent climate where winters are mild and summers cool.  The regular humidity together with plentiful clear water and crisp fresh air provides the vital ingredients to brew beer with individual character and a unique dimension.

Our unique situation means that our flagship Lager – the aptly named 60˚ North is brewed in combination with our soft Shetland water and cool atmosphere which work together produce a truly great tasting and refreshing lager. Similar to the pilners style lagers seen throughout europe we can promise a truly different taste of Shetland with our 60° North Lager.

The second beer in the Lerwick Brewery range, Skippers Ticket, takes its name from the qualification give to those who achieve the high standard of skills required to become a skipper of a vessel. Our pale ale is named not only to recognise Shetland’s close association with the sea and seafaring life but also to recognise the pride the community takes in those that achieve this honour.

The Lerwick Brewery - Creating beers with a little positive local attitude.

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