Shetland

Shetland through Time & Tides – Duration 4 hours

Travel through Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, before embarking on a trip to the island’s most southern point. En route we pass through the rural township of Fladdabister and pause to admire the view of Mousa Broch, the tallest and best preserved of all Brochs in Britain. Continuing onwards our route takes in the western coast and passes St. Ninian’s Isle where the famous Pictish horde of silver dating from the 9th century was found in 1958.
Walk through time at the outstanding site of Jarlshof where the archaeological remains extend over a time span of more than 3000 years from the Bronze Age to Iron Age and Viking Period. Following refreshments in the Sumburgh Hotel we depart for the cliffs at Sumburgh Head Lighthouse where breeding sea birds, and also occasionally whales can be seen. Look out for Shetland’s famous ponies on our return.

Castle & Crafts Tour – Duration 3 hours

After touring Lerwick the present capital of Shetland we depart for Scalloway, the ancient capital. Visit the 400¬year¬old castle ruins, which was built by the notoriously infamous Earl Patrick Stewart and hear of his ghastly demise. Enjoy a stroll through the village to the “Shetland Bus” monument and visit Scalloway’s museum. We continue through Tingwall Valley, past the seat of the ancient Viking Parliament at “Althing” before arriving at Shetland Jewellery Workshop.
See traditional gold and silver pieces being hand finished during the tour. We return along Kergord valley, scene of the Shetland clearances, and see Kergord House, the home of the courageous Norwegian ‘Shetland Bus’ men. Look out for Shetland’s famous ponies by the roadside.

The Lerwick Lodberries Walk – Duration 1 ½ - 2 hours

Starting in the heart of the Old Town of Lerwick at Victoria Pier we step back over 200 years in time. A leisurely stroll uncovers the delights of Lerwick’s unique 18th century Lodberries, the Market Cross, imposing Tolbooth, and intricate web of lanes. Lively tales of Lerwick’s growth, from trading merchants and shipping fleets to smugglers and shipwrecks will transport you through the centuries.
Our walk continues to Lerwick’s elegant Town Hall followed by Fort Charlotte which has dominated Lerwick since the early 18th century and from which panoramic views extend across the harbour and island of Bressay. Explore Lerwick’s shopping opportunities on your return to the ship and look out for the local craft and knitwear shops.
Full details including timings, walking distances, comfort stops, photo opportunities for the above excursions, as well as many others, available on request.

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