The shaping of an island

Shetland has a fascinating history spanning thousands of years - unlock the secrets of the past at the Shetland Museum & Archives in Lerwick or bring the past to life on a tailor-made tour.

 

For those looking for a taste of local culture, you will be surprised by the sheer variety on offer across the isles - did you know Shetland was once home to more than 100 Iron Age brochs, many of which can clearly be seen today? Mousa Broch is one of the best preserved in the world. Or that the island of Unst has a greater density of Viking longhouses than anywhere else in the world?

 

The first settlers arrived more than 6,000 years ago and there are still archaeological remains located all around the islands which help piece the story together.

 

Visit Shetland’s castles this winter. Scalloway Castle was built in 1599 for Earl Patrick Stewart and is a grand structure overlooking Scalloway’s harbour. The castle is accessible to the public and still has many of the original rooms including the banqueting hall and kitchens.

 

Located in Unst, the 16th century Muness Castle is Britain’s most northerly castle. It is free to visit and torches are even available for those looking to explore the dark passageways and rooms of the ground floor.

 

To really bring the past to life, why not join a tour taken by local historians and storytellers and learn more about Shetland’s customs, traditions and folklore? Discover what life was like in the 18th century as you explore Lerwick’s historic lanes or sit around a peat fire and hear tales of smugglers, shipwrecks and how imaginative islanders avoided the dreaded press gangs.

 

There are a number of tours available - check with a VisitScotland Information Centre for more information.

 

Discover more of Shetland’s fascinating history at:

Jarlshof, Sumburgh

The Croft House Museum, Boddam
Tangwick Haa Museum, Eshaness
The Cabin, Vidlin
Old Haa, Yell
Pier House, Whalsay

Scalloway Museum