Perched on the east coast of Shetland, Lerwick is the main town and port of this Scottish archipelago. Its name translates from Old Norse as “bay of clay”, with the settlement established in the 17th century as a herring fishing port. Several scenes from the BBC crime series “Shetland” were filmed in Lerwick.
Things to do in Lerwick
Nestled just behind the ferry terminal is Fort Charlotte, which was originally established in the 17th century. It served as a garrison during the Napoleonic Wars and later as the town jail and a coastguard station. Today, its stone-built formations are preserved by Historic Environment Scotland. A short walk away is Lerwick Town Hall with its elegant stained glass windows.
You can delve into the local history at the Shetland Museum, which occupies a purpose-built facility at Hay's Dock. Its exhibits detail the natural history of the islands and their early settlement, as well as the fascinating folklore of Shetland. Learn about the whaling, fishing and merchant shipping industries that have shaped the archipelago and admire the handcrafted knitwear on display.
History buffs can visit the Broch of Clickimin, a hollow-walled drystone structure that dates back to the Iron Age. It lies on a small promontory that juts into Clickimin Loch and was originally excavated in the 1860s. Stone lamps, bronze objects and whalebones have been discovered at the site. While exploring the ruins, keep an eye out for the causeway sculpture that is thought to be associated with kingship rituals.
Getting around Lerwick
Sumburgh Airport is around 30 minutes’ drive from Lerwick and has flights to destinations across the United Kingdom. Ferries connect from Aberdeen to Lerwick and the town is small enough to explore on foot. Buses travel around Shetland and rental cars are readily available.