Neil Risk

Shetland is the most northerly part of the British Isles, 93 miles from the north of the Scottish Mainland and around 600 miles from London. However, this remote ‘British’ position is very much central to the North Sea fishing grounds and Northern European oil reserves and trading routes.  As well as ferry links to Aberdeen and Orkney, there are air links from Sumburgh in the South Mainland to Aberdeen, Inverness, Glasgow, Edinburgh and London.

Shetland’s northerly position means that during the summer months there is daylight almost round-the-clock, allowing people to take advantage of the long fine days for all sorts of outdoor activities.  This however is in contrast to the winter months, which are generally mild, with unpredictable weather accompanied by short days and long dark nights. 

During all seasons there is plenty to do and see in Shetland.  In the summer a wide variety of sports are played, including football, rugby, golf, sailing and rowing at local regattas.  Other outdoor activities include taking advantage of the spectacular scenery in hill and cliff walking, or observing the tremendous array of wildlife that share these Isles and its coastlines with the people, including puffins, otters, whales, dolphins and the more domesticated Shetland Ponies.  There are also many events which take place during the summer months, such as the Shetland Folk Festival, Johnsmas Foy and the Shetland Book Festival to name but a few. 

In the winter months activities are more directed to the indoors, where islanders may take advantage of the numerous high quality leisure centres.  There are a wide range of nightclasses held throughout the winter months in the village halls and local schools, while local groups and organisations also meet there throughout the year.  The winter also plays host to many organised events, and in the period from January to March the Island’s most famous festival, Up Helly Aa, takes place. 

It is not only the vibrant culture and stunning scenery which makes Shetland an excellent place to live, the Island’s public services and amenities are of a very high standard and Council Tax remains amongst the lowest levied in Scotland.  Shetland’s schools have a record of attaining high standards amongst all pupils and the good public transport provision ensures that every area is connected.

In short, Shetland is a place of unspoilt scenery, abundant wildlife and activities for all ages.  It is home to a fantastic culture and most importantly, a population renowned for their welcoming nature.

Shetland Links:

Here is a selection of links to other Shetland websites.

Shetland Tourism and Travel Links

Visit Shetland: www.visitshetland.com

British Airways: www.britishairways.com

Northlink Ferries: www.northlinkferries.co.uk

Local Authority and Services

Shetland Islands Council: www.shetland.gov.uk

Housing: www.shetland.gov.uk/housing/

Schools: www.shetland.gov.uk/education/

Council Tax: www.shetland.gov.uk/counciltax/

Community Directory www.shetland.gov.uk/communitydirectory/

Hjaltland Housing Association: www.hjaltland.org.uk

Shetland Leisure Links

Shetland Recreational Trust: www.srt.org.uk

Shetland Music: www.shetland-music.com

Shetland Folk Festival Society: www.shetlandfolkfestival.com