Private Tour from Lerwick West Side Explorer

Lerwick , United Kingdom

Private Tour from Lerwick West Side Explorer

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Often overlooked by tourists, the west side of the Shetland Mainland (known as the Wastside locally) is a haven of unspoilt beauty. Never visited by large tour groups or shore excursions, join us to discover some of Shetland's most scenic spots.

During your private guided tour, you'll pass through some of Shetland's most spectacular scenery, visit our most important Neolithic site- Stanydale Temple- and stop off at an authentic Cake Fridge.

Available options

Private Tour from Lerwick West Side Explorer

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Services of a qualified Tour Guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Depart Lerwick and take a short driving tour around the main sights of the town on the way out. Highlights will include the harbour, Town Hall and Clickimin Broch.

We journey west, travelling through the Tingwall Valley, past the historic Park Hall to reach Sand.

Stop at Sand Honesty Box where you'll have the chance to purchase some fresh homebaking in true Shetland fashion before heading down to the beach for a photostop.

We take a short walk up to the small and beautiful Culswick Chapel.

Stanydale ‘Temple’ is the only truly megalithic structure surviving from prehistoric Shetland. It comprises a wall of large boulders enclosing a wide oval area, which would have originally been enclosed by a great timber roof.

Nobody knows what purpose Stanydale served. The archaeologist who excavated the site called it a ‘temple’, as the structure is similar to known Neolithic temples in Malta. However, it could just as easily have acted as a village hall, courtroom or chieftan’s hall. Whatever its purpose, it’s a significant building in a landscape rich in prehistoric structures.

Arriving at our last stop, Skeld, we learn about the former cod fishery and spend some time exploring the pleasant marina.

There will also be a chance to purchase refreshments.

Return to Lerwick to finish the tour.

Please note that any time not accounted for is spent travelling between locations.

What's not included

No food or drink included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for travellers with mobility problems- some walking is required to fully enjoy this tour

About Lerwick

Lerwick is the capital and largest town of the Shetland Islands, known for its rich Viking heritage, stunning coastal scenery, and vibrant cultural scene. It offers a unique blend of Scottish and Nordic influences, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Top Attractions

Shetland Museum and Archives

A comprehensive museum showcasing the history and culture of the Shetland Islands, from Viking times to the present day.

Museum 1-2 hours £10 for adults, £7.50 for children

Clickimin Broch

An ancient Iron Age broch, or round tower, dating back over 2,000 years. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the Shetland Islands' prehistoric past.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Scalloway Museum

A small but fascinating museum dedicated to the history of Scalloway, a nearby village, and the Shetland Islands as a whole.

Museum 30 minutes to 1 hour £3 for adults, £1.50 for children

Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

A remarkable archaeological site that spans over 4,000 years of human history, from the Neolithic period to the Viking Age.

Historical 1-2 hours £9 for adults, £5.40 for children

Up Helly Aa Festival

A spectacular fire festival held annually in January, celebrating Shetland's Viking heritage with a torchlit procession and the burning of a replica Viking longship.

Cultural One night Free to attend

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shetland Lamb

Tender and flavorful lamb, often grilled or roasted, and served with local vegetables and potatoes.

Main Course Gluten-free, can be prepared to be dairy-free

Shetland Scallops

Freshly caught scallops, often served grilled or in chowder, with a delicate and sweet flavor.

Appetizer Gluten-free, can be prepared to be dairy-free

Shetland Berries

A traditional dessert made with local berries, such as cloudberries, and often served with cream or ice cream.

Dessert Can be prepared to be gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan

Shetland Ale

A locally brewed ale with a rich, malty flavor, often enjoyed with traditional Shetland dishes.

Drink Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Birdwatching Kayaking Whale watching Fishing Scenic walks Beachcombing Photography

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the Shetland Islands. The days are long, with up to 18 hours of daylight in June and July.

12°C to 17°C 54°F to 63°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Shetland dialect of Scots
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lerwick is a generally safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of the changeable weather and take appropriate precautions when exploring the outdoors.

Important Precautions:

• Be prepared for changeable weather and bring appropriate clothing and footwear.
• Be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight to deter theft.

Getting there

By air

Sumburgh Airport • 10 miles (16 km) south of Lerwick

By bus

Lerwick Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around Lerwick. The bus network is well-connected, with frequent services to popular attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None available

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Town Centre Clickimin Gremista Holmsgarth

Day trips

Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement

20 miles (32 km) south of Lerwick • Full day

A remarkable archaeological site that spans over 4,000 years of human history, from the Neolithic period to the Viking Age.

Eshaness

25 miles (40 km) north of Lerwick • Full day

A stunning coastal landscape with dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and seabird colonies.

Unst

60 miles (97 km) north of Lerwick • Full day or overnight

The northernmost inhabited island in the UK, known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and historic sites.

Festivals

Up Helly Aa Festival • January 29th or 30th, depending on the year Shetland Folk Festival • Last week of April to the first week of May, depending on the year Shetland Wool Week • Early October, depending on the year

Pro tips

Visit the Shetland Museum and Archives to learn about the islands' rich history and culture.
Attend the Up Helly Aa fire festival if you're visiting in January, but book accommodation well in advance.
Explore the stunning coastal scenery and wildlife by taking a boat tour or visiting nearby islands such as Unst and Foula.
Sample local cuisine, such as Shetland lamb, scallops, and berries, at one of Lerwick's many restaurants and cafes.
Learn about Shetland's knitting and textile traditions by visiting local studios and workshops, or attending Shetland Wool Week in October.