Lerwick , United Kingdom

Shetland at War Half Day Private Tour

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About this experience

Join military historian and professional archaeologist Chris Dyer, a Shetland resident for over twenty years, to explore Shetland’s fascinating wartime heritage on our brand new Shetland at War tour. We will visit astoundingly well-preserved military fortifications within a range of spectacular, beautiful landscapes.

During the twentieth century, Shetland played a crucially important role in the defence of Britain during both World Wars due to its strategic military location on the northern periphery of Britain and Europe. Enemy shipping and submarines favoured the North Sea as their preferred passage to the North Atlantic Ocean. Shetland was therefore an important base for the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, who patrolled the surrounding waters, and for the associated military radar stations, scanning the skies and seas.

Available options

Shetland at War - 15 Seater

Transit<br/>Pickup included

Shetland at War - Half Day Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Admission fee

Government Fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Our tour begins in Lerwick (or your chosen location) where we're joined by professional archaeologist and military historian Chris Dyer who will accompany us as we explore the wartime history of Shetland's South & Central Mainland.

We will visit Sumburgh Head, the site of an internationally-recognised nature reserve famed for its seabirds alongside Shetland’s first early Victorian lighthouse. At this location, from December 1939, Admiralty Experimental Station Number 1 began plotting surfaced U-boats attempting to escape from the North Sea into the North Atlantic but also capable of detecting aircraft by transmitting and receiving radio waves.

Travel time from Lerwick - 30 minutes

We will visit Scalloway, the ancient capital of the Shetland Islands and the headquarters from 1942 of the ‘Shetland Bus’ operation, a phrased coined to describe the top secret operation that maintained a regular transport link between Shetland and German-occupied Norway. Commencing initially on the isolated east coast of Shetland at Lunna, the harbour-front and associated piers in Scalloway allowed for the development of the operation to allow arms to support the Norwegian resistance and the safe passage of refugees. This attractive village, together with impressive castle and museum, also hosts the memorial to the 44 Norwegians who lost their lives as part of the operation in addition to the restored Prince Olav wartime slipway.

Free time will be allowed here for lunch (not included).

Travel time from Sumburgh- 45 minutes.

Step into the rich history of Scalloway at this volunteer-run museum, nestled beside the iconic Scalloway Castle and just a short stroll from the village centre. Explore fascinating exhibits covering Ancient Scalloway, the Boom Years, Wartime Scalloway, the lives of its people, and the remarkable story of the Shetland Bus.

Note- Scalloway Museum open from April to October and is closed on Saturdays. When closed, this stop will be substituted.

Finally, on the outskirts of modern-day Lerwick, we will visit the Knab torpedo tubes, Ness of Sound coastal battery and Hoofields tank traps, walking in the footsteps of the Robertson Line defensive cordon erected to protect the capital that became an increasingly-significant strategic location following the fall of Norway in April 1940 and the arrival of an estimated 20,000 military personnel throughout the islands.

Travel time from Scalloway- 15 minutes

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for travellers with mobility problems - a moderate amount of walking is involved

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.