Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us for a private guided tour to Shetland's scenic south Mainland. Departing Lerwick we visit the island's former capital, Scalloway, before heading to Sumburgh at the southern tip of the islands. Here we visit the prehistoric settlement of Jarlshof before concluding our tour with a visit to Sumburgh Head.
Available options
Puffins, Ponies & Past Shetland - Half Day Private Tour
Pickup included
15 Seater
Transit<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Admission to Jarlshof
Private transportation
Services of our driver and a tour guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Visit to Carol's Ponies
Fuel surcharge
Admission to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse Exhibition
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Travel time from Lerwick- 15 minutes.
We start with a short photo stop at a viewpoint overlooking the ancient fishing village of Scalloway before continuing into the village for a photostop at Scalloway Castle (exterior only) and the Shetland Bus Memorial.
2
Travel time from Scalloway- 5 minutes.
We stop at Carol’s Ponies, you have a chance to meet, learn about and photograph these wonderful animals. Originating in Shetland the breed was a packing pony and are now found all over the world, used as popular riding ponies for children and a companion to horses. Carol the stud owner will explain all in her talk about these beautiful creatures, remember they have teeth and may assume fingers for carrots! So please do not feed the ponies
3
Travel time from Carol's Ponies- 45 minutes.
Jarlshof is the best-known prehistoric archaeological site in Shetland. It has been described as "one of the most remarkable archaeological sites ever excavated in the British Isles". It contains remains dating from 2500 BC up to the 17th century AD.
4
Travel time from Jarlshof- 5 minutes.
Sumburgh head is home toShetland’s first lighthouse and a RSPB reserve of mostly seabirds breeding in the cliffs.
If you're lucky, you will witness hundreds of puffins close up as well as other birds through most of the Spring and Summer. Looking down to the sea you see dolphins, mink and humpback whales, grey seals and porpoises.*
Entrance to the lighthouse is included. There is a small café and toilet facilities are available. Please note that the café and museum are closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays for the 2025 season.
*As with any wildlife, there is never any guarantee that you will see any specific species on the day of your visit!
5
Travel time from Sumburgh- 30 minutes.
Photostop in Sandwick overlooking the Island of Mousa with it's iconic iron age Broch, said to be the best preserved in Scotland.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
31 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.9
7 reviews
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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 travelers with walking dificulties
Important notes
Tickets for Jarlshof will be provided by your driver or guide on the day. Carol's Ponies does not require a ticket.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
