Your flight to Sumburgh takes you to the southern tip of Britain’s northernmost islands, the Shetlands, with a history tracing back more than 2,000 years before the Viking golden age. From Robert Stevenson’s 1821 lighthouse atop the 100m-high Sumburgh Head, the islands’ capital Lerwick lies 25 miles north, with flagged streets and its January Up Helly Aa fire festival.
Step back in time at the Shetland Crofthouse Museum, near Sumburgh, with typical 19th-century thatch and warming peat fire, or follow the sweep of island history in Lerwick Town Hall’s stained-glass windows. For Shetland’s living culture try Sumburgh Hotel’s two bars for a warm welcome and a pint of Unst-brewed Auld Rock Ale.
Away from the crowds discover the 3,000-year-old remains at Jarlshof near Sumburgh and Scatness Broch’s extraordinary iron-age remains. Ride small but stalwart Shetland ponies, fish in loch and sea, or explore nature’s bounty, from otters and seals to the spectacular Northern Lights.
Shetlanders from Sumburgh north revel in sea produce from gravalax (salmon marinated in brandy and dill), smoked and pickled fish to traditional Reestit mutton and potato soup. Viking heritage sees Shetland-made gin and vodka, although a whisky distillery is planned. |