Lerwick is the capital of Shetland, and the only town in the islands.  It takes its name from the Old Norse for 'muddy bay'.  With a population of about 7, 500 it is a bustling and attractive town.  Lerwick only became the capital of Shetland in 1838, prior to this Scalloway, 6 miles to the west was the administrative capital.

Lerwick grew with the arrival of Dutch fishermen during the 1600s.  Their arrival every June meant that locals flocked to Bressay Sound to trade with these foreign visitors.  Lerwick continued to grow and with the second herring boom in the 19th century, the town eventually overtook Scalloway in size and influence.

"Old Lerwick" guided walk:

Take a walk through Lerwick and explore the old part of the town which is reputed to have been built by smugglers.  Find out about the town today and its colourful history.  Hear about the Dutch connection and see where the fictional Jimmy Perez lives in the Shetland crime drama series.  The walk takes in the harbour, the churches and the narrow lanes which at one time were dirty and overcrowded before heading on towards the Town Hall and Fort Charlotte.  And for those who are feeling fit, a detour around the scenic coastline of the Knab can be arranged.

The walk will take 2-3 hours, depending on the route.

Shetland Museum & Archives

​Walk through 6, 000 years of human history and discover Shetland's fascinating history and heritage at the award winning Shetland Museum & Archives.  Situated in the picturesque, historic Hay's Dock, visitors can relax and enjoy stunning views across the north entrance to the harbour in the cafe. 

Note: The Shetland Museum & Archives cannot be included in evening walking tours.

Lerwick Shopping Week 2018

We are pleased to announce that we are participating in Lerwick Shopping Week and offering extra Walking Tours around Lerwick during the week.

Please get in touch to book a space as numbers are limited.

Monday 6th August: 2pm
Tuesday 7th August: 7pm
Thursday 9th August: 7pm

Tours are priced at £15 pp. They will depart from the Market Cross and will last about 2 hours

Thursday night lates through Lerwick

***Every Thursday night throughout August we're offering guided walks through Lerwick's old town***
***Get in touch to book a place or just to find out a little more information***
***Tours will leave the Market Cross, Lerwick at 7pm and will last about 2 hours***
*** Extra tours will be organised throughout Lerwick's Shopping Week from the 6th - 12th August***