From Edinburgh: 6-Day Shetland & Northernmost Explorer Tour｜United Kingdom

Shetland Islands may be the UK’s last truly untamed frontier—remote, dramatic, and rich in Viking heritage. This 6-day journey from Edinburgh takes you to the very edge of Britain, where wild landscapes, ancient history, and unforgettable wildlife await.

Day 1: From Edinburgh to the Open Sea

Your journey begins in Edinburgh, heading north past the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, catch a glimpse of Arbroath Abbey, forever linked to Scotland’s Declaration of Independence in 1320. By evening, arrive in Aberdeen and board your overnight ferry to the Shetland Islands.

Day 2: Lerwick & Ancient Origins

Arrive in Lerwick, Shetland’s charming capital, where centuries-old stone buildings and local traditions bring the islands to life. Discover the art of traditional Shetland knitting before stepping back in time at a remarkable prehistoric settlement dating back thousands of years. Visit the historic Sumburgh Lighthouse and end your day by the coast, where seals are often spotted resting on the shore.

Day 3: Wild Coastlines & Natural Wonders

Walk along the stunning tombolo of St Ninian’s Isle, where golden sands connect land and sea in a truly unique landscape. Continue to the dramatic cliffs of Eshaness, shaped by powerful Atlantic waves over millennia—one of Shetland’s most breathtaking coastal scenes.

Day 4: The Edge of Britain & Viking Legacy

Travel to Unst, the northernmost inhabited island in the UK. Here, at the edge of the Hermaness Nature Reserve, witness towering cliffs, seabird colonies, and—between April and July—puffins nesting along the coast. Explore the island’s deep Viking heritage, including ancient longhouse remains, and visit the famously remote “last bus stop,” a touching symbol of island life.

Day 5: Ponies, Wildlife & Return Voyage

Meet the iconic Shetland ponies, perfectly adapted to this rugged environment. Enjoy a coastal walk through wild headlands and beaches rich in birdlife, including Arctic skuas and terns. In the evening, board your ferry back to Aberdeen.

Day 6: Castles & Coastal Legends

After disembarking, visit the spectacular Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically above the North Sea. Continue to St Andrews, the historic home of golf and one of Scotland’s most iconic towns, before returning to Edinburgh—bringing your journey full circle.