Shetland’s Historical Attractions
Archeological Attractions
There are many internationally important archaeological sites in Shetland, with the Jarlshof settlement and Mousa broch (both in the south mainland) being the best known.
Jarlshof
The Jarlshof settlement - located in the south mainland of Shetland, close to Sumburgh Airport - is one of Shetland's most popular historical attractions.
Some Jarlshof Facts:
- The oldest part of Jarlshof is thought to date from 4000 years ago.
- The settlment's fascinating history spans the Bronze Age, Iron Age, the Norse era and onwards to the Middle Ages.
- The Jarlshof name was coined by Sir Walter Scott, whose novel 'The Pirates' was inspired by the site.
Jarlshof is now a visitor attraction run by Historic Scotland.
For more information please see Historic Scotland - Jarlshof Pages.
Mousa Broch
Mousa Broch
One of Shetland's most iconic structures.
Image courtesy of
Shetland Geotours: www.ShetlandGeology.com
Mousa broch is one of Shetland's most iconic structures. The finest surviving Iron Age broch tower, it stands over 13m in height.
For more information, please see Historic Scotland - Mousa Broch Pages.
Note: To get to the island of Mousa requires a short ferry journey, departing from Sandwick. See the Mousa Boat Trips web site.
Old Scatness
Not far from Jarlshof, another fascinating site - Old Scatness - is in the process of being excavated. It is well worth a visit during the summer months, when tours of the excavation are available. 'Living history' guides will also show you replicas of ancient structures, gardens, weaving and even beer brewing!
For more information, please see Shetland Amenity Trust - Archaeology Pages. (Direct access to the most recent Shetland Amenity Trust Old Scatness Broch Special Report is here).
Further information about the initial stages of the excavation project can be found at the Bradford University: Old Scatness Broch and Jarlshof Environs Project web site.
Clickimin Broch
Clickimin Broch
Image by Kenny Gifford
Clickimin Broch stands on the shore of the Clickimin loch, in Lerwick - making it very easily accessible even for cruise passengers stopping off in Lerwick for less than a day.
Featured Site:
Museums and Other Historical Visitor Attractions
The Shetland Museum
The Shetland Museums Service website contains a large photo archive, as well as details on exhibitions and projects.
Shetland Croft House Museum
A typical thatched crofthouse of the 19th century restored with traditional materials. Free admission.
See Shetland Croft House Museum Web Site
Bod of Gremista
The birthplace of the famous Shetlander Arthur Anderson, who co-founded what is now P&O Ferries. Furnished as a typical 18th century booth (Böd), which would have provided family accommodation as well as a working store for the nearby fish drying beach. Free entrance.
See Shetland Croft House Museum Web Site
Old Haa Museum
Located in Yell, this substantial old building dating from 1672 contains a local history museum, a tea room, a gallery, a craft shop and a local history exhibition room.
See BobbyTulloch.com, which is operated by the Old Haa Museum.
Quendale Mill
The restored Water Mill at Quendale in the south mainland gives an excellent insight to life on the Shetland Islands over the last one hundred years.
See Quendale Water Mill web site.
Scalloway Castle
Scalloway Castle
Images by David Gifford
Built by Earl Patrick Stewart in 1600, the imposing ruins of Scalloway Castle are a reminder of his oppressive rule.
Fort Charlotte
Fort Charlotte was built in 1665 to protect the Lerwick and Bressay Sound from the Dutch who captured it and burned it in 1673. The fort was then rebuilt in 1781.
For more information, please see Historic Scotland - Fort Charlotte Pages
