Shetland Islands Travel Guide
United Kingdom
The Shetland Islands are a UK archipelago with a population of around 23,200, lying far to the north of mainland Scotland. The islands use UK time and are spread across a remote North Atlantic setting, so distances between settlements and islands are an important part of planning a visit.
Air access includes Sumburgh Airport, Lerwick/Tingwall Airport, Fair Isle Airport, Foula Airport, Outer Skerries Airport and Papa Stour Airport. The nearest named beaches include Ayre of Kurkigarth, 2.5 kilometres away, and Ayre of Voxter, 4.6 kilometres away, with further ayres and beaches on Papa Little, Muckle Roe and elsewhere in Shetland.
Local time
Population
Weather in Shetland Islands
Mon
Tue
Wed
Know before you go
Pays in GBP
Plug type Type G
Emergency 999
Dial code +44
Tipping: Tipping is customary for good service in the UK. While not mandatory, it's a common way to show appreciation.
Best time to visit Shetland Islands
Jan
6°23Feb
7°16Mar
7°18Apr
9°15May
12°11Jun
14°19Jul
15°19Aug
15°21Sep
14°17Oct
11°19Nov
8°17Dec
7°20Average daily maximums with rainy days per month, from the last three years of weather history.
Beaches near Shetland Islands
Ayre of Kurkigarth
2.5 km away
Ayre of Voxter
4.6 km away
Ayre of Papa Little
6.6 km away
Little Ayre
8.8 km away
Muckle Ayre
9.3 km away
Otter Ayre
9.5 km away
Gilsa Ayre
10.2 km away
Lang Ayre
26.2 km away
Things to do in Shetland Islands
Mainland, Shetland
historic site
3.1 km
4.6 km
Getting there
Sumburgh Airport · 51.9 km
Lerwick/Tingwall Airport · 17.3 km
Fair Isle Airport · 92.4 km
Foula Airport · 50.4 km
Outer Skerries Airport · 29.2 km
Papa Stour Airport · 24.2 km
Frequently asked Questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.