Family Holidays in the Shetland Islands

Are you looking to escape and explore the outdoors with your family? Then look no further than family holidays in the Shetland Islands, one of the most remote and beautiful regions of the UK. The Shetland Islands is a great place to see a wide range of wildlife and enjoy the fresh air and good food the Shetland Islands has to offer. With a range of activities and attractions, there’s something for all ages, from educational to fun days out with the family.

With activities and attractions crammed into this beautiful region, you can brush up on your history at a host of famous attractions. Shetland Museum is a great place to start on a visit to the Shetland Islands, with historic films, collections and weekly events, you can learn about the history of the famous Islands. A trip down to the southern tip of Mainland Shetland to visit Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement, an extraordinary site with a complex of ancient settlements covering more than 4000 years of human history.

If you’re looking to enjoy some of the wildlife on the Shetland Islands with your family, there are two great places for days out. The Hermaness National Nature Reserve in Unst, home to thousands of seabirds, gives the chance to enjoy a walk along the coast and to witness a range of different species of birds. In addition, Shetland’s award winning Seabirds and Seals adventure cruises around Noss National Nature Reserve and Bressay depart seven days a week and is a wonderful day out for the family. With a range of other educational and historic locations, from Sumburgh Head Lighthouse to Muness Castle, you’re spoilt for choice for days out on the Shetland Islands. For a slower paced day and something out of the ordinary, visit to St Ninian’s Isle, a large tombolo on the west coast of Shetland, linking the South Mainland with the Isle, is a great day out to enjoy one of the best beaches in the UK.

If the weather has turned on you and you’re stuck for ideas on what to do on a rainy day, Yell Leisure Centre provides a large selection of activities for all of the family to enjoy from, swimming to squash and racket ball. If you’re looking for a more active day out, there are a plethora of walking and cycling trails that take you through the countryside and coastline, giving the opportunity to view stunning coastal sites.

Whatever your family’s interests you’re sure to have one of your most memorable family holidays in the Shetland Islands.

Find out more about the attractions and activities taking place in the region in our Things to Do section.

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