Find out more about intriguing Shetland - its rich history and culture, islands and wildlife - with our Shetland blogs.
Shetland has many isolated standing stones dotted around the landscape. Were they ancient markers of important places or a way for fishing vessels to find their way home? Nearly all have entertaining folk tales – find out more about Shetland’s standing stones.
Oatcakes are a traditional Scottish biscuit made from simple ingredients you’ll easily find in your cupboard. This super easy and incredibly tasty recipe was given to me by my Grandad and makes for a delicious treat for the larder.
Shetland’s main town, Lerwick has a colourful and interesting past. It only became the capital of Shetland in the 1830s and began life as a ramshackle settlement built to trade with Dutch fishermen. There are many sea-salted stories to tell about Lerwick…
The dialect of Shetland and Orkney has been influenced by the islands’ Scandinavian past and Norn was the language used most commonly. Today, Scots is spoken in Shetland and Orkney, but there are a smattering of words heavily influenced by Norn. Do you know what Blyde, Braaly and Sirpin mean?
Shetland Ponies are the smallest of pony breed in the UK and can be seen in Shetland grazing on rough moorland in all weathers. It is this practice that has led the breed to be so hardy and unique. Find out ten fascinating facts about Shetland Ponies here…
Lerwick Up Helly Aa takes place on the last Tuesday of January. However if you cannot attend you’ll be pleased to learn that there are other community fire festivals which are super to see. Read on to discover what happens during Shetland’s rural fire festivals…
Up Helly Aa is a Viking themed fire festival which takes place in Lerwick on the last Tuesday of January. The day involves a series of marches and visitations and in the evening is the most famous part – the torch-lit procession and Galley burning. Find out more and view a webcast of the event here!
For those interested in finding their Shetland ancestors, then the Shetland Family History Society hold a wealth of information about Shetland family names from the past.
Shetland has a dramatic landscape and the amazing geology of the islands has earned it the status of a UNESCO Global Geopark. Rory Tallack works for Shetland Amenity Trust as the Geopark Manager and told us more.
