7 things to see and do in Fair Isle

Home to around 60 people, the island is world-renowned for its birdlife, knitwear, and strong sense of community. At just three miles long and about 1.5 miles wide, Fair Isle offers a peaceful escape with dramatic landscapes, fascinating history, and unique cultural traditions.

How do you get to Fair Isle?

Fair Isle is accessible by small aircraft or ferry. Flights from Tingwall (near Lerwick) operate several times a week, weather permitting, and take about 25 minutes. Alternatively, the Good Shepherd IV ferry sails from Grutness at the southern tip of Shetland Mainland and takes around 2.5 hours. Due to its remote location, journeys are subject to weather and sea conditions, so it's always best to plan ahead and allow flexibility.

Below you'll find 7 things to do see and do during your visit to Fair Isle.

1. Birdwatching

Fair Isle is a world-famous destination for birdwatchers. Its location makes it a crucial stopover point for migrating birds, and its varied habitats support both common and rare species.

Why is Fair Isle such an amazing place for birdwatching?

The island lies directly on key migratory paths between Europe and North America, making it a hotspot for vagrants and rarities. Over 350 species have been recorded here — from puffins and guillemots to red-backed shrikes and rare warblers. The island's scale allows for immersive, close-up birding without crowds.

When should I visit?

Spring and autumn are peak times for migration, while summer is ideal for seabird colonies. Each season offers something unique, allowing your visit to be tailored to your interests.

Read more: Shetland's autumn bird migration

2. Walking

Fair Isle is made for walking. It may only be three miles long and 1.5 miles wide, but it boasts over 10 miles of coastline, offering dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and panoramic views.

Two recommended walks:

• North Lighthouse via Ward Hill: This walk takes in Fair Isle’s highest point, with spectacular views across the island and surrounding seas.

• The South Cliffs and Sheep Rock: A more rugged walk with incredible sea bird colonies and dramatic geology. Find out more about this walk here.

Walking responsibly

Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code: close gates behind you, avoid disturbing nesting birds and livestock, and always give wildlife plenty of space. The island's delicate environment depends on respectful visitors.

3. Visit the Museum

The Fair Isle museum is small but packed with local stories. You'll find exhibits on island life, fishing, knitting, archaeology, and wartime history — all carefully curated by the community.

The museum opens on request. To arrange a visit, get in touch with the Fair Isle community.

4. Read a Book

Fair Isle’s calm, wind-swept beauty makes it a perfect place to settle down with a good book. There’s no rush here — just space to reflect, recharge, and immerse yourself in words.

The island famously inspired crime writer Ann Cleeves, who set one of her Shetland novels on Fair Isle. It’s also the setting for The Fair Isle Nurse, a memoir about life and work in this remote community.

Read more about how Fair Isle inpired Ann Cleeves' bestselling novels.

5. Knitting Classes

Fair Isle knitting is famous worldwide for its intricate patterns and rich history and this is the place where it all began.

While there is no formal knitting school, several local knitters and craftspeople are happy to share their knowledge or show visitors their work. Many welcome pre-arranged visits, so it’s worth reaching out before you travel.

6. Visit the Lighthouses

Fair Isle is home to two historic lighthouses, standing at opposite ends of the island. Both were designed by the Stevenson family of lighthouse engineers and have been guiding ships through these waters since the 19th century.

North Lighthouse was built in 1892 and stands on the rugged cliffs at the northern tip of the island. It’s set against some of Fair Isle’s most dramatic landscapes, making it a rewarding destination for walkers and photographers alike.

South Lighthouse, completed in 1892, is equally striking. Located near the harbour at South Haven, it remains a key landmark and is closely connected to the island’s maritime history.

While the lighthouses themselves are not currently open to the public, they remain iconic features of the island and offer great viewpoints and photo opportunities along nearby walking routes.

7. Explore the Fair Isle Bird Observatory

Following a devastating fire in 2019, the Fair Isle Bird Observatory reopened in 2025, marking a significant milestone for the island and the broader birding community.

The Observatory offers full-board accommodation to a high standard in the north-east of the island. They offer a choice of single and twin en-suite rooms, with two disabled-access rooms located on the ground floor and one family room, many of which feature spectacular views.

Meals are provided on a set menu, where guests and staff eat together, providing a good opportunity to discuss the day or find out more about living and working on the isle.

Day visitors, and those staying elsewhere on the island, are welcome to make use of the Observatory facilities and participate in activities offered by the Observatory whilst they are on the island.

Shower and toilet facilities are available for non-residents to use.

Whether you're a birder, walker, or simply looking to unwind in one of the UK’s most unique communities, Fair Isle is a place that rewards those who take the time to discover it.

If you’d like help planning your journey to Fair Isle, or want to know more about what to do once you’re there, download our Fair Isle area guide, or pick up a physical leaflet from one of our visitor information points.