Explore Shetland’s incredible treasure trove of history

With spectacular Iron Age brochs, Viking longhouses and tales of daring wartime missions to explore, Shetland is a treasure trove for anyone with a passion for history.

As part of our Find Your True North campaign, Promote Shetland invited YouTuber Bruce Fummey to delve into some of that fascinating heritage. It’s fair to say he loved every minute.

You can watch each of Bruce’s Shetland films here and learn more about the islands’ incredible past.

Bruce packed in thousands of years of history into his visit, investigating Pictish and Viking settlements, awe-inspiring Iron Age brochs, oppressive lairds, and the awesome bravery of the Second World War “Shetland Bus” campaign

His only regret is that he did not have more time to explore.

Watch the series of Shetland history films here to see exactly why Bruce Fummey was so excited to explore the islands.

Bruce also answered a few questions about why he loved exploring the islands and offers some tips about what to see (and where to order curry). As well as being blown away by the array of historical gems he loved spotting wildlife, watching puffins at Sumburgh Head and catching a glimpse of whales while on the ferry to Unst.

1. What is it about Shetland that meant you were so excited to visit and explore?

I had visited Shetland for Up Helly Aa before and gone down to Jarlshof. Whilst I was wowed by that site I knew I’d only scratched the surface of what Shetland had to offer. For a history enthusiast like me Shetland is a must see treasure trove.

2. You visited some fascinating sites during your visit to the islands, what was your favourite moment?

For both myself and my videographer the highlight was Mousa Broch. For him, sailing past it along the shoreline, for me being inside and looking up and around was just a wonderful experience that I’d looked forward to for years.

I’ll be honest, we both enjoyed the lunch we had in the Raba curry house in Lerwick. Which to choose, which to choose?

3. If you’d had more time in Shetland, what other sites would you have liked to visit?

I’d love to have spent more time exploring Old Scatness. I’d like to have got up to Fetlar to see the Neolithic drystane dykes there. We’d love to have explored the Hanseatic League connections and graves.

We didn’t have enough time to explore the museum in Lerwick as much as we’d like, or Scalloway at all. There’s much more to do on our next trip.

4. What tip would you give to anyone planning a trip to Shetland?

Allow more time than you think, and hire a local guide if you can.

Don't forget the puffins. Now that was a thrill as well. And the whales when we were heading up to Unst.

I’d always wanted to come back to Shetland, but my videographer Matt hadn’t really given the place much thought. Now he wants to come back with his wife. That probably tells you all you need to know.

5. How different did you find Shetland compared to other places in Scotland?

Every part of Scotland is unique, whether you’re thinking of Galloway, the Hebrides, North Perthshire, The West Highlands etc. Shetland has it’s own unique feel as well. I’ve never been anywhere with so few trees.

If you love history and exploring spectacular locations Shetland offers a unique opportunity, whatever the season. Find Your True North and decide which Shetland you’d like to explore.