You can listen to Kathi's podcast on Shetland in June here:
In June, travel blogger and podcast host Kathi Kamleitner made her way to Shetland in hopes of experiencing the Simmer Dim, a truly Shetland experience. In mid-June, Shetlanders experience up to 19 hours of daylight a day, about two more hours of daylight than London.
To make the most of a summer trip to Shetland, here are Kathi’s top travel tips, drawn from personal experience and a deep appreciation of what the islands have to offer:
1. Take your time
Shetland isn’t a place to rush. With more than 100 islands, dramatic coastlines, and remote beauty spots, there’s much to discover but the weather plays a big part. Boat trips, for example, are often cancelled due to wind, so flexibility is key. Give yourself several days to allow for changes in your plans and to really experience what Shetland has to offer.
2. Plan a boat trip to Noss
While boat trips are weather-dependent, they’re often a highlight of any visit. I joined a trip to Noss, home to thousands of seabirds including gannets and great skuas (bonxies). It’s one of the most impressive places for birdwatching in the UK, especially in summer. Tours are led by experienced local operators who share their knowledge and passion for Shetland’s wildlife.
3. Explore the Shetland Museum in Lerwick
Whether you're escaping the rain or diving into Shetland’s past, Shetland Museum & Archives is a must-visit. It’s home to fascinating exhibitions covering everything from knitting traditions to the islands’ Norse heritage. A highlight is the replica of the silver hoard discovered on St Ninian’s Isle.
4. Visit Bressay and walk to Noss
Bressay is just a 7-minute ferry ride from Lerwick, and it offers peaceful landscapes and a gateway to Noss National Nature Reserve. From Bressay’s east coast, a small passenger ferry takes you across to Noss, where a waymarked trail leads to dramatic sea cliffs teeming with birdlife. The walk takes about 2.5 hours round trip and is a great experience if you're not keen on longer boat journeys.
5. Go hiking with a local guide
Walking is one of the best ways to explore Shetland, but local insight can make it unforgettable. Knowledgeable guides bring the landscape to life with stories, archaeology, and context; essential to understanding what makes Shetland so unique. It’s also a safe and rewarding way to experience more remote areas.
Bonus tips for a successful summer visit
Layer up – The weather can shift quickly, even in summer. Layers help you stay comfortable all day long.
- Book in advance – Ferries, accommodation and some tours book up quickly in peak season.
- Don’t miss Hermaness – On Unst, the walk to the cliffs at Hermaness is spectacular, with views over Muckle Flugga lighthouse.
- Taste local seafood – Whether from a takeaway or sit-down restaurant, Shetland seafood is fresh, local, and not to be missed.
- Enjoy the long days – Use the extended daylight to fit more into your day, whether it's wildlife spotting, hiking, or simply soaking up the views.
Summer in Shetland
There's lots to explore during the summer in Shetland, particularly as the days are so long and the evenings so short. Enjoy amazing coastal scenery and action-packed days out on the water with activities like kayaking and sea fishing.