Wilderness Family: returning to Shetland

There are so many reasons I fell in love with Shetland. Firstly, it was such a memorable part of my walk around the UK, especially given I was here walking and wild camping through the winter.

It was hard work, but experiencing Shetland this way gave me a real feel for what life must have been like for people here before central heating and warm showers; I felt a real connection to the way people must have felt here in the past, harnessing the weather and landscape around them to survive in the sometimes harsh conditions.

Something about that and all the historical relics I came across whilst walking really captivated my imagination as I circumnavigated these beautiful islands. Walking here through winter, I also fell in love with the dramatic weather here, which enabled me to see some of the best skies I've ever encountered in my life.

Then, of course, there was the experience of spending the first lockdown on the uninhabited island of Hildasay, just me and my dog, Jet. I'd never felt more at peace or more free surrounded by nothing but nature. It was a very special time in my life, so much so that I titled both books about my journey after the island.

The people, history, geology and dialect all added to the warmth I felt here. Help was never too far away if I needed it, and the people of Shetland made sure I knew that. Ever since I left, I've felt drawn back, and it is so wonderful to explore it again, five years on, with my fiancée, Kate, and our son, Magnus.

I've been so excited to revisit camp spots and favourite places as well as reconnect with people I'd met on my first visit.

Coming back just confirms that Shetland will always be a place I shall hold close to my heart, a place I shall think of and forever raise a smile. As an outsider, I feel at home here.

Plan your Shetland adventure.