Explore Geopark Shetland

As you start exploring Geopark Shetland, there is no better place to begin your journey than the Shetland Museum and Archives.

The award-winning museum tells Shetland's story from its geological beginnings to the present day, with excellent exhibits covering many aspects of Shetland’s heritage and culture. This includes displays highlighting the important part geology played in this story – from Shetland's earliest rocks, half the age of the Earth itself, through to the arrival of the oil industry in the 20th century, and the emergence of a clean energy industry in the 21st century.

The Museum and Archives also introduces the network of heritage and cultural sites throughout the isles and can help you decide which sites to visit for your particular area of interest.

One you are ready to venture further afield and experience the islands' spectacular landscapes, wildlife, and heritage there are many walks and guides to help you discover the magnificence of Geopark Shetland.

Exhibits and Displays

Geopark Shetland is coordinated by the Shetland Amenity Trust, which works closely with local communities, educators, and specialists to help people better understand and enjoy Shetland’s exceptional geological story. One of the ways this is achieved is through a variety of interpretive installations across the islands, in museums, outdoors, and within the landscape itself, making Shetland’s ancient and complex geology accessible to all.

Museum Displays

Working with local museums, heritage centres, schools and community groups, Geopark Shetland has supported the creation of displays that explore the unique geology of different parts of the islands. These exhibits explain how Shetland’s rocks were formed and highlight their significance to the local landscape, culture, and industries – from ancient lava flows to building stones and mineral wealth. They can be found in locations across the islands, offering tailored insights into each area’s geological story.

Geowalls

Crafted by local stonemasons in collaboration with geologists, Geowalls are stone installations that provide physical cross-sections of Shetland’s geology. These striking structures are built from locally sourced stone, arranged to reflect the layers and rock types found in the landscape. Each wall is accompanied by interpretive signage to help visitors visualise the formation and movement of Shetland’s tectonic past – from ocean floors to mountain-building collisions.

Geoart Exhibits and Panels

Geoart brings Shetland’s geological heritage to life through creative interpretation. Artists and designers have worked with geologists to produce sculptures, murals, and installations inspired by the islands' rocks, landforms, and deep-time stories.

Information panels sit at key geological sites across Shetland, helping visitors connect what they see in the landscape to the processes that shaped it – from glacial erosion to volcanic activity.

Geopark Shetland offers a variety of self-guided trails that help visitors explore the islands’ fascinating geological heritage at their own pace. These trails link key sites across Shetland, from dramatic coastal cliffs to ancient landscapes shaped by fire and ice. Each route includes interpretation panels or downloadable guides that explain the rocks, landforms, and processes visible along the way. Whether you're an experienced geologist or simply curious about the landscape beneath your feet, the trails offer an accessible way to discover Shetland’s deep-time story.

Explore all available routes and downloadable guides via the trails page.

Code of Conduct

When exploring Geopark Shetland, it is important to remember that the islands' environment is special and must be protected. Much of the countryside is used as agricultural land, with livestock grazing and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Learn about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

With so much to explore in Geopark Shetland, you can download some of the Shetland Heritage leaflets. Each is full of interesting information and will help you understand the islands' geology.

Discover all of Shetland's Georpark leaflets here.