World War Heritage Sites

During both World Wars, Shetland's geographic location ensured the islands played an important role in the respective years of conflict.

World War One

In the years before the First World War, Shetland’s position on the edge of the North Sea made it clear that the islands would play an important role if conflict ever came. As Britain’s most northerly outpost, Shetland stood as the last stretch of land before the open ocean – a key location in any naval campaign or blockade of Germany.

Not only that, the islands' maritime history and expertise meant there were many young mariners with skills that became important as part of the war effort.

large quantities of men volunteered their services to the war effort as part of the Royal Naval Reserve. Equally, many Shetlanders were to serve on the land, as part of the island’s own Territorial Companies, as well as the wider British and Colonial armies.

World War Two

Shetland's crucial role in defending the 'Northern Front' during the Second World War, cannot be underestimated.

When German forces invaded Norway in April, Shetland's strategic importance came to the fore, as the islands participated in defensive and offensive operations, supported resistance movements, and helped gather intelligence through the network of radar stations located in the islands.

The Shetland Bus Operation, ferrying refugees and weapons across the North Sea between Shetland and Norway, is perhaps the islands' most famous contribution to the war. However, there is much more to discover, from air crash sites, RAF posts, Anti-aircraft batteries, and even the site where the first German bombs fell on British soil.