Orkney and Shetland have their own identity, Orkney being very green and fertile while Shetland has a more rugged cliff and sea loch scenery. Both however share a colourful history of Picts, Norsemen, ancient antiquities and buried treasure.
Both islands, but particularly Shetland, in summer has virtually no darkness and the beauty of this ‘Simmer Dim’, as it is called locally, has to be seen to be realised.
We take a look at some of the attractions which can be enjoyed on these special islands.
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
A popular site to visit on Shetland is the Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof located in Sumburgh. With over 3 acres of remains, spanning 3000 years since the days of the Stone Age, including oval shaped bronze age houses, iron age broch and wheel houses, Viking long houses and medieval farmhouses. Visiting is a ‘must-do’ especially for those fascinated by history and archaeology.
Up Helly Aa
Every January see’s the winter festival of Up Helly Aa take place on Shetland. This winter festival is a colourful affair that dispels the gloom of winter.
Normally, a wander through the streets of Lerwick is a quiet, peaceful experience. However, take a walk there on the last Tuesday of January each year and it’s quite likely that you will bump into a squad of very large, bearded Vikings, resplendent in gleaming chain-mail and winged helmets.
Up Helly Aa which celebrates the lengthening of the days and the coming of another year, not to mention the chance of a good old knees-up.
Click here to check the Press and Journal coverage of the 2016 event.
Skara Brae
Skara Brae is one of Orkney’s most visited ancient sites and one of the most remarkable in all of the UK. The site consists of eight clustered houses which have survived several storms over the years, most notably in the winter of 1850. With its new visitors centre depicting the history of this world famous monument, Skara Brae ranks as a must do on any tour of Orkney.