Shetland in Winter: The Best of Winter Holidays UK
As winter paints most of the world in frosty hues, venture into the magical embrace of the Shetland Islands. Perched at the northernmost point of Scotland, Shetland offers a unique winter experience, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an enchanting escape during the colder months.
Let's discover what makes the Shetland Islands a quintessential choice for winter holidays in the UK, exploring their remarkable charm as a perfect illustration of Scotland in winter.
Shetland Islands in Winter
The crisp winter air brings tranquillity to the Shetlands, making it an ideal time for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Thanks to the Gulf Stream warming the sea around the isles, winters in Shetland are milder than you might expect for its northern location. December temperatures rarely fall below freezing, averaging around 2°C. This is quite mild compared to other regions at similar latitudes, like parts of Canada or Russia, making Shetland's winter temperatures surprisingly gentle.
Winter in Shetland reveals a landscape where snow is a fleeting visitor, often appearing in January and February but seldom lingering. Instead, the islands are more renowned for their brisk winds. With an average speed likened to a fresh breeze, these winds characterise the Shetland winter, adding a dynamic energy to the serene winter wonderland.
The unpredictability of Shetland's winter weather means a peaceful, sunny day can quickly change into a windy one. That’s why, when planning a winter trip to the Shetland Islands, it's wise to have a variety of activities in mind in case the weather shifts unexpectedly.
Winter Activities in Shetland
Despite the chillier weather, the Shetland Islands are brimming with activities to keep visitors busy and amused throughout during the winter season. Let's delve into some of the key experiences that make a winter holiday in Shetland so special.
Winter Wildlife Watching in Shetland
Winter in Shetland provides an unparalleled opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness the natural beauty of Scotland in winter. While summer is famous for a wide range of wildlife sightings in Shetland, winter also has its share of marine and avian life to observe.
Each season brings its unique bird species, and winter is no exception. The variety might be smaller, but the quality of bird watching rivals any other season. Winter birdwatching in Shetland often involves searching for rare gulls and visiting sheltered bays, voes, and sounds to spot wildfowl, grebes, and divers, especially when the winds are milder. The occasional appearance of nomadic Arctic birds, such as the Snowy Owl, adds an extra layer of excitement to birding in Shetland, often surpassing the experiences of spring and autumn migrations.
In recent years, whale watching in Shetland, particularly spotting orcas, has emerged as a favourite pastime, attracting more enthusiasts and larger audiences than twitchers have within the local birding community. While the peak season for spotting killer whales runs from April to July, the chance to see them exists throughout the year. For almost a decade, the chance to spot Humpback whales in Shetland has been year-round, with a particular increase during the winter, especially from October to December.
Winter is also an ideal time to spot other wildlife in Shetland, such as the charming sea otter and the famous Shetland pony. For those eager to delve into Shetland's wildlife, check out our dedicated blog about Shetland wildlife and nature.
Northern Lights in Shetland
Situated in the northernmost part of the UK, the Shetland Islands offer one of the best spots to see the Northern Lights. The clear skies of winter serve as a perfect backdrop for the Aurora Borealis, locally referred to as the Mirrie Dancers.
This dazzling display creates a magical atmosphere, turning the Shetland Islands into a lively stage for this celestial phenomenon during the winter. Witnessing the Northern Lights here is a must-see for anyone on a Scotland winter holiday.
Shetland Culture
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting museums and participating in winter festivals in Shetland.
Up Helly Aa, a highlight of Shetland's cultural calendar, is a spectacular fire festival that captivates both residents and tourists. Celebrated on the last Tuesday of January, this festival honours the deep Norse roots of Shetland's history. It showcases the local community's strong ties to their Viking heritage. The festival's climax is a dramatic Viking procession, known as the ‘Guizer Jarl's Squad’, culminating in a thrilling moment where torches are cast onto a Viking longship replica amidst roaring cheers, creating a stunning visual spectacle.
Shetland is home to several museums and visitor centres, such as the Shetland Museum & Archives and the Scalloway Museum. These venues offer an enriching experience and a wealth of information about the islands, also serving as perfect indoor alternatives when Shetland's unpredictable weather takes a turn.
Why Choose Shetland for Your Winter Holiday
A Peaceful Retreat
Seeking a quiet and peaceful winter retreat? Shetland provides the perfect escape, with its serene surroundings and friendly locals creating a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking relaxation.
The tranquil ambiance of Shetland during the winter months makes it an idyllic retreat for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate amid the stunning landscapes of Scotland in winter.
Not sure where to stay? Explore our detailed blog for the best places to stay in Shetland, tailored to your specific holiday preferences here.
Outdoor Adventures in Shetland
Winter in Shetland doesn't mean hibernating indoors. From coastal walks to wildlife watching, the islands offer a range of outdoor activities for those who crave adventure.
The diverse landscape of Shetland provides a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with winter presenting unique opportunities to explore the islands' natural beauty in a different light.
A Photographer's Paradise
The winter landscape of the Shetland Islands presents a photographer's dream. Capture some of the best views in Shetland, from the stark beauty of frost-covered cliffs, rugged coastlines, and charming villages, creating memories that last a lifetime. Shetland's winter scenery is a visual feast for photographers, offering an abundance of opportunities to capture the ethereal beauty of Scotland in winter.
Shetland's winter is a one-of-a-kind experience, distinct from any other. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, winter wildlife, and cultural festivities make it a unique and unforgettable winter destination.
Shetland stands out as an exceptional choice for a winter holiday in the UK, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that sets it apart from other destinations.
How do you get to the Shetland Islands?
The most common ways to travel to the islands are either arriving by ferry or by getting flights to Shetland. At Airtask, we offer Shetland inter-island flights, operating passenger services between Lerwick, departing from Tingwall Airport, to both Foula and Fair Isle. For more information and flight scheduling, please click here.
Looking for something adventurous?
Whilst you enjoy Shetland’s winter wonderland, why not view all of the magnificent sights of the Shetland Islands from above? Among the most awe-inspiring things to do in Shetland, is to take in the magnificent lochs, stunning beaches, historical sites and more from an aerial perspective. Call 01595 840246 or email lwk.ops@airtask.com to secure your place on the only scenic flights available in Shetland.