In a nutshell

An enjoyable walk through the characteristic narrow streets of the most populated town on the Shetland islands, an important administrative centre and a lively and welcoming port.

Main stops

Lerwick
Fort Charlotte
Victorian Town Hall
Shetland Museum
The Closses of Lerwick

The programme

We disembark in the town of Lerwick, the administrative centre of the Shetland Islands and the town with the highest population. Established in the 17th century, it grew and developed as a result of the fishing industry and its role as a port. Merchants built the Lodberries, houses and warehouses, each with its own jetty, where they could moor the incoming fishing boats directly on their property. The boats are still present in the port today.
The first building that greets us when facing the port is Fort Charlotte. Built in 1665 then rebuilt in 1780, it is named in honour of Queen Charlotte, the consort of George III. Now disused, it once served as a prison and a base for the Royal Navy. From the highest point of the fort we can enjoy a magnificent view of the port.
Continuing our walk we visit the Victorian Town Hall on Hillhead Street. Built in perfect Scottish baronial style, it offers a captivating vision of the development of the islands, with its stained glass windows providing a pictorial account of the main events in Shetland's history.
Our next stop is at the Shetland Museum - opened in 2007 on a dock by the sea - which offers a fascinating glimpse of life on the island through its history to the present day. Here we have some free time to look at the various exhibitions of local and maritime architecture, as well as the contemporary art exhibitions.
During our walk we will cross the typical narrow streets known as closses, which stretch from the port to the hill. They have witnessed many a clandestine scene, including the activities of local smugglers.

Good to know

Italian speaking guides are not available.