Lerwick Walking Tour Highlights
Explore the Old Town
We meet at Victoria Pier in the heart of Lerwick, opposite the Market Cross. A leisurely stroll takes us into the heart of the Old Town, where we see the old Tolbooth, which now houses the RNLI Lifeboat station, and the Lodberries, picturesque buildings on the seafront which were used for the landing and storage of goods. One of the Lodberries is one of the most photographed houses in Lerwick thanks to featuring in BBC’s Shetland TV series as the home of Jimmy Perez, based on the books by Anne Cleeves.
Look up and down the Lanes
We then wander uphill and past various churches to the steep and intricate web of narrow lanes that take you from the waterfront up to Lerwick’s Hillhead. The Lerwick Lanes were built between the 1640s and 1840s, housing rich and poor residents of the town. They give a fascinating glimpse into what life must have been like centuries ago.
Step inside the Town Hall
We then reach Lerwick’s Town Hall, an iconic building built in 1883 with beautiful views across Shetland. On the first floor you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows, which depict various events in the islands’ history. Opposite the Town Hall is the County Buildings, including the police station, which also feature in BBC’s Shetland series.
Take in the views at Fort Charlotte
Next to the Town Hall is Lerwick’s Garrison Theatre, which then leads you to Fort Charlotte. This 18th century fort was named after Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, and offers panoramic views across Lerwick Harbour towards the island of Bressay.
Please note: Walking tour groups will be kept to a maximum of 8 people. If you would prefer a private tour, please contact us to discuss.
Our tours will begin in Lerwick at 9am unless otherwise agreed. We will collect you from your accommodation or meet you at the Diana Fountain on Victoria Pier. If you are staying out with Lerwick, please let us know and we can make alternative arrangements for collecting you for the tour.
Useful information you need to know ahead of your tour and visit to Shetland:
Group Size
Our small group tours are for groups of up to 4 people. If your group is more than 4 people, please get in touch for further options. We can easily accommodate larger groups subject to vehicle availability.
Vehicle
Vehicles used will be a Kia Sportage. If your group is larger than 4 people, it is possible to hire a larger vehicle to accommodate your group. It is also possible to hire a vehicle suitable for wheelchair access.
Accessibility
If you require wheelchair access, please contact us to discuss your requirements. Some elements of the tours are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Some walking will be required on all tours, but this can be kept to a minimum if necessary.
Weather
The only thing predictable about Shetland weather is that it is unpredictable! Please dress for the outdoors and wear suitable footwear.
Occasionally, it is not always possible to do the tour as described due to the weather. We will contact you in advance should there be any issues.
Exclusive Tours
All tours will be private unless otherwise specified in the tour description. We will not sell tickets to other people as there is no way to socially distance at this time. This also gives us more options if you wish to make the tour longer and tailored to suit your needs.
Inclusions
All entrance fees are included in the price, however, food/drink is an additional cost. If you would like to extend the length of the tour and include refreshments/lunch, please do not hesitate to ask.
Cancellation Policy
If cancellations are made within 24 hours of the tour beginning, the full amount of the tour will be charged.
If you cancel more than 24 hours before the start of the tour, your payment will be refunded minus £25 per transaction to cover commission and admin fees.
Cruise ship passengers:
Please note if your ship fails to call to Lerwick due to bad weather or itinerary changes, this will be treated as a late cancellation and the full cost of your tour will be charged.
Currently, there is no requirement to wear a face covering. If you wish to wear one and also wish for myself to wear one, please just ask.
Island Vista will ensure that:
- Hand sanitiser is available throughout the tour.
- The vehicle is thoroughly cleaned before and after the tour.
- Windows will be open where possible to ensure ventilation.
- Hand wipes and gloves are available if required.
