Shetland City Guide

About Shetland – History and Culture

Shetland, an archipelago in the North Atlantic, lies about 170 kilometers north of mainland Scotland. Its history is deeply rooted in Norse settlement, with Viking rule lasting from the 9th century until 1469 when it was pledged to Scotland as part of a dowry. This legacy is evident in place names, dialect, and traditions like Up Helly Aa. The islands were a strategic outpost during both World Wars, and the Shetland Bus operation ferried arms and agents to Nazi-occupied Norway.

Modern Shetland thrives on a blend of ancient and contemporary. The culture remains fiercely independent, with a strong oral tradition of fiddle music, storytelling, and poetry. The Shetland dialect, a mix of Scots and Norn (an extinct Norse language), is still spoken. The islands are also famous for their wool and knitting patterns, particularly Fair Isle and lace shawls.

Today, Shetland is known for its dramatic natural beauty, prehistoric sites like Jarlshof, and a vibrant arts scene. The Shetland Museum in Lerwick tells the story of the islands, while local festivals celebrate everything from agriculture to Viking heritage. Despite its remote location, Shetland is a welcoming community with a unique identity that captivates visitors.

• Jarlshof prehistoric settlement
• St Ninian's Isle tombolo
• Shetland Museum and Archives
• Clickimin Broch
• Scalloway Castle
• Lerwick Town Hall
• The Old Haa in Burravoe
• Bonhoga Gallery
• Mousa Broch

Did You Know? – Facts about Shetland

Shetland is a place of superlatives. From its Viking past to its unique wildlife, the islands offer a wealth of fascinating facts. The archipelago is closer to Norway than to Edinburgh, and its long summer days make up for the dark winters. The people, known as Shetlanders, have a reputation for resilience and warmth.

The islands are also a haven for birdwatchers, with millions of seabirds nesting on cliffs. The Shetland pony, despite its small size, is incredibly strong and was once used in coal mines. The annual Up Helly Aa festival attracts thousands, culminating in the burning of a Viking longship. Shetland's isolation has preserved a distinct culture that continues to thrive.

• Shetland has more than 23,000 people and 500,000 sheep.
• The Shetland sheepdog is a separate breed from the Border Collie.
• Shetland cattle are one of the oldest breeds in the UK.
• The islands are a top location for fossil hunting.
• Shetland's road network is one of the least congested in the UK.
• The local beer, from Shetland Brewery, is award-winning.
• Shetland has its own dialect, with words like 'peedie' (small).
• The northern lights can often be seen in winter.
• Shetland has the UK's highest proportion of Gaelic speakers outside the Highlands.
• The Shetland bus service includes boats to the smaller islands.
• Seabird cities include Hermaness and Noss.
• The Shetland Islands are part of the North Sea oil industry.
• Lerwick has a replica Viking longship that sails in summer.
• Shetland has its own football association and competes in Island Games.

Geography and Climate of Shetland

The Shetland archipelago consists of over 100 islands, with Mainland being the largest. Lerwick, the capital, is on Mainland's east coast. The landscape is rugged with rolling hills, deep fjords, and sea cliffs. The highest point is Ronas Hill at 450 meters. The geology is ancient, with some of the oldest rocks in the UK, making it a UNESCO Geopark.

The climate is maritime temperate, influenced by the Gulf Stream. Winters are mild but stormy, with average temperatures around 5°C. Summers are cool, rarely exceeding 15°C. The 'simmer dim' in June provides lingering twilight, while winter days are short. Shetland is one of the windiest places in the UK, which can affect travel. The islands are divided into many parishes and communities, each with distinct character.

• Mainland is the central island; Lerwick is the main town.
• Yell, Unst, and Fetlar are the main north islands.
• Whalsay and Bressay are east of Mainland.
• The western islands include Foula and Papa Stour.
• Cliffs at Hermaness (Unst) are over 200m high.
• The Shetland Fjords are called 'voes' in the local dialect.
• Average annual sunshine is low, around 1,100 hours.
• Snowfall is limited due to maritime influence.

Things to Do in Shetland

Shetland offers a vast array of experiences, from historical sites to outdoor adventures. The islands are a paradise for nature lovers, with seabird colonies, seal colonies, and opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and diving. Lerwick provides urban amenities including shops, restaurants, and museums.

Food & Dining

Shetland's culinary scene is rooted in local produce. Seafood is king: mussels, scallops, crab, and salmon are abundant. Traditional dishes include 'reestit mutton' (salted lamb), 'bannock' (oat flatbread), and 'soup with bere meal'. The islands also produce cheese, beer, and gin. Restaurants in Lerwick range from fine dining at The Dowry to casual fish and chips at the Pierhead.

The annual Shetland Food Festival showcases local chefs. Foragers can gourmet on sea vegetables and wild berries. The Shetland lamb, grazing on the heather, has a distinctive flavor. Many pubs serve local ales and whiskies. Don't miss a traditional 'tattie scone' with breakfast.

• Fresh Shetland salmon and trout
• Shetland mussels and scallops
• Reestit mutton
• Shetland cheese from the local dairy
• Bere meal bannocks
• Shetland gin (e.g., Shetland Reel)
• Local craft beers from Lerwick Brewery
• Seafood chowder
• Fulmar egg (traditional but rare)
• Lerwick's Market Day fish stall
• Shetland lamb with herb crust
• Bakehouse cakes and pastries
• Shetland oatcakes

Festivals & Events

Shetland's calendar is packed with festivals. Up Helly Aa in January is the highlight, with a torchlit procession and burning of a galley. The Shetland Folk Festival in May brings international musicians. Shetland Wool Week in autumn attracts knitters from the world. The Shetland Film Festival and Wordplay literary festival also draw visitors.

Smaller island events include the Yell Day and Unst's Viking Fire Festival. The Summer Capers in August include agricultural shows. The Fetlar Sheepdog Trials are a charming spectacle. Christmas and New Year are celebrated with warmth, including the Lerwick Ba' game a traditional street football match.

• Up Helly Aa (last Tuesday in January)
• Shetland Folk Festival (May)
• Shetland Wool Week (September)
• Shetland Food Festival (October)
• Shetland Film Festival (March)
• Lerwick Gala Week (July)
• Yell and Unst Agricultural Shows (August)
• Fetlar Sheepdog Trials (July)
• Shetland Nature Festival (May)
• Northmavine Up Helly Aa (alternative smaller festival)
• Lerwick Ba' game (Christmas and New Year)
• Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Festival (October)

Cultural Attractions

Shetland's heritage is preserved in museums and archaeological sites. The Shetland Museum in Lerwick is a must-visit, covering natural and social history. Jarlshof near Sumburgh is a prehistoric and Viking settlement. Brochs, such as Mousa Broch, are unique Iron Age towers. The Old Scatness Broch is a reconstructed site with live history.

Art galleries like Bonhoga in Weisdale exhibit local artists. The Shetland Textile Museum showcases the islands' knitting heritage. Lerwick's Town Hall features stained glass windows of shetland scenes. St Magnus Church in Lerwick is a modern cathedral. The Shetland Archives hold genealogical records for family research.

• Shetland Museum and Archives
• Jarlshof prehistoric settlement
• Mousa Broch (Iron Age tower)
• Clickimin Broch in Lerwick
• Scalloway Castle (17th century)
• Old Scatness Broch
• Bonhoga Gallery
• Shetland Textile Museum
• Lerwick Town Hall
• St Magnus Church

Outdoor Activities

Shetland is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails range from coastal walks to hill climbs. The Shetland Way is a long-distance route. Birdwatching is superb at Hermaness, Noss, and Sumburgh Head. Kayaking around the voes and sea caves is popular. Diving offers wrecks and marine life. Fishing for trout and sea fish is excellent.

Cycling on quiet roads is safe; bike hire is available in Lerwick. Golf at the Shetland Golf Club in Lerwick is challenging. Wildlife tours for otters, seals, and whales are offered. For adrenaline, try coasteering or rock climbing. The Shetland Islands offer endless opportunities for adventure.

• Hiking at Hermaness Nature Reserve (Unst)
• Birdwatching at Noss National Nature Reserve
• Sea kayaking around the voes
• Cycling the Shetland coastal routes
• Golf at Shetland Golf Club
• Fishing charters for sea trout
• Wildlife boat tours to see puffins and orcas
• Diving at the German WWI wrecks
• Coasteering at Eshaness
• Bouldering at the Kame
• Sailing in Lerwick Harbour
• Running the Shetland Marathon
• Horse riding on Shetland ponies

Economy and Key Industries

Shetland's economy is diverse, blending traditional industries with modern sectors. Fishing and aquaculture are central, with one of the largest whitefish fleets in the UK. Salmon farming is a major employer. The oil and gas industry has provided substantial income since the 1970s, with the Sullom Voe terminal processing North Sea oil. Tourism is growing rapidly, with visitors drawn to the islands' unique culture and nature.

Agriculture, especially sheep farming, remains important. Shetland wool is prized for its softness and used in knitting and tweed. The creative industries, including music, film, and crafts, contribute to the economy. Renewable energy, particularly wind and tidal, is being developed. Small-scale manufacturing includes food processing, furniture, and engineering.

The Shetland Islands Council is a major employer. The public sector provides many jobs in health, education, and administration. The islands have a low unemployment rate compared to mainland Scotland. However, the cost of living is higher due to remoteness, and wages may be lower in some sectors. The economy is resilient, with a strong sense of community support.

• Fishing – whitefish, shellfish, salmon
• Oil and gas – Sullom Voe terminal
• Tourism – accommodation, tours, events
• Agriculture – sheep, cattle, crops
• Textiles – Fair Isle and lace knitwear
• Renewable energy – wind and tidal prototypes
• Creative industries – music, film, crafts
• Food processing – seafood, cheese, beer
• Engineering – marine and offshore
• Public sector – council, NHS, education
• Construction – housing and infrastructure
• Retail – local shops and online

Where to Live in Shetland

Lerwick is the largest settlement and hub for services, with shops, schools, a hospital, and ferry links. Housing varies from modern flats to traditional stone houses. The town has a lively atmosphere with pubs and restaurants. Surrounding areas like Gulberwick offer quieter living with sea views. Scalloway, the historic capital, has a castle and university campus. It is a fishing village with a strong community.

For those seeking rural life, the north islands of Unst and Yell offer stunning landscapes and isolation. Unst is the most northerly inhabited island in the UK, with its own airport. Yell is larger with more amenities. The west side of Mainland, including Walls and Sandness, is rugged and sparse but offers solitude. The isles of Whalsay and Bressay are accessible by ferry and have close-knit communities.

Housing prices are relatively reasonable compared to mainland Scotland, but availability can be low. Many properties are croft houses or modern bungalows. Renting is common among key workers. Lifestyle considerations include travel times to Lerwick, internet connectivity, and access to services. Shetland offers a safe, friendly environment with a strong sense of place.

• Lerwick – urban center, amenities, ferry to Orkney
• Scalloway – historic, university, fishing
• Unst – northernmost, dramatic scenery, quiet
• Yell – central north, ferry hub, affordable
• Whalsay – island community, fishing economy
• Bressay – close to Lerwick, rural living
• Walls and Sandness – remote west, crofting
• Fetlar – small population, nature focus
• Foula – remote, traditional lifestyle

Formalities and Visas in Shetland

Shetland is part of the United Kingdom, so immigration rules follow UK regulations. Visitors from non-EEA countries may need a Standard Visitor visa for tourism, business, or study up to 6 months. Citizens of many countries can visit visa-free for short stays. EU citizens can enter with a valid passport; after Brexit, they may stay up to 6 months without a visa for tourism.

Those planning to work or study need appropriate visas: Skilled Worker visa, Health and Care Worker visa, Student visa, etc. Shetland offers a range of jobs in sectors like healthcare, education, and oil/gas. Employers can sponsor visas. The Shetland Islands Council is a licensed sponsor.

Long-term residents need to register with local authorities. The process includes applying for a Biometric Residence Permit, National Insurance number, and registering with a GP. The islands have a welcoming attitude toward new residents. There are support groups for international newcomers. For Brexit-related rights, EU citizens must apply for the EU Settlement Scheme.

• Visitor visa: up to 6 months for tourism
• Student visa: for courses at Shetland College UHI
• Skilled Worker visa: for jobs in shortage occupations
• Health and Care Worker visa: for NHS and social care
• Youth Mobility Scheme: for young people from certain countries
• Family visa: for joining family members
• EU Settlement Scheme: for EU citizens residing before 2021
• Biometric Residence Permit: required for visa holders
• National Insurance number: needed for work
• GP registration: essential for health access
• Driving license: exchange or apply for UK license
• Temporary resident permit: for extended stays
• Sponsorship license: employers must have to hire from abroad

Working in Shetland

The job market in Shetland is robust in key sectors. Healthcare (NHS Shetland) consistently recruits doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals. The oil and gas industry at Sullom Voe offers engineering, maintenance, and operational roles. Aquaculture and fishing provide jobs in processing and management. Tourism creates seasonal positions in hospitality and guiding. Education offers positions at Shetland College and local schools.

Professional services such as accounting, law, and IT are available but less abundant. Remote work is increasingly feasible due to improved internet, though some areas have slow connections. Many jobs are advertised locally through the Shetland Islands Council website and local newspapers. Networking is important, as community connections can lead to opportunities.

The working culture is friendly and informal, with a focus on work-life balance. Standard hours are 37.5 per week. Many employers offer flexible working. The minimum wage follows UK rates. Professional development is supported through training. For self-employed individuals, the islands have a supportive small business environment.

• Healthcare: NHS Shetland, GP practices
• Oil and gas: Sullom Voe terminal, contractors
• Aquaculture: salmon farms, processing plants
• Fishing: fleet, processing
• Tourism: hotels, B&Bs, tour operators
• Education: Shetland College UHI, schools
• Construction: housing, infrastructure projects
• Retail: supermarkets, shops
• Public sector: council, police, fire service
• Renewable energy: emerging projects
• Creative industries: arts, media
• Agriculture: crofting, support services

Studying in Shetland

Shetland offers unique educational opportunities. Shetland College UHI (University of the Highlands and Islands) provides further and higher education courses, including degrees in marine science, archaeology, and creative arts. The campus in Lerwick has modern facilities. Students benefit from small class sizes and direct access to natural laboratories.

Primary and secondary education is provided by local schools. Anderson High School in Lerwick is the main secondary, offering SQA qualifications. There are also primary schools in rural areas. For young children, nurseries and childminders are available. Home-schooling is an option with support from the council.

Students from outside Shetland can apply to college and university courses. Accommodation options include private rentals and halls of residence. The local community is welcoming. Shetland's unique environment offers field research opportunities in geology, biology, and history. Extracurricular activities include traditional music, sailing, and sports. Island life can be isolating for some, but the support network is strong.

• Shetland College UHI – degrees and HNCs
• Anderson High School – S1 to S6
• Primary schools throughout the islands
• Shetland School of Music – tuition in fiddle, piano
• Adult learning classes – languages, crafts
• Distance learning via UHI and Open University
• Marine science field courses
• Archaeology field schools at Jarlshof
• Student financial support – SAAS
• Childcare options – funded places for 3-5 year olds
• University halls in Lerwick
• Student union and societies
• Work placements with local businesses
• Shetland Amenity Trust – scholarships for heritage studies
• Erasmus+ programs (limited)

Finance and Banks in Shetland

Banking services in Shetland are provided by major UK banks. Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has a branch in Lerwick. Bank of Scotland also operates in the town. There are few ATMs, especially outside Lerwick, so carrying cash is advisable in remote areas. Online banking is widely used. Some community banks like the Shetland Islands Council offer credit union services.

Digital payment methods like contactless cards and mobile payments are accepted in most shops. However, some small businesses and rural locations may be cash-only. It's advisable to have a mobile banking app. Opening a bank account requires proof of identity, address, and visa (if applicable). Some banks may require a Uk address, which can be obtained via a rental agreement or employer confirmation.

Shetland is part of the UK tax system. Income tax is managed by HMRC. National Insurance contributions are required for workers. VAT is standard at 20%. For self-employed individuals, accounting services are available. Some businesses offer financial planning advice. The cost of banking may include fees for international transfers.

• RBS in Lerwick (full service)
• Bank of Scotland in Lerwick
• TSB (post office counter services)
• Credit Union Shetland (savings and loans)
• ATMs limited to Lerwick and larger villages
• Contactless payments widespread
• Online banking essential for rural customers
• Tax registration with HMRC
• National Insurance number application
• Mortgage availability for residents

Health Care in Shetland

Healthcare is provided by NHS Shetland, part of the UK National Health Service. The Gilbert Bain Hospital in Lerwick is the main hospital, with a range of services including emergency care, maternity, and surgery. There are community hospitals in Unst and Yell, and health centres in Scalloway, Brae, and other areas. GP practices are available in most communities.

Access to specialist care may require travel to Aberdeen or Edinburgh. NHS patients can be referred for treatment on the mainland. Emergency services include air ambulance via helicopter or plane. Dental services are available but may have waiting lists. Prescriptions are free in Scotland, as are GP visits. Private healthcare options are limited; most care is through NHS.

Health insurance is recommended for visitors. For residents, registering with a GP is straightforward. Shetland has a high standard of public health, with clean air and low pollution. However, mental health services can be stretched. There are community support groups. Pharmacies provide advice and over-the-counter medications.

• Gilbert Bain Hospital (Lerwick) – A&E, inpatient care
• Unst Hospital (Baltasound) – minor injuries, GP-led
• Yell Community Hospital (Mid Yell) – similar
• GP surgeries: Lerwick Health Centre, Scalloway, Brae, etc.
• Dental practices in Lerwick and rural areas
• Opticians in Lerwick
• Mental health services: NHS Shetland and CMHT
• Air ambulance to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary
• Health visitors and community nurses
• Sexual health services at the Gilbert Bain
• Vaccination clinics for travel and childhood
• Physiotherapy and podiatry

Accommodation in Shetland

Accommodation options in Shetland include short-term and long-term stays. For visitors, hotels in Lerwick like the Shetland Hotel, Lerwick Hotel, and the Grand Hotel offer comfortable rooms. Bed and breakfasts are plentiful throughout the islands, often providing home-cooked meals. Self-catering cottages in rural areas are ideal for families and groups. Hostels and campsites are available for budget travelers.

For long-term renters, the market can be competitive. Properties range from modern apartments in Lerwick to croft houses in the countryside. Rental prices are moderate compared to mainland cities but can be high due to limited supply. Utilities (heating, electricity) are costly as many homes use oil or electric heating. Purchasing a home is also possible; estate agents include Shetland Properties and other local firms. First-time buyers may find schemes helpful.

Some employer-provided housing exists for key workers, e.g., nurses and teachers. Social housing is managed by the Shetland Islands Council and housing associations. It's advisable to arrange accommodation before moving, especially in summer. Short-term lets are widely available via Airbnb and local agencies.

• Hotels: Shetland Hotel, Lerwick Hotel, Grand Hotel (Lerwick)
• B&Bs: many throughout the islands, e.g., Burrastow House
• Self-catering: cottages on Scalloway, Yell, Unst
• Hostels: Lerwick Youth Hostel, Islesburgh Hostel
• Campsites: Clickimin (Lerwick), various rural spots
• Rentals: one-bedroom flat in Lerwick: £500-700/month
• Houses for rent: 3-bed in Lerwick: £800-1200/month
• Buying: 3-bed house in Lerwick: £150,000-250,000
• Croft housing: cheaper but need renovation
• Key worker accommodation available
• Property websites: Shetland Properties, ASPC

Planning Your Move to Shetland

Relocating to Shetland requires careful planning. Start by researching visa requirements if you are not a UK citizen. Arrange employment or study before arriving. Contact local estate agents for housing. You will need a bank account, National Insurance number, and to register with a GP. Shipping belongings can be done via ferry freight from Aberdeen or Scrabster. The cost of moving can be high, especially for vehicles.

Pets require microchipping, vaccinations, and possibly a pet passport. Bring warm clothing and rain gear due to the island climate. Internet connectivity should be checked; some rural areas have slow speeds. It's wise to visit first if possible, to get a feel for the environment. Community groups like 'New Shetlanders' can offer advice and support.

Utilities need to be set up (electricity, water, heating). Water is generally clean from reservoirs but some rural properties have private supplies. Waste collection is managed by the council. Education for children should be arranged through the school catchment area. Healthcare registration is essential. Shetland's community is welcoming, but newcomers may experience isolation initially. Joining clubs and events helps integration.

• Check visa status and apply if needed
• Secure job/study offer
• Find housing (rent or buy)
• Open UK bank account
• Apply for National Insurance number
• Register with a GP
• Set up utilities (electricity, water, internet)
• Arrange pet travel (microchip, passport)
• Ship belongings (use Shetland freight services)
• Bring warm and waterproof clothing
• Arrange school enrollment for children
• Register for council tax
• Get UK driving license (exchange if applicable)
• Join community groups (e.g., New Shetlanders Facebook group)
• Plan for transport (car advisable)

Leisure in Shetland

Leisure activities in Shetland are centered around its nature and community. Nightlife is low-key with pubs in Lerwick like the Lounge Bar and the Thule. There is a cinema, the Mareel, which also hosts live concerts and events. Shopping includes local craft shops, the Shetland Times bookstore, and supermarkets. The Shetland Museum has a cafe and shop. Traditional music sessions are held in pubs, especially during festivals.

Outdoor leisure dominates: walking, cycling, fishing, and birdwatching. Sports clubs exist for football, rugby, golf, sailing, and athletics. The Shetland Recreation Centre in Lerwick has a gym, pool, and sports hall. For those interested in arts, the Shetland Arts Agency runs workshops and galleries. The islands have a rich tradition of storytelling and singing.

• Mareel cinema and arts centre (Lerwick)
• Pubs: Lounge Bar, Thule, The Grand bar
• Live music sessions at local pubs
• Shetland Museum café and shop
• Lerwick Golf Club
• Shetland Recreation Centre (gym, pool)
• Sports clubs: football, rugby, sailing
• Fishing charters and angling groups
• Walking groups: Shetland Ramblers
• Art classes at Bonhoga Gallery
• Traditional music classes
• Bookshops: Shetland Times, Recess Books

Transportation Options in Shetland

Getting to Shetland is by air or sea. Sumburgh Airport (LSI) has regular flights from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Aberdeen, and Orkney. Loganair operates the service. Ferries from Aberdeen (NorthLink) take about 12 hours to Lerwick, with overnight cabins. Services also run from Kirkwall in Orkney. Within Shetland, inter-island ferries and a small airport on Unst (Baltasound) connect the islands. The council runs a bus network between main towns.

Roads are generally good but narrow, with single-track roads in rural areas. A car is almost essential for exploring. Car rental is available in Lerwick and at the airport. Cycling is popular but challenging due to wind. Taxis are available. The Shetland Islands Council provides school and public bus services. For those without a car, walking is viable in Lerwick but limited elsewhere.

• Sumburgh Airport: flights to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness
• NorthLink Ferries from Aberdeen (12 hrs) and Kirkwall (2 hrs)
• Inter-island ferries: regular service to Yell, Unst, Whalsay, etc.
• Baltasound Airport (Unst): flights to Lerwick (via Loganair) – limited
• Bus network: Lerwick to Scalloway, Lerwick to Sumburgh, etc.
• Car rental: at airport and Lerwick (Avis, Hertz, local firms)
• Taxis: local services available
• Walking: footpaths in Lerwick and countryside
• Cycling: bike hire at Clickimin Centre
• Hitchhiking: common and safe in rural areas
• Disabled transport: Dial-a-Bus service

Everyday Life in Shetland

Daily life in Shetland is calm and safe. Crime rates are low, and people often leave doors unlocked. The community is close-knit; strangers greet each other. Shopping is mainly done in Lerwick, but village shops in Scalloway, Brae, and others stock essentials. Supermarkets include Tesco and Co-op in Lerwick. Post offices are widespread. Internet speeds vary but are improving; fiber broadband is available in many areas.

Weather impacts daily plans: storms can disrupt travel, and the darkness in winter requires adjustment. Midsummer celebrations are joyful with long daylight. Education and healthcare are reliable. Recycling is mandatory. Council services are efficient. There is a strong voluntary sector. Shetland's isolation can feel constrictive but also offers a unique quality of life.

• Safety: low crime, friendly police presence
• Community: events, notices, volunteering
• Supermarkets: Tesco, Co-op (Lerwick), Spar in villages
• Local produce: farmers markets, fish shops
• Internet: fiber in town, ADSL or satellite in rural
• Mobile coverage: good in Lerwick, patchy elsewhere
• Post offices: daily collection
• Weather: check forecasts, prepare for wind
• Winter: short days, but festive spirit
• Summer: 'simmer dim' with extended light

Cost of Living in Shetland

The cost of living in Shetland is higher than the UK average, mainly due to transport costs for goods. Housing is relatively affordable compared to southern UK but increasing. Utilities are expensive due to oil heating and electricity rates. Food prices are higher, especially fresh produce. Eating out is moderately priced. Fuel