Excursion Spirit of the north tour at Lerwick

Gain an insight into the history, culture, and traditions of Lerwick on this immersive walking tour through Shetland’s modern capital. Hear engaging stories of maritime trade, Norse heritage, fishing, and daily life as you journey through centuries of local history.

Lerwick’s Old Town

After a 15 min transfer to Victoria Pier, begin your walk in Lerwick’s Old Town, dating back to the late 18th century. Pass the Old Tolbooth, built in 1770, and continue along the waterfront to see the Lodberries—historic houses and warehouses constructed on their own piers. During Lerwick’s peak as Northern Europe’s premier herring town, these buildings allowed goods to be loaded directly from boats. One of the Lodberries later gained fame as the on-screen home of Jimmy Perez in the crime drama series Shetland.

Lerwick Town Hall

Continue uphill to Hillhead, where narrow lanes wind through the older part of town, offering views into Lerwick’s past. At the summit stands Lerwick Town Hall, renowned for its impressive stained-glass windows that depict Shetland’s Norse connections and community heritage (interior visit subject to availability).

Lerwick Distillery

Just beyond the town hall lies a street once known as “Whisky Lane,” now home to Shetland’s first and only malt whisky distillery. Step inside to discover the distilling process, from locally inspired ingredients to traditional methods influenced by the islands’ maritime climate. Learn how this environment affects maturation and flavour before enjoying a guided tasting, including a selection of drams that reflect Shetland’s rugged character.

Conclude the tour by returning to Victoria Pier via Commercial Street, Lerwick’s main shopping area, where you may browse local craft and knitwear shops before rejoining the shuttle or your awaiting ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Lerwick, Victoria Pier, Old Tolbooth, Lodberries, Hillhead, Lerwick Town Hall, Lerwick Distillery

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, including approximately 2.5 miles (aprox 4 km) of walking over paved and occasionally steep surfaces. The route includes some inclines, uneven terrain, and stairs, particularly at Lerwick Town Hall (if visited) and within the distillery. The tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility, and it is not wheelchair accessible. The distillery includes metal walkways and requires closed-toe footwear; open-toe shoes are not permitted. Guests must be at least 18 years of age to participate in the whisky tasting. Warm, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended, as conditions can be windy and changeable.