Shetland Folk Festival

Lerwick is the main hub for Shetland, and visitors can reach it by air or by sea. By air, Sumburgh Airport (LSI) on Mainland Shetland has daily flights from Aberdeen (about 45 minutes) and connections from other UK cities. From the airport, local buses and taxis run to Lerwick (roughly a 40-45 minute drive). By sea, NorthLink Ferries operates an overnight service from Aberdeen to Lerwick most evenings. The crossing takes about 13-14 hours and arrives early the next morning; booking a cabin or reclining seat is recommended for comfort. In summer there is also a ferry that stops at Orkney (calling at Kirkwall and Stromness) if you prefer to split your journey. If you plan to bring a car to Shetland, remember to reserve a vehicle spot on the ferry.

Once you’re in Lerwick, the town itself is very walkable. If you want to explore beyond Lerwick, consider renting a car (car hire desks are at the airport and ferry terminal). Remember that outside Lerwick many roads become narrow single-track lanes with passing places, so drive carefully. The public bus network (ZetTrans) links Lerwick to other communities on Shetland Mainland – check the timetables in advance as services can be infrequent outside peak hours. Taxis operate in Lerwick for airport or hotel pickups, but late-night services can be limited. Buses, taxis and even bike rental are the main options once you arrive on the isles.

Lerwick offers a wide range of accommodation: hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering cottages. Nearby towns such as Scalloway or Brae (about 20-30 miles away) provide additional choices if Lerwick is fully booked. The festival is a busy time, so booking well in advance is recommended. Many lodgings include hearty cooked breakfasts and free Wi-Fi. Lerwick also has supermarkets, cafes and pubs for meals and shopping; after-hours these may be limited on the outskirts, so it helps to stock up on essentials in town.

Finally, prepare for Shetland’s changeable weather. Even in spring it can be cool, windy or rainy, so bring layers, waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes. Daylight hours are long in late spring, but evenings may still feel chilly. Check transport schedules carefully and allow extra time for delays if bad weather occurs. Lerwick has good mobile coverage and free Wi-Fi in many venues, but rural areas can be patchy. With a little planning and flexibility, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy both the festival and the stunning Shetland landscape during your visit.