Things to do in Mainland

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Mainland (2025) - Must-See Attractions

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Things to Do in Mainland

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement, Shetland Museum and Archives, Ports of Call Tours, Scenic Walking Areas. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Top Attractions in Mainland

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Indoor museum showcasing Shetland's rich history and geology through engaging exhibits and voice-narrated boat displays, complete with a charming café.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Brewery tour providing an engaging look into beer crafting with an array of tastings included. Features trivia nights and a cosy environment for beer aficionados.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historical lighthouse set on dramatic cliffs with seabird viewing and interactive exhibits. Panoramic cafe and unique wildlife encounters complement the serene ambiance.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Iron Age broch surrounded by urban life, presenting a complex structure and rich history dating back to 600BC, set against a scenic loch backdrop.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Historical museum with a focus on WWII "Shetland Bus" operations, displaying local bravery and resistance. Features detailed exhibits and personal narratives within a warm atmosphere.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
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What travellers are saying

  • Deborah K
    Strathalbyn, Australia15 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Easy to access and just fascinating, so many layers of history in one place.. The historical site is very well kept, good signage and information.. Audio is available and fact sheets from the visitors centre
    Written 23 August 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Deborah K
    Strathalbyn, Australia15 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A great place to visit full of information regarding the island, its community and its history. Well worth a visit would recommend while staying in Shetlands
    Written 23 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Shaun B
    Stalybridge, England, United Kingdom49 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A fantastic trip out. I would highly recommend it. We did the brewery tour and Ryan was awesome. Really detailed and interesting few hours with some fantastic beer to drink as well.
    Written 13 February 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Resort46495474945
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The accommodation at the lighthouse is well equipped and maintained. We have stopped in two other lighthouses in the UK but this was certainly the best.
    Written 3 October 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Resort46495474945
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Shetland Islands has many things to offer and this is one of the very best, I have visited museums all over the world but few allow you to step back in time like this one. If you wish to truly understand the life of a crofter, the guide her has an unparalleled first hand knowledge that gives an insight into the challenges faced by the crofting community over the centuries. The peat fire and tactile nature of the exhibits make this one of the most authentic experiences you will have on the Islands.
    Written 22 September 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DorsetgirlLondon
    London375 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Located 20 minutes outside the town centre near a main road and a supermarket, this is a good way to explore some of the island’s history easily for no cost.

    For either a walk, a glimpse into how Iron Age people lived or an opportunity to take photos of the Shetland’s beautiful scenery, I can recommend this to all visitors who are good on their feet.
    Written 21 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mark
    17 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Visited fairly early in the morning and enjoyed an almost solitary time walking across the tombolo and around the island. The walk is great, and the views are excellent. Well worth the drive to get here. Easy to park. One of my favourite parts of my trip to Shetland.
    Written 2 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • ruth54705
    Scarborough, UK135 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This place is well worth a trip to. The roads are narrow and with passing places for a long way. The scenery is amazing and there are lots of coastal paths to take to appreciate the views. It can be very windy so warm clothing is recommended and sturdy footwear. . There is also a disused lighthouse at the end of the road with a small car park.
    On the way to the cliffs there is an excellent café & camp site..Eshaness Tea Rooms.
    Written 13 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • TravelingMomGrandma
    Houston, TX1,094 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a small museum but filled with tons of history of the area. We enjoyed the history of Iceland and their part in WWII.
    There is a small gift shop and drinks
    Written 30 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Linda F
    Brisbane, Australia19 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Delightful little museum with fascinating displays of local Shetland textiles, craft and knitting. The very fine knitted lace is especially commendable. Lots of information. Well worth a visit
    Written 11 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • itchyfeet2014
    Glasgow, UK2,290 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    What an excellent trip this was. We were lucky to get on the tour as the weather had not been suitable for the boat to go out for a couple of days. We travelled on the day we were leaving Shetland. The journey over to the island isn’t too far, then a self tour, following the path which orbits the island. The broch is incredible with double skinned walls and fantastic views. It is a great piece of engineering. Don’t miss it.

    We enjoyed the walk around the island, fantastic rock formations and great bird life. Our trip was made complete by the amazing father and son who steered us to the island and charmed us with their great local stories. Thank you.

    A wonderful and unmissable tour.
    Written 25 August 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • TravelingMomGrandma
    Houston, TX1,094 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Free to view
    1-2 hours to read it all
    Beautiful stained glass windows depicting the history of Shetland.
    Clean bathrooms
    Elevator
    Nice Architecture
    Written 30 July 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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