Fair Isle North Lighthouse: Remote Beacon of Shetland's Northern Edge
A remote coastal sentinel on Fair Isle’s wild northeastern tip, blending maritime heritage with breathtaking northern seascapes.
Perched on the northeastern tip of Fair Isle, the Fair Isle North Lighthouse stands as a solitary sentinel amid the North Atlantic’s wild seas. This remote lighthouse offers breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into maritime heritage, embodying the rugged isolation and natural beauty of Shetland’s most distant inhabited island.
A brief summary to Fair Isle North Lighthouse
- Shetland, Fair Isle, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring sturdy footwear and warm clothing to handle the island’s unpredictable weather and rugged terrain.
- Plan your trip with extra days to accommodate potential travel delays caused by weather.
- Visit the nearby Fair Isle Bird Observatory for insights into the island’s natural history and comfortable accommodation.
- Respect local crofting land, especially during lambing season in April and May.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Ferry
The ferry 'Good Shepherd IV' operates from Grutness Pier at Shetland’s southern tip, taking approximately 2.5 hours to reach Fair Isle. It carries up to 12 passengers and runs regularly during the summer months. Note that this is not a car ferry, and booking in advance is essential.
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Flight
Flights depart from Tingwall Airport near Lerwick, with a flight time of around 25 minutes to Fair Isle. Services run three times weekly, increasing to weekly from Sumburgh Airport between April and October. Advance booking is required, and flights are weather-dependent.
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Walking
Once on Fair Isle, the North Lighthouse is accessible by foot via well-marked paths over uneven terrain. The walk offers scenic views but requires moderate fitness and suitable footwear, especially in wet or windy conditions.
Fair Isle North Lighthouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Fair Isle North Lighthouse
Guarding the Northern Waters of Fair Isle
The Fair Isle North Lighthouse is located at Skroo, on the northeastern point of Fair Isle, a tiny island halfway between mainland Shetland and Orkney. This lighthouse has long served as a crucial navigational aid for vessels traversing the often treacherous waters where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. Its isolated position underscores the rugged maritime history of the Shetland archipelago, where lighthouses are vital for safe passage.Architectural Presence and Setting
The lighthouse itself is a classic example of Shetland’s coastal beacons, constructed to withstand fierce winds and storms. It is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and open sea, offering panoramic views that stretch across the wild northern seascape. The structure’s sturdy design and prominent light continue to guide ships safely, maintaining its operational importance despite modern navigation technologies.Experiencing Fair Isle’s Remote Charm
Fair Isle is renowned for its remoteness, with a small community of around 60 residents and a landscape shaped by crofting and seabird colonies. The North Lighthouse’s location reflects this solitude, making it a perfect spot for visitors seeking tranquility and connection with nature. The surrounding environment is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with the island’s cliffs hosting diverse seabird populations.Historical and Cultural Significance
Beyond its maritime function, the lighthouse is part of Fair Isle’s rich cultural tapestry. The island’s history includes crofting traditions, shipwreck tales, and a strong link to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), which operates the nearby Bird Observatory. The lighthouse stands as a symbol of this heritage, embodying the resilience and self-reliance of island life.Visitor Experience and Nearby Facilities
While the lighthouse itself is not staffed or open for tours, its striking presence is a highlight of any visit to Fair Isle. Nearby accommodations, such as the Fair Isle Bird Observatory Guesthouse, offer comfortable stays with full board and spectacular views. The island provides essential amenities including a shop, post office, and public toilets, supporting visitors in this remote setting.Access and Travel Considerations
Reaching Fair Isle and its North Lighthouse requires careful planning due to its isolation. Travel options include a ferry from Shetland’s Grutness Pier or flights from Tingwall Airport, both requiring advance booking. Weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds and fog common, so flexibility is advised. The island’s small size allows visitors to explore on foot or by e-bike, immersing themselves in the unique landscape and heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
George Waterston Museum
4.3 km
Discover the rich history and unique cultural heritage of remote Fair Isle at the George Waterston Memorial Centre & Museum.
Fair Isle South Lighthouse
4.9 km
Historic Fair Isle South Lighthouse, Scotland’s last manned beacon, stands resilient amid rugged Shetland coasts and rich birdlife.
Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve
38.5 km
Historic lighthouse and immersive nature reserve perched on Shetland’s southern cliffs, rich in wildlife, heritage, and dramatic coastal views.
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
39.5 km
Explore 4,000 years of Shetland history through Neolithic homes, Iron Age wheelhouses, Norse longhouses, and a 16th-century laird’s house at Jarlshof.
Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village
40.2 km
Explore Shetland’s best-preserved Iron Age broch and village, a living heritage site revealing 2,000 years of history and culture.
The Shetland Crofthouse Museum
44.1 km
Step inside a traditional 19th-century Shetland crofthouse and experience the authentic rhythms of island life amid coastal gardens and peat fires.
North Ronaldsay
49.9 km
Orkney's northernmost island where seaweed-grazing sheep roam wild and migratory birds paint the skies.
Broch of Mousa
54.8 km
Explore the tallest, best-preserved Iron Age broch in Europe, a 2,300-year-old coastal fortress steeped in history and Norse legend.
RSPB Mousa
55.2 km
A 2,000-year-old Iron Age broch and sanctuary for 6,800 storm-petrels on a wild, uninhabited Shetland island.
White Mill Circular Walk & Beach
60.0 km
A peaceful coastal loop on Sanday, linking white-sand beaches, dunes, and the remains of a 19th-century windmill and 1939 shipwreck.
59 Degrees North - Cafe | Pizzeria | Motorhome Aire
63.1 km
A charming family-run café and pizzeria with panoramic sea views, pioneering motorhome aire, and a warm, pet-friendly welcome on Sanday, Orkney.
Quoyness Chambered Cairn
65.3 km
Explore the majestic 5,000-year-old Neolithic Quoyness Chambered Cairn on Sanday, a remarkable burial site revealing ancient Orcadian life and architecture.
Foula Lighthouse
67.3 km
A remote solar-powered sentinel on Foula’s rugged cliffs, guiding mariners through Shetland’s wild western seas.
Scalloway Castle
67.5 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Scalloway Castle, a formidable 1600 tower house symbolizing Shetland’s turbulent past and the legacy of ‘Black Patie’.
Scalloway Museum
67.6 km
Discover Shetland’s history and heroic wartime tales at Scalloway Museum, a vibrant community hub near the iconic castle.
Essential places to dine
Da Haaf Restaurant
67.1 km
Savor fresh Shetland seafood and traditional Scottish dishes with stunning harbor views at Da Haaf Restaurant in Scalloway.
The Bay Brasserie
71.3 km
Savor fresh local flavors with stunning bay views at Lerwick’s welcoming Bay Brasserie, blending scenic charm and diverse dining.
Da Steak Hoose
71.7 km
A cozy, no-frills steakhouse in Lerwick serving juicy cuts, crisp chips, and hearty meals in a warm, local atmosphere.
The Grand Hotel
71.8 km
Historic charm and warm hospitality meet in the heart of Lerwick at The Grand Hotel, your gateway to Shetland’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
No 88 Kitchen and Bar
71.8 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest seafood and local lamb in a cozy, modern British restaurant at the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant dining scene.
The Dowry
71.8 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The New Harbour Cafe
71.9 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
C’est la Vie
71.9 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
Gurkha Kitchen
71.9 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
Fort Cafe & Take Away
71.9 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest fish and chips with friendly service at Lerwick’s beloved Fort Cafe & Take Away, a local culinary gem.
The Olive Tree
72.0 km
A cozy British café in Lerwick’s Toll Clock Shopping Centre, offering fresh, gluten-free-friendly dishes and a rich tea selection.
Saffron
72.0 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Golden Coach
72.0 km
Savor fresh, authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming, spacious setting at Golden Coach, Lerwick’s favorite for traditional flavors and friendly service.
Hay's Dock By The Dowry
72.1 km
Historic waterfront dining at Lerwick’s last original dock, where Shetland’s maritime heritage meets cozy local hospitality.
Téamoré
72.1 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Annex
68.7 km
Explore The Annex in Shetland for unique gifts and clothing that embody the spirit of the islands, perfect for souvenirs and memories.
Jamieson's of Shetland
71.7 km
Discover authentic Shetland wool and heritage knitwear at Jamieson's, Lerwick’s treasured wool shop on Commercial Street.
The Shetland Times Bookshop
71.8 km
Explore Britain’s most northerly bookshop, a cultural gem in Lerwick offering rich Shetland literature and a welcoming browsing experience.
Ellesmere Stores
71.8 km
A welcoming convenience store in Lerwick’s heart, offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with a community spirit.
Peerie Isles
71.8 km
Discover authentic Shetland crafts and gifts in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre at Peerie Isles.
Ninian
71.8 km
Discover authentic Shetland craftsmanship with a modern twist at Ninian, Lerwick’s charming gift shop for exquisite knitwear and home furnishings.
LHD Shop
71.8 km
LHD Shop in Lerwick offers trusted workwear, marine supplies, and outdoor gear tailored to Shetland’s rugged lifestyle and maritime heritage.
Peerie Shop
71.8 km
Discover unique Shetland gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre.
Boots
71.9 km
Your trusted local pharmacy and beauty destination in the heart of Lerwick, offering health, wellness, and personal care essentials.
The Puffin Republic
71.9 km
Discover authentic Shetland gifts and local artistry at The Puffin Republic in the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant commercial district.
Toll Clock Shopping Centre
71.9 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
Bolts Minimarket
72.0 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
The Bop Shop
72.0 km
Discover Shetland’s beloved monthly vinyl haven and creative hub where music, community, and culture intertwine in Lerwick’s heart.
Health Craft
72.1 km
Discover Shetland’s finest health foods and crafts at Health Craft, Lerwick’s welcoming hub for wellness and local artistry.
The Co-Operative Lerwick
72.1 km
Discover Shetland's flavors at The Co-Operative Lerwick, your go-to convenience store for fresh produce and local goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Belsair
66.4 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Kiln Bar
67.7 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
Scalloway Hotel
67.7 km
Experience Shetland’s charm with stylish sea-view rooms, fresh local seafood, and warm hospitality at Scalloway Hotel on the waterfront.
Fjarå Café Bar
70.8 km
Coastal charm meets local flavors at Lerwick’s Fjarå Café Bar, where sea views and seasonal dishes create an unforgettable dining escape.
The Lounge Bar
71.7 km
A lively Lerwick pub famed for live traditional music, local camaraderie, and a wide selection of drinks in the heart of Shetland.
Thule Bar
71.9 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
Douglas Arms
72.0 km
Cozy and welcoming, the Douglas Arms is Lerwick’s beloved traditional pub, offering local drinks, live music, and genuine Shetland hospitality.
Trench bar and nightclub
72.1 km
Lerwick’s only nightclub open till 3 AM, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of Shetland’s capital.
Maryfield House Hotel
72.7 km
Charming family-run hotel on Bressay Island with stunning sea views, local seafood dining, and easy ferry access to Shetland’s capital.
Busta House Hotel
93.4 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
The Taversoe
93.7 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Brae Hotel
94.5 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Mid Brae Inn
94.8 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Torvhaug
99.3 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Skippers
99.3 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
