Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village: A Timeless Shetland Heritage Site
Explore Shetland’s best-preserved Iron Age broch and village, a living heritage site revealing 2,000 years of history and culture.
Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village in Shetland is a remarkably well-preserved archaeological site featuring a Middle Iron Age broch and an extensive village. Discovered in 1975 during road construction, it reveals continuous occupation from 400-200 BC through Pictish and Viking periods. Visitors can explore reconstructed Iron Age buildings, learn ancient crafts, and join guided tours during the summer season, immersing themselves in Shetland’s rich prehistoric past.
A brief summary to Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village
- Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village, Scatness, Shetland, Sumburgh, ZE3 9JW, GB
- +441595694688
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Friday 10:15 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance for Fridays between May and October to ensure your spot and enrich your visit.
- Wear sturdy footwear and dress for changeable weather, as the site is exposed and outdoor.
- Visit the reconstructed buildings and participate in workshops to experience Iron Age crafts firsthand.
- Combine your visit with nearby Sumburgh Head for dramatic coastal views and wildlife spotting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the local bus service from Lerwick to Sumburgh, which takes approximately 1 hour. From Sumburgh, a taxi or a 20-minute walk on rural roads will bring you to Old Scatness. Bus services run several times daily during the tourist season; tickets cost around £5–£8.
-
Car
Driving from Lerwick to Old Scatness takes about 30 minutes via the A970. Parking is available opposite the site near Sumburgh Airstrip. Note that rural roads can be narrow and weather-dependent; no parking fees apply.
-
Taxi
Taxis from Sumburgh or Lerwick are available, with a typical journey from Lerwick taking 30 minutes and costing approximately £25–£35. Booking in advance is recommended due to limited availability.
Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Windy Conditions
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Old Scatness Broch & Iron Age Village
Unearthing a Hidden Time Capsule
The Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village was uncovered unexpectedly in 1975 when a road was being built through what was thought to be a natural mound. Local historians identified the site as a broch, a distinctive drystone tower unique to Iron Age Scotland, prompting the road to be rerouted to preserve this archaeological treasure. Excavations began two decades later, led by the Shetland Amenity Trust, revealing a remarkably intact Middle Iron Age broch standing nearly 4 meters tall, surrounded by a substantial village complex.Layers of History from Iron Age to Viking Times
This site offers a rare glimpse into over two millennia of continuous occupation, starting from the Early Iron Age with evidence such as pottery and stone tools predating the broch itself. The broch, dated between 400 and 200 BC, was the centerpiece of a thriving community. Later Pictish and Viking structures show how the site evolved, reflecting changing cultural influences while maintaining its importance through the Medieval period.Living History Through Reconstruction and Experiments
Old Scatness is more than ruins; it is a living heritage site where visitors can enter reconstructed Iron Age houses, experience ancient crafts, and even dress in period costumes. Archaeological experiments at the site have explored drystone building techniques, ore smelting, and bronze casting, enriching understanding of ancient technologies. The reconstructed village includes a fire hearth where visitors can gather, connecting with the past in an immersive way.Visitor Experience and Guided Exploration
Open to the public during the summer months, guided tours run on Fridays from May to October, led by knowledgeable guides who bring to life the myths, legends, and daily realities of Iron Age Shetland. The visitor centre offers workshops and exhibitions that deepen appreciation of the site’s significance. Group archaeology tours are also available by arrangement, enhancing educational opportunities.Significance and World Heritage Aspirations
Old Scatness is on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status, alongside Mousa Broch and Jarlshof, highlighting its global archaeological importance. Its pristine condition and comprehensive archaeological record make it one of the best-preserved Iron Age sites in Britain, offering invaluable insights into prehistoric life in the North Atlantic.Setting and Surroundings
Situated near Sumburgh on Shetland’s South Mainland, the site lies close to the airport and is accessible by road with parking nearby. The surrounding landscape is rugged and windswept, typical of Shetland’s dramatic coastal environment, adding to the atmospheric experience of stepping back into ancient times.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
1.4 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.
Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve
3.2 km
Historic lighthouse and immersive nature reserve perched on Shetland’s southern cliffs, rich in wildlife, heritage, and dramatic coastal views.
The Shetland Crofthouse Museum
4.1 km
Step inside a traditional 19th-century Shetland crofthouse and experience the authentic rhythms of island life amid coastal gardens and peat fires.
Broch of Mousa
14.6 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
15.1 km
A 2,000-year-old Iron Age broch and sanctuary for 6,800 storm-petrels on a wild, uninhabited Shetland island.
Giant's Leg, Bressay
28.1 km
Explore the Giant's Leg, a stunning natural sea arch on Bressay’s rugged southern coast, blending geology, wildlife, and wartime history.
Scalloway Castle
28.6 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
28.6 km
Discover Shetland’s history and heroic wartime tales at Scalloway Museum, a vibrant community hub near the iconic castle.
Tesco Superstore
30.9 km
A comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Lerwick offering groceries, fresh produce, clothing, and extended hours for convenient island shopping.
The Knab
31.1 km
A scenic coastal headland in Lerwick blending rich history, natural beauty, and visionary community development on Shetland’s shores.
Fort Charlotte
32.0 km
An 18th-century artillery fort above Lerwick harbour, offering panoramic views and centuries of military history in a free-to-enter historic site.
Shetland Museum & Archives
32.2 km
Discover Shetland’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and archives in a historic dockside setting in Lerwick.
Shetland Textile Museum
33.3 km
Discover Shetland’s rich textile heritage through vibrant exhibitions, live craft demonstrations, and authentic local artistry in Lerwick.
Culswick Broch
36.7 km
Explore Culswick Broch, an ancient Iron Age tower perched on Shetland’s wild west coast, offering rugged beauty and evocative history.
Scord of Weisdale Viewpoint
39.9 km
A serene roadside viewpoint offering sweeping views over Weisdale Voe and Shetland’s rugged west coast landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Da Haaf Restaurant
28.3 km
Savor fresh Shetland seafood and traditional Scottish dishes with stunning harbor views at Da Haaf Restaurant in Scalloway.
The Bay Brasserie
31.4 km
Savor fresh local flavors with stunning bay views at Lerwick’s welcoming Bay Brasserie, blending scenic charm and diverse dining.
Da Steak Hoose
31.8 km
A cozy, no-frills steakhouse in Lerwick serving juicy cuts, crisp chips, and hearty meals in a warm, local atmosphere.
The Grand Hotel
31.9 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
31.9 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
31.9 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The New Harbour Cafe
31.9 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
C’est la Vie
32.0 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
Fort Cafe & Take Away
32.0 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest fish and chips with friendly service at Lerwick’s beloved Fort Cafe & Take Away, a local culinary gem.
Gurkha Kitchen
32.0 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
Saffron
32.1 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
The Olive Tree
32.1 km
A cozy British café in Lerwick’s Toll Clock Shopping Centre, offering fresh, gluten-free-friendly dishes and a rich tea selection.
Golden Coach
32.1 km
Savor fresh, authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming, spacious setting at Golden Coach, Lerwick’s favorite for traditional flavors and friendly service.
Téamoré
32.2 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Great Wall
32.2 km
Experience authentic Cantonese flavors at The Great Wall, Lerwick’s largest and most accessible Chinese restaurant in the heart of Shetland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Annex
29.1 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
31.8 km
Discover authentic Shetland wool and heritage knitwear at Jamieson's, Lerwick’s treasured wool shop on Commercial Street.
The Shetland Times Bookshop
31.8 km
Explore Britain’s most northerly bookshop, a cultural gem in Lerwick offering rich Shetland literature and a welcoming browsing experience.
Peerie Isles
31.8 km
Discover authentic Shetland crafts and gifts in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre at Peerie Isles.
Ellesmere Stores
31.8 km
A welcoming convenience store in Lerwick’s heart, offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with a community spirit.
Ninian
31.8 km
Discover authentic Shetland craftsmanship with a modern twist at Ninian, Lerwick’s charming gift shop for exquisite knitwear and home furnishings.
LHD Shop
31.9 km
LHD Shop in Lerwick offers trusted workwear, marine supplies, and outdoor gear tailored to Shetland’s rugged lifestyle and maritime heritage.
Peerie Shop
31.9 km
Discover unique Shetland gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre.
Boots
31.9 km
Your trusted local pharmacy and beauty destination in the heart of Lerwick, offering health, wellness, and personal care essentials.
The Puffin Republic
31.9 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
32.1 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
The Bop Shop
32.1 km
Discover Shetland’s beloved monthly vinyl haven and creative hub where music, community, and culture intertwine in Lerwick’s heart.
Bolts Minimarket
32.1 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Health Craft
32.2 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
32.3 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 Kiln Bar
28.8 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
Scalloway Hotel
28.8 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
30.9 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
31.8 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
31.9 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
Douglas Arms
32.1 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
32.1 km
Lerwick’s only nightclub open till 3 AM, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of Shetland’s capital.
Maryfield House Hotel
32.7 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
56.3 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
Brae Hotel
57.1 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Mid Brae Inn
57.4 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Welcome Inn
65.1 km
A welcoming Shetland pub and live music venue where community spirit and local culture come alive in Mossbank.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
