Shetland Museum & Archives: Gateway to Shetland’s Rich Heritage
Discover Shetland’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and archives in a historic dockside setting in Lerwick.
Located on Lerwick’s historic Hay’s Dock, the Shetland Museum & Archives offers a captivating journey through Shetland’s geological origins, cultural heritage, and maritime history. Visitors explore over 3,000 artefacts including delicate Shetland lace, Pictish art, and traditional boats in the Boat Hall. The museum also houses extensive archives and hosts dynamic temporary exhibitions, all within a restored 19th-century dock setting.
A brief summary to Shetland Museum & Archives
- Shetland, Lerwick, ZE1 0WP, GB
- +441595695057
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit between Tuesday and Saturday for full opening hours from 10am to 5pm during peak season.
- Explore the Boat Hall to see traditional Shetland boats suspended overhead, a highlight of the museum.
- Check out the temporary exhibitions in Da Gadderie for contemporary takes on Shetland culture.
- Use the Heritage Hub to access archives and get assistance with genealogical or cultural research.
- Donations are welcomed to support the museum’s free entry and ongoing preservation efforts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Lerwick town center to Hay’s Dock, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run regularly during the day but check schedules in advance. The stop is a short walk from the museum entrance. Tickets cost around £2-£3.
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Car
Driving to the museum from central Lerwick takes about 5 minutes. Limited parking is available nearby with pay-and-display options. Be aware that parking spaces can fill quickly during peak tourist season.
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Walking
From Lerwick town center, a pleasant 15-minute walk along the waterfront leads directly to Hay’s Dock. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors including those with limited mobility.
Shetland Museum & Archives location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Shetland Museum & Archives
A Living Chronicle of Shetland’s Past
The Shetland Museum & Archives stands as a vibrant custodian of the archipelago’s history, art, and culture. Situated on Hay’s Dock, the last remaining original dock on Lerwick’s waterfront, the museum connects visitors directly to Shetland’s maritime legacy. The building itself is category B listed, reflecting its historical importance and architectural charm. Inside, galleries unfold Shetland’s story from its ancient geological beginnings—showcasing rocks nearly half the age of the Earth—to the modern era shaped by the oil industry. The museum’s collections span a wide spectrum, featuring world-renowned textiles, intricate Shetland lace, Pictish carvings, and traditional boats suspended in the atmospheric Boat Hall.Immersive Exhibitions and Archive Treasures
Beyond artefacts, the museum houses an extensive archive collection that offers a deep dive into Shetland life through centuries. Visitors can explore books, newspapers, court records, maps, and magazines that document the islands’ social and cultural evolution. The Heritage Hub provides expert assistance for those researching family history or local culture. Temporary exhibitions in the museum’s dedicated gallery, Da Gadderie, bring fresh perspectives and contemporary art to the historic setting, often reflecting Shetland’s unique identity and creative spirit.Architectural and Artistic Highlights
The museum’s design blends historic restoration with modern exhibition spaces, enhanced by over 60 commissioned artworks displayed throughout the building and dock area. These pieces create a dialogue between Shetland’s natural environment, its people, and their stories, enriching the visitor experience. The restored dock setting offers scenic views of Lerwick’s waterfront, reinforcing the museum’s maritime context and providing a tranquil atmosphere for reflection.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Shetland Museum & Archives is fully accessible, featuring ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets to accommodate visitors with limited mobility. The site includes a gift shop offering locally crafted items and a café space, although the café is currently closed with plans for future operation. The museum is free to enter, relying on donations to support its mission of preserving and sharing Shetland’s heritage. It welcomes individuals, families, and researchers alike, providing a welcoming environment for all.Seasonal Rhythms and Community Engagement
The museum’s opening hours vary seasonally, generally open from 10am to 5pm Tuesday through Saturday during the busier months, with shorter hours in winter and Sundays opening at noon. It is a hub for cultural events, including exhibitions, talks, and celebrations such as Up Helly Aa and VE Day commemorations, fostering a lively connection with the local community.Exploring Shetland’s Identity Through Time
Every corner of the museum invites visitors to explore Shetland’s unique blend of Norse heritage, maritime traditions, and vibrant contemporary culture. From the geological foundations to the fine art of lace knitting, the museum encapsulates the resilience and creativity of Shetland’s people, making it an essential destination for understanding the islands’ past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lerwick Town Hall
0.4 km
Victorian civic masterpiece with breathtaking stained glass windows telling Shetland's historical narrative
Market Cross
0.7 km
Historic Market Cross in Lerwick, the symbolic heart of Shetland’s trade, community, and civic life.
Northernmost Point Of UK
79.6 km
Explore Skaw on Unst, the UK’s northernmost point, where rugged coastline meets rich Viking heritage and iconic maritime landmarks.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Charlotte
0.4 km
An 18th-century artillery fort above Lerwick harbour, offering panoramic views and centuries of military history in a free-to-enter historic site.
Tesco Superstore
1.3 km
A comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Lerwick offering groceries, fresh produce, clothing, and extended hours for convenient island shopping.
The Knab
1.5 km
A scenic coastal headland in Lerwick blending rich history, natural beauty, and visionary community development on Shetland’s shores.
Shetland Textile Museum
1.6 km
Discover Shetland’s rich textile heritage through vibrant exhibitions, live craft demonstrations, and authentic local artistry in Lerwick.
Scalloway Museum
7.3 km
Discover Shetland’s history and heroic wartime tales at Scalloway Museum, a vibrant community hub near the iconic castle.
Scalloway Castle
7.3 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Scalloway Castle, a formidable 1600 tower house symbolizing Shetland’s turbulent past and the legacy of ‘Black Patie’.
Giant's Leg, Bressay
7.4 km
Explore the Giant's Leg, a stunning natural sea arch on Bressay’s rugged southern coast, blending geology, wildlife, and wartime history.
Nesting Phonebox
12.1 km
Discover Shetland’s charming Nesting Phonebox, a tiny red kiosk transformed into a delightful bookshop nestled in a tranquil rural setting.
Lingness
12.3 km
Discover Ling Ness, a tranquil coastal headland in Shetland offering scenic walks, wildlife, and authentic island atmosphere.
Scord of Weisdale Viewpoint
12.6 km
A serene roadside viewpoint offering sweeping views over Weisdale Voe and Shetland’s rugged west coast landscapes.
RSPB Mousa
17.9 km
A 2,000-year-old Iron Age broch and sanctuary for 6,800 storm-petrels on a wild, uninhabited Shetland island.
Broch of Mousa
18.2 km
Explore the tallest, best-preserved Iron Age broch in Europe, a 2,300-year-old coastal fortress steeped in history and Norse legend.
The Cake Fridge - Shetland
19.4 km
Shetland’s original 24/7 honesty cake fridge, with a quirky tea room and outdoor picnic area serving homemade cakes, soup, and local treats.
Culswick Broch
22.0 km
Explore Culswick Broch, an ancient Iron Age tower perched on Shetland’s wild west coast, offering rugged beauty and evocative history.
The Cabin Museum
22.1 km
Discover Shetland’s wartime stories and rural heritage in this intimate museum nestled in Mainland’s heartland.
Essential places to dine
Hay's Dock By The Dowry
0.0 km
Historic waterfront dining at Lerwick’s last original dock, where Shetland’s maritime heritage meets cozy local hospitality.
Saffron
0.1 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
The Great Wall
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cantonese flavors at The Great Wall, Lerwick’s largest and most accessible Chinese restaurant in the heart of Shetland.
Téamoré
0.3 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Olive Tree
0.3 km
A cozy British café in Lerwick’s Toll Clock Shopping Centre, offering fresh, gluten-free-friendly dishes and a rich tea selection.
Gurkha Kitchen
0.3 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
Golden Coach
0.3 km
Savor fresh, authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming, spacious setting at Golden Coach, Lerwick’s favorite for traditional flavors and friendly service.
Fort Cafe & Take Away
0.5 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest fish and chips with friendly service at Lerwick’s beloved Fort Cafe & Take Away, a local culinary gem.
C’est la Vie
0.5 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
The New Harbour Cafe
0.5 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Dowry
0.5 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Grand Hotel
0.6 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
0.6 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 Waterfront Bar and Grill
0.7 km
A modern, informal grill in Lerwick serving fresh Shetland seafood and hearty dishes with warm hospitality every evening.
Da Steak Hoose
0.7 km
A cozy, no-frills steakhouse in Lerwick serving juicy cuts, crisp chips, and hearty meals in a warm, local atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Toll Clock Shopping Centre
0.3 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
Bolts Minimarket
0.3 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Health Craft
0.3 km
Discover Shetland’s finest health foods and crafts at Health Craft, Lerwick’s welcoming hub for wellness and local artistry.
The Bop Shop
0.3 km
Discover Shetland’s beloved monthly vinyl haven and creative hub where music, community, and culture intertwine in Lerwick’s heart.
Co-op Food - Shetland Lerwick - Holmsgarth Road
0.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Lerwick - your one-stop-shop for local goods and essentials during your Shetland adventures.
The Co-Operative Lerwick
0.4 km
Discover Shetland's flavors at The Co-Operative Lerwick, your go-to convenience store for fresh produce and local goods.
Boots
0.5 km
Your trusted local pharmacy and beauty destination in the heart of Lerwick, offering health, wellness, and personal care essentials.
The Puffin Republic
0.5 km
Discover authentic Shetland gifts and local artistry at The Puffin Republic in the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant commercial district.
Peerie Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique Shetland gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre.
LHD Shop
0.6 km
LHD Shop in Lerwick offers trusted workwear, marine supplies, and outdoor gear tailored to Shetland’s rugged lifestyle and maritime heritage.
Ninian
0.6 km
Discover authentic Shetland craftsmanship with a modern twist at Ninian, Lerwick’s charming gift shop for exquisite knitwear and home furnishings.
Ellesmere Stores
0.6 km
A welcoming convenience store in Lerwick’s heart, offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with a community spirit.
Jamieson's of Shetland
0.7 km
Discover authentic Shetland wool and heritage knitwear at Jamieson's, Lerwick’s treasured wool shop on Commercial Street.
The Shetland Times Bookshop
0.7 km
Explore Britain’s most northerly bookshop, a cultural gem in Lerwick offering rich Shetland literature and a welcoming browsing experience.
Peerie Isles
0.8 km
Discover authentic Shetland crafts and gifts in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre at Peerie Isles.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Douglas Arms
0.1 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
0.3 km
Lerwick’s only nightclub open till 3 AM, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of Shetland’s capital.
Thule Bar
0.5 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
The Lounge Bar
0.7 km
A lively Lerwick pub famed for live traditional music, local camaraderie, and a wide selection of drinks in the heart of Shetland.
Fjarå Café Bar
1.3 km
Coastal charm meets local flavors at Lerwick’s Fjarå Café Bar, where sea views and seasonal dishes create an unforgettable dining escape.
Maryfield House Hotel
1.6 km
Charming family-run hotel on Bressay Island with stunning sea views, local seafood dining, and easy ferry access to Shetland’s capital.
Scalloway Hotel
7.4 km
Experience Shetland’s charm with stylish sea-view rooms, fresh local seafood, and warm hospitality at Scalloway Hotel on the waterfront.
The Kiln Bar
7.4 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
Busta House Hotel
28.0 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
Brae Hotel
28.2 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Mid Brae Inn
28.6 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Welcome Inn
33.8 km
A welcoming Shetland pub and live music venue where community spirit and local culture come alive in Mossbank.
Balta Light
70.3 km
Experience authentic Shetland hospitality at Balta Light, the UK's northernmost pub nestled in Baltasound, Unst.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
