Shetland Rural Experience Centre
Working farm and sheepdog demonstrations celebrating Shetland's agricultural heritage and rural traditions.
Nestled in North Roe at the northern tip of Shetland's mainland, the Shetland Rural Experience Centre offers an authentic glimpse into island farming heritage through working sheepdog demonstrations, hands-on interactions with traditional Shetland sheep and ponies, and seasonal encounters with puppies and lambs. Run by David and Isla Murray, experienced dog trainers and crofters, the centre celebrates Shetland's agricultural traditions while showcasing the skill required to work with collies in this rugged landscape. Visitors can observe dogs at various training levels, learn about Fair Isle wool production, and explore the surrounding countryside rich with Viking history and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Shetland Rural Experience Centre
- Shetland, North Roe, ZE2 9RY, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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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
- Pre-book demonstrations at least one week in advance; Sunday sessions begin at 10:30 and last approximately 1.5 hours. Children under 16 receive free admission to demonstrations.
- Wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing; the centre operates year-round and North Roe experiences variable Shetland weather including wind and rain.
- Plan to visit during lambing season (spring) or breeding season to encounter newborn lambs and puppies, adding a seasonal dimension to your experience.
- Combine your visit with exploration of nearby Fethaland and Uyea, both accessible from North Roe and rich with Viking history, archaeological sites, and dramatic coastal scenery.
- Group bookings receive discounts; contact the centre directly for coach tour arrangements and special group rates.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Lerwick
Drive north from Lerwick via the A970 road toward North Roe, a journey of approximately 45 minutes covering roughly 30 kilometres. The route follows Shetland's main north-south spine through moorland and coastal scenery. Free parking is available on site at the centre. This option provides flexibility for exploring surrounding areas including Fethaland and Uyea.
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Bus from Lerwick
Catch a bus from Lerwick bus station to North Roe, operated by Shetland Islands Council. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Service frequency varies seasonally, so check current timetables before travel. Upon arrival in North Roe, the centre is a short walk from the bus stop. This option suits visitors without a vehicle, though services are less frequent than in summer months.
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Taxi or ride service from Lerwick
Arrange a taxi from Lerwick to North Roe, a distance of approximately 30 kilometres taking 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on road conditions. This option provides door-to-door convenience and flexibility for timing, though costs will be higher than public transport. Local taxi services can be arranged through accommodation providers or visitor information services.
Shetland Rural Experience Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Shetland Rural Experience Centre
A Living Testament to Shetland's Farming Heritage
The Shetland Rural Experience Centre stands as a working farm and educational hub dedicated to preserving and sharing the agricultural traditions that have shaped island life for centuries. Located in North Roe, a remote settlement at the northern reaches of Shetland's mainland, the centre offers visitors an unfiltered view of contemporary crofting practices alongside demonstrations of the skills that have sustained Shetland communities. Rather than a museum frozen in time, this is an active working environment where farming continues as it has for generations, with the added dimension of welcoming guests to participate in and learn from daily operations.The Art of Sheepdog Training and Working Collies
At the heart of the centre's offerings are the working collie demonstrations led by David Murray, a Shetland-born trainer with over 35 years of experience in dog training. David is the only Shetland-based trainer to have competed internationally, bringing a level of expertise and competitive achievement to his demonstrations. Visitors witness dogs at various stages of training, from enthusiastic beginners to fully accomplished working dogs, providing genuine insight into the patience, methodology, and bond required between handler and animal. These demonstrations are not theatrical performances but authentic displays of how collies are trained to manage sheep across Shetland's challenging terrain. The centre also breeds collies, and depending on the season, visitors may encounter puppies eager for socialisation and interaction, offering memorable moments with young dogs in their formative stages.Shetland Sheep and the Fair Isle Wool Connection
The centre maintains a flock of traditional Shetland sheep, a hardy breed integral to the islands' identity and economy. These smaller, coloured sheep produce the distinctive fleeces used in world-renowned Fair Isle knitting, a craft that has brought Shetland recognition far beyond the archipelago. Visitors can feed and interact with these animals, gaining appreciation for their role in both historical and contemporary island life. The centre's educational approach emphasises the connection between the animals, the wool they produce, and the cultural significance of Fair Isle patterns that have become synonymous with Shetland craftsmanship.Shetland Ponies and Seasonal Encounters
Shetland ponies, another iconic breed originating from these islands, are present at the centre, allowing visitors to get close to these sturdy, intelligent animals. Photo opportunities with the ponies are actively encouraged, and the centre provides information about the breed's history and characteristics. During lambing and breeding seasons, the experience expands to include time with newborn lambs and puppies, adding an element of seasonal discovery to repeat visits.The Landscape and Historical Context
North Roe serves as a gateway to some of Shetland's most historically significant and geologically fascinating locations. The nearby Fethaland peninsula, where David's father was among the last inhabitants, contains evidence of human settlement spanning millennia, from Neolithic times through Viking occupation to the 15th-century fishing station era. Stone-built huts remain scattered across the seafront, and the area has yielded archaeological evidence of ancient shipwrecks and burials. More recently, Fethaland hosted Shetland's first rocket launch site in 2020. The Uyea island, also accessible from North Roe, holds its own dramatic history, including the Kettle Back Cave where young men once hid from press gangs during the naval recruitment era. The surrounding landscapes offer stunning views of moorland, coastline, and seascapes that draw thousands of visitors annually, from birdwatchers to geologists.Sustainability and Land Management
Beyond the visitor experience, David and Isla are actively involved in landscape restoration and environmental stewardship. David holds expertise in peat restoration and serves as one of three directors of Shetland Peatland Restoration, contributing to conservation efforts across the islands. This commitment to sustainable land management reflects a broader philosophy of balancing agricultural productivity with environmental responsibility, demonstrating how traditional farming practices can coexist with modern conservation principles.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Northernmost Point Of UK
39.9 km
Explore Skaw on Unst, the UK’s northernmost point, where rugged coastline meets rich Viking heritage and iconic maritime landmarks.
Lerwick Town Hall
48.5 km
Victorian civic masterpiece with breathtaking stained glass windows telling Shetland's historical narrative
Market Cross
48.7 km
Historic Market Cross in Lerwick, the symbolic heart of Shetland’s trade, community, and civic life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beorgs of Housetter, Standing Stones
3.2 km
Ancient red-pink standing stones marking a Neolithic chambered cairn, offering a rare glimpse into Shetland’s prehistoric heritage.
The Hollanders Graves
10.5 km
A quiet cairn on Shetland’s wild west coast marks the burial place of Dutch sailors from the 1674 Battle of Ronas Voe, one of the islands’ earliest known war graves.
The honesty box
14.7 km
Discover authentic Shetland flavors and community spirit at The Honesty Box, a charming self-service farm shop in tranquil Mid Yell.
Eshaness
16.5 km
Discover Eshaness, Shetland’s wild volcanic peninsula with dramatic cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and breathtaking North Atlantic vistas.
Tangwick Haa Museum
17.3 km
Explore Tangwick Haa Museum, a historic laird’s house preserving Northmavine’s rich heritage and maritime traditions in scenic Shetland.
Eshaness Broch
17.9 km
Explore ancient Iron Age ruins on Shetland’s volcanic cliffs, where wild Atlantic seas meet breathtaking coastal history and nature.
Eshaness Lighthouse
19.0 km
Historic 1929 lighthouse perched on Shetland’s dramatic cliffs, guarding treacherous seas with stunning coastal views and rich maritime heritage.
Esha Ness
20.4 km
Explore Shetland’s volcanic cliffs, historic lighthouse, and wild Atlantic coast at Esha Ness, a landscape of raw natural power and ancient heritage.
Mavis Grind
20.5 km
Discover Mavis Grind, the narrow isthmus where the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea nearly meet, steeped in Viking history and dramatic Shetland scenery.
Hammers Ness - Gutcher Ferry
22.2 km
Historic Gothic mansion on Fetlar blending ancient Viking roots with Shetland’s cultural heritage and stunning coastal scenery.
Voe Public Hall
25.1 km
A welcoming volunteer-run hub in Shetland’s Voe, hosting diverse community events with inclusive facilities in a scenic island setting.
Tagon Stores
25.3 km
Tagon Stores offers essential groceries, fuel, and friendly service on Shetland’s A970, making it a vital stop for locals and travelers alike.
The Cabin Museum
26.6 km
Discover Shetland’s wartime stories and rural heritage in this intimate museum nestled in Mainland’s heartland.
The Cake Fridge - Shetland
31.0 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.
Hermaness National Nature Reserve
35.9 km
A remote Shetland sanctuary where towering cliffs meet vast seabird colonies and wild moorland under the northern skies.
Essential places to dine
Frankie's Fish & Chips
20.9 km
Savor fresh, locally sourced fish and crispy chips at Shetland’s beloved Frankie's Fish & Chips in Brae.
The Waterfront Bar and Grill
47.5 km
A modern, informal grill in Lerwick serving fresh Shetland seafood and hearty dishes with warm hospitality every evening.
The Olive Tree
48.1 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
48.1 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
Hay's Dock By The Dowry
48.1 km
Historic waterfront dining at Lerwick’s last original dock, where Shetland’s maritime heritage meets cozy local hospitality.
Saffron
48.1 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
The Great Wall
48.2 km
Experience authentic Cantonese flavors at The Great Wall, Lerwick’s largest and most accessible Chinese restaurant in the heart of Shetland.
Téamoré
48.2 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Golden Coach
48.3 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
48.5 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
48.5 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
The New Harbour Cafe
48.5 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Dowry
48.6 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Grand Hotel
48.6 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
48.6 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest seafood and local lamb in a cozy, modern British restaurant at the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant dining scene.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Shetland Fairy
0.8 km
Discover handcrafted fairy gifts and ethically sourced crystals in Shetland’s northernmost village, where folklore and artistry meet.
Ollabery Shop
10.0 km
A welcoming general store and fuel stop in Shetland’s scenic north, serving locals and travelers with essential goods and friendly charm.
The Hillshop
14.4 km
A cozy local shop and café in Mid Yell offering Shetland crafts, home bakes, and a warm island welcome.
Aywick Shop
16.7 km
A beloved general store in East Yell, Aywick Shop offers an eclectic range of goods and a warm community atmosphere in the heart of Shetland’s northern isles.
Shetland Crafts
18.0 km
Discover authentic Shetland artistry at Shetland Crafts in Yell, where tradition meets inspired craftsmanship in a welcoming setting.
Co-op Food - Shetland Brae - Hillside
20.5 km
Your friendly local Co-op Food store in Brae, Shetland, offering fresh groceries, bakery treats, postal services, and daily essentials from dawn till late evening.
The Kergord Hatchery Bookshop
35.7 km
A charming second-hand bookshop in a former salmon hatchery, perfect for readers and dog lovers exploring Shetland’s peaceful Weisdale valley.
West Isle Shop
36.1 km
Essential island shop and post office in Skerries, Shetland, blending local heritage with community spirit and visitor convenience.
A Humphray and Co General Stores
36.4 km
Discover the heart of Shetland through A Humphray and Co General Stores, where local flavors and community spirit come together.
The Co-Operative Lerwick
47.8 km
Discover Shetland's flavors at The Co-Operative Lerwick, your go-to convenience store for fresh produce and local goods.
Co-op Food - Shetland Lerwick - Holmsgarth Road
47.8 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Lerwick - your one-stop-shop for local goods and essentials during your Shetland adventures.
Bolts Minimarket
48.1 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Toll Clock Shopping Centre
48.1 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
Health Craft
48.2 km
Discover Shetland’s finest health foods and crafts at Health Craft, Lerwick’s welcoming hub for wellness and local artistry.
The Bop Shop
48.3 km
Discover Shetland’s beloved monthly vinyl haven and creative hub where music, community, and culture intertwine in Lerwick’s heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Welcome Inn
15.6 km
A welcoming Shetland pub and live music venue where community spirit and local culture come alive in Mossbank.
Mid Brae Inn
20.7 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Brae Hotel
21.0 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Busta House Hotel
22.0 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
Balta Light
34.5 km
Experience authentic Shetland hospitality at Balta Light, the UK's northernmost pub nestled in Baltasound, Unst.
Douglas Arms
48.2 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
48.3 km
Lerwick’s only nightclub open till 3 AM, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of Shetland’s capital.
Maryfield House Hotel
48.5 km
Charming family-run hotel on Bressay Island with stunning sea views, local seafood dining, and easy ferry access to Shetland’s capital.
Thule Bar
48.5 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
The Lounge Bar
48.7 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
49.2 km
Coastal charm meets local flavors at Lerwick’s Fjarå Café Bar, where sea views and seasonal dishes create an unforgettable dining escape.
Scalloway Hotel
49.4 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
49.4 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Remote
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
