Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve
Historic lighthouse and immersive nature reserve perched on Shetland’s southern cliffs, rich in wildlife, heritage, and dramatic coastal views.
Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, located at the southernmost tip of Shetland Mainland, is a historic beacon surrounded by dramatic cliffs and an RSPB nature reserve. The restored Grade A listed lighthouse buildings house an interactive visitor centre offering insights into Shetland's maritime history, wildlife, and geology. Visitors can explore seabird colonies, marine life exhibits, and WWII radar huts while enjoying spectacular coastal views.
A brief summary to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve
- Sumburgh, ZE3 9JN, GB
- +441950461966
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit between April and early October for full access to the visitor centre and exhibits.
- Bring binoculars for close-up views of puffins and other seabirds nesting on the cliffs.
- Wear sturdy footwear for walking on uneven paths and cliffside trails.
- Check seasonal opening times before visiting, as the centre is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the season.
- Explore nearby archaeological sites like Old Scatness and Jarlshof to complement your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Lerwick takes approximately 25-30 minutes via the A970. Free parking is available at the site, including designated disabled spaces near the lighthouse. Note the single-track road near the headland.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Lerwick to Sumburgh Head with a journey time of around 40 minutes. Service frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. The bus stops near the main car park.
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Walking
For active visitors, a scenic 2-hour hike from nearby Sumburgh village to the lighthouse is possible. The terrain includes uneven paths and some steep sections, suitable for experienced walkers.
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Airport Transfer
Sumburgh Airport lies within 2 miles of the lighthouse. Taxi transfers take about 5-10 minutes. Pre-booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve 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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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, Visitor Centre & Nature Reserve
Historic Beacon at Shetland's Edge
Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, built in 1821 by Robert Stevenson, stands as Shetland's oldest and most iconic lighthouse. Perched on towering Old Red Sandstone cliffs at the southernmost point of the Shetland Mainland, it has guided mariners for over two centuries. The lighthouse’s construction is steeped in maritime history, linked to the Stevenson family legacy and literary connections with Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. Its presence marks a vital navigational point where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean.Immersive Visitor Centre Experience
The lighthouse buildings have been meticulously restored and transformed into a world-class visitor centre operated by the Shetland Amenity Trust. The centre features interactive exhibits detailing the social, military, and maritime heritage of the area. Highlights include the Engine Room, Smiddy, Marine Life Centre, and a WWII Radar Hut. The Observatory café offers refreshments with panoramic views, allowing visitors to relax while observing seabirds and marine mammals. The centre is open seasonally from April to early October, with occasional winter openings for special events.RSPB Nature Reserve and Wildlife
Sumburgh Head is also a designated RSPB nature reserve, renowned for its seabird colonies nesting on the cliffs. Puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes are among the species that can be seen during the breeding season. The cliffs provide a dramatic natural theatre for birdwatchers and photographers alike. The reserve also offers insights into Shetland’s marine life, with exhibits on whales and other sea creatures that frequent the surrounding waters.Geological and Archaeological Significance
Beneath the cliffs lies a small quarry exposing sediment layers from the Devonian Period, around 385 million years ago. Fossil beds found here include ancient fish remains, helping scientists understand the geological evolution of the British Isles. Nearby archaeological sites such as Old Scatness and Jarlshof complement the natural history with Iron Age and Norse heritage, making the area a rich tapestry of human and natural history.Accessibility and Facilities
The site offers free parking, including disabled spaces near the lighthouse buildings. The visitor centre is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring level access areas, lifts, accessible toilets, and partially suitable paths for visitors with limited mobility. Outdoor areas around the lighthouse and cliffs are freely accessible year-round, though some paths include steps and may be challenging for wheelchair users.Unique Coastal Ambience and Accommodation
The dramatic coastal setting provides breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs, with the sound of seabirds and crashing waves creating a tranquil atmosphere. Nearby, the Lighthouse Keeper’s cottage offers luxury self-catering accommodation with original features and stunning views. The surrounding area is ideal for nature lovers, heritage enthusiasts, and those seeking a serene escape on Shetland’s rugged coastline.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
1.9 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
3.2 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
6.8 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
16.5 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
16.9 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
29.9 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
31.3 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Scalloway Castle, a formidable 1600 tower house symbolizing Shetland’s turbulent past and the legacy of ‘Black Patie’.
Scalloway Museum
31.3 km
Discover Shetland’s history and heroic wartime tales at Scalloway Museum, a vibrant community hub near the iconic castle.
Tesco Superstore
33.2 km
A comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Lerwick offering groceries, fresh produce, clothing, and extended hours for convenient island shopping.
The Knab
33.3 km
A scenic coastal headland in Lerwick blending rich history, natural beauty, and visionary community development on Shetland’s shores.
Fort Charlotte
34.3 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
34.4 km
Discover Shetland’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and archives in a historic dockside setting in Lerwick.
Shetland Textile Museum
35.6 km
Discover Shetland’s rich textile heritage through vibrant exhibitions, live craft demonstrations, and authentic local artistry in Lerwick.
Fair Isle North Lighthouse
38.5 km
A remote coastal sentinel on Fair Isle’s wild northeastern tip, blending maritime heritage with breathtaking northern seascapes.
Culswick Broch
39.9 km
Explore Culswick Broch, an ancient Iron Age tower perched on Shetland’s wild west coast, offering rugged beauty and evocative history.
Essential places to dine
Da Haaf Restaurant
31.0 km
Savor fresh Shetland seafood and traditional Scottish dishes with stunning harbor views at Da Haaf Restaurant in Scalloway.
The Bay Brasserie
33.6 km
Savor fresh local flavors with stunning bay views at Lerwick’s welcoming Bay Brasserie, blending scenic charm and diverse dining.
Da Steak Hoose
34.0 km
A cozy, no-frills steakhouse in Lerwick serving juicy cuts, crisp chips, and hearty meals in a warm, local atmosphere.
The Grand Hotel
34.1 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
34.1 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
34.1 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The New Harbour Cafe
34.2 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
C’est la Vie
34.2 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
Fort Cafe & Take Away
34.2 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
34.3 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
Golden Coach
34.3 km
Savor fresh, authentic Chinese cuisine in a welcoming, spacious setting at Golden Coach, Lerwick’s favorite for traditional flavors and friendly service.
Saffron
34.3 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
The Olive Tree
34.4 km
A cozy British café in Lerwick’s Toll Clock Shopping Centre, offering fresh, gluten-free-friendly dishes and a rich tea selection.
Téamoré
34.4 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Great Wall
34.4 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
31.5 km
Explore The Annex in Shetland for unique gifts and clothing that embody the spirit of the islands, perfect for souvenirs and memories.
The Shetland Times Bookshop
34.0 km
Explore Britain’s most northerly bookshop, a cultural gem in Lerwick offering rich Shetland literature and a welcoming browsing experience.
Jamieson's of Shetland
34.0 km
Discover authentic Shetland wool and heritage knitwear at Jamieson's, Lerwick’s treasured wool shop on Commercial Street.
Peerie Isles
34.0 km
Discover authentic Shetland crafts and gifts in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre at Peerie Isles.
Ellesmere Stores
34.1 km
A welcoming convenience store in Lerwick’s heart, offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with a community spirit.
Ninian
34.1 km
Discover authentic Shetland craftsmanship with a modern twist at Ninian, Lerwick’s charming gift shop for exquisite knitwear and home furnishings.
LHD Shop
34.1 km
LHD Shop in Lerwick offers trusted workwear, marine supplies, and outdoor gear tailored to Shetland’s rugged lifestyle and maritime heritage.
Peerie Shop
34.1 km
Discover unique Shetland gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre.
Boots
34.2 km
Your trusted local pharmacy and beauty destination in the heart of Lerwick, offering health, wellness, and personal care essentials.
The Puffin Republic
34.2 km
Discover authentic Shetland gifts and local artistry at The Puffin Republic in the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant commercial district.
The Bop Shop
34.3 km
Discover Shetland’s beloved monthly vinyl haven and creative hub where music, community, and culture intertwine in Lerwick’s heart.
Toll Clock Shopping Centre
34.4 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
Bolts Minimarket
34.4 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Health Craft
34.4 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
34.6 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
31.5 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
Scalloway Hotel
31.5 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
33.2 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
34.0 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
34.2 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
Douglas Arms
34.4 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
34.4 km
Lerwick’s only nightclub open till 3 AM, offering vibrant late-night entertainment in the heart of Shetland’s capital.
Maryfield House Hotel
34.8 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
59.1 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
Brae Hotel
59.9 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Mid Brae Inn
60.2 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Welcome Inn
67.7 km
A welcoming Shetland pub and live music venue where community spirit and local culture come alive in Mossbank.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
