The Grand Hotel, Lerwick – Historic Heart of Shetland Hospitality
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.
Situated on Commercial Street in the bustling center of Lerwick, The Grand Hotel offers a blend of classic charm and local hospitality with comfortable rooms, a lively bar, and a well-regarded breakfast. This three-star hotel stands as a welcoming base for exploring Shetland’s cultural and natural attractions, combining historic character with a central location close to shops and restaurants.
A brief summary to The Grand Hotel
- 149 Commercial St, Shetland, Lerwick, ZE1 0AN, GB
- +441595697425
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book early during summer months to secure a room, as Lerwick’s limited hotel options fill quickly.
- Try the hotel’s renowned breakfast, often praised as the best on Shetland.
- Request a room with harbor views for a scenic start to your day.
- Be prepared for some stairs, as the hotel does not have a lift.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Grand Hotel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Grand Hotel
A Storied Landmark in Lerwick’s Commercial Hub
The Grand Hotel occupies a prominent position on 149 Commercial Street, anchoring the vibrant town center of Lerwick, Shetland’s capital. This historic hotel has long been part of the town’s fabric, offering visitors a window into Shetland’s maritime heritage and community life. Its traditional façade and interior spaces evoke a bygone era of Scottish hospitality, while ongoing refurbishments aim to blend comfort with this classic atmosphere.Comfort and Character in Every Room
The hotel features a range of guest rooms that emphasize warmth and coziness, essential for Shetland’s often brisk climate. While some rooms reflect the hotel’s age and are in various stages of refurbishment, they consistently provide clean, comfortable bedding and practical amenities. Guests often appreciate the large towels, ample tea and coffee supplies, and the inviting warmth of the rooms, making it a restful retreat after a day exploring the islands.Culinary and Social Heartbeat
The Grand Hotel is well known locally for its hearty and highly praised breakfast, often described as the best in Shetland. The dining room, despite some wear, is a place where guests gather to start their day with generous portions and friendly service. The bar area adds a lively social dimension, attracting locals and travelers alike with its welcoming atmosphere and opportunities to meet people from around the world.Location and Local Experience
Positioned within walking distance of Lerwick’s shops, restaurants, and cultural sites, The Grand Hotel offers guests easy access to the town’s amenities and events. Its proximity to the harbor provides scenic views and a connection to Shetland’s fishing and maritime traditions. The hotel’s location makes it an excellent base for day trips around the archipelago or for immersing oneself in the local community.Ongoing Renewal and Community Spirit
Though some parts of the hotel show signs of age, ongoing refurbishment efforts reflect a commitment to preserving its historic charm while enhancing guest comfort. The staff are frequently noted for their friendliness and dedication, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that balances the hotel’s grand heritage with the warmth of genuine hospitality.A Unique Blend of Tradition and Accessibility
The Grand Hotel stands as a testament to Shetland’s enduring appeal, blending traditional Scottish hospitality with a central, accessible location. It offers visitors a chance to experience Lerwick’s lively town center and the natural beauty of the Shetland Islands, all within a setting that honors the past while embracing the present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market Cross
0.1 km
Historic Market Cross in Lerwick, the symbolic heart of Shetland’s trade, community, and civic life.
Lerwick Town Hall
0.1 km
Victorian civic masterpiece with breathtaking stained glass windows telling Shetland's historical narrative
Northernmost Point Of UK
80.0 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
Shetland Museum & Archives
0.6 km
Discover Shetland’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits and archives in a historic dockside setting in Lerwick.
The Knab
0.9 km
A scenic coastal headland in Lerwick blending rich history, natural beauty, and visionary community development on Shetland’s shores.
Tesco Superstore
1.2 km
A comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Lerwick offering groceries, fresh produce, clothing, and extended hours for convenient island shopping.
Shetland Textile Museum
2.1 km
Discover Shetland’s rich textile heritage through vibrant exhibitions, live craft demonstrations, and authentic local artistry in Lerwick.
Giant's Leg, Bressay
6.9 km
Explore the Giant's Leg, a stunning natural sea arch on Bressay’s rugged southern coast, blending geology, wildlife, and wartime history.
Scalloway Museum
7.5 km
Discover Shetland’s history and heroic wartime tales at Scalloway Museum, a vibrant community hub near the iconic castle.
Scalloway Castle
7.5 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Scalloway Castle, a formidable 1600 tower house symbolizing Shetland’s turbulent past and the legacy of ‘Black Patie’.
Nesting Phonebox
12.5 km
Discover Shetland’s charming Nesting Phonebox, a tiny red kiosk transformed into a delightful bookshop nestled in a tranquil rural setting.
Lingness
12.7 km
Discover Ling Ness, a tranquil coastal headland in Shetland offering scenic walks, wildlife, and authentic island atmosphere.
Scord of Weisdale Viewpoint
13.2 km
A serene roadside viewpoint offering sweeping views over Weisdale Voe and Shetland’s rugged west coast landscapes.
RSPB Mousa
17.5 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
17.8 km
Explore the tallest, best-preserved Iron Age broch in Europe, a 2,300-year-old coastal fortress steeped in history and Norse legend.
The Cake Fridge - Shetland
19.9 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
22.4 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
22.6 km
Discover Shetland’s wartime stories and rural heritage in this intimate museum nestled in Mainland’s heartland.
Essential places to dine
The Grand Hotel
0.0 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
0.0 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
0.0 km
Quirky Lerwick gem serving inventive island cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The New Harbour Cafe
0.1 km
Cozy cafe in Lerwick serving traditional Scottish breakfasts and Shetland specialties in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
C’est la Vie
0.1 km
Cozy French bistro in Lerwick serving authentic Basque-style cuisine with warm hospitality and a charming eclectic interior.
Da Steak Hoose
0.1 km
A cozy, no-frills steakhouse in Lerwick serving juicy cuts, crisp chips, and hearty meals in a warm, local atmosphere.
Fort Cafe & Take Away
0.1 km
Savor Shetland’s freshest fish and chips with friendly service at Lerwick’s beloved Fort Cafe & Take Away, a local culinary gem.
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.
Téamoré
0.4 km
Cozy café and restaurant in Lerwick offering local seafood, Asian-inspired dishes, and homemade treats in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Great Wall
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cantonese flavors at The Great Wall, Lerwick’s largest and most accessible Chinese restaurant in the heart of Shetland.
Hay's Dock By The Dowry
0.5 km
Historic waterfront dining at Lerwick’s last original dock, where Shetland’s maritime heritage meets cozy local hospitality.
Saffron
0.6 km
Saffron brings authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors to Lerwick with warm hospitality and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
The Bay Brasserie
0.6 km
Savor fresh local flavors with stunning bay views at Lerwick’s welcoming Bay Brasserie, blending scenic charm and diverse dining.
The Olive Tree
0.7 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
0.8 km
Award-winning Nepali and Indian cuisine in the heart of Lerwick, where authentic Himalayan flavors meet island warmth.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ninian
0.0 km
Discover authentic Shetland craftsmanship with a modern twist at Ninian, Lerwick’s charming gift shop for exquisite knitwear and home furnishings.
LHD Shop
0.1 km
LHD Shop in Lerwick offers trusted workwear, marine supplies, and outdoor gear tailored to Shetland’s rugged lifestyle and maritime heritage.
Peerie Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique Shetland gifts and cozy café delights in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre.
The Puffin Republic
0.1 km
Discover authentic Shetland gifts and local artistry at The Puffin Republic in the heart of Lerwick’s vibrant commercial district.
Boots
0.1 km
Your trusted local pharmacy and beauty destination in the heart of Lerwick, offering health, wellness, and personal care essentials.
Ellesmere Stores
0.1 km
A welcoming convenience store in Lerwick’s heart, offering fresh local products and everyday essentials with a community spirit.
Jamieson's of Shetland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Shetland wool and heritage knitwear at Jamieson's, Lerwick’s treasured wool shop on Commercial Street.
The Shetland Times Bookshop
0.2 km
Explore Britain’s most northerly bookshop, a cultural gem in Lerwick offering rich Shetland literature and a welcoming browsing experience.
Peerie Isles
0.2 km
Discover authentic Shetland crafts and gifts in the heart of Lerwick’s historic town centre at Peerie Isles.
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.
Health Craft
0.4 km
Discover Shetland’s finest health foods and crafts at Health Craft, Lerwick’s welcoming hub for wellness and local artistry.
Toll Clock Shopping Centre
0.7 km
A vibrant indoor shopping hub in Lerwick offering local crafts, daily essentials, eateries, and community spirit in the heart of Shetland.
Bolts Minimarket
0.7 km
A friendly, well-stocked local minimarket in Lerwick offering Shetland flavors and essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Co-op Food - Shetland Lerwick - Holmsgarth Road
0.9 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
0.9 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
Thule Bar
0.1 km
Historic harbourfront pub in Lerwick offering local brews, lively vibes, and a cozy spot to unwind by the sea.
The Lounge Bar
0.1 km
A lively Lerwick pub famed for live traditional music, local camaraderie, and a wide selection of drinks in the heart of Shetland.
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.
Douglas Arms
0.5 km
Cozy and welcoming, the Douglas Arms is Lerwick’s beloved traditional pub, offering local drinks, live music, and genuine Shetland hospitality.
Fjarå Café Bar
1.2 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
1.4 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
7.6 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
7.6 km
A historic Shetland pub blending Viking heritage, local ales, and warm hospitality in Scalloway’s heart.
Busta House Hotel
28.6 km
Historic coastal retreat in Shetland with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and stunning North Atlantic views.
Brae Hotel
28.8 km
Comfortable and friendly hotel in Brae, Shetland, offering excellent local dining and a welcoming atmosphere for exploring the northern isles.
Mid Brae Inn
29.1 km
Cozy country pub in Brae, Shetland, serving hearty homemade food with warm local hospitality at moderate prices.
Welcome Inn
34.3 km
A welcoming Shetland pub and live music venue where community spirit and local culture come alive in Mossbank.
Balta Light
70.6 km
Experience authentic Shetland hospitality at Balta Light, the UK's northernmost pub nestled in Baltasound, Unst.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
