Top 10 Best Hotels in Shetland Islands

Where to Stay in Shetland

Shetland's hotels are as varied as its landscapes. Visitors can choose elegant Georgian country houses, welcoming family-run inns and modern hotels in Lerwick with easy access to restaurants, shops and cultural attractions. What unites them is genuine island hospitality: friendly staff, hearty breakfasts featuring local produce and a wealth of tips on wildlife, walks and events.

Because the hotel stock is relatively small and demand is high from tourists, business travellers and energy sector workers, booking ahead is always wise. Here are the ten best hotels in Shetland.

The Top 10 Hotels in Shetland

1. Busta House Hotel

Busta House Hotel near Brae is a historic country house dating back several centuries. Set beside a sheltered voe with lovely gardens, it combines period charm with comfortable rooms and a celebrated restaurant. It is ideal for exploring the North Mainland and Northmavine.

2. Kveldsro House Hotel

Kveldsro House Hotel is an elegant Victorian property overlooking Lerwick harbour. Its quiet, refined atmosphere, attentive service and central location make it a top choice for both leisure and business travellers.

3. Scalloway Hotel

The Scalloway Hotel sits on the waterfront of Shetland's former capital and is widely praised for its outstanding restaurant. Guests enjoy seafood and local produce prepared with creativity, along with views of Scalloway Castle and the harbour.

4. Sumburgh Hotel

Located close to Sumburgh Airport, Jarlshof and Sumburgh Head, the Sumburgh Hotel is perfectly placed for exploring the South Mainland. Its traditional character and convenient location make it popular with arriving and departing travellers.

5. Lerwick Hotel

The Lerwick Hotel offers comfortable rooms, many with sea views across Breiwick Bay. Its restaurant, bar and short walk to the town centre make it a practical and pleasant base in the capital.

6. Shetland Hotel

The Shetland Hotel stands opposite the ferry terminal in Lerwick and is one of the largest hotels in the islands. It is well suited to business travellers, conferences and visitors arriving on the overnight ferry from Aberdeen.

7. Herrislea House Hotel

Herrislea House Hotel in Tingwall offers a peaceful countryside setting just a few miles from Lerwick. It is known for its friendly service, cosy bar and good food, and is close to Tingwall Airport and the historic Law Ting Holm.

8. Brae Hotel

The Brae Hotel is a convenient and welcoming option in the North Mainland, popular with travellers working at Sullom Voe and visitors exploring the northern coastline. Its comfortable rooms and relaxed bar make it a reliable choice.

9. Baltasound Hotel

On the island of Unst, the Baltasound Hotel is Britain's most northerly hotel. It provides a warm base for exploring Hermaness, Viking heritage sites and the dramatic scenery at the very top of the British Isles.

10. Westings Inn

The Westings Inn at Whiteness enjoys sweeping views over the Westside of Shetland. This friendly inn is valued for its relaxed atmosphere, tasty home-cooked meals and access to scenic walks and quiet beaches.

Choosing the Best Area to Stay

Lerwick is ideal for first-time visitors who want restaurants, the Shetland Museum and Archives, Mareel's cinema and music venue and easy access to boat trips. The South Mainland suits travellers interested in archaeology and seabirds, while the North Mainland offers dramatic cliffs and quieter landscapes. The North Isles provide a true sense of remoteness and are perfect for nature lovers.

Consider how you will get around. Many visitors hire a car, but those relying on buses may prefer staying in Lerwick, where most routes begin. If you plan to explore multiple regions, splitting your stay between two hotels can reduce driving and ferry time.

Dining and Local Produce

Shetland's hotels are among the best places to sample local food. Shetland lamb, with its distinctive flavour from grazing on heather and seaweed-rich pastures, appears on many menus. Fresh mussels, scallops, salmon and white fish are landed daily. Look out for bannocks, reestit mutton soup and local bakes, and pair your meal with a dram from a Scottish distillery or a craft beer brewed in the islands.

Booking Tips

Book well in advance for summer, Up Helly Aa in January, Shetland Wool Week and the Shetland Folk Festival. Large infrastructure projects can also create unexpected demand for rooms throughout the year. Booking directly with hotels often provides the best flexibility and allows you to ask about special requests such as sea-view rooms or early breakfasts before ferry departures.

Trends in Shetland Hospitality

Hotels are increasingly focused on sustainability, sourcing local food and reducing energy use. Many are upgrading rooms and facilities to meet rising expectations from international visitors and cruise passengers. Wellbeing and slow travel are also influencing offerings, with packages built around walking, wildlife and cultural experiences.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the historic elegance of Busta House, the harbourside charm of Kveldsro or the remote magic of Baltasound, Shetland's hotels offer a warm welcome at the edge of the North Atlantic. Book ahead, ask your hosts for local tips and enjoy the islands' unforgettable hospitality.