A Shetland Summer: Family, Sea Breezes & Woolly Adventures

There’s nowhere quite like Shetland. For me, it’s not just a destination—it’s home. I grew up in Hillswick, a tiny village that feels like it sits on the edge of the world, and going back always fills me with warmth, nostalgia, and inspiration.

This summer, my husband and I packed up our four children and made the journey north, not just for a holiday but to reconnect with family and the incredible landscape that shaped me. We met up with my sister and her children, and my brother and his family too. His wedding was one of the highlights of our time together—such a happy celebration—and his new baby girl absolutely stole our hearts.

We squeezed so much into our visit, exploring some of Shetland’s most breathtaking places and discovering a few new gems along the way.

Puffins, Sea Cliffs & Coastal Views

One of the children’s favourite days was our visit to Sumburgh Head. Watching puffins bob in and out of their burrows on the cliff edge is pure magic. The dramatic views from the lighthouse—waves crashing far below and the open sea stretching into forever—never fail to stir something in you.

We also ventured across the beautiful tombolo to St Ninian’s Isle, a golden sweep of sand linking the mainland to the tiny isle. The walk is gentle and otherworldly, with turquoise water on both sides and seabirds wheeling overhead.

A Day in Unst – The Edge of the UK

A real highlight of our trip was a full day exploring Unst, the most northerly of the Shetland Islands—and the most northerly inhabited place in the UK! The journey there was an adventure in itself, taking two ferries and passing through the wild beauty of Yell before arriving on Unst’s unique and rugged shores.

Our first stop was Muness Castle, the northernmost castle in Britain. Built in 1598, it sits tucked into the landscape like a secret, its stone ruins full of mystery and stories.

Next, we headed to Hermaness National Nature Reserve, an unforgettable clifftop walk through peatland and moor that suddenly opens up to sweeping views of the sea. We saw bonxies (great skuas) soaring overhead, gannets diving, fulmars gliding along the cliffs—and of course, plenty of puffins peeking from their burrows. From the edge, we looked out to Muckle Flugga, a dramatic rock topped with a remote lighthouse and the official northernmost point of the British Isles. It felt like standing at the end of the world.

We also paid a visit to the SaxaVord Spaceport Visitor Centre, a fascinating glimpse into Unst’s future as a launch site for small satellites and rockets. The kids loved seeing the exhibits and learning how this quiet, windswept island might soon send spacecraft into orbit!

To finish the day, we went to Norwick Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Shetland. It’s framed by steep cliffs and has a magical feel—with golden sand, smooth stones, and the waves rolling in gently. The children explored the shore, and we soaked in the peacefulness of being so far from anywhere.

Layers of History Underfoot

Shetland is full of ancient wonders, and we made time to explore a few of its most fascinating historic sites. Clickimin Broch, just outside Lerwick, is a wonderfully preserved Iron Age roundhouse that invites you to step back in time and imagine life thousands of years ago.

Near Sumburgh, we explored the extraordinary Jarlshof archaeological site—where you can literally walk through time. From Neolithic houses to Viking longhouses and a medieval farmstead, it’s like stepping through the layers of Shetland’s past, all on one windswept site beside the sea.

In Lerwick, we visited Fort Charlotte, a 17th-century star-shaped fort with sweeping views across the harbour. It’s a great place to stop for a break, a bit of local history, and an excellent photo or two.

Wild Walks & Windswept Beauty

Back at Hillswick, we walked the spectacular loop out to Hillswick Ness, where the rugged path curls along cliffs and past wildflower-covered slopes to the old lighthouse. It’s one of those walks where every turn reveals a new view—seals basking on rocks, seabirds riding the wind, and endless horizons.

Another breathtaking spot was Eshaness, with its towering sea cliffs carved by time and tide. The sound of the waves crashing below, the cries of gulls, and the vast sky overhead—it’s the kind of place that makes you feel deeply connected to the land and sea.

We also drove up the barely-there track to the top of Collafirth Hill, bumping along what felt more like a sheep path than a road! But the view at the top was worth every jolt—panoramic vistas across Shetland in every direction. You can see lochs, hills, and the glimmering sea stretching endlessly. It’s a place to pause and just take it all in.

Sea Dips & Sandy Toes

On the rare warm days (and even a few bracing ones!), we couldn’t resist dipping into the sea. The children loved Turness Beach, a quiet cove near Hillswick that feels like your own private hideaway. We also had lovely afternoons at Hillswick Beach, splashing in the shallows, collecting shells, and watching the waves roll in. It’s simple fun—and the kind of joy that sticks with you.

Crochet in the Wild

Of course, I couldn’t travel without some yarn! I brought along The Summer Stitch Story Blanket, and it felt so special to photograph it against the stunning Shetland backdrop—draped on a stone wall overlooking the sea, nestled in heather on the hillside, or laid out on a picnic blanket beside the beach.

Crafting in Shetland feels like stitching yourself into the landscape—slow, thoughtful, grounded in tradition and nature. The colours of the blanket echoed the land around us: soft blues, greens, creams, and warm earthy tones.

Back Home, But Still Inspired

We’re now back in Lancashire, back to the shop and everyday life—but Shetland lingers. The sea air, the light, the laughter of family, and the rhythm of the waves have all woven themselves into the threads of memory.

If you ever get the chance to visit Shetland, take it. It’s wild and beautiful, rich in history and nature, and full of warmth—both from the people and the place.

And if you can't make it north, well, perhaps a few stitches with a Shetland memory in mind might bring a little of its magic to you.

With love,

Dymphna x