Shetland Museum, Lerwick, United Kingdom

Set on the waterfront within a restored 19th century dock in Lerwick, Shetland Museum and Archives tells the story of Shetland’s heritage and culture. The museum chart the development of the archipelago from its earliest geological origins to the present day. Its galleries contain everything from delicate Shetland lace to Pictish art and even the first telephone introduced in the islands in 1883. Visit the renovated Boat Shed to watch vessels being constructed by hand using techniques handed down through generations, and admire completed examples suspended from the ceiling in the three-storey Boat Hall. The museum’s Archive Collections offers wealth of material related to all aspects of Shetland life including books, magazines, Ordnance Survey maps, court records and newspapers. The Heritage Hub provides assistance to visitor interested in further exploring any aspect of Shetland’s culture and past. Other facilities include a café restaurant, an auditorium, study rooms, a temporary exhibition space and shop.

References:

Visit Scotland

User Reviews

Veniamin Shykin (9 months ago)
Great FREE museum for such a small place. Representing rich history of Shetland. Early history on a ground floor, 1st floor - 19th Century onwards.

Marianne Heredge (9 months ago)
Excellent museum. As well as a very good overview of the history of the Shetland Islands, there was a lovely exhibition of photos of fisher women. The museum shop stocks a fascinating selection of very interesting books too.

Islean Gibson (9 months ago)
Amazing museum that is so well thought out and you travel through the life and times of Shetland. Nice wee cafe, but be prepared for a limited gluten free choice. Soup was amazing though!

neil hedley (10 months ago)
Well worth a visit and so much to see. The staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. The museum is free with an option to make a donation.

Scott Walmsley (10 months ago)
Went along here as I had an hour or two to spare. Great place to visit for the history of the island, which it has plenty. From the beginning to the current day oil industry. There is also information on where to go and what to visit as you enter. Free entry and a donation if you wish. Small gift shop also within. The museum is split over two floors

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