£98 Cheap Flights to Lerwick

The Shetland Islands are one of the United Kingdom’s most isolated destinations, located some 100 miles northeast of the mainland of Scotland. The islands feature a unique heritage and culture, as well as a stunning and dramatic landscape. The archipelago is mainly serviced by Sumburgh Airport (LSI), located approximately 25 miles south of the town of Lerwick, which is also home to the main ferry port in the Shetland Islands. From Lerwick, budding explorers can use the inter-island ferry service to travel to and from a variety of smaller local ports, or use NorthLink Ferries to travel to the mainland.

Flights to Lerwick at Sumburgh (LSI)

The Shetland Islands are home to two airports, Sumburgh (LSI) and Lerwick/Tingwall Airport (LWK), but the latter is smaller and typically services only the islands and private planes. Those travelling to and from further afield can choose between destinations that include Orkney, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, and Bergen in Norway.

For visitors arriving at Sumburgh Airport, the town of Lerwick can be reached via public transportation that runs every few hours, or more likely a taxi service or hiring a car. Vehicles can be rented at the Avis car hire centre located at the airport. Travellers who use the Expedia search tool can find both cheaper car hire prices and hotel rooms, so be sure to book your services in advance for convenience and a good deal.

Why Fly to the Shetland Islands?

The Shetland Islands are made up of more than 100 islands and islets, 15 of which are inhabited. Much of the archipelago contains traces or ruins from ancient Neolithic and Viking settlements that date as far back as up to 6,000 years ago. Shetland connects Scotland and the United Kingdom to Scandinavia through its geographic location.

This connection can also be found in the rich heritage that can still be seen in the region’s Iron Age brochs, landing stones, Pictish wheelhouses, and traditional Scottish croft houses. Those who aren't Scottish may not be aware, but Shetland was actually a Norwegian province through much of the 15th century, until it was gifted to Scotland in 1469 as the dowry of a Danish princess.

On top of its diverse and fascinating history, Shetland is also a destination that is revered for its dramatic and beautiful landscape, and nature lovers who have any interest in discovering stunning vistas will be amazed by what they discover, such as pristine beaches, towering sea-cliffs, and deep blue sea-lochs. During their stay, visitors should be sure to make their way to Shetland’s major attractions, which include the Shetland Museum, Skaw Beach, the Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement, Clickimin Broch, and the Croft House Museum.

Flying into Sumburgh Airport (LSI) on Lerwick

As with many Scottish islands, Shetland's public transport services can seem a little infrequent compared to urban areas, so those planning a stay in the region should be sure to hire a car or contact a taxi service before arriving at Lerwick's Sumburgh Airport. This regional airport does not see too much traffic, so travellers should not worry about extensive line-ups at the terminal. However, if rough weather is predicted, people hoping to fly in or out of Lerwick should consider contacting their carrier about potential delays before heading for their flight.

With a range of Scottish cities connecting to Shetland, this idyllic region of Scotland is now more reachable than ever before, and its beautiful landscape and history are awaiting exploration.