The Puffin Express

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The Puffin Express

By Robertson's Tours & Holidays

Free cancellation available

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Features

Free cancellation available
3h
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation

Overview

Join us on the Puffin Express, brand new for 2026, as we journey from Lerwick, Shetland's capital, to the very south of Mainland in search of Shetland's favourite birds.

Every year, Puffins- or “Tammie Norries” as we call them- come ashore to breed after spending winter at sea. Loved for their black and white plumage, these cheeky birds have become a symbol of Shetland.

Sumburgh Head, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, is the best spot in Shetland to catch a glimpse of them up close. Plus, it's home to a 19th century Stevenson lighthouse, clifftop walks and a plethora of wildlife.

When booking, please bear in mind that Puffin sightings can never be guaranteed. They are wild birds and on occasion may be out of view at the time of your visit. Please also note that there is a steep (but paved) walk from the coach park to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. On arrival, your driver will inform you of the departure time. It is your responsibility to ensure you're back on time.

Activity location

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse
- ZE2 9JN, Sumburgh, United Kingdom

Meeting/Redemption Point

Esplanade
- ZE1 0LL, Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom

Check availability

The Puffin Express

3h
English

Travellers

Language options: English

Starting time: 10:30

Price details

£38.00 x 1 Adult£38.00

Total

Until Fri, 10 Apr

What's included, what's not

Admission to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse
Air-conditioned vehicle
Service charge
Refreshments available to purchase at Sumburgh Head Lighthouse (not included)
Child seats are not required on coaches under British law

Know before you book

Service animals allowed
Public transport options are available nearby
Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
Travellers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for travellers with limited mobility/ walking difficulties
In accordance with UK consumer law, activities services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. Supplier cancellation policy will apply.
This activity is provided by a professional trader (a party acting within their trade, business or profession).

Activity itinerary

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse

1h
Admission ticket included

Every year, thousands of seabirds make home in the cliffs at Sumburgh Head, the southernmost point of the Shetland Mainland. Between April and August, dozens of Puffins make their nests here to hatch their baby "pufflings". Whilst searching for the Puffins, keep your eyes peeled for Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, Oyster Catchers, Wrens, Twites and Fulmars too. Looking out to sea, you might even catch a glimpse of a White-sided Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise, Killer Whale, Mink Whale or a Seal. Our Puffin Express guests also enjoy included admission to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, the oldest in Shetland having been built in 1821. Take a look inside the engine room, tour the information centre and pause for coffee and cake in the café. PLEASE NOTE: The Puffins at Sumburgh are wild and not in captivity- therefore, sightings can never be guaranteed. There is a steep hill from the coach park to the lighthouse on a paved path. Care must be taken when walking close to the cliff edge.

Spiggie Beach (Pass by)

Returning to Lerwick, we'll take a scenic drive through along the west coast, rounding the Loch of Spiggie and Rerwick Beach where you'll often catch a glimpse of seals basking on the sands below.

St Ninian's Isle (Pass by)

Continuing north, we'll pass St Ninian's Isle with its impressive tombolo beach. The island has a rich Viking history and is famed for treasure unearthed here in 1958 (now on display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh). Travel time between Lerwick and Sumburgh Head is approximately 1 hour in each direction.

Location

Activity location

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse
- ZE2 9JN, Sumburgh, United Kingdom

Meeting/Redemption Point

Esplanade
- ZE1 0LL, Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom

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