Shetland Islands Getting there & around

Getting around

The Shetland Transport Timetable, an invaluable publication listing all local air, sea and bus services, costs £1 and is available from the Lerwick tourist office.

Public transport

There are several bus operators (01595-694 100). Call for detailed information on services.

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Car & motorcycle

The wide roads seem more like motorways after Orkney’s tiny, winding lanes. Remember the golden rule when driving: give passing cars a wave. Car rental is cheaper in Lerwick than at the airport.

Bolts Car Hire (01595-693636; 26 North Rd, Lerwick) Small cars start from £22 per day for a weekly rental; £25 daily for two or three days.

John Leask & Son (01595-693162; www.leaskstravel.co.uk/car-hire; Esplanade, Lerwick)

Star Rent-a-Car (01595-692075; www.starrentacar.co.uk; 22 Commercial Rd, Lerwick) Opposite the bus station; offers pick-up and drop off at airport and ferry points throughout the Shetland Islands.

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Bicycle

If it’s fine, cycling on the islands’ excellent roads can be an exhilarating way to experience the stark beauty of Shetland. It can, however, be very windy (wind speeds up to 194mph have been recorded!) and there are few spots to shelter. Hire bikes from Grantfield Garage (01595-692 709; North Rd, Lerwick; per day/week £7.50/45).

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