Lerwick: The Puffin Express – 3hr South Mainland Tour

If you’re heading to the Shetland Islands and want a balanced glimpse of wildlife, history, and scenery, the Puffin Express is worth considering. While it’s a short trip—just three hours—it packs in enough highlights to give you a taste of what makes this part of Scotland so special. From spotting those iconic puffins to walking alongside towering cliffs, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot for travelers with a curiosity for nature and local history.

We particularly like the opportunity to see puffins in their natural environment—an experience many visitors cherish—and the chance to explore Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, the oldest in Shetland. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that puffin sightings cannot be guaranteed—these are wild birds after all—and some walks can be steep, which might be a consideration if mobility is a concern. This tour suits nature lovers, birdwatchers, or anyone wanting a scenic, educational outing that’s not overly long or strenuous.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Birdwatching: Focused on puffins and other seabirds, with some chances to see dolphins and seals.
• Historical Sights: Includes a visit to Shetland’s oldest lighthouse and a stop at Mousa’s Iron Age broch.
• Scenic Drive: Offers a scenic route along Shetland’s east and west coasts.
• Family & Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
• Tour Duration & Flexibility: Only 3 hours, with flexible booking options and full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Wildlife Spotting: Remember, sightings are never guaranteed but often rewarding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Puffin Express Tour

When considering a quick tour like this, the first thing we look for is whether it truly offers value for the time and cost. The Puffin Express from Robertson’s Tours is designed to give you a snapshot of Shetland’s coastal beauty and rich birdlife. For just three hours, it’s quite packed—taking you from Lerwick to the southern part of Mainland, with a series of interesting stops.

Starting Point and Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Esplanade bus stop opposite The Thule Bar in Lerwick. From there, it’s about a 20-minute scenic drive heading south along the east coast. The initial part of the journey is a relaxed introduction to Shetland’s old croft houses and coastal scenery, setting the scene for what’s to come.

The first stop is a photo break—roughly 10 minutes—where you can stretch your legs and snap some views of the landscape and sea. This is likely a good spot for quick photos of the coastline and maybe a glimpse of the wildlife in the distance. It’s brief but a useful pause before heading further south.

Next, you’ll hop on the bus for about 30 minutes to arrive at Sumburgh Head, the main highlight of the trip. Here, you’ll get a full hour to explore the area, including the iconic 19th-century Stevenson lighthouse. This lighthouse is a fascinating piece of Shetland’s maritime history—built back in 1821—and the interior tour includes the engine room and information center. It’s a solid stop for history buffs and those interested in lighthouse architecture.

Sumburgh Head & Puffin Watching

This is where the tour becomes truly special. The cliffs at Sumburgh Head are a prime location to spot puffins (“Tammie Norries”), especially during the breeding season when they come ashore to breed. The cliffs are also bustling with other seabirds like Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, Oyster Catchers, and Fulmars.

The guided walk along the cliffs is a highlight, but keep in mind that puffin sightings are never guaranteed. They are wild birds with unpredictable schedules, and weather conditions can influence visibility. Several reviews mention the thrill of spotting puffins, but also acknowledge that sometimes they’re not around or are too far out to see clearly.

Alongside the puffins, you might catch glimpses of Dolphins, Whales, Seals, and other marine life. This is an added bonus that makes the trip more enriching, even if the main focus is the birds.

Visiting Shetland’s Oldest Lighthouse & Coastal Scenery

The tour includes a visit to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, which is a highlight for many visitors. You can go inside, explore the engine room, and learn about its history from the informative center. The lighthouse itself, perched atop rugged cliffs, is a photogenic spot with sweeping views of the Atlantic and North Sea meeting.

After leaving Sumburgh Head, the journey continues along Shetland’s west coast, passing by spots like Loch of Spiggie and Rerwick Beach. These areas often offer sightings of basking seals and scenic sands. The drive along the coastline is quite picturesque, with plenty of opportunities to see Shetland’s unspoiled nature.

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The Final Stop & Return

The last leg of the tour passes St Ninian’s Isle, famed for its tombolo—a natural sand connection between the island and the mainland—and its Viking history. Although it’s a fleeting stop, the views of this iconic island are impressive from the coast.

Then, it’s back to Lerwick, arriving at the original pick-up point after roughly three hours.

What the Tour Does Well

• The scenic coastal drive provides a good overview of Shetland’s landscape, history, and wildlife.
• The lighthouse visit offers a tangible connection to Shetland’s maritime past.
• The guided walk along the cliffs allows close-up wildlife watching, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights.
• Wildlife viewing often includes puffins and marine mammals, adding a sense of anticipation and adventure.

Considerations & Potential Downsides

While the tour offers a lot in a short period, it’s not without limitations. The main caveat is that puffin sightings are not guaranteed—they’re wild birds, and their schedules can be unpredictable. Several reviews indicate that some guests were unable to see puffins despite the excitement of the search, which is an inherent risk with wildlife tours.

The walks at Sumburgh Head, while paved, can be steep and uneven, which might be challenging for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer flatter walks. Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments.

Another point to consider is the timing—the best puffin viewing is during the breeding season, typically spring and summer. Visiting outside of this window might mean fewer bird sightings.

Is it Worth the Price?

Given the inclusion of a lighthouse visit, guided walks, and the chance to see puffins and other wildlife, the tour offers good value—especially if you’re eager to experience Shetland’s natural beauty without committing to a longer or more expensive trip. However, it’s important to approach it with realistic expectations about wildlife spotting and physical activity.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers who don’t mind a short outing. It’s perfect if you’re after a combination of scenery, wildlife, and history in a manageable timeframe. It might not suit travelers with mobility constraints or those expecting guaranteed puffin sightings, but if you’re flexible and open-minded, you’ll find it quite rewarding.

Final Thoughts

The Lerwick Puffin Express offers a concise, scenic look at Shetland’s coast, wildlife, and history. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy a quick but engaging outdoor experience that combines birdwatching with cultural and historical insights. While it’s not a wildlife guarantee, the chance to see puffins in their natural habitat, combined with visits to historical landmarks like the lighthouse, makes it a worthwhile short trip.

For anyone wanting a snapshot of Shetland’s rugged beauty without a long commitment, this tour hits many highlights. Just be prepared for the unpredictability of wildlife and some walking on steep paths. If you go in season and stay flexible, you’ll likely come away with some memorable moments.

FAQs

Are puffin sightings guaranteed?
No, puffin sightings are not guaranteed. They are wild birds, and their appearance depends on weather, season, and timing.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the walk from the coach park to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse is steep, and the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and stops.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes transport, a visit to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, and guided walks. It also includes some free time at the lighthouse to explore.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s suitable for most travelers but may not be ideal for very young children due to walking and outdoor conditions.

What wildlife might I see besides puffins?
You might see Dolphins, Harbour Porpoises, Killer Whales, Mink Whales, Seals, and other seabirds.

How physically demanding is the walk at Sumburgh Head?
The walk is paved but steep, so it might be tiring for some. It’s worth considering if you prefer flatter terrain.

What’s the best time of year to see puffins?
The tour is best during breeding season when puffins come ashore—typically spring and summer—though sightings can never be guaranteed.

All in all, if you’re after a quick dose of Shetland’s coastal wildness and enjoy birdwatching, the Puffin Express is a solid choice. Keep expectations balanced, and you’ll likely find it a memorable, if not always perfect, adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: