Thinking about exploring the Shetland Islands but unsure how to make the most of your limited time? This Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour from Lerwick offers a straightforward way to see some of the area’s top sights without the hassle of renting a car or sticking rigidly to a schedule. It’s a flexible option that lets you choose where to get off and explore at your own pace—provided that the weather is good and the timing works out.
What we appreciate about this tour is its price point, around $22.62 per person, which is pretty reasonable when you consider the flexibility it provides. Plus, the opportunity to hop off at places like Sound Beach or Scalloway Museum means you can tailor your day to your interests, whether it’s nature, history, or just soaking up Shetland’s stunning scenery.
On the flip side, a couple of things might give you pause: the timing gaps between buses can be long, and some stops have been reported as unavailable or closed, which may limit your experience. Not everyone loved the service, but for those wanting an easy, budget-friendly way to get a taste of Shetland, this tour could be worth considering. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, don’t mind a bit of unpredictability, and want to see the highlights without committing to a full-day tour or rental car.
If you’re okay with these considerations, this hop-on hop-off experience can add a nice dimension to your Shetland trip. It’s useful for travelers seeking a low-stress way to get around, especially if your main interest is seeing the scenery and some local sights without too much fuss.
Key Points
- Flexible sightseeing allows hopping on and off at your chosen spots.
- Affordable price makes it accessible for most travelers.
- Limited timetable and bus frequency might mean waiting around.
- Some stops may be closed or less accessible depending on the day.
- Informative drivers can enhance your experience with stories and tips.
- Ideal for relaxed explorers who want to see Shetland at their own pace.
What to Expect from the Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour
This tour operates every Sunday from April through September, making it perfect for weekend explorers or those on a short schedule. The buses depart four times daily, with starting points at Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal, Viking Bus Station, and the Lerwick Esplanade. The first departure is at 9:00 am from Holmsgarth, with subsequent runs at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 4:00 pm, giving you options to fit your plans.
The full route lasts about 95 minutes if you choose to do it all in one go, but the real benefit is the freedom to hop off at any stop—then catch the next bus to continue your exploration. This flexibility is especially nice if you want to spend more time at places like Sound Beach or Tingwall Loch, or take a quick peek at Scalloway Museum.
The route covers some well-loved spots like Clickimin Broch, Sound Beach, and Shetland Museum, plus lesser-known gems like Meal Beach and Hamnavoe. Whether you’re into nature walks, historic sites, or just want to relax by the water, there’s a good chance this tour will give you options.
The Stops and What You Can Expect
Clickimin Broch — This ancient stone structure is a highlight for history buffs. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Shetland’s past, and you can explore the ruins at your leisure.
Sound Beach — A beautiful spot to soak up the scenery, maybe have a picnic or just snap some photos of the rugged coast and gentle waves.
Scalloway Museum — A small but well-curated museum that sheds light on Shetland’s maritime history and local life. Perfect for those interested in local stories, but some reviewers noted that at times, the museum might be closed.
Meal Beach and Hamnavoe — These spots are quieter, less touristy, and ideal for peace and quiet or an impromptu picnic.
Tingwall Loch — A scenic area, great for a quick walk or photo stop if you’re into landscapes.
Shetland Textile Museum — For those curious about Shetland’s craft traditions, this offers a peek into local textile arts, though hours and accessibility might vary.
How the Experience Plays Out
Many travelers found value in the driver’s friendliness and storytelling skills. As one reviewer put it, “George was a top driver with his humorous stories.” Others appreciated the timing, noting that the buses ran on schedule and allowed for a relaxed, unhurried day.
However, some noted disappointments. One traveler commented, “Most places were closed when I visited, and we only saw a small part of the tour,” highlighting the risk of closures or limited hours, which can affect your plans. Another reviewer felt that the long gaps between buses made hopping between stops a challenge—sometimes waiting up to two hours for the next ride. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more structured experience, this might be frustrating.
The price-to-value ratio is a mixed bag. For many, the views and the chance to see Shetland at a leisurely pace justified the cost, especially if you plan your stops carefully. For others, the long wait times and occasional closures made it feel like less of a bargain. One traveler summed it up as “a good way to see some local sights,” but with caveats about planning ahead.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
- Book in advance if you want to secure a spot, especially during busy seasons.
- Plan your stops based on what’s open and your own interests to avoid disappointment.
- Be prepared for waiting — check the schedule and maybe bring a book or snacks.
- Use the driver’s commentary — it can add context and fun stories to your sightseeing.
- Weather matters — this tour is weather-dependent, so dress appropriately and be ready for outdoor stops.
- Timing — aim for the earlier departures if you want more flexibility, as later buses might be crowded or fully booked.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you enjoy relaxed sightseeing and want to avoid renting a car, this tour can be a good choice. It’s particularly suited for those interested in cost-effective options and don’t mind some uncertainty regarding stops and timing. The informative drivers and scenic routes will appeal to travelers who appreciate local storytelling and beautiful landscapes.
However, if you’re on a tight schedule or need guaranteed access to specific sites, this might not be the best fit. The long waiting times and occasional closures mean you’ll want to keep your plans flexible. It’s a great option for laid-back explorers or first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Shetland’s highlights without too much fuss.
The Sum Up
The Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour from Lerwick offers an affordable and flexible way to see some of Shetland’s most notable spots. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed day of sightseeing, with the convenience of choosing where to spend your time. The scenic routes and friendly drivers add value, especially if you like local stories and tips.
That said, be aware of the timing gaps and potential for stops to be closed or less accessible. It’s not the most tightly scheduled experience, but for those willing to plan around the schedule and weather, it can be a worthwhile addition to your Shetland trip.
Ultimately, this tour will suit you best if you’re a traveler who values flexibility and scenic drives over rigid itineraries. It’s a good way to get a taste of the islands, especially if you’re comfortable with some unpredictability and enjoy a laid-back pace.
Shetland Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour from Lerwick
“The driver was extremely friendly and helpful. We hopped on and off a couple of times, and the timetabling was spot on!”
FAQ
How often does the bus depart?
The bus departs four times daily on Sundays, at 0900, 1130, 1330, and 1600 from key locations like Holmsgarth Ferry Terminal, Viking Bus Station, and Lerwick Esplanade.
How long does the full route take?
The full loop lasts approximately 95 minutes, but you can hop off and on as you please, making your day more flexible.
Can I hop off at any stop?
Yes, the ticket allows for unlimited travel on your chosen day, so you can get off at stops of interest and catch the next bus.
What attractions are included on the route?
Stops include Clickimin Broch, Sound Beach, Scalloway Museum, Meal Beach, Hamnavoe, Tingwall Loch, Shetland Textile Museum, and Shetland Museum.
What should I know about the stops?
Some stops, like the museums, may be closed depending on the day or season. It’s a good idea to check ahead if there’s a particular site you want to visit.
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The experience is casual, with a focus on scenic and cultural highlights.
How reliable are the timetables?
While most reviews mention the buses run on schedule, long gaps between departures can sometimes lead to waiting, especially later in the day.
What’s the value of this tour?
At around $22.62, it’s a budget-friendly way to see key sights, especially if you enjoy sightseeing at your own pace, but always consider the potential waiting time.
What are the main drawbacks?
Long intervals between buses, occasional site closures, and the need for some planning to avoid disappointment are the main considerations.
If you’re after a no-fuss way to experience Shetland’s highlights and don’t mind some unpredictability, this hop-on hop-off bus might be just what you’re looking for. For more structured tours or guaranteed access to specific sites, you might want to explore other options, but for relaxed sightseeing, it can be a good addition to your itinerary.
