Quick Navigation
- Landscape & Geography
- History & Heritage
- Wildlife
- Accessibility & Travel
- Culture & Atmosphere
- Comparison Table: Orkney vs. Shetland
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Which is better, Orkney or Shetland?
- Can you visit both Orkney and Shetland on one trip?
- Is Orkney or Shetland windier?
- Which has better beaches?
- Is it easier to find accommodation in Orkney or Shetland?
- Conclusion: Your Ideal Northern Isle
Choosing between Scotland's stunning Northern Isles? Both Orkney and Shetland offer unique landscapes, rich history, and incredible wildlife, but they have distinct characters. This guide compares Orkney vs. Shetland to help you decide which archipelago best suits your travel style.
Landscape & Geography
- Orkney: Generally greener, more fertile, with rolling hills and dramatic sea cliffs primarily on the west coast (e.g., Hoy). Known for its large natural harbour, Scapa Flow. Easier to navigate by car due to linked South Isles.
- Shetland: More rugged, treeless, and wild, with intricate coastlines (voes), dramatic cliffs throughout, and a more remote feel. Comprises more numerous, scattered islands.
History & Heritage
- Orkney: World-renowned for its Neolithic heritage, including the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site (Skara Brae, Maeshowe, Ring of Brodgar). Also significant WWII history centred around Scapa Flow.
- Shetland: Stronger emphasis on Norse and Viking heritage (Jarlshof, Up Helly Aa festival). Also significant Pictish sites and maritime history.
Wildlife
- Orkney: Excellent for birdwatching, particularly seabirds like puffins (seasonal), hen harriers, and short-eared owls. Large seal colonies are easily accessible. See our Orkney birdwatching guide.
- Shetland: Also fantastic for seabirds (huge colonies at Sumburgh Head, Noss), famous for Shetland ponies, and offers better chances of spotting otters and potentially orcas.
Accessibility & Travel
- Orkney: Easier to reach from the Scottish mainland via multiple ferry routes (Scrabster, Gills Bay, Aberdeen) and flights to Kirkwall. The linked South Isles make driving straightforward on the Mainland.
- Shetland: Fewer transport links – primarily flights to Sumburgh or the NorthLink ferry from Aberdeen (a longer crossing). Inter-island travel relies more heavily on ferries or small flights.
Culture & Atmosphere
- Orkney: Feels more connected to mainland Scotland, with established towns (Kirkwall, Stromness) offering more amenities. Strong arts and crafts scene (Orkney Craft Trail).
- Shetland: Has a more distinct cultural identity, heavily influenced by its Norse past and maritime connections. Lerwick is the main hub. Known for its unique dialect and fiddle music tradition.
Comparison Table: Orkney vs. Shetland
| Feature | Orkney | Shetland |
|---|---|---|
| Main Heritage Focus | Neolithic (UNESCO sites) | Norse/Viking (Jarlshof) |
| Landscape | Greener, rolling hills, key cliff areas | Rugged, treeless, dramatic coastline |
| Accessibility (from Mainland) | Easier (more ferry/flight options) | More limited (longer ferry/flights) |
| Internal Travel | Easier driving (linked isles) | More reliant on inter-island ferries/flights |
| Key Wildlife | Seabirds (puffins), seals, hen harriers | Seabirds (gannets), otters, Shetland ponies, orcas (possible) |
| Atmosphere | Established towns, strong arts scene | More remote feel, distinct Norse culture |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is better, Orkney or Shetland?
Neither is objectively "better" – they offer different experiences. Choose Orkney for unparalleled Neolithic history and slightly easier accessibility. Choose Shetland for a wilder landscape, stronger Norse focus, and potentially more diverse wildlife sightings (like otters).
Can you visit both Orkney and Shetland on one trip?
Yes, it's possible but requires careful planning. You can fly between Kirkwall (Orkney) and Sumburgh (Shetland) with Loganair, or take the NorthLink ferry which stops at Kirkwall en route between Aberdeen and Lerwick (Shetland). Allow ample time, at least 5-7 days for each archipelago.
Is Orkney or Shetland windier?
Both are very windy! Shetland is generally considered slightly windier on average due to its more exposed location further north.
Which has better beaches?
Both have stunning beaches. Orkney is perhaps better known for its wide, sandy bays (e.g., Waulkmill, Tresness), while Shetland offers dramatic coves and tombolos (like St Ninian's Isle).
Is it easier to find accommodation in Orkney or Shetland?
Orkney generally has a wider range and potentially larger number of accommodation options, particularly self-catering, spread across the islands. Shetland's options are more concentrated around Lerwick and main settlements.
Conclusion: Your Ideal Northern Isle
The choice between Orkney vs. Shetland depends on your priorities. For ancient history buffs wanting easier travel, Orkney might be the winner. For those seeking rugged remoteness, Norse heritage, and unique wildlife, Shetland could be the better fit. Whichever you choose, an unforgettable adventure awaits. If Orkney's Neolithic wonders and accessible charm call to you, explore our range of Orkney accommodation options to find your perfect island base.
