LERWICK, SHETLAND ISLANDS

For a wonderful insight into the lives and history of the people of Lerwick take ‘A Step Back in Time’. This walking tour will take us through the colourful and cosmopolitan history of Lerwick and retrace steps taken as far back as the Bronze Age.

We will be transported through the centuries with lively tales of Lerwick's growth, merchant trading, fishing and shipping fleets and smugglers – to a time when life was one of more basic survival.

Starting from Victoria Pier, in the heart of the Old Town, we stroll to the South End of Lerwick to see 18th century Lodberries (houses or warehouses with their own piers). Passing the Market Cross (built in 1838) we shall see the recently restored Old Tolbooth (from 1770), which was once used as a prison. Originally the town grew from a small trading settlement along the waterfront to become, by the late 1800’s, the premier herring town in Northern Europe and at one time Lodberries lined the shore. They were built to load and unload goods directly from boats and we have the opportunity to see one of the most picturesque with its thick sea battered walls, slipway, pier and fish-drying shed.

On the return journey through the ‘New Town’ of Lerwick with streets named after Norse Kings, we will see the fine villas built by local merchants throughout the early 1900’s and the Town Hall built in 1883. In addition, we will have a further chance to explore the Old Town of Lerwick including Fort Charlotte (built in 1665) as well as the towns’ narrow lanes (or ‘closses’).

TOUR NOTES: This tour involves a large amount of walking (approximately two and a half kilometres/one and a half miles) – mostly on designated paths but also over some uneven ground (including cobblestones). Although there are no particularly difficult areas there are some steep inclines. It is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties, or wheelchair users. A general level of fitness is required. We will be in groups of up to 20 per guide.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2009 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC CRUISES