Camping in Bressay and Noss
With their seabirds and scenic views, Bressay and Noss provide a tranquil escape from the Shetlandic capital.
Bressay and Noss camping guide
Where to go
Bressay
Whether you want to visit for a few hours or stay the night, Bressay is a peaceful getaway and easily accessible by a short ferry ride from Lerwick on Mainland Shetland. The ferries depart frequently, year-round, from the center of town. One of Bressay’s most distinctive features is its lighthouse, set on a rocky headland, which now provides self-catering accommodation. For campers, there’s the Bressay Marina and Caravan Park, which has a handful of touring pitches.
Central Mainland
Campers will find many more options on the Shetland Mainland. As well as the varied accommodation options available in Lerwick, the Central Mainland area is home to the Bridge End Outdoor Centre, which is just 10 miles from Lerwick and makes a good base for exploring the rest of the island. Situated just off the bridge that connects the two islands of West and East Burra—a good spot for kayaking in sheltered water—the centre has a handful of touring pitches, as well as a small grass area for tents.
West Mainland
The west coast of Shetland Mainland (known locally as ‘westside’) has lovely golden beaches, good hill walking and opportunities to spot wildlife including otters and seals. It’s also a popular area for boating and kayaking. In the picturesque village of Skeld, adjacent to a marina, the peaceful Skeld Caravan and Campsite has grass and hardstanding pitches for tents and motorhomes.
South Mainland
South Mainland is best-known for its archaeological sites, including the prehistoric and Viking settlement of Jarlshof, Old Scatness Iron Age broch and village and the Broch of Mousa. But there’s also plenty to appeal to nature lovers. In spring and summer, you can see thousands of puffins nesting at Sumburgh Head, the southernmost tip of the island. Sixteen miles south of Lerwick, and nine miles north of Sumburgh Head, Levenwick Caravan and Campsite has a handful of pitches for motorhomes and tents.
