Lerwick City Guide

Local food centers on fresh seafood and lamb. Some international options exist but are limited. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Late-night food options are sparse outside of pubs.

Nightlife is small with mostly pubs and a few bars offering a chill vibe.

Growing coffee scene with independent shops and some specialty cafes. Community-focused rather than style-focused.

Tipping is optional but appreciated. Common to tip 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge is included.

SIM cards can be bought at local shops or supermarkets. Main providers are EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three. ID is needed for purchase.

Streets are usually clean and well-maintained. Waste and recycling services function well.

Limited 24/7 services. Few shops open late and no late-night clinics. After-hours medical help through NHS 24.

Supermarkets like Tesco and Co-op offer international products, though choices are smaller than on the mainland. Shops mostly open 8 AM to 9 PM during weekdays.

Most shops, restaurants, and places here accept card payments easily. Cash is less common but still usable.

ATMs are available at Bank of Scotland and Royal Bank of Scotland in town. Non-customer fees may apply sometimes.

Local schools teach in English. Anderson High School is notable. No international schools.

Very small nomad community due to remote location. Few meetups and no dedicated coworking spaces.

Plenty of green spaces and parks around town, good for outdoor activities and running.

Safe running routes include coastal paths and around Clickimin Loch. Running groups and events exist.

Facilities include a main leisure complex and local gyms.

Tennis courts are at Clickimin Leisure Complex with bookings required. Padel courts are not common.

Padel is not available.

Yoga studios offer common styles like Hatha and Vinyasa with English-speaking teachers.

Basic martial arts clubs like Judo or Karate exist, often volunteer-run. Few formal facilities.

No skiing in Lerwick or Shetland Islands.

Kayaking and paddleboarding can be done locally. Rentals are limited and usually seasonal, mostly summer.

Surf spots exist mostly on the west coast, about an hour from Lerwick. Cold water year-round. Few surf schools locally.

Diving is possible around Shetland with good visibility and shipwrecks, mainly in summer. Gear rental is limited and needs advance planning.

Gilbert Bain Hospital provides good healthcare with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Boots cover common meds. Emergency number is 999.

Tap water is safe to drink in Lerwick.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are available. Attractions include the Shetland Museum and Clickimin Leisure Complex.

Generally accepting and safe for LGBTQ+ people, reflecting broader Scottish norms. Some inclusive venues.

Pet-friendly places are available but vary by location. Green spaces good for dog walks. Vets and pet supplies exist.