Excursion A toast to lerwick traditions tour at Lerwick

Experience an insight into the lives, history and traditions of the people of Lerwick. Be transported through the centuries with lively tales of Lerwick’s growth, merchant trading, fishing, smuggling and the creation of long-lasting traditions.

Starting from Victoria Pier, in the heart of the Old Town, pass the Old Tolbooth from 1770 and go on to see the Lodberries. These were houses and warehouses with their own piers and would have lined the shore in the 18th Century when Lerwick was the premier herring town in Northern Europe and recently used as the home of ‘Jimmy Perez’, a character from the crime drama TV series - Shetland.

Next, visit the Up Helly Aa Exhibition, where you can see a replica Viking galley (longship), and colourful exhibitions based around the famous fire festival. This unique and spectacular festival is held annually on the last Tuesday of January, when the darkened streets of Lerwick provide a background for a torch lit procession through the town, terminating by the burning of a replica galley.

Continue to Lerwick Brewery to meet a local brewer and learn the process of creating the UKs most northernly craft beers. Return to the tap room for a guided tasting of beers paired with delicious local Shetland foods. Local musicians will be there to provide traditional music while Up Helly Aa Vikings in full costume will join you for any questions or photographs.

After a truly unique and engaging tour you can return to Lerwick town centre to enjoy some free time or rejoin your awaiting ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Lerwick, Victoria Pier, Old Tolbooth, Lodberries, Viking fire festival

Note

Please note: The activity level is moderate, with some cobbled streets in Lerwick and stairs in the brewery, where the tap room and brewing area are on the lower floor. Wheelchair users are welcome but must be accompanied as guides cannot take responsibility for them. The tour involves a 45-minute walk through Lerwick. Full shoes are required for the brewery tour—no open-toe footwear. Guests are advised to wear warm, waterproof clothing and good walking shoes.