Scalloway

Scalloway is a historic village located on the west coast of the Shetland Mainland, the largest island in the Shetland archipelago, which is part of Scotland. It is often referred to as the “ancient capital of Shetland” due to its historical significance. The village has a rich maritime heritage and played a crucial role during World War II.

One of the notable landmarks in Scalloway is Scalloway Castle, a historic tower house built in the early 17th century by Patrick Stewart, the 2nd Earl of Orkney. The castle stands as a reminder of the islands’ history and is a popular attraction for visitors interested in Shetland’s past.

Scalloway has a small but close-knit community, and traditional industries such as fishing and aquaculture have been historically important to the local economy. Fishing has been a way of life for the people of Scalloway for centuries, and the harbor has been a hub for maritime activities.

The village centre is a vibrant hub of the community with amenities such as shops, pubs, and throughout the area there are accommodations catering to both locals and visitors. The surrounding natural beauty of the Shetland Islands, with rugged coastlines, dramatic cliffs, and unique wildlife, makes Scalloway an appealing destination for tourists interested in exploring Scotland’s northernmost reaches.

While traditional industries remain significant, there has been an increased focus on tourism as a means of economic development. The annual Scalloway Fire Festival, Up Helly Aa, Shetland Folk Festival, Shetland Wool Week and the Shetland Boat Week are examples of  events that attract visitors from around the world, contributing to the cultural vibrancy of the village.

Given Shetland’s apparent remote location, there continues to be a strong sense of community. In reality, Shetland has been a centre of North Atlantic shipping, trade and fishing activity for centuries and more recently the nearest landfall for much of the UK oil reserves. The islands have now become a major component of the UK’s pivot toward renewable energy, with large-scale onshore renewables. Despite centuries of international influence, the island’s unique culture, influenced by its Norse history and maritime heritage, is evident in local traditions, dialect, and celebrations.