Bressay Explorer Crofting & Island Life Tour

The Bressay Explorer Crofting & Island Life Tour offers an authentic look at Shetland Island culture, taking you beyond the busy town of Lerwick to discover the quiet beauty and traditional life of Bressay. This 4-hour experience is perfect for those eager to see rural Shetland and learn about local farming, history, and wildlife. With a guided tour from a local crofter and archaeologist, you gain insights that go far beyond the usual sightseeing.

One of the tour’s key strengths is its focus on getting off the beaten track. Visitors visit Garth’s Croft, a working family farm, and explore Bressay’s historical sites, including a Bronze Age Burnt Mound. The tour balances nature, history, and community in a way that feels genuine and personal. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy local stories, scenic views, and small-group experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Shetland life: Visit Garth’s Croft, a real working farm operated by a local family.
• Expert guidance: The tour is led by Chris Dyer, a qualified historian, archaeologist, and island resident.
• Historic sites: Explore Bressay’s 6,000-year history, including a Bronze Age Burnt Mound.
• Beautiful island views: Highlights include the Bressay Lighthouse, the church, and the remote east side of the island.
• Flexible itinerary: Options include a visit to the Bressay Heritage Centre on Saturdays, with the chance to see reconstructed ancient sites.
• Accessible to most: Some walking on uneven surfaces is required, but the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Crossing Lerwick Harbour to Bressay by Ferry

The journey begins with a ferry crossing from Lerwick to Bressay, a 10-minute ride that offers fresh sea air and views of the harbor. This short boat trip sets the tone for the tour, emphasizing the island’s close relationship with the sea. The ferries are reliable and part of daily life on Shetland, providing a scenic transition from the mainland to island life.

After arriving on Bressay, the group boards a short bus/coach ride, which takes around 10 minutes to reach the first stop. The transportation arrangements keep the pace comfortable and allow for smooth transitions between activities.

Exploring Garth’s Croft and Shetland Farming Life

A highlight of the tour is visiting Garth’s Croft, a sustainable agricultural holding operated by a local family. On this working croft, visitors see various animals, including white, coloured, fleckit, and katmogget sheep—a Shetland specialty. The opportunity to see sheep up close and inspect fleeces offers insight into local wool production.

At Garth’s Croft, tour participants observe the tools and equipment used daily by a Shetland crofter. The mixed farm includes woodland, pigs, turkeys, hens, and vegetable patches, providing a well-rounded picture of island farming and sustainable practices. The experience captures the simplicity and resilience of Shetland’s rural economy.

Guided Tour of Bressay with Chris Dyer

The tour’s narrative centerpiece is the guided walk led by Chris Dyer, a qualified historian and archaeologist, who is also an island resident and crofter. Chris shares local stories, archaeological insights, and his personal knowledge of Bressay’s history.

When visiting the Bressay Heritage Centre (available on Saturdays), guests learn about the island’s 6,000-year history, with exhibits and reconstructions that bring the past to life. A particular focus is on the Bronze Age Burnt Mound, which has been reconstructed after being preserved from erosion. This site offers a tangible connection to ancient Shetland inhabitants.

Bressay’s Historic and Scenic Highlights

The tour includes a drive or walk to several notable locations. First, the Bressay Lighthouse provides sweeping views of the surrounding sea and is an iconic feature of the island’s coastline. The local church offers a glimpse into the community’s spiritual heritage and local architecture.

Later, the guide takes visitors to the remote east side of Bressay, where a short guided walk reveals untouched scenery and wildlife. This part of the island offers a peaceful escape with stunning vistas that showcase Shetland’s rugged landscape.

More Great Tours Nearby

Refreshment Break and Island Walk

After visiting Garth’s Croft, the group makes a short stop for refreshments—although these are not included in the tour price. This break is ideal for taking in breathtaking views and sharing impressions of the morning’s activities.

Following the break, Chris leads a walk across his island home, allowing participants to see more of Bressay’s natural beauty and small communities. The walk is relatively short but involves some uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Return Journey and Final Views

The tour wraps up with a ferry ride back to Lerwick, a 10-minute crossing that completes the scenic circuit. Once back on the mainland, a brief bus/coach ride takes participants to the original starting point at Esplanade.

Throughout the experience, the emphasis remains on authentic, local Shetland culture, and the chance to see real farms, historical sites, and stunning coastal scenery in just 4 hours.

Practicalities and Booking Details

The meeting point is a layby bus stop opposite The Thule Bar on Esplanade in Lerwick, with precise coordinates provided. The tour is operated by Robertson’s Tours & Holidays and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, making it flexible for travelers.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes because some walking on uneven surfaces is involved. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year.

Pricing is flexible with reserve now, pay later options, and the total duration is 4 hours, with departures scheduled based on availability.

The Unique Charm of the Bressay Explorer Tour

This tour provides a rare opportunity to experience Shetland’s rural life in a small-group setting. The combination of local farming, archaeological sites, and scenic views makes it a strong choice for travelers seeking a personalized insight into island life.

The presence of Chris Dyer as a guide elevates the experience, offering expert commentary and local stories that enrich the visit. The inclusion of a heritage centre during Saturday departures adds even more depth, connecting modern Bressay to its ancient past.

While some walking and uneven terrain are involved, the tour remains accessible for most healthy visitors eager to explore Shetland’s natural and historical treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The Bressay Explorer Crofting & Island Life Tour lasts 4 hours from start to finish.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes ferry crossings, bus/coach transport, a guided walk of Bressay, a visit to Garth’s Croft, and viewing of historic sites.

Is there a chance to see Shetland wildlife?
Yes, the tour visits Bressay’s scenic east side, where wildlife and stunning views are on display.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because some walking on uneven surfaces is required.

Can children participate?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, but it’s designed mainly for adults and older children who can handle some walking.

How do I book the tour?
Reservations can be made with the reserve now & pay later option, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby