Fetlar
Island Small Shetland island noted for seabird colonies
In Shetland, Fetlar offers cliff-top seabird colonies, sandy bays and a nature reserve noted for orchids; visitors arrive by small ferry to walk quiet lanes, watch birds and meet crofting communities.
Fetlar is one of the Shetland Islands in northern Scotland, a small inhabited island known for its agricultural plots, coastal cliffs and birdlife. It has a long history of crofting and small-scale farming and is noted for its scenic coastal features and seabird colonies.
The island supports a small resident community and a mix of moorland, fields and shoreline; visitor attractions include coastal walks, wildlife watching and the small local museum. Ferry connections link Fetlar to the Shetland Mainland and neighbouring islands, and road routes provide access around the island.
Historically Fetlar has been inhabited for centuries with evidence of Norse and earlier settlement; contemporary life combines traditional land use with tourism and conservation of natural habitats.
Fetlar lies off the east coast of the Shetland Mainland in Scotland and is reached by a short ferry crossing from the northern isles.
- Access: Accessible by local car ferry from the Shetland Mainland, the island is small and services are limited outside the main settlement; bring provisions when visiting.
- Wildlife and landscape: Known locally as the 'Garden of Shetland' for its relatively fertile soils and cultivated areas, the island also supports seabird colonies and varied coastal cliffs.
Tips for Visiting Fetlar #
- Fetlar is reached by a vehicle ferry from the Shetland Mainland-check the Shetland Islands Council ferry timetable in advance, as sailings are limited and weather-dependent.
- Late spring and early summer are best for wildlife and wildflowers (seabirds and nesting season); plan to visit outside peak holiday weekends if you prefer quieter walking and birdwatching.
- Much of the island is crofting land; stick to public rights of way and gates (close them behind you) and be aware services (fuel, shops) are very limited-stock essentials on the Mainland or at Lerwick before crossing.
Best Time to Visit Fetlar #
Best visited in summer (June-August) for the mildest weather, long daylight and easier sea access.
Weather & Climate near Fetlar #
Fetlar's climate is classified as Subpolar Oceanic - Subpolar Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 2°C to 14°C. Abundant rainfall (1293 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (148 mm), mostly overcast skies, and windy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (130 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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July
July is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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September
September is cool with highs of 12°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (123 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (140 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (161 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (153 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.