Out Skerries

Islands Remote Shetland island group with traditional fishing community

The easternmost inhabited islands of Shetland, Out Skerries are known for small fishing communities, seabird colonies and lighthouses. Travellers arrive by ferry or small plane for birdwatching, coastal walks and the feel of remote island life.

Out Skerries is a small group of islands on the eastern edge of Shetland, Scotland, known for a long-established fishing community and remote island character. The archipelago contains both inhabited and uninhabited isles.

The settlement cluster on the main islands includes small harbors, houses, and basic services tied to fishing and boat traffic. The islands are also valued for seabird colonies, coastal scenery, and a simple rural way of life.

The islands have Norse and Scottish settlement connections and have been used for fishing and crofting for many centuries. Local place names and settlement patterns reflect a long continuity of maritime economy.

Out Skerries lies off the east coast of the Shetland Mainland in the North Sea, forming the easternmost inhabited part of the Shetland archipelago.

What to See #

Housay and Bruray: The two largest inhabited islands are Housay and Bruray, which are linked by a short causeway and host the main settlement, harbors, and community facilities.
Lingey and smaller skerries: Lingey and several smaller skerries are low-lying satellite isles used for grazing and bird habitat, scattered close to the main islands.

How to Get to Out Skerries #

Out Skerries is a remote island group in Shetland. The islands are reached by boat from mainland Shetland (Lerwick) on scheduled inter-island ferry services operated by Shetland Islands Council or by private boat/charter; there is no road link from mainland Scotland. There are small roads on the islands themselves for walking and vehicle access; consult Shetland Islands Council ferry timetables and local operators for up-to-date sailing or charter options.

Tips for Visiting Out Skerries #

Check transport timetables and weather forecasts before you go - access to the Out Skerries is very weather‑dependent and boat or small plane services can be cancelled on short notice.
Plan and book any accommodation, boat trips or local guides well in advance; services are very limited on the islands and availability fills up quickly in late spring and summer.
Visit in late spring or early summer for the calmest seas and the best seabird and wildflower displays; outside that window expect rougher crossings and reduced daylight for exploring.