Best Shetland Museum and Archives Guide

The New Shetland Museum and Archives at Hay's Dock, Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland, was officially opened on 31 May 2007 by HM Queen Sonja of Norway and the Duke & Duchess of Rothesay.

A great place to spend a rainy day, with lovely views out over the harbour, Free entry with a donation box. Closed on Monday, a nice wee shop with some great books on the archipelago and a in-house cafe & restaurant.

This is a award winning comprehensive Museum and Archives, tells the story of Shetland, from the rocks that formed it, through the first prehistoric settlers and later settlers right through to the present day, you can sit in a 'trowie knowe', see the interior of a recreated croft house and see a very good section on Fair Isle, from traditional through to modern and the history of tweed production in Shetland you can even have a go at designing a Fair Isle sweater, naturally the sea played a big part in Sheltand's history and the displays bring to life the harsh conditions faced by many of the islands' people throughout the centuries.

This multifunctional visitor attraction is in the heart of Sheltand's capital town of Lerwick.

• Shetland Museum and Archives Geolocation Latitude 60.157834 Longitude -1.149918
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• Shetland Museum and Archives Postcode ZE1 0WP
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The museum has two floors with stone cottages, boats hanging from the ceiling and a replica of a lighthouse, a fascinating place, it really requires more than one visit to reach a real understanding of island life, you can explore the fascinating story of Sheltand's heritage and culture all in one place, there are a huge number of exhibits, beautifully displayed, with lots of interesting facts for little archaeologists, naturalists and geologists, this island is steeped in history with the museum doing a great job presenting in all aspects, interesting exhibitions of local artists and hosts events and temporary exhibitions, Unfortunately some of the key discoveries from Shetland, such as the St. Ninian's treasure are only on show here in the form of reproductions, you will have to go to the National Museum of Scotland to see the originals. 

The museum will keep children of all ages,interested and entertained by the interactive activities, displays and dressing up areas, there are plenty of multi-sensory exhibits, with listening spots where you can hear the Shetland dialect being spoken and plenty of portable seating so that you could stay and study any exhibits of particular interest.

Staff are knowledgeable very helpful and friendly all eager to enhance your enjoyment of this museum.

You can also get free internet access and excellent toilet facilities.