A-Z
Banking
Banks are generally open Mon-Fri 0900 - 1700. Automatic Teller Machines are situated outside all banks and at the Toll Clock Shopping Centre and the Sound Service Station in Lerwick.
Bureau de Change
Bureau de Change facilities are available at the Visitor Information Centre, the Post Office on Commercial Street in Lerwick, banks and some hotels.
Credit Cards
Most hotels, restaurants and shops accept major credit cards.
Currency
British currency is pound sterling (£) and pence (p). Banknotes issued in Scotland, England and Northern Ireland are all legal tender in the UK.
Customs and Duty Free
For information regarding customs and duty free allowances, please contact HM Customs and Excise.
Driving in the UK
Driving is on the left hand side of the road. To drive in the UK, you must have a current driving licence. If you are driving your own car, please check you are properly insured prior to travel.
Emergency Services
For Police, Fire Brigade or Ambulance, dial 999.
Health Care
EU citizens are entitled to free or reduced cost medical treatment at National Health Service hospitals. With the exception of accident and emergency treatment, all non-EU members will be charged for medical treatment and must have adequate health insurance when travelling.
Local Radio
BBC Radio Shetland broadcasts on 92.7 FM, Mon-Fri 1730 and the local station, SIBC broadcasts on 96.2 FM around the clock. We also run a visitor information radio on 87.7FM with suggestions of what to see and do when in Shetland, as well as an introduction to some of our local musical talent.
Pets
It is possible to take pets with you to Shetland. Both Northlink Ferries and Loganair can cater for pets, however certain regulations must be met. Find out more about Loganair's conditions here and Northlink's here.
Once in Shetland, there are certain accommodation properties which allow pets but it is essential to check this prior to arriving in Shetland.
It should also be noted that pets are generally not allowed on local buses (unless in an emergency, but operators should be contacted directly) or taxis.
Should you wish to leave your dog while you explore Shetland, there are kennel facilities in Tingwall, Central Mainland. Please contact Gwen Robertson on 01595 840330.
Postal Services
Most post offices are open Mon-Fri 0900-1700 and Saturday 0900-1230 with stamps available from most stationery shops and Visitor Information Centres.
Telephone Service
Most public telephones accept coins (10p, 20p, 50p, £1) but do not give change. You can purchase BT phonecards in denominations of £2, £3, £5, £10 and £20. Many phones also accept credit cards.
Travel Insurance
It is strongly recommended that visitors to the UK arrange travel insurance to cover the loss of possessions and money as well as health and dental treatment
Visitor Information Centres
The main information centre is situated in Lerwick town centre at the Market Cross. There is an additional centre at Sumburgh airport and 12 Information Points located across Shetland.
On This Site
- Find out how to get to Shetland
- Take a look at Shetland accommodation
- Read our FAQs
