Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Lerwick, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lerwick, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom by month

January

January in Lerwick can be very chilly and very rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

In February, Lerwick is brisk and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Lerwick, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In February, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost about a third of the time. Additionally, it is windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Lerwick is cold and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average. There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Lerwick is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Lerwick is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Lerwick, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 80%. Additionally, it is windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Lerwick is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Lerwick is crisp and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Lerwick during August, you might find that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

Traveling to Lerwick in September, you will notice that it is cold and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

In October, Lerwick is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Lerwick, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the correct type. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Lerwick is brisk and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Lerwick can be very chilly and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average. There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Lerwick. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Shetland Museum and Archives, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Lerwick, Scotland, United Kingdom

Located on the Shetland Islands in Scotland, Lerwick is a charming town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its fascinating museums to its scenic coastal landscapes, Lerwick has a lot to explore and discover. So if you’re planning a visit to this enchanting town, here are some of the top tourist attractions you won’t want to miss.

1. Shetland Museum and Archives

The Shetland Museum and Archives is an award-winning museum that tells the story of the Shetland Islands, from its geological origins to its Viking history and its contemporary life. The museum features a variety of interactive displays, including a recreated street with shops from the 19th and 20th centuries and a fully rigged fishing boat. It’s a great place to learn about the local history and culture of the area.

2. Clickimin Broch

For history buffs, Clickimin Broch is a must-visit. This ancient structure, which dates back to the Iron Age, is an impressive example of ancient architecture in Scotland. Visitors can walk through the stone walls of the broch and imagine what life was like for the Iron Age people who built it.

3. Lerwick Town Hall

Lerwick Town Hall is an iconic building right in the heart of town, built in 1884. It’s an impressive example of Victorian architecture and is still used as a functional building today. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about its history, as well as enjoy the beautiful views over the town from the tower.

4. Lerwick Harbour

Lerwick Harbour is the beating heart of the town and an important fishing port in Scotland. Visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront and watch the fishing boats and ferries come and go, or simply enjoy the beautiful views of the sea and surrounding hills.

5. Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte is a historic fort that was built in the late 18th century to protect the town from the British Royal Navy. Today, it’s a fascinating place to explore, and visitors can climb the walls of the fort and take in the stunning views of the town and the sea.

6. Scalloway Castle

Just a few miles outside of Lerwick is Scalloway Castle, another impressive historic site in the area. This 17th-century castle was once the residence of the local laird and is now a popular spot for visitors to explore. The castle is situated in a stunning location, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a large expanse of water.

7. Bressay Lighthouse

For some of the best views in the area, head out to Bressay Lighthouse. This stunning structure can be reached by ferry from Lerwick and offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the surrounding waters. Visitors can also explore the lighthouse’s interior, which was designed by the famous Scottish engineer Robert Stevenson.

Overall, Lerwick has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts. So if you’re planning a trip to Scotland, be sure to put this charming town on your itinerary and discover all that it has to offer.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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