Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands are the northernmost point of the United Kingdom. They lie to the north of the Orkney Islands, between the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. The archipelago boasts a long history – the first traces of human civilisation here date as far back as the 1500 BC. Since then the islands have been part of the Pictish Kingdom, a Norwegian colony and now they are a council area in Scotland. Artefacts from all these periods are to be seen in the Shetland Museum in Lerwick. The severe nature of the islands fascinates with the almost complete lack of vegetation, rugged cliffs and impressive appearance. The economy is concentrated around fishing and food production. Authentic Shetland culture can be best experienced on one of the multitude of mid-winter fire festivals called 'Up Helly Aa'.