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Up Helly Aa
Lerwick
Shetland's famous fire festival. A Viking-costumed Jarl Squad marches through Lerwick by day, and in the evening around a thousand torch-carrying guizers parade behind a replica Viking galley before setting it alight. It is held on the last Tuesday of January; in 2027 that is Tuesday 26 January, with the evening torchlit procession starting at about 7.30pm from the Hillhead below the Town Hall.
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Where to stay
- LerwickThe most hotels and B&Bs, but it books up very early
- ScallowaySmall harbour village about 15 minutes away
- SumburghNear the airport, about 40 minutes away
- BraeHotel options in the north mainland, about 40 minutes away
Getting there
- Overnight NorthLink ferries run from Aberdeen to Lerwick
- Flights land at Sumburgh Airport, about 25 miles south of Lerwick
- The procession route is in the centre of Lerwick, so you can walk from most town accommodation
Travel details can change, especially on event days — check with the venue or operator before you travel.
Questions people ask
Where is the best place to stay near Up Helly Aa?
Lerwick: The most hotels and B&Bs, but it books up very early. Scalloway: Small harbour village about 15 minutes away. Sumburgh: Near the airport, about 40 minutes away. Brae: Hotel options in the north mainland, about 40 minutes away.
How do I get to Up Helly Aa?
Overnight NorthLink ferries run from Aberdeen to Lerwick. Flights land at Sumburgh Airport, about 25 miles south of Lerwick. The procession route is in the centre of Lerwick, so you can walk from most town accommodation.
Any tips for visiting Up Helly Aa?
Book travel and a room as early as you can, as Lerwick fills months ahead. Wrap up for a cold, windy January night, and buy an official programme in town on the day to see the route and times.