Shetland happiest place to live

Its no surprise that living in Shetland, a remote island group at the furthest point in the UK are among the happiest places to live according to the Office of National Statistics.

We have now been in Shetland for over 5.5 years and can confirm this is true. The quality of life is far superior to living in a city.

We have 4 beaches within a few minutes of where we live and has been shown to improve having lived over 70 miles away before arriving in Shetland it can be a great tonic to have a walk along the coast, especially in winter. The Guardian also reported that living next to a coastal environment improves our health, body and mind

Some people complain about the long dark nights down south but in Shetland we have a lot to look forward to. Who wouldn't want to see the Aurora (Northern Lights) , or witness an autumn migration for instance

You can be part of a community, just join in there is plenty going on. Music is a way of life here, Up Helly A a spectacular fire festival, plenty of other activities such as  churches & clubs to join, night classes to take up and learn a new skills and don't forget to try the fantastic food.

• We have never been out so much, for us winter passes too quick

Visitor arrive for numerous festivals or to see the Puffins, Shetland has plenty to offer and the number of tourists arriving by cruise liner has increased year by year.

Clouds over Lerwick

For photographer or artist the quality of light has a great draw, the clouds constantly change, rainbows galore and a storm or two to enjoy, not stay inside.

Up Helly Aa

I don't need convincing, those that have been to Shetland always want to return or even move here just as we did. It too a few years but we wish we had done it earlier, we would always suggest that you come for a holiday first.

check out my other blogs

shetlandsfp.blogspot.co.uk (Wildlife)
shetlandsky.blogspot.co.uk
ww2preserved.blogspot.co.uk  (WW2 Shetland)

Shetland Aurora Hunter on facebook

Sumburgh Head

With living only 12 miles north of Sumburgh it has become a regular weekly destination for us throughout the year. At this time of year lots of tourist head to the area to see the Puffins and other seabirds

Sumburgh head is more than just a Seabird site its a great place to see Whales and Dolphins and in  Autumn great for bird migration

You can even stay at the Lighthouse in the cottage in one of the buildings. All the outside area is free to access but for the indoor exhibitions you will have to pay.

The fog horn was  built in 1905 and came into operation in 1906, it was last used in 1987 but is now used on special occasions

Great views from the head looking north to Scatness and Fitful Head

The Radar Hut is a special place for me as I am interested in WW2, see ww2preserved.blogspot.co.uk for more WW2 in Shetland. The Radar station started up in December 1939

Work on the lighthouse started 1819 by Robert Stevenson, Grandfather to author Robert Louis and this is 17m high and the top is reached by 53 steps

The Lighthouse Buildings (not the lighthouse) have been recently renovated at a cost of £5.4m and was officially opened by the Princess Royal in 2014

Sumburgh Lighthouse is the oldest Lighthouse in Shetland

#Shetland, #Lighthouse,#Sumburgh Head, #Bird Migration