Ancient attractions famed the world over

Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement can be found at Sumburgh Head, on the south of Shetland’s mainland, and is arguably the most important archaeological site in the UK. At the grounds, pictured, visitors can uncover 4,000 years of history through the remains of Neolithic houses, a Bronze Age village, and Iron Age wheelhouses. The site, run by Historic Environment Scotland, has a visitor centre which is temporarily closed due to Covid-19 restrictions, but the grounds can still be explored.

■ Old Scatness Broch is near Sumburgh Airport and is an example of a kind of ancient roundhouse found only in Scotland. The world-renowned heritage site was discovered in 1975 and is described as a time capsule of life in Shetland in the Iron Age. Covid-19 restrictions notwithstanding, visitors can expect to see reconstructions, tours and demonstrations during the summer season.

■ Scalloway Castle in the settlement of the same name is a 16th-century tower house, once home to Patrick Stewart, the Second Earl of Orkney and Shetland, who was executed in Edinburgh in 1615 after building an infamous reputation for oppressing Shetlanders. It is closed for conservation, but its grand architecture and scenic setting is well worth a look.

■ Shetland Museum and Archives at Hay’s Dock in Lerwick is free to enter and claims to have “Scotland’s most extensive photo archives”, dedicated to telling the story of the islands’ heritage and culture. Run by the Shetland Amenity Trust, it has reopened with social distancing measures in place.