What makes the Shetland Islands a top destination for seeing the Northern Lights?

The Shetland Islands' northerly latitude and remote location make it an ideal spot for viewing the aurora borealis, which has a special local name of "mirrie dancers" in the region.

What unique experiences can travelers enjoy in the Shetland Islands?

In addition to the Northern Lights, the Shetland Islands are home to Europe's first licensed vertical launch Spaceport, as well as the world-famous Up Helly Aa fire festival that celebrates the islands' Norse heritage.

How can travelers capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights in the Shetland Islands?

Icelandair, the flagship airline of Iceland, has shared expert guidance on how to use a simple setting change on your iPhone to capture breathtaking aurora borealis photos.

Home / Weather / Shetland Islands Hailed as Best UK Spot to See Northern Lights

Shetland Islands Hailed as Best UK Spot to See Northern Lights

3 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Shetland Islands named top UK location for viewing aurora borealis
Icelandair provides expert guidance on photographing the Northern Lights
Shetland home to Europe's first licensed vertical launch Spaceport

Shetland Islands Hailed as Best UK Spot to See Northern Lights

As the sun's 11-year cycle reaches its peak, the Shetland Islands have emerged as the premier UK destination for witnessing the breathtaking aurora borealis. According to Icelandair's director of Global Marketing, Gísli S. Brynjólfsson, the islands' northerly latitude and remote location make them an ideal spot for aurora viewing.

In fact, the regularly appearing Northern Lights have a special local name in Shetland - "mirrie dancers." Fans of the BBC detective show set on the islands will also enjoy exploring the local haunts of Inspector Jimmy Perez. Excitingly, Shetland is now home to SaxaVord, the first fully licensed vertical launch Spaceport in Europe, where rockets will soon begin blasting off to space.

Travelers visiting Shetland at the end of January will be treated to the world-famous Up Helly Aa fire festival, which celebrates the islands' Norse heritage. Thousands flock to witness the torchlit procession through Lerwick, culminating in the burning of a Viking long ship replica.