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Shetland Islands Hailed as Best UK Spot to See Northern Lights
3 Oct, 2025
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
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.
Whether you visit for the Northern Lights, the Spaceport, or the cultural festivities, the Shetland Islands promise an unforgettable experience amidst their rolling hills, open moors, and wide beaches filled with seals.
