About Shetland & Orkney Islands
The island groups of Orkney and Shetland lie to the north of mainland Scotland and comprise about 170 islands – although only a small number of those are inhabited.
Orkney is closest to the mainland, about 16km north of Caithness, and Shetland is a further 80km north of Orkney so it may not surprise you to know that they were both at one time under Norwegian rule.
One of the distinctive features of both groups of islands is the lack of trees. This is partly due to the windy weather and partly because of deforestation. This is believed to have taken place sometime before the Neolithic period (9000-5000 BC).
Striking evidence of ancient settlements is a feature of both island groups, and draws tourists and archaeologists alike.
Shetland & Orkney Islands consists of two Local Authority areas. Use the links below to find out more about each one:
You can also find out about schools and colleges in Shetland & Orkney Islands:
Education
content