ThingsToDoHay’s Dock and the old town →
Connect island stories with the streets and waterfront that grew around the harbour.
Island lives, archaeology and the sea / LERWICK
Shetland Museum & Archives
Begin at Hay’s Dock for an introduction to the islands through objects, stories and displays about Shetland’s people, landscape and maritime connections. The museum gives useful context for exploring Lerwick’s waterfront and older streets afterwards. Ordinary gallery visits are free and do not need booking, while archive research and special events have their own arrangements.
Before you go
Check the museum’s own hours: opening information for the separate Crofthouse Museum does not describe this Lerwick venue.
The practical details
- Where to find it
- Hay’s Dock, Lerwick
Directions and arrival information ↗ - Tickets and booking
- Ordinary museum entry is free and drop-in. Confirm current hours, with different arrangements for archives, events and the modest self-service café.
- Access and getting around
- The entrance has ramped access and automatic doors, with accessible toilets on both gallery levels. The lift is currently available on request; ask staff for assistance. Limited loan wheelchairs are available.
Official access information ↗ - Visiting with children
- Follow the subjects that catch children’s attention instead of trying to read every display. Take breaks and check current family events separately.
Practical information checked 16 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.
Make it part of your day
Allow 1.5–2 hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.
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