Embark on the Puffin Express for a breathtaking journey through Shetland, spotting iconic puffins and exploring historic Sumburgh Head.
Embark on the Puffin Express for a breathtaking journey through Shetland, spotting iconic puffins and exploring historic Sumburgh Head.
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Sumburgh Head Lighthouse - Each year, the cliffs at Sumburgh Head, the southernmost tip of the Shetland Mainland, become home to thousands of seabirds.
From April to August, numerous Puffins nest here to raise their young, known as “pufflings.”
While searching for Puffins, be on the lookout for Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, Oyster Catchers,…
- Sumburgh Head Lighthouse - Each year, the cliffs at Sumburgh Head, the southernmost tip of the Shetland Mainland, become home to thousands of seabirds.
From April to August, numerous Puffins nest here to raise their young, known as “pufflings.”
While searching for Puffins, be on the lookout for Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, Oyster Catchers, Wrens, Twites, and Fulmars as well. Gazing out to sea, you might spot a White-sided Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise, Killer Whale, Mink Whale, or a Seal.
Guests of the Puffin Express also enjoy complimentary entry to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, the oldest in Shetland, built in 1821. Explore the engine room, visit the information centre, and enjoy coffee and cake in the café.
PLEASE NOTE:
The Puffins at Sumburgh are wild and not in captivity, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.
There is a steep hill from the coach park to the lighthouse on a paved path.
Caution is advised when walking near the cliff edge.
- Spiggie Beach - On the return to Lerwick, enjoy a scenic drive along the west coast, passing the Loch of Spiggie and Rerwick Beach, where seals are often seen basking on the sands below.
- St Ninian’s Isle - Heading north, pass by St Ninian’s Isle with its remarkable tombolo beach. The island boasts a rich Viking history and is renowned for the treasure discovered here in 1958, now displayed at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
The travel time between Lerwick and Sumburgh Head is approximately 1 hour each way.
- Entrance fees
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Entrance fees
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Gratuities
- Snacks
- Booster seat
- Gratuities
- Snacks
- Booster seat
Embark on the Puffin Express, a new adventure for 2026, as it travels from Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, to the southern tip of Mainland in search of Shetland’s beloved birds.
Each year, Puffins—affectionately known as “Tammie Norries”—return to land to breed after spending the winter at sea. Adored for their distinctive black and white feathers,…
Embark on the Puffin Express, a new adventure for 2026, as it travels from Lerwick, the capital of Shetland, to the southern tip of Mainland in search of Shetland’s beloved birds.
Each year, Puffins—affectionately known as “Tammie Norries”—return to land to breed after spending the winter at sea. Adored for their distinctive black and white feathers, these charming birds have become an emblem of Shetland.
Sumburgh Head, where the North Sea converges with the Atlantic Ocean, is the premier location in Shetland to observe them up close. Additionally, it features a 19th-century Stevenson lighthouse, scenic clifftop walks, and abundant wildlife.
When booking, please remember that Puffin sightings cannot be guaranteed. As wild birds, they may occasionally be out of sight during your visit. Also, note that there is a steep (but paved) walk from the coach park to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. Upon arrival, your driver will inform you of the departure time. It is your responsibility to return on time.
- Not recommended for travelers with limited mobility/ walking difficulties
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
