Unst, the northernmost inhabited island in the British Isles, offers visitors a range of experiences, from exploring its natural heritage to discovering its rich Viking history. The island is home to Hermaness National Nature Reserve, which provides a viewpoint for Out Stack, a small skerry marking the most northerly point of the British Isles.
Wild Skies, a local initiative, has developed trails across Unst, guiding visitors to locations that showcase the island's northern latitude skies and historical sites. These trails celebrate Unst's natural heritage and its status as one of Europe's richest Viking heritage areas, with over 60 longhouses uncovered from its Norse rule period.
Unst is also a significant geological site, featuring an ophiolite, which was a sea crust 420 million years ago. The island is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with colonies of gannets and puffins. Its remote location and lack of light pollution make it a prime spot for viewing the Northern Lights in winter and experiencing the Simmer Dim in summer, where twilight remains bright for extended periods.
Visitors to Unst can engage in various activities, including sending postcards from the most northerly post box, visiting Skaw beach – Britain's northernmost beach – and dining at Da Otter's Neuk, the furthest north restaurant. The island also hosts community events, such as ceilidh dancing at Bathasound Town Hall, reflecting its strong community connections.