Fair Isle Tours and Activities

Photo by Genevieve Lacombe


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Top Fair Isle Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Things to do in Fair Isle

Fair Isle offers a range of activities for visitors, including exciting festivals and fantastic birdwatching opportunities. Enjoy scenic boat trips around the island, or relax at picnic areas with stunning views. For golf enthusiasts, there's a unique hole golf course to challenge your skills. Day trips around the island provide a chance to explore its natural beauty and rich wildlife, making Fair Isle a delightful getaway for any tourist.

Shopping

In Fair Isle, local shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs, including handmade crafts and knitwear. For a wider selection, if you're up for a drive, visit the nearby town of Lerwick, where you can explore various boutiques and the bustling market for local produce and artisan goods.

Recreation

Fair Isle’s tranquillity invites you to unwind at the Fair Isle Bird Observatory, where you can immerse yourself in nature and birdwatching. Explore the island's rugged landscapes through scenic walks, and enjoy fresh local cuisine at charming eateries, all while reconnecting with your inner self amidst stunning vistas.

Adventure

Explore the rugged coastline of Fair Isle, where you can hike breathtaking cliff paths and witness stunning seabird colonies. Try your hand at birdwatching and immerse yourself in the island's unique flora. Enjoy the thrill of spotting puffins and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Nightlife

In Fair Isle, the nightlife is quaint and charming, centred around the local pub, the Fair Isle Bird Observatory, where you can enjoy a pint and engage with fellow travellers. The warm atmosphere is perfect for sharing stories and enjoying the stunning island views by night.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Fair Isle

Fair Isle offers a rich blend of history and natural beauty, with must-visit attractions like the historic lighthouses, archaeological sites, and the renowned Fair Isle Bird Observatory. Visitors can enjoy stunning island views, soak in the beach experience, and explore the local culture. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat to Fair Isle and discover the charm of the south lighthouse, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking adventure and relaxation.

  • George Waterston Memorial Centre: Located a mere 1.3km from Fair Isle, this history museum offers a deep dive into the local culture and heritage, showcasing the life and contributions of George Waterston, an influential figure in the region.
  • Sumburgh Head Lighthouse: Standing 41.8km away, this historic lighthouse not only provides stunning coastal views but also serves as a reminder of Scotland's maritime history, making it a perfect spot for photography and exploration.
  • Jarlshof: Situated 43.5km from Fair Isle, this archaeological site unfolds over 4,000 years of history, revealing remnants of ancient dwellings and offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of past inhabitants.

Best time to go to Fair Isle

The best time to visit Fair Isle depends on your weather preferences. The hottest average temperature around Fair Isle is in December, December, August and August. August is mostly cloudy. The coolest average temperature around Fair Isle is in February, February, March and March. March is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
January44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly Cloudy
February43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly Cloudy
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.0°F (7.2°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April45.0°F (7.2°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May47.7°F (8.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May47.7°F (8.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June51.6°F (10.9°C)No RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
June51.6°F (10.9°C)No RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
July54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
July54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
August55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
September54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
October51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
December45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly Cloudy
December45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly Cloudy

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Fair Isle

When planning your trip to Fair Isle, consider visiting in November for lower accommodation prices compared to busier months like January, April, and June. Book your stay 1-3 months in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s tools to filter by budget and accommodation type, and look for package deals that combine flights, activities, and hotels. Keep an eye out for ferry discounts and free cancellation options to maximise your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Fair Isle are November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January, April and June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Fair Isle is usually 1-3 months out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Fair Isle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Fair Isle is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Fair Isle hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.