Scotland: Up Helly Aa - 7 day 689

Scotland: Up Helly Aa - 7 day 689

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7 Days From

$2375

Scotland: Up Helly Aa - 7 day 689

7 Days Starting and ending in Aberdeen, Scotland

Visiting: Aberdeen, Lerwick, Shetland

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BUPV

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Light

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2375

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 7-day journey through Scotland, centered around the fiery Up Helly Aa festival. Experience the dramatic landscapes of Yell and Unst, and delve into 3,000 years of history at the Jarlshof archaeological site. Enjoy comfortable overnight sailings with Northlink Ferries, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Discover the picturesque village of Scalloway and its intriguing past, from ancient castles to wartime exploits. The tour offers a blend of cultural exploration and breathtaking scenery, with highlights including the spectacular sea cliffs at Eshaness and the vibrant festivities of Up Helly Aa. With professional tour management, comfortable coach travel, and included meals, this special interest tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Scotland's rugged beauty and rich heritage.

Highlights

  • The fiery festival of Up Helly Aa

  • 3000 years of archaeological history at Jarlshof

  • The dramatic, rugged scenery of Yell and Unst

  • The picturesque village of Scalloway

  • Spectacular sea cliffs at Eshaness

  • Visit to Sumburgh Head, an RSPB reserve and lighthouse site

Places You'll See

Scotland: Up Helly Aa - 7 Day 689

Scotland: Up Helly Aa - 7 Day 689

Scotland: Up Helly Aa - 7 Day 689

Scotland: Up Helly Aa - 7 Day 689

Itinerary

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Day 1

Location: Aberdeen

Accommodation Name: Northlink Ferry

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from our designated departure points and travel to Aberdeen where we will join the Serco Northlink ferry for our overnight sailing to Lerwick. Once on board we shall check-in to our comfortable cabins which all have en-suite facilities. The ship has a delightful restaurant, where dinner is served this evening, together with a bar and lounges where you can relax. There is also a well-stocked gift shop for souvenir shopping or essential items.

Day 2

Location: Lerwick

Accommodation Name: Sumburgh Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We arrive early this morning into Lerwick and after breakfast on board we disembark and depart on a scenic excursion to the north mainland of Shetland. Our route will take us over the Mavis Grind, an isthmus just 100 yards wide, and through a stark landscape of hills, moors and lochans. We will stop for a walk (weather permitting) along the spectacular sea cliffs at Eshaness, which offer spectacular views over the many skerries, islets and offshore rocks. There are also many caverns and sea caves, one of which was recently declared the largest in the Britain. Look out too for the lighthouse which was built by David Alan Stevenson, one of the famous ‘lighthouse’ Stevensons, between 1925 and 1929.
Later this afternoon we will check-in to our accommodation, where dinner will be served in the evening.

Day 3

Location: Shetland

Accommodation Name: Sumburgh Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast this morning we depart for a full day tour which, weather permitting, will take us to the northern isles of Yell and Unst. We travel north through Tingwall and Girlsta and past the oil terminal at Sullom Voe, which has transformed life in Shetland over the last 25 years, before arriving at Toft, where the ferry departs for the island of Yell. After a 15-minute crossing we travel across Yell to Gutcher at the north end of the island. We then take another short ferry crossing to the island of Unst, where we shall drive north to Baltasound for a lunch stop. After lunch (not included) we continue northwards again, (about as far north as it is possible to travel by coach in the British Isles) and enjoy the marvellous views from Saxavord Hill. Our return route takes us via East Yell and Burravoe.
Upon return to mainland Shetland we will transfer back to our hotel, where dinner will be served in the evening.

Day 4

Location: Lerwick

Accommodation Name: Sumburgh Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast this morning we depart for Lerwick, where the day is free to explore at your leisure and view the various activities associated with the Up Helly Aa festival which takes place today. Keep an eye out for the various ‘squads’ of ‘guizers’ – groups of about 20 men who choose a theme and dress up as whatever takes their fancy each year. Only one squad, a different one every year, is allowed to dress up as Vikings and are known as ‘jarls’, the Viking term for Earl. As darkness falls (mid-afternoon at this time of year) the squads begin to assemble for the torchlight parade and eventually a procession of 1,000 men snakes its way through the streets carrying aloft flaming brands of paraffin-soaked hessian and carrying the superbly crafted galley which will then be ceremoniously burned in the spectacular finale to the day’s events.
Dinner this evening will be served in a local restaurant and at an agreed time, we will be transferred back to our hotels after the evening procession.

Day 5

Location: Shetland

Accommodation Name: Sumburgh Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning following breakfast, we enjoy another scenic excursion to the west mainland of Shetland, which will take us to Walls, terminus for the ferry service to the island of Foula, and the headland at Sandness, overlooking the island of Papa Stour.
In the afternoon we will return to our hotel, where dinner will be served in the evening.
 

Day 6

Location: Shetland

Accommodation Name: Northlink Ferry

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning after breakfast we will check out of our hotel and our day begins with a visit to Scalloway, the original capital of Shetland. The castle built by Earl Patrick Stewart (not a man you would want to have crossed) still dominates the skyline. More recently Scalloway was the secret base for the heroes of the Norwegian Resistance and the wartime exploits of the ‘Shetland Bus’ form a courageous memoir. Here we will have the opportunity to visit the Shetland Museum (entry not included) which tells the story of Scalloway and its people from the earliest settlers right up to Scalloway’s position in the present day.
Later we head for the south of mainland Shetland, where we visit the outstanding Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof, with over 3 acres of remains, spanning 3000 years since the days of the Stone Age, including oval shaped bronze age houses, iron age broch and wheel houses, Viking long houses and medieval farmhouses. We will also visit Sumburgh Head, the southern tip of mainland Shetland, which is an RSPB reserve and site of a lighthouse that is still functioning remotely, but incorporates museum aspects of its earlier operation as a manned station. In season, thousands of puffins, kittiwakes and razorbills nest here, but in January they will still be out at sea.
Later this afternoon we will re-join the Northlink ferry for our overnight sailing back to Aberdeen. Dinner will be served on board.

Day 7

Location: Aberdeen

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast on board, we will disembark in Aberdeen.  We will then return to the original pick-up points, where we anticipate arriving late morning/early afternoon.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable stay at each destination.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    A professional tour manager will be available to guide and assist you throughout the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Travel comfortably throughout the tour with coach travel, ensuring a seamless journey.

  • Meals as per the itinerary

    Meals are provided as per the itinerary, ensuring you are well-fed during the tour.

  • Ferry crossings

    Ferry crossings are included, providing a convenient way to travel between destinations.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits and excursions as outlined in the itinerary are included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

  • Lunch on Day 3

    Lunch on Day 3 is not included in the tour package.

  • Entry to Shetland Museum

    Entry to the Shetland Museum is not included and must be arranged separately.

Mode of Transport

Travel comfortably throughout the tour with coach travel and ferry crossings, ensuring a seamless journey as you explore the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights of Scotland.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable overnight sailings with Northlink Ferries, providing a relaxing and convenient way to travel between destinations during your tour.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the Up Helly Aa festival?

    The Up Helly Aa festival is a fiery event that takes place in Lerwick, Shetland. It involves various squads of 'guizers' who dress up in themed costumes, with one squad dressing as Vikings, known as 'jarls'. The festival culminates in a torchlight parade and the ceremonial burning of a galley.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes comfortable overnight sailings with Northlink Ferries, where guests can enjoy en-suite cabins. Additionally, accommodation is provided at the Sumburgh Hotel during the stay in Shetland.

  • What can I expect to see on the excursion to the northern isles of Yell and Unst?

    During the excursion to Yell and Unst, you will travel through scenic landscapes, including Tingwall and Girlsta, and past the oil terminal at Sullom Voe. You will take ferry crossings to both islands, enjoy a lunch stop at Baltasound, and experience marvellous views from Saxavord Hill.

  • What activities are included on Day 4 of the tour?

    Day 4 is dedicated to exploring Lerwick and participating in the Up Helly Aa festival activities. You can observe the various squads of 'guizers' and the torchlight parade, which ends with the burning of a galley.

  • What historical sites are visited on Day 6?

    On Day 6, the tour visits Scalloway, the original capital of Shetland, where you can see the castle built by Earl Patrick Stewart and learn about the 'Shetland Bus' wartime exploits. The day also includes a visit to the Prehistoric and Norse Settlement of Jarlshof, which features remains from the Stone Age to medieval times.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Friday

Jan 25, 2025 - Jan 31, 2025
$2375

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.