Fort Charlotte
A 17th-century five-pointed fort in central Lerwick, with ramparts overlooking the harbour and Bressay.
Fort Charlotte was first built in 1665 during the Anglo-Dutch Wars to guard Bressay Sound. It was later burned by the Dutch and rebuilt in 1781, named after the queen of George III. Its star-shaped pentagonal walls are well preserved. The inner barracks are used by the local regiment and are not open to the public, but the walls and gun emplacements can be visited freely, with views over the harbour, the ferries and Bressay Island opposite. Admission is free. The fort is at the north end of Commercial Street and within walking distance.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:30 until sunset
Nearby sights
- Lerwick Old Town & Commercial Street
- Up Helly Aa
- Shetland Museum and Archives
- Broch of Clickimin
- Isle of Noss
- Scalloway Castle & Museum
- Broch of Mousa
- Weisdale Mill & Bonhoga Gallery