Peak Season⭐ Top Pick

Shetland in December 2026

Wildlife lovers and culture seekers wanting Britain's most dramatic northern lights experience combined with Norse heritage. Here's everything you need to plan your December visit.

✦5/10

🌡️ Weather in Shetland in December

4°C

Avg Temperature

cool — mid-weight layers recommended

14h

Dark Hours / Night

Long dark nights — excellent aurora windows

🟡 Medium

Aurora Likelihood

Aurora possible on clear, dark nights — bring a camera just in case

December in Shetland sits at 4°C average, which is cool — mid-weight layers recommended. Expect around 14 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.

🌌 Northern Lights in December

🟡 Medium likelihood· Aurora score 5/10

Shetland has a base aurora score of 5/10. In December, aurora is possible on clear nights. With 14 hours of darkness, you have reasonable viewing windows if solar activity cooperates.

Tips for aurora chasing in December: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.

🎯 What to Do in Shetland in December

✓Northern Lights Tours

✓Aurora Photography

✓Photography Tours

Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.

🎒 What to Pack for December in Shetland

▸

Moisture-wicking base layer, fleece jacket, and a wind/waterproof outer layer

▸

Sturdy waterproof footwear — conditions can turn quickly

▸

A warm hat and light gloves for evenings and windy conditions

▸

Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod

▸

Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket

▸

Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots

▸

Dry bag for electronics; most operators provide drysuits but check in advance

▸

Sea sickness prevention if boat trips are planned

📦 View the full interactive packing list for Shetland →

🏨 Accommodation in December

Peak Season

This is peak season — book accommodation 2–4 months in advance. Expect prices around $58+/night for mid-range options. Popular choices include Stone farmhouses, Boutique hotels, Guesthouses. Aurora lodges and glass cabins sell out fastest.