Jarlshof Prehistoric Settlement, Shetland (Scottish Highlands and Islands)

Summary 13th century buildings (or older) Gift shop Audio guide

Introduction

Jarlshof provides an insight into the way of life of the inhabitants at particularly interesting periods – the late Bronze Age, Iron Age, Pictish era, Norse era and Middle Ages. It includes oval-shaped Bronze-Age houses, Iron-Age broch and wheelhouses, Viking long houses, medieval farmstead and a 16th-century laird’s house.  Open Apr-Sep, daily 9.30-5.30.

 

 

History to the present day

The remains at Jarlshof represent thousands of years of human occupation, and can be seen as a microcosm of Shetland history. The site remained largely hidden until a storm in the late 1800s washed away part of the shore, and revealed evidence of these ancient buildings. Formal archaeological excavation started in 1925 and Jarlshof was one of two broch sites which were the first to be excavated using modern scientific techniques between 1949–52. Although the deposits within the broch had been badly disturbed by earlier attempts, this work revealed a complex sequence of construction from different periods. Buildings on the site include the remains of a Bronze Age smithy, an Iron Age broch and roundhouses, a complex of Pictish wheelhouses, a Viking longhouse and a medieval farmhouse.

Other facilities

The visitor centre has displays on Iron Age life and the history of the site. 

Free audio tours are available and visitors can enjoy a gift shop and display on the history of the site.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Jarlshof Prehistoric & Norse Settlement, Scottish Highlands and Islands, , United Kingdom

Address: Jarlshof Prehistoric Settlement, Sumburgh, Shetland Islands, ZE3 9JN.

Directions: At Sumburgh Head, about 22 miles south of Lerwick on the A970.