Shetland Pony Express: circular tour with pony visit

Shetland Ponies originated here, and you meet them at the stud where they still live.

The Shetland Pony Express is a guided circular tour of Shetland's Central Mainland that takes one to two hours and includes transport, a stop at Scalloway (the former capital), and a visit to Carol's Ponies stud farm where you learn the history of the breed from the owner herself. The tour loops back through Tingwall Valley and returns to Lerwick. Fuel surcharge and parking are included; lunch and museum entry are separate.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Shetland Islands and Ponies

• Travel to Scalloway
• Visit Scalloway Museum and Castle exterior
• Lunch at local restaurants
• Meet Shetland Ponies at Carol's Ponies
• Learn Shetland Pony history
• Drive through Tingwall Valley
• Pass Law Ting Holm
• Return to Lerwick

The Experience

One to two hours gets you around Shetland's Central Mainland on a single loop, starting from Lerwick. The route takes in Scalloway, where the former capital sits with its castle, museum and colourful houses—you can step off here if you want to explore the shops and restaurants, or stay aboard and keep moving. The driver handles the navigation and the timing, so the day holds together without you building it.

The real stop is Carol's Ponies, where you meet the animals that made Shetland famous. Shetland Ponies originated right here on the islands, and though they're now found worldwide as riding ponies for children and companions to horses, this is where the breed comes from. Carol, the stud owner, explains their history and temperament in detail. The ponies have strong teeth and will nip, so you look but don't feed—that's the only rule that matters when you're standing in front of them.

After the pony visit, the tour takes a scenic drive through Tingwall Valley, passing Law Ting Holm, which served as the seat of Norse parliament during the Viking era. Then it's back to Lerwick. A live English-speaking guide travels with you the whole way; transport, fuel surcharge and parking fees are all included in the price.

What’s included

• Transport around Shetland's Central Mainland.
• live English-speaking guide.
• stop in Scalloway with time to explore.
• visit to Carol's Ponies stud farm with owner commentary.
• scenic drive through Tingwall Valley.
• fuel surcharge and parking fees.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Robertson's Tours & Holidays

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a guided loop around central Shetland with stops at Scalloway and the Shetland Ponies—you'll follow the set itinerary rather than choose your own route.

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Top questions

Can I get off in Scalloway and explore on my own?

Yes, Scalloway is a scheduled stop where you can alight if you want to visit Scalloway Museum, see the castle exterior, or eat at one of the local restaurants. You'll need to arrange your own way back to Lerwick or rejoin a later departure if you stay longer.

What are Shetland Ponies like, and will I be able to touch them?

Shetland Ponies are small, sturdy animals that originated on these islands and are now popular worldwide as riding ponies for children and horse companions. You'll meet them at Carol's stud farm and learn their history from the owner, but they have strong teeth and will nip, so you observe them without feeding or handling them.

How long does the whole tour take?

The tour runs one to two hours total, including the stop in Scalloway, the visit to Carol's Ponies, and the scenic drive through Tingwall Valley before returning to Lerwick.

What's included in the price?

Transport around the circular route, the guide, fuel surcharge and parking fees are included. Lunch, snacks, and entry to Scalloway Museum are not; you pay for those separately if you want them.

Is the tour accessible if I use a wheelchair?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, and transportation options are wheelchair accessible as well. Infants can travel in a pram or stroller, and service animals are allowed.