Quick Answer
Renting a car is the best way to travel from Sumburgh Airport (LSI) to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. The drive takes only 8-12 minutes, covers about 3 miles, and offers unbeatable flexibility. For a simple one-way transfer, a taxi costs £18-£25. Public bus is not a viable direct option, and walking is only for the very prepared. Book your rental car or taxi in advance, especially in peak season (May-Sept).
Car Rental: The Ultimate Shetland Travel Freedom
For the vast majority of visitors, renting a car upon arrival at Sumburgh Airport is the optimal choice. It transforms your visit from a simple transfer into an opportunity to explore the dramatic landscapes of the South Mainland at your own pace.
Why it's the best choice: Shetland's public transport is designed for residents, not tourists hopping between remote attractions. A car gives you direct access to the lighthouse, nearby Jarlshof Prehistoric Site, the stunning Scousburgh Sands beach, and other hidden gems without waiting for infrequent buses or expensive taxis.
| Provider | Location | Approx. Daily Rate (Small Car) | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Argus Car & Van Hire | Desk inside Sumburgh Airport Terminal | £45 - £70 | Most convenient. Essential to book months ahead for summer. |
| Star Rent-a-Car | Based in Lerwick (20 miles away) | £40 - £65 | Requires a taxi or bus to collect, negating initial convenience. |
| Bolt | Based in Lerwick | £40 - £60 | Same as above. Often has longer rental minimums (e.g., 3 days). |
The Driving Route: Step-by-Step
It could not be simpler:
- Collect your car from the airport lot.
- Exit the airport and at the roundabout, take the exit onto the B9122 south (signposted for Sumburgh Head/Jarlshof).
- Follow this road for approximately 2.5 miles. You will pass Jarlshof on your left.
- Look for the clear signage for "Sumburgh Head Lighthouse" and the visitor centre. Turn left into the car park.
Essential Driving in Shetland Advice
- Single-Track Roads: Much of Shetland is single-track. Use passing places (pull in on your LEFT) to allow oncoming traffic to pass or to let faster vehicles behind you overtake.
- Sheep (& Ponies & Otters): They have right of way. They will be on the road. Slow down and be prepared to stop.
- Wind: Door slams are legendary. Hold your door when opening, and be prepared for sudden gusts while driving, especially on exposed cliffs.
- Fuel: Fill up in Lerwick or at the Garage near the airport. Stations in the deep south are scarce.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is a straightforward, no-hassle option for a one-off transfer, particularly suitable for small groups splitting the cost, those with mobility concerns, or travelers arriving after dark.
Costs, Companies & Booking
Expect a one-way fare in the range of £18 - £25. There is no metered service; fares are fixed or estimated based on distance. For a return trip with the driver waiting for you (typically 1-1.5 hours to visit the lighthouse), expect to pay £45 - £60.
- Sinclair's Taxis: One of the largest firms. Reliable and can handle advance bookings.
- Grantfield Garage Taxis: Another well-established Lerwick-based firm.
- Local Drivers: Some independent drivers operate; their cards are often found in the airport arrivals hall.
Critical Tip: Always, always pre-book. Do not assume taxis will be waiting. Contact the firm with your flight details and destination. Confirm the fare explicitly when booking.
When is a Taxi the Right Choice?
- You are only visiting the lighthouse and returning directly to the airport.
- Your flight arrives late or departs very early.
- You have a lot of luggage that makes a bus impossible.
- Your group size (3-4 people) makes the per-person cost comparable to bus fares.
Walking: For the Adventurous & Prepared
This is a serious coastal walk, not a casual stroll from the terminal. It should only be attempted by experienced walkers with suitable footwear and clothing, carrying minimal luggage.
The Route & Realistic Challenges
Distance: ~3.5 miles (5.6 km) one-way via the B9122 road.
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes of brisk, uninterrupted walking.
Major Hazards:
- No Pavement: Long stretches have no footpath. You will be walking on the tarmac edge of a road used by airport traffic, tourists, and locals.
- Weather Exposure: Shetland weather is famously changeable. Horizontal rain, dense fog, and fierce winds can arrive in minutes, reducing visibility and making walking dangerous and miserable.
- Traffic Speed: While not a motorway, vehicles often travel at 50-60mph on this open road.
If You Decide to Walk: Survival Guide
- Check the forecast meticulously using the MET Office for Sumburgh Head.
- Wear high-visibility clothing.
- Walk facing oncoming traffic.
- Have a fully charged phone and a backup power bank.
- Consider walking on the coastal side of the road (east side) where there is sometimes more grass verge, but be mindful of cliffs and fences.
- Alternative: Walk to the nearby Jarlshof Prehistoric Site (15 mins), visit it, and then call a taxi from there to the lighthouse if conditions allow.
Public Bus: The Limited (and Impractical) Option
It is crucial to manage expectations: there is no direct or practical public bus service to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse for a tourist. The bus network, operated by ZetTrans, serves local residential needs.
What Service Exists?
Service 6 (Lerwick - Sumburgh Airport - Toab/Grutness) runs past the airport. You could theoretically take this bus a few stops south to a point like Grutness Pier.
The Critical Problem: From any bus stop, you are still facing a long, hazardous walk of over an hour along the same exposed B9122 road with no pavement to reach the lighthouse entrance. You would then have to repeat this walk back to catch a return bus. Timetables are infrequent (sometimes 2-3 hour gaps).
Our Verdict: For 99% of visitors aiming to efficiently and safely reach Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, the public bus is not a viable option. It is listed here for informational completeness only.
Cost & Time Comparison: At a Glance
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Travel Time | Flexibility | Best For... | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Car Rental | £45-£70 (per day) | 8-12 min | Excellent | Most visitors, explorers, groups, families | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Highly Recommended) |
| Taxi | £18 - £25 | 8-12 min | Poor (point-to-point only) | Quick transfers, no-drivers, late arrivals | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Great for direct trips) |
| Walking | Free | 75+ min | Good (but exhausting) | Extremely fit, prepared adventurers in good weather | ⭐ (High risk, not recommended generally) |
| Public Bus | ~£2-£4 | 90+ min (incl. long walk) | Very Poor | Informational purposes only; not practical for this journey | N/A |
Key Takeaway: The marginal extra cost of a rental car over a return taxi journey buys you immense freedom for your entire Shetland stay. For a simple in-and-out airport visit, a pre-booked taxi is efficient.
Traveler Tips & Local Experience
Go beyond the logistics with advice from those who've done it.
- Combine Your Visit: The lighthouse, the Jarlshof Prehistoric Settlement (5-min drive back towards the airport), and the Sumburgh Head Lighthouse Visitor Centre (excellent café and toilets) form a perfect half-day itinerary.
- Check Lighthouse Opening Times: The lighthouse tower itself and the visitor centre have seasonal opening hours. The cliffs and exterior are always accessible. Check SumburghHead.com.
- Respect the Wildlife: This is an RSPB reserve. Puffins, gannets, and fulmars nest on the cliffs (spring-summer). Stay on paths, keep noise down, and never approach burrows.
- Wind is No Joke: Even on a sunny day, the cliff edge can have gale-force gusts. Hold onto hats, phones, and small children. Be careful when opening car doors.
- Photography Tip: The best light for photos of the iconic white lighthouse against the sea is often in the evening. A rental car allows you to time your visit perfectly.
- Food & Drink: The airport has a small café. The lighthouse visitor centre has a better café. For a full meal, plan to drive to nearby Scalloway or Lerwick.
FAQs: Sumburgh Airport to Lighthouse
What is the best way to get from Sumburgh Airport to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse?
Renting a car is overwhelmingly the best and most recommended way. It provides flexibility, is cost-effective for groups, and allows you to explore the wider South Mainland of Shetland at your own pace. The drive is short, straightforward, and scenic.
Is there a direct bus from Sumburgh Airport to the lighthouse?
No, there is no direct public bus service. Bus service 6 runs from the airport to nearby settlements, but you would face a significant and potentially hazardous walk of over an hour along narrow, unlit roads with no pavement to reach the lighthouse itself. It is not a practical option for most visitors.
How much is a taxi from Sumburgh Airport to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse?
A one-way taxi fare typically costs between £18 and £25, depending on the exact drop-off point and the taxi company. Always confirm the fare before starting your journey. For a return trip with a waiting time, expect to pay £45-£60.
Can I walk from Sumburgh Airport to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse?
Technically yes, but it is only advisable for very fit and prepared walkers with minimal luggage. The distance is approximately 3.5 miles one-way along a road with fast-moving traffic, no pavement, and exposure to Shetland's unpredictable wind and rain. It takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Do I need to book a taxi in advance at Sumburgh Airport?
It is highly recommended, especially outside of peak summer hours, on weekends, or if you are in a larger group. While taxis sometimes meet flights, they are not guaranteed. Pre-booking ensures a vehicle is waiting for you.
How long does the drive from the airport to the lighthouse take?
The drive is very short, taking only 8 to 12 minutes under normal conditions. The route is simple: follow the B9122 south from the airport for about 3 miles until you see the signs for the lighthouse.
Is there car rental available directly at Sumburgh Airport?
Yes, the main car rental provider with a desk inside Sumburgh Airport is Argus Car & Van Hire. It is strongly advised to book your vehicle well in advance, particularly from May to September, as availability on the islands is limited.
What should I know about driving in Shetland?
Be prepared for single-track roads with passing places (use them to let faster traffic overtake). Sheep and other wildlife frequently roam onto roads. Weather can change rapidly, causing strong winds and reduced visibility. Fuel stations are limited outside Lerwick. Drive defensively and patiently.