Spend Your Summer In Shetland At Belmont House

By Hannah McLaren -

On the charming Shetland island of Unst sits Belmont House, a classical A listed Georgian Mansion that you can stay in over the summer

Since 2011, Belmont House has been making a name for itself. This self-catering venue hosts weddings, yoga retreats and so much more. And the fact it has survived to do so is an incredible testament to the commitment, passion and restoration work of local Shetland residents.

Belmont House was built in 1775 by Thomas Mouat of Garth, a Shetland landowner and businessman. And the perfectly proportioned Georgian rooms have all been restored to their former glory, so this beautiful mansion can, once again, sleep up to 12 guests.

There is an elegant main bedroom, alongside the quirky attic bedrooms and bathrooms in the upper part of the house.

The house’s success as a holiday venue can also be attributed to its remote location. Chairperson of The Belmont Trust, Mike Finnie says, “Some holidaymakers view the journey as much a part of their holiday as the actual accommodation stay. Travelling to Unst gives the kudos of saying you have visited the UK’s most northerly place – forget John O’ Groats – this is the furthest north you can be before you hit the Faroe Islands or Iceland!”

On your travels you will not only visit the Shetland Mainland, a vibrant tourism destination, you will also take two ferries to get to Unst, visiting the island of Yell on the way. However, you can then fly direct to Shetland from four Scottish airports.

The lounge area restored to its original beauty.

“This part of the world opens up many possibilities,” adds Mike. “Belmont House attracts visitors who are looking to immerse themselves in a new environment, and it’s also extremely popular with walkers, ornithologists, family visitors for the stunning beaches, and nature and wildlife enthusiasts.”

Nearly all the work at Belmont was carried out by local craftsmen. And internally, Belmont House remains as it was built, other than the addition of modern amenities. The formal walled gardens that sit in front of Belmont House are included in the National Inventory of Designed Landscapes and Gardens in Scotland.

What will you see on Unst?

Puffins can be seen on Unst until mid-August, with plenty of Great Skuas and Gannets still around, along with Fulmars, Kittiwakes, Razorbills and Guillemots. Red throated Divers and their chicks are found in many small pools.

Late summer is also good for spotting Minke Whales, and there is always the chance of harbour porpoise and, of course, Orcas! Otters can be seen all year round on Unst – it’s one of their favourite places – and unlike other parts of the UK, otters can be seen during daylight hours – another draw for wildlife enthusiasts.

Again, expert local wildlife guides can be hired for this purpose to enhance a group stay. Many of the rare wild flowers found only on the islands are still in abundance in summer too.

Puffins roam free at the nearby RSPB nature reserve. Hermaness National Nature Reserve.

Belmont House is a must!

Mike Finnie went on to say, “We are incredibly proud of what we have created. We have given Belmont a future.”

High Season package prices at Belmont House – from May to September – are £1800 for a week long five night let, £900 for a three night break, and £800 for a two night getaway.

This fantastic property is a must for adventure lovers. The surrounding island of Unst as well as Yell and Shetland Mainland are full of scenic views, yummy foods, wonderful wildlife and great people.

Four Star Status Retained For Belmont House We are delighted to have retained our four star status from VisitScotland. We’ve created a viable, growing business out of this amazing Georgian Mansion House which has been brought back to life from a virtual ruin to proudly take its place as the most impressive House on Unst once again – House Manager Sharon Calladine.