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We've compiled the best of the best in Orkney and Shetland Islands - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
The designs here are rich in texture, color, and shape, but it's the philosophy behind the knitwear—Niela Nell Kalra makes it for the day you feel your worst—that makes it so desirable. Most of the pieces are made to be worn in multiple ways, meaning you get three pieces for the price of one.
The publisher of the local newspaper, The Orcadian, also manages this store, a good place to find books about the history of Orkney, its wildlife, and folklore. Look out for the occasional book reading and cultural event held here.
The Peerie (Shetland for "small") Shop sells a colorful mix of knitwear, cards, ceramics, and interesting---and, yes, small---miscellanea.
On Commercial Street in the heart of Lerwick, Anderson & Co. carries hand-knitted cardigans, jumpers, Shetland lace scarves, sheepskin slippers, and woven throws.
Not only can you purchase designer knitwear with traditional patterns at Judith Glue, but there are also handmade crafts and tons of local produce, as well as the eat-on-site Real Food Café.
Don't miss this eclectic shop, open since the 19th century, which sells a huge array of Ola Gorrie's original designs in gold and silver jewelry with Celtic and Norse themes. It also stocks knitwear, under-the-radar designer clothes labels, and quirky housewares. Its wineshop in the courtyard has a large selection, plus locally brewed craft beers and quality deli staples from Italy.
This is a great stop for 21st-century interpretations of traditional Fair Isle clothing, scarves, and throws, as well as ceramics, gifts, and beautiful children's toys.
Located right on the A971, about 1½ miles south of Weisdale, this popular shop sells gold and silver Nordic- and Celtic-inspired jewelry, desk knives, and belt buckles made in the on-site workshop.
The bread from Skibhoul is so popular that large shipments of it head south to the rest of the Isles on Thursdays. It's also famous for the Oceanic sea-salt oatcakes and Balta biscuits that are perfect for picnics. There's a small self-serve café so you can taste the wares.
