Shetland and Orkney, best time of year?

[Driventemple]

As the title says. Want to go next year (2026) and we normally tour May/June and Sep/October so, what recommendations are there from those who have been?

 

[Wee Bold Davy]

Although I'm a Jock, never been to either, but would suggest May/June mainly because it is generally less windy then and less wet and very long days and short nights. Saying that, midges are rarely an issue when the wind is above 6mph

 

[WillH]

We've been to both and I agree with the above post May/June. Though take clothing for all weather, when it rains it's horizontal and it's rarely warm. The long days in Shetland in June are amazing.

 

[Driventemple]

Bump?

 

[dosser]

As others have said May / June would be when I would go back. Schools finish end of June up here.
Weather usually pretty decent in May.

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[scotjimland]

Also a Jock who has never been to either but flown both over many times in a chopper going offshore to an oil production platform
Struck me as barren desolate places with little I’d want to visit or see but perhaps that’s the attraction, desolation and wildlife

 

[Geistguy]

We have visited Orkney twice, once mid May and once mid September, we were lucky enough to have calm ( for Orkney ) and warm weather. It was reasonably quiet and we had no problem enjoying the many attractions with no other visitors around. Do remember though that you will be on exposed islands, the weather can change suddenly and can be brutal so be prepared.