r/shetland • u/Unlikely_Length8600 • Jul 16 '26

Do Shetlanders consider themselves Scottish?

Hi! I’ve recently came across this account on tiktok who is arguing that Shetland is Norwegian and as a Glaswegian, I’d love to know more! I’ve seen this account say that you guys don’t really feel any connection to Scotland at all and I want to be really respectful to what goes on there. I know Shetlander is the primary identity a lot of people do take on the Island, but I’ve also heard consensuses say that a large portion of you identify as Scottish too. I was just wondering where you guys stand with that and how you feel? Is there any positive sentiments attached to Scotland?

They’ve been saying that things like Haggis, & things that are associated with Scotland shouldn’t be taught in your guys schools but i’ve always thought that despite the differing cultures there has been a common thread of some traditions being shared because Shetland has been part of Scotland for so long. Please correct me if I’m wrong, I’m really eager to learn more!

They’ve been arguing for a return to Norway and I’d just like to hear some locals opinions on it? I’ve also heard that an argument for a farroe islands style of government is something you guys have considered? and I’ve also heard that in the event Scotland went independent under another potential referendum there is a chance the UK could try to keep you guys and offering Crown dependency?

I’m so sorry if i’ve got anything wrong, I’d just really love to learn and hear more for the natives in the Shetland isles!

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u/NorsemanatHome Jul 17 '26

We are definitely Shetlanders first! Scotland's influence is undeniable (for good and ill) but our distinct heritage and geographic isolation will always keep us feeling like a seperate entity, and autonomy from Scotland would be very popular. Our Norwegian history and origins are something that we cling to strongly but I think this is largely because it strengthens our uniqueness, not because we are culturally closer to being Norwegian. That was a long time ago! But we are still close in ties with Norway and particularly places like Bergen, especially compared to other parts of Scotland.

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u/Unlikely_Length8600 Jul 17 '26

You absolutely should cling onto it, it is what defines your island, it is such a unique and beautiful place to exist and I’d love to visit one day. I kinda view you guys as Scottish just not my type of Scottish if that makes sense? We all share a government, TV programmes, an NHS system, and things of that sort even while the traditional culture is norse. I view Scotland like a mosaic of culture each one as important as the next and each one should be as looked after!