One of the great experiences during the Shetland winter is the Mirrie Dancers, known as ‘Northern Lights’, or aurora borealis.
We use this wording as it refers to the flickering of the lights in the night skies. Another name that is mentioned in Scottish Gaelic is Na Fir Chlis meaning “the Nimble Men”. According to Scottish folk tales, during winter nights Nimble Men and Merry Maidens dance in the dark skies.
Locally we know that the best times to see the mirrie dancers, are between the end of October to March as Shetland lies closer to the North Pole than any other part of Britain, it’s the best place to see the Northern Lights. To assure you get the best possible chance of seeing them, try to avoid full moons and pitch up somewhere out of any street lighting. There are lots of places to go and our motorhome is the perfect place to be when chasing them. Get the kettle on, wrap up warm and of you go!
Photos: Craig Sim
