Gardie House

Gardie House is an 18th-century country residence on Bressay Island facing Lerwick across the water, with symmetrical walled gardens descending to a harbor point. The building displays the formal layout typical of homes built for prosperous families during this era.

Magnus Henderson commissioned the house in 1724, bringing in Forbes, a mason from Aberdeen, to oversee its construction. The building rose during a period when prosperous families were establishing grand residences on their estates.

The interior woodwork from around 1750 shows how Scottish craftsmen created fine details for wealthy families. You can see this craftsmanship in the paneled rooms, which reflect the quality of work that was valued at the time.

You can reach the house by taking a ferry from Lerwick to Bressay, where it sits in a quiet, rural setting. Visit during good weather when the paths around the gardens are easiest to walk.

Sir Walter Scott dined here in 1814, connecting the residence to Scottish literary circles at that time. This visit from one of Scotland's most celebrated writers adds a layer of cultural significance to the place.

Location: Shetland Islands

Location: Bressay

GPS coordinates: 60.16010,-1.12317

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:25