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Explore Scalloway with a Private Ponies Express Tour - Book in Lerwick, Scotland
Visit Scalloway, the ancient capital, and stop at Carol’s Ponies where you’ll meet and photograph these charming Shetland natives; you’ll learn about the breed’s history as a packing pony and how they’re now beloved riding companions for children and companions to horses. Carol, the stud owner, will give an informative talk about these beautiful animals, offering a close-up experience that’s perfect for family, nature, and sightseeing interests, but please remember they have teeth and may mistake fingers for carrots-do not feed the ponies.
About this activity in Lerwick
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Visit Scalloway near Lerwick to meet Carol’s Ponies - authentic Shetland ponies with a rich local history and friendly temperaments perfect for photos and family moments.
- Hear an engaging talk from Carol, the stud owner, who will share insights on the breed’s origins, care and role in the islands’ heritage.
- A relaxed, family-friendly experience suited to all ages and fitness levels - ideal for art, culture, nature and family-focused bookings from Lerwick.
- Opportunity for close-up photography of Shetland ponies in their natural setting, with guidance on safe interaction and animal behaviour.
Important Information
- This experience includes private, air-conditioned transportation from Lerwick, a visit to Carol’s Ponies, fuel surcharge and parking fees; gratuities are not included.
- Carol will demonstrate pony care and answer questions - please do not feed the ponies, as they may bite when offered food.
- Service animals are welcome and public transport options are available nearby; the activity is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
- Bring a camera, wear weather-appropriate outerwear for the Shetland climate, and follow the handler’s instructions for safe, respectful interaction with the animals.
Meeting Point
Meet at the central Lerwick pickup point provided on your booking voucher; exact meeting details and pickup time will be confirmed by Varoom prior to your visit.
Includes
- Private transportation included - enjoy a dedicated transfer in Lerwick, Scotland for a more comfortable and flexible experience in the area.
- Air-conditioned vehicle provided to keep you comfortable throughout your journey around the region.
- Visit to Carol's Ponies is part of the booking, giving you a direct activity to enjoy while exploring here.
- Fuel surcharge is covered as part of the service so you can relax without worrying about extra mileage fees.
- Parking fees are included, simplifying your arrival and stops across the destination.
Excludes
- Gratuities are not included - you may tip at your discretion for service enjoyed during the experience.
Other
- Service animals allowed - you can bring trained service animals while you explore the area.
- Public transportation options are available nearby, making it easy to access this experience if you prefer local transit.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels, so anyone in your group can participate without special fitness requirements.
Customer Reviews
9/10
Based on 3 Reviews
Summary:
Carol knows EVERYTHING about Shetland ponies and it was fun to learn from her and pet the ponies. The ride to and from is more like a taxi ride than a tour. The driver was very sweet but didn’t give us much information about the town or countryside we drove thru. We saw in town that rides to the ponies were available for significantly less money, but I don’t think they included Carol’s presentation which was the highlight for sure.
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Summary:
This was very informative on the history of the Shetland Ponies. Carol provided about 10 ponies to show and discuss with our tour. The ponies were well-behaved and allowed to be petted.
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Summary:
Driver was pleasant and informative. The van was comfortable. The ponies were adorable. It was just the two of us so the interaction we had with the driver was more like pleasant conversation than a tour.
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Know more about Lerwick
You’ll stop at Carol’s Ponies just outside Scalloway and have the chance to meet, learn about and photograph these charming animals. Carol, the stud owner, gives an informative talk about the ponies’ history and care, so you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of the Shetland pony breed.
Absolutely - you have a dedicated opportunity to photograph the ponies during your stop. Carol’s talk and the relaxed setting make it easy to capture close-up shots while learning about the breed’s characteristics and behaviour.
A stop at Carol’s Ponies adds a memorable wildlife and cultural element to Scalloway day tours and sightseeing itineraries. It pairs well with walks through the ancient capital and photography-focused excursions in the Lerwick area.
Yes - these ponies are a popular choice for family and kids’ experiences. Originating as a packing pony and now commonly used as riding ponies for children and companion animals, they make a great hands-on element for family-friendly tours and Outdoor & Nature outings.
No - you should not feed the ponies. Carol warns that the animals have teeth and may assume fingers are carrots, so for the safety of both visitors and ponies please avoid feeding them.
Yes - Carol explains the Shetland pony’s origins and traditional role as a packing pony, as well as their modern uses as riding ponies for children and companion animals, giving you both historical context and practical insights.
