Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte, named after George III's wife, dominates the harbor area of Lerwick. These fortifications which were built in 1655 following John Mylne's design were burnt down by the Dutch in 1672 and then the English rebuilt them in 1781. At the turn of the century the fort became a prison, but it is now used to train cadets. A fine panoramic view of Lerwick is possible from the clock tower above the town hall, which was built in 1882 from Bressay sandstone.