Norse culture was brought to Scotland by Scandinavian Viking raiders, traders and settlers. The Viking period started in the eighth century, lasted several hundred years and made an enduring impact on the Highlands and Islands. Shetland, Orkney and Caithness in particular have a strong sense of Norse identity although the northern and western Highlands and Islands also retain a memory of Norse heritage. The old Norse or Norn language ceased to be spoken in Shetland - its last stronghold in the British Isles - around the end of the 18th century.

The Norse identity in Orkney, Shetland and Caithness manifests itself in place names, many Norse words in the local dialects, cultural and trading links with the Nordic countries and a general consciousness of Nordic heritage of which Shetland's "Up Helly A" winter festival is perhaps the most spectacular manifestation. The Nordic tradition is also reflected in local styles of boat, which resemble miniature Viking ships, and products such as knitwear and jewellery.