Caithness, United Kingdom Travel Guide

Discover Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where rugged coastlines, ancient history, and vibrant wildlife come together in a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.

Caithness, located in the far north of Scotland, offers a unique blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife. The region is known for its rugged coastline, ancient ruins, and expansive moorlands, making it a paradise for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors to Caithness can explore the stunning cliffs and sea stacks along the North Sea, where birdwatchers can spot puffins and other seabirds. The area is also home to the impressive Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, which offers breathtaking views and a sense of remote tranquility. History buffs will appreciate the area's archaeological sites, such as the ancient Brochs and the medieval Castle of Mey, once home to the Queen Mother. Caithness also boasts charming towns like Wick and Thurso, where visitors can enjoy traditional Scottish hospitality, local cuisine, and fascinating museums. Whether you're hiking along the rugged coast, exploring historical sites, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, Caithness provides a memorable escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Caithness.

Dress in layers and prepare for varied weather, as the climate can change quickly in Caithness.
Visit during the summer months to experience the Midnight Sun and extended daylight hours.
Rent a car to explore the remote and scenic areas that are not easily accessible by public transport.
Check local tide schedules if you plan to explore the coastline or go birdwatching.
Take time to visit the local distilleries for a taste of the region's unique whisky.

Explore Caithness: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Caithness

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Dawyck Botanic Garden

Explore 65 acres of stunning woodland, rare trees, and vibrant seasonal blooms at one of the world’s finest arboreta in the Scottish Borders.

4.7

Burns Mausoleum

Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.

4.6

Robert Burns Ellisland Museum & Farm

Walk in the footsteps of Scotland’s national poet at Robert Burns’s riverside farm, where 'Auld Lang Syne' and 'Tam o’ Shanter' were written.

4.6

Robert Burns House

Explore the intimate sandstone home where Robert Burns lived and wrote, a cherished cultural landmark in Dumfries celebrating Scotland’s national poet.

4.5

Best landmarks in Caithness

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John O'Groats Signpost

Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.

4.4

Mackays Hotel

Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.

4.3

Whitegate broch

An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.

4.5

Cairn of Get

A 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber where you can step inside ancient stone and touch the portal stones of the dead.

4.4

Best restaurants in Caithness

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Olive

Cozy Thurso cafe gem with vegan avocado toast mastery, chic decor, and friendly vibes—perfect NC500 brunch haven for plant-based delights and relaxed Highland mornings.

4.6

Captain's Galley Restaurant

Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a charming harbour-side setting in Scotland’s northernmost reaches.

4.7

Links House at Royal Dornoch

Luxury boutique hotel at Royal Dornoch with exquisite dining, spa, and world-class golf just steps from the legendary links course.

4.9

Mackays Hotel

Historic family-run hotel in Wick offering warm hospitality, spacious rooms, and acclaimed local cuisine in a charming 19th-century setting.

4.3

Best bars in Caithness

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Dunnet Bay Escapes

Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

5.0

Gellions Bar

Inverness’s oldest pub, Gellions Bar blends historic charm with vibrant live Scottish music and an extensive selection of local drinks every night.

4.4

The Malt Room

Discover Inverness’s cozy whisky sanctuary where expert pours, warm ambiance, and live Scottish tunes create unforgettable evenings.

4.8

Y Not Bar & Grill

A vibrant bar and grill in Thurso serving local Scottish dishes, handcrafted drinks, and comfortable stays with a welcoming Highland spirit.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Caithness

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Skinandi's Nightclub

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on mainland UK, right in the heart of Thurso.

3.4

The Waterfront

Wick’s lively and singular nightclub offering a vibrant dance floor and diverse music in the heart of this northern Scottish town.

3.0

Why Not Nightclub

Edinburgh’s dynamic late-night hotspot with cutting-edge LED rooms, lively dance floors, and a spacious outdoor garden for unforgettable nights.

2.7

Roobarb

Experience vibrant nightlife and great music at Roobarb, Fort William’s lively nightclub on High Street.

3.9

Best shops in Caithness

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Caledonian Gifts & Souvenirs

Discover authentic Scottish treasures and affordable souvenirs at Caledonian Gifts & Souvenirs in the heart of Inverness.

4.4

Eye Candy

Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Thurso’s historic High Street at Eye Candy.

5.0

Far North Gifts and Gallery

Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local art treasures in the charming Far North Gifts and Gallery at Freswick, Caithness.

5.0

North Coast Emporium

Discover authentic Scottish crafts and rare collectibles in the heart of John o' Groats at North Coast Emporium.

3.6

Explore Caithness on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Caithness, mapped for you.

Caithness Essentials

Caithness is located in the far north of Scotland. The nearest airports are Inverness Airport (approximately 125 miles away) and Wick John O'Groats Airport, which offers limited regional flights. From Inverness, you can drive to Caithness via the A9 and A99 roads, or take a train to Wick or Thurso, the main towns in Caithness. There are also bus services available from major Scottish cities to Thurso and Wick.
Caithness has a network of local bus services that connect the main towns and villages. Taxis are available in the larger towns of Wick and Thurso. For more flexibility, consider renting a car to explore the rural and coastal areas at your own pace. Cycling is also a popular way to see the countryside, with several scenic routes available.
The official currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available in most towns and villages. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or in more remote areas where card facilities might not be available.
Caithness is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Caithness.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The main hospitals are Caithness General Hospital in Wick and Dunbar Hospital in Thurso. Pharmacies are available in the larger towns for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual clothing when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local religious practices. While Caithness is not particularly religious, some historical sites may have religious significance. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and bus drivers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is common in more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as haggis, black pudding, and seafood. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Caithness like a local, visit the local pubs and chat with the residents. Explore the numerous historical sites, such as the Castle of Mey and the Wick Heritage Museum. Take a coastal walk to enjoy the stunning scenery and wildlife. Don't miss the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. For a unique experience, visit the John O'Groats ferry and take a trip to Orkney.

When is the best time to visit Caithness?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Caithness

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Caithness. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHullo
  [hʌl.oʊ]
- GoodbyeCheerio
  [tʃɪə.ri.oʊ]
- YesAye
  [aɪ]
- NoNae
  [neɪ]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/Ye're welcome
  [pliz/jɪr 'wɛlkəm]
- Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ɪkˈskjus mi/ˈsɔri]
- How are you?How's it gaun?
  [haʊz ɪt ɡaʊn]
- Fine. And you?A'm fine. An ye?
  [æm faɪn. ən jɪ]
- Do you speak English?Dae ye speak English?
  [deɪ jɪ spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandA dinnae understand
  [æ dɪn.ɪ ˌʌndərˈstænd]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAh'd like tae see the menu, please
  [ɑːd laɪk teɪ siː ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliz]
- I don't eat meatA dinnae eat meat
  [æ dɪn.ɪ it miːt]
- Cheers!Slàinte!
  [slæntʃə]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAh'd like tae pay, please
  [ɑːd laɪk teɪ peɪ pliz]
- Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
- Go away!Ga awa!
  [ɡa əˈwɑː]
- Call the Police!Phone the polis!
  [foʊn ðə ˈpoʊlɪs]
- Call a doctor!Phone a doctor!
  [foʊn ə ˈdɒktər]
- I'm lostA'm lost
  [æm lɒst]
- I'm illA'm no weel
  [æm noʊ wil]
- I'd like to buy...Ah'd like tae buy...
  [ɑːd laɪk teɪ baɪ]
- I'm just lookingA'm just lookin'
  [æm dʒʌst ˈlʊk.ɪn]
- How much is it?Whit’s the price?
  [wɪts ðə praɪs]
- That's too expensiveThat’s ower dear
  [ðæts ˈoʊər dɪr]
- Can you lower the price?Kin ye lower the price?
  [kɪn jɪ ˈloʊər ðə praɪs]
- What time is it?Whit time is it?
  [wɪt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
- It's one o'clockIt’s one o'clock
  [ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [hɑːf pɑːst tɛn]
- MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔːrnɪn]
- AfternoonEfterneen
  [ˌæftərˈniːn]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ˈiːvnɪn]
- YesterdayYestreen
  [jɛsˈtriːn]
- TodayTday
  [tʊˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowMorrow
  [ˈmɒroʊ]
- 1Yin
  [jɪn]
- 2Twa
  [twɑː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Fower
  [ˈfaʊər]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛv.ən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Whar's a/the...?
  [wɛrz ə/ðə]
- What's the address?Whit’s the address?
  [wɪts ðə əˈdrɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kin ye show me (on the map)?
  [kɪn jɪ ʃoʊ mi (ɒn ðə mæp)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛn ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (ta ....)
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt (tə)]

History of Caithness

Caithness has a rich prehistoric heritage, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. The Picts, a group of Celtic-speaking people, inhabited the region around the 3rd century AD. Numerous ancient standing stones, brochs (drystone towers), and cairns scattered across the landscape bear testimony to their presence and ingenuity.
During the late 8th century, Norse settlers began to arrive in Caithness, significantly impacting the local culture and landscape. The Vikings established longhouses, and Norse place names are still prevalent. The influence of Norse culture is evident in the region's history, with sites like the ruins of Old Wick Castle showcasing their legacy.
The medieval period in Caithness was marked by power struggles and clan conflicts. Prominent clans like the Sinclairs and Gunns played crucial roles in the region's history. The Sinclairs, in particular, left a lasting impression with the construction of significant structures like Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, a testament to their influence and ambition.
John O' Groats, often considered the northernmost point of mainland Britain, is steeped in history and legend. Named after Jan de Groot, a Dutchman who settled there in the late 15th century, the village became a crucial ferry point to the Orkney Islands. Its iconic signpost has become a symbol of journeys and adventures.
During World War II, Caithness played a significant role in the defense of Britain. The area was home to several military installations, including airfields and naval bases. Wick and Thurso were important locations for operations, and remnants of wartime defenses can still be seen today, providing a poignant reminder of the region's strategic importance.
Caithness boasts a vibrant cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and festivals playing an integral role in community life. The Caithness dialect, with its unique blend of Gaelic, Norse, and Scots influences, is a distinctive feature of the region. Annual events such as the Caithness County Show celebrate local traditions and bring the community together.