Caithness Agricultural Society
Celebrating nearly two centuries of Caithness farming heritage through vibrant shows and community spirit.
Founded in 1830, the Caithness Agricultural Society is a historic membership organisation based in Watten, near Thurso and Wick, Scotland. It coordinates and runs the annual Caithness Show, a vibrant event celebrating the rich agricultural heritage of the region with livestock competitions, equestrian events, and community activities. The society serves as a hub for farming enthusiasts and visitors interested in rural traditions and culture.
A brief summary to Caithness Agricultural Society
- Alexsin House, Wick, Watten, Thurso, KW1 5UP, GB
- +447340775951
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the annual Caithness Show in July to experience livestock competitions and equestrian events.
- Explore the rural surroundings of Watten and Thurso for authentic Highland landscapes.
- Check membership options if interested in supporting or participating in the society’s activities.
- Wear sturdy footwear and dress for variable weather when attending outdoor events at the showgrounds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Regional bus services connect Wick and Thurso to Watten, with journey times ranging from 25 to 40 minutes. Services run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies. Tickets cost approximately £5-£8 one way.
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Car
Driving from Wick or Thurso to Alexsin House in Watten takes about 20-30 minutes via the A882 and B874 roads. Parking is available on-site during events. Note that rural roads can be narrow and weather-dependent.
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Taxi
Local taxi companies provide direct transfers from Wick or Thurso to Watten, with travel times around 20-30 minutes. Fares typically range from £20 to £30 depending on time and demand.
Caithness Agricultural Society location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Caithness Agricultural Society
A Legacy of Agricultural Tradition
Established in 1830, the Caithness Agricultural Society stands as a pillar of agricultural heritage in northern Scotland. Rooted in the rural communities around Watten, Thurso, and Wick, the society was created to support and promote farming practices and rural life in the Caithness area. Over nearly two centuries, it has evolved into a respected membership organisation dedicated to preserving and celebrating the region’s farming culture.The Annual Caithness Show Experience
The society’s flagship event is the annual Caithness Show, held at Thurso East. This two-day event is a highlight for locals and visitors alike, featuring a wide array of livestock competitions including horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, rabbits, cavies, and poultry. The show also hosts equestrian events, providing a dynamic showcase of horsemanship and rural skills. Beyond competitions, the event offers a lively atmosphere filled with community spirit, traditional crafts, and food stalls.Setting and Venue
The Caithness Agricultural Society is headquartered at Alexsin House in Watten, a small village nestled between Thurso and Wick. The showgrounds at Thurso East provide a spacious outdoor venue that accommodates the diverse activities of the show, from livestock rings to exhibition spaces. The surrounding landscape of Caithness, with its open fields and coastal views, adds to the authentic rural ambiance of the event.Community and Membership
Membership in the society connects individuals passionate about agriculture and rural life. Members play an active role in organising the show and other initiatives that support local farming communities. The society fosters a sense of camaraderie among farmers, breeders, and rural families, helping to sustain agricultural traditions and knowledge across generations.Significance in Caithness Culture
The Caithness Agricultural Society and its show are more than just farming events; they are cultural touchstones that reflect the identity and resilience of the Caithness region. The show acts as a window into the agricultural world, showcasing the skills, dedication, and heritage of the people who work the land. It also provides a platform for education and celebration of rural life, bridging urban and rural communities.Preserving a Rural Way of Life
Through its activities, the society helps preserve the agricultural landscape and practices of Caithness. It supports sustainable farming methods and encourages the younger generation to engage with farming traditions. The society’s ongoing commitment ensures that the agricultural heritage of Caithness remains vibrant and relevant in the modern era.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
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Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Braal Castle
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A 14th-century Highland fortress overlooking the River Thurso, once seat of the Earls of Caithness.
Above and Beyond Tours
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Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Caithness.Org
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John O'Groats Signpost
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Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Mackays Hotel
29.6 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.
Caithness Inn
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The Cannon
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Churchill Barriers
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First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
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Broch of Borwick
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Mainland
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Explore Mainland, the largest island of Orkney, where history and breathtaking landscapes come together for an unforgettable experience.
Orkney Attractions
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Explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Orkney Islands at the Orkney Attractions Visitor Center in Stromness.
Orkney FolkLore and Storytelling Centre (Via House)
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Experience the magic of Orkney's folklore at the FolkLore and Storytelling Centre, where tales come alive in a charming cultural haven.
Cuween Hill Chambered Cairn
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A 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb where ancient rituals and mysteries still whisper from the darkness.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old St Peter’s Church, Thurso
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Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Old St Peter’s Church, a historic landmark steeped in Norse heritage and Caithness history in the heart of Thurso.
North Coast Visitor Centre
0.6 km
Discover Caithness history, art, and culture in a beautifully restored historic building with museum, gallery, theatre, café, and accessible facilities.
The Meadow Well
0.7 km
A quiet 19th-century wellhouse in central Thurso, once the town’s main water supply and a hub of everyday life.
Harold’s Tower
1.3 km
A unique hexagonal mausoleum near Thurso commemorating Viking Earl Harold and the Sinclair family legacy in northern Scotland.
Peerie Cafe
3.0 km
A cozy harbourfront café in Scrabster offering fresh fare, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere by the northern Scottish coast.
Geise Farm
3.8 km
Experience the peaceful charm of Geise Farm—Thurso’s riverside farm and nature reserve perfect for walks, picnics, and rural relaxation.
Things Va
4.3 km
Discover the ancient Iron Age broch near Thurso, a stone tower steeped in Viking heritage and coastal Scottish history.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
7.2 km
A community-run museum in Castletown, Caithness, preserving the maritime and industrial heritage of Scotland’s far north with engaging exhibits and local stories.
Peedie Sands
8.6 km
Discover Peedie Sands, a tranquil hidden beach on Scotland’s northern coast, perfect for solitude, wildlife watching, and pristine coastal beauty.
Mary Ann's Cottage
9.1 km
Step back in time at Mary Ann's Cottage, a perfectly preserved 19th-century Highland croft offering authentic cultural heritage and coastal charm.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
11.4 km
Scotland’s northernmost lighthouse atop dramatic cliffs, offering wild coastal views, rich wildlife, and historic maritime heritage.
Lichen Caithness Reindeer Centre
13.4 km
Experience the magic of the UK’s most northerly reindeer in the serene Highlands at Lichen Caithness Reindeer Centre.
Sinky's Beer Garden & Grill
14.6 km
Savor authentic Scottish beef in a unique farm-to-table beer garden and grill nestled in the scenic Caithness countryside near Thurso.
The Castle & Gardens of Mey
17.4 km
Explore the northernmost Scottish castle restored by the Queen Mother, with stunning gardens and panoramic coastal views.
Mackay Country Landmark
20.8 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes at the Mackay Country Landmark in the Scottish Highlands, a must-visit for culture and nature enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Y Not Bar & Grill
0.6 km
A lively Scottish pub and grill in Thurso serving local favourites, crafted drinks, and cosy stays for Highland explorers.
Bydand
0.7 km
Experience modern British dining with Highland charm at Bydand, Thurso’s boutique restaurant blending tradition and contemporary flair.
T's Café Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors in a cozy, hidden gem above a newsagent in Thurso’s heart.
Red Pepper
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Cozy Scottish dining with fresh seafood and hearty steakhouse classics in the heart of Thurso’s Holborn Hotel.
Spice Tandoori
0.8 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with friendly hospitality in the heart of Thurso.
Olive
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Pride of Bengal Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
1.0 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Thurso, offering fresh, robust dishes and a welcoming casual dining and takeaway experience.
The Blue Door Coffee Shop & Diner
1.2 km
Classic American diner charm meets hearty comfort food in the heart of Thurso’s welcoming community.
Captain's Galley Restaurant
2.9 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a charming harbour-side setting in Scotland’s northernmost reaches.
Capilla Tapas Restaurant
3.0 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of Scrabster, offering a cozy taste of Spain in northern Scotland.
The Ferry Inn Scrabster
3.0 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Scrabster offering hearty Scottish fare, cozy rooms, and stunning views of the bustling northern port.
Halladale Inn
23.9 km
Cozy Highland inn and bistro in Melvich offering hearty Scottish fare, welcoming hospitality, and excellent touring park facilities.
No.1 Bistro
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Discover fresh Highland fare and warm hospitality at No.1 Bistro, nestled on the world’s shortest street in Wick.
The Printers Rest
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Cozy Maltese-inspired restaurant in Wick offering fresh, shareable Mediterranean dishes with a welcoming BYO atmosphere.
Morags Café and Sweet Shop
29.6 km
Cozy café on Wick High Street serving fresh pastries, hearty all-day breakfast, and quality coffee in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
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Nickel & Dime
0.6 km
Discover Nickel & Dime in Thurso: Your essential convenience store for snacks, drinks, and local flavors in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Eye Candy
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Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Thurso’s historic High Street at Eye Candy.
Buttress's
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Discover unique fashion at Buttress's in Thurso, where style meets exceptional service in a cozy boutique setting.
Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
0.6 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Thurso for all your shopping needs, offering local products and friendly service.
The Kiln Store
0.8 km
Discover unique local crafts and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Thurso at The Kiln Store, a family-run treasure trove of northern Scottish heritage.
Hallmark
0.8 km
Charming Hallmark gift shop in Thurso offering quality cards and thoughtful gifts in a historic setting at Sir John's Square.
The Cave
0.9 km
Discover The Cave in Thurso, a vibrant comic book shop offering graphic novels, collectibles, and a welcoming atmosphere for fans and newcomers alike.
Spellbound Caithness
1.6 km
Discover Spellbound Caithness, Thurso’s magical gift shop blending Highland enchantment, artisan crafts, and spiritual community in a unique creative haven.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
18.2 km
Discover authentic Highland artistry and unique handcrafted gifts at Caithness Gifts & Crafts in Thurso, celebrating the spirit of northern Scotland.
North Coast Emporium
25.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and rare collectibles in the heart of John o' Groats at North Coast Emporium.
Groatie Buckie Gift Shop
25.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish coastal treasures and local crafts inspired by the legendary Groatie Buckie shell at John o' Groats’ charming gift shop.
John O'Groats Knitwear Co
26.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and warm Highland hospitality at John O'Groats Knitwear Co, a charming coastal shop steeped in tradition.
Far North Gifts and Gallery
26.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local art treasures in the charming Far North Gifts and Gallery at Freswick, Caithness.
McAllans
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Explore McAllans in Wick for stylish men's clothing that combines quality and modern fashion, perfect for every occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Grove Lounge
0.6 km
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Top Joe's
0.7 km
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Mr C's Bar
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Dunnet Bay Escapes
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Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Mey Hotel
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Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The Village Inn
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Harpers Bar
29.6 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
Camps Bar
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Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Blackstairs Lounge
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A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Mountain Dew Bar
30.2 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
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The West End Guest House
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Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
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Auld Motor Hoose
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Ayre Hotel & Apartments
53.5 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skinandi's Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
29.8 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
The Orkney Club
53.6 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
