Castlehill Heritage Centre
A community-run museum in Castletown, Caithness, preserving the maritime and industrial heritage of Scotland’s far north with engaging exhibits and local stories.
A Community’s Story in Stone and Memory
Castlehill Heritage Centre stands in Castletown, a small coastal settlement at the northern tip of mainland Scotland, where the North Sea meets the rugged Caithness coast. Housed in a former school building on Harbour Road, the centre is a labour of love by the Castletown Heritage Society, dedicated to preserving the area’s unique maritime and industrial past. The building itself, modest and unassuming, belies the depth of history within: from the days of bustling herring fleets to the quiet rhythms of crofting and fishing life, the exhibits trace how generations lived, worked, and shaped this remote corner of Scotland.Exhibits That Bring the Past to Life
The centre’s interpretive displays cover a wide range of local themes, including archaeology, shipbuilding, and the once-thriving herring industry that drew workers from across Scotland. Photographs, tools, household items, and archival material paint a vivid picture of daily life in Castletown over the past two centuries. Special attention is given to the area’s archaeological heritage, with finds from nearby sites and information on community-led fieldwork projects. Temporary exhibitions and themed events often highlight specific aspects of local history, from wartime experiences to traditional crafts, making each visit feel fresh and personal.More Than Just a Museum
Beyond its role as a museum, Castlehill Heritage Centre functions as a community hub and educational resource. It includes an archaeological research facility that encourages local participation in fieldwork and analysis, fostering a sense of ownership and continuity. Regular workshops, talks, and special events—such as cream teas and stargazing evenings—draw both residents and visitors, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere. The volunteers who run the centre are deeply knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing personal anecdotes and family stories that add a human dimension to the historical narrative.Planning Your Visit
The centre is open on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons, typically from 2 PM to 4 PM, with additional evening openings for specific events. Entry is free, though donations are welcome to support ongoing preservation and programming. Facilities include a small visitor office and toilet amenities, and the site is easily accessible from the main road through Castletown. Given its limited opening hours, it’s wise to check the centre’s website or contact them directly before making a special journey, especially in winter or around holidays. The surrounding village offers a quiet, atmospheric setting, with views of the harbour and the sea, making it easy to extend a visit with a walk along the coast.Local tips
- Check opening times in advance, as the centre is only open Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons; it can close unexpectedly for holidays or events.
- Speak with the volunteers—they are deeply knowledgeable about local history and often share personal family stories and insights not in the displays.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Castletown Harbour to see the old fishing boats and enjoy views of the North Sea and surrounding cliffs.
A brief summary to Castlehill Heritage Centre
- Harbour Rd, Thurso, Castletown, KW14 8TG, GB
- +441847821120
- Visit website
- Wednesday 2 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 2 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 2 pm-4 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Thurso, follow the A836 northeast along the coast for about 12 km to Castletown. The centre is on Harbour Road, near the harbour, with roadside parking available nearby. The drive takes roughly 15–20 minutes along a well-maintained single-carriageway road.
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Public Transport
Regular bus services from Thurso to Castletown stop within a 5-minute walk of the centre. The journey takes about 20–25 minutes, with services running several times a day; check local timetables as frequency can be reduced on weekends and holidays.
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Walking
From Castletown’s main cluster of houses and the harbour, the centre is a short, level walk along Harbour Road, suitable for most visitors. The path is paved and well-lit, taking about 5–10 minutes from the quayside.
