John O’Groats Trail – Wick to Keiss Coastal Hiking Route
Explore Scotland’s wild northern coast on the John O’Groats Trail from Wick to Keiss, where rugged cliffs meet historic castles and sweeping sea views.
The John O’Groats Trail from Wick to Keiss is a scenic and historic coastal hiking route in the Scottish Highlands. Stretching across rugged cliffs, sandy bays, and dramatic sea stacks, this trail offers walkers spectacular views of the North Sea and access to notable landmarks such as Castle Girnigoe and Keiss Castle. The route combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, passing through small villages and ancient ruins, making it a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
A brief summary to John O’Groats Trail - Wick to Keiss
- 118 High St, Wick, KW1 4LR, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check tide times before crossing the River of Wester at Sinclair’s Bay to avoid impassable conditions.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as some sections feature uneven and rocky terrain.
- Plan accommodation in advance during peak season, with options in Wick, Keiss, and nearby villages.
- Bring waterproof clothing and layers, as weather can change rapidly along the coast.
- Carry a camera to capture the dramatic sea stacks, natural arches, and historic ruins along the trail.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services connect Wick to Keiss and John O’Groats, with travel times around 20 to 30 minutes. Buses run several times daily but check schedules seasonally as frequency may reduce in winter. Tickets cost approximately £5-£8 one way.
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Car
Driving from Wick to Keiss takes about 20 minutes via the A99 road. Parking is available at trailheads and in village centers, but spaces can be limited during peak season. Fuel costs vary, expect around £5-£10 for the trip.
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Taxi
Local taxi companies provide flexible transport between Wick, Keiss, and John O’Groats. A taxi ride typically takes 15-25 minutes and costs approximately £20-£30, depending on time and demand.
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Walking
Experienced walkers can hike sections of the trail from Wick to Keiss in 5 to 6 hours, depending on pace and weather. The terrain is mixed with some steep and uneven parts, so proper footwear and fitness are essential.
John O’Groats Trail - Wick to Keiss 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 John O’Groats Trail - Wick to Keiss
Coastal Majesty and Rugged Terrain
The John O’Groats Trail from Wick to Keiss showcases some of the most dramatic coastal landscapes in northern Scotland. Hikers traverse high cliff tops overlooking the North Sea, where natural arches and sea stacks punctuate the shoreline. The route includes long stretches of sandy beaches, such as Sinclair’s Bay, and offers panoramic views of the open water and distant horizons. The terrain varies from gentle coastal paths to more challenging sections requiring careful navigation, especially in adverse weather conditions.Historic Castles and Cultural Heritage
Along the trail, walkers encounter significant historic sites including the ruins of Castle Girnigoe and Keiss Castle. These ancient fortifications tell stories of Scotland’s turbulent past and provide atmospheric points of interest. The trail also passes through the village of Keiss and near Nybster Broch, an Iron Age structure, enriching the journey with layers of cultural heritage. Wick, the largest settlement on the trail, offers a gateway to this rich history and serves as a starting or resting point.Wildlife and Natural Features
The trail’s coastal environment supports a variety of wildlife, especially seabirds nesting on cliffs and marine life visible from vantage points. The fresh sea air, the sound of waves crashing, and the sight of wildflowers along the path contribute to a deeply immersive nature experience. The Duncansby Sea Stacks and Lighthouse near the trail’s northern end are iconic natural landmarks, providing excellent opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation.Trail Experience and Accessibility
This section of the John O’Groats Trail is suited to walkers with moderate fitness due to some steep ascents and uneven paths. The route is well-marked, but certain parts require care, especially when crossing the River of Wester at Sinclair’s Bay, which can be impassable at high tide. Accommodation options including B&Bs, inns, and small hotels are available in Wick, Keiss, and along the route, supporting multi-day hikes. The trail is best enjoyed from late spring to early autumn when weather conditions are more favorable.Local Hospitality and Amenities
The nearby villages offer warm Scottish hospitality with local inns and eateries providing traditional fare. Facilities such as restrooms, small shops, and visitor information centers are accessible in Wick and Keiss. The trail’s proximity to these settlements allows hikers to replenish supplies and enjoy cultural interactions, enhancing the overall journey.Significance and Endpoints
John O’Groats is famed as the northeastern terminus of mainland Britain and is marked by its iconic signpost. The trail’s end at this point symbolizes a milestone for many walkers completing the northern stages of the John O’Groats Trail. The combination of natural splendor, historical intrigue, and cultural richness makes this route a quintessential Highland adventure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caithness Inn
0.4 km
A welcoming 4-star inn in Wick offering clean rooms, attentive service, and a perfect base for exploring the rugged Scottish Highlands.
Mackays Hotel
0.4 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.
Caithness.Org
15.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where adventure awaits at every turn.
John O'Groats Signpost
22.7 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
23.8 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Braal Castle
24.6 km
A 14th-century Highland fortress overlooking the River Thurso, once seat of the Earls of Caithness.
Above and Beyond Tours
25.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Churchill Barriers
51.6 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
51.9 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
The Cannon
58.8 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Grain Earth House
61.3 km
Explore Kirkwall’s hidden Iron Age subterranean marvel, Grain Earth House, where ancient stone pillars guard secrets beneath a modern industrial estate.
The Gloup
61.4 km
Experience the stunning cliffs and rich wildlife at The Gloup, a natural wonder on Mainland, Orkney, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views.
Wideford Hill Cairn
61.5 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Wideford Hill Cairn in Orkney, a remarkable Neolithic site offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into history.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
61.5 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of the Unstan Chambered Cairn, a historic site in Orkney that unveils the secrets of Scotland's Neolithic past.
Rennibister Earth House
61.9 km
Explore Rennibister Earth House, a mysterious Iron Age underground passage in Orkney, where ancient human remains reveal a haunting prehistoric story.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Wick Heritage Museum
0.0 km
Explore Wick’s rich maritime heritage through immersive exhibits and engaging stories at this charming seasonal museum.
Caithness Seacoast Ltd
0.2 km
Experience thrilling boat tours along Caithness’s dramatic coastline from Wick Harbour with expert guides and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Pulteneytown and Thrumster Church
0.2 km
Historic Victorian church in Wick offering spiritual heritage and community warmth in the heart of Caithness.
Old Pulteney Distillery
0.6 km
Explore Scotland’s northernmost mainland distillery crafting award-winning maritime single malts in the historic coastal town of Wick.
Nucleus: The Nuclear and Caithness Archive
1.3 km
Explore the UK’s civil nuclear legacy and Caithness heritage at this modern archive hub in Wick Airport.
Tinker's Cave
1.4 km
Explore Tinker's Cave, a historic landmark in Wick, Scotland, where stunning landscapes meet rich heritage and adventure awaits.
Tesco Superstore
1.4 km
A convenient and comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Wick offering extended hours, fresh produce, a café, and petrol services for all your daily needs.
Castle Of Old Wick
1.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of the Castle of Old Wick, a majestic 14th-century coastal fortress perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the North Sea.
Ackergill Tower
4.2 km
Historic coastal castle near Wick, blending dramatic clan history with haunting legends and modern hospitality.
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
4.4 km
Explore the dramatic cliffside ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, a powerful medieval fortress and ancestral seat of the Sinclairs, overlooking the North Sea.
Puldagon Farm Shop & Restaurant
4.7 km
A charming Highland farm shop and restaurant blending local tradition with fresh, farm-to-table Scottish cuisine in scenic Caithness countryside.
Reiss Sands
5.4 km
A breathtaking white-sand beach framed by historic castles and rugged cliffs, offering tranquil walks and coastal wildlife near Wick.
Whitegate broch
10.6 km
Explore Whitegate Broch, a well-preserved Iron Age fortress perched above the Caithness coast, revealing ancient Scottish history and stunning sea views.
Cairn of Get
10.9 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic chambered cairn of Cairn o'Get, a 5,000-year-old burial site set in a stunning prehistoric Caithness landscape.
Old Keiss Castle
11.0 km
Perched on rugged cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s evocative ruins reveal centuries of Sinclair clan history and offer stunning coastal vistas.
Essential places to dine
Bord De L'Eau
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French seafood dining with riverside views in the heart of Wick, blending local freshness and warm hospitality.
Riverhouse
0.3 km
Historic riverside pub and restaurant in Wick serving hearty Scottish breakfasts and fresh seafood in a welcoming, community-focused setting.
DeVitas Pizzeria & Cafe Bar
0.4 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and cozy cafe vibes in the heart of Wick, Scotland’s northern gem.
Morags Café and Sweet Shop
0.4 km
Cozy café on Wick High Street serving fresh pastries, hearty all-day breakfast, and quality coffee in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The Printers Rest
0.4 km
Cozy Maltese-inspired restaurant in Wick offering fresh, shareable Mediterranean dishes with a welcoming BYO atmosphere.
No.1 Bistro
0.4 km
Discover fresh Highland fare and warm hospitality at No.1 Bistro, nestled on the world’s shortest street in Wick.
The Bay Dunbeath
29.0 km
A welcoming coastal restaurant and pub in Dunbeath offering fresh pizzas, local dishes, and stunning sea views in a relaxed setting.
Y Not Bar & Grill
30.4 km
A lively Scottish pub and grill in Thurso serving local favourites, crafted drinks, and cosy stays for Highland explorers.
Olive
30.4 km
A cozy café and restaurant in Thurso offering delicious food, vegan options, and specialty coffee in a charming, detail-rich setting.
Bydand
30.4 km
Experience modern British dining with Highland charm at Bydand, Thurso’s boutique restaurant blending tradition and contemporary flair.
T's Café Restaurant
30.5 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors in a cozy, hidden gem above a newsagent in Thurso’s heart.
Spice Tandoori
30.5 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with friendly hospitality in the heart of Thurso.
Red Pepper
30.5 km
Cozy Scottish dining with fresh seafood and hearty steakhouse classics in the heart of Thurso’s Holborn Hotel.
Pride of Bengal Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
30.5 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
31.1 km
Classic American diner charm meets hearty comfort food in the heart of Thurso’s welcoming community.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Gift House
0.3 km
Discover unique cards, personalized gifts, and Scottish-themed treasures at Wick’s cherished Gift House, your one-stop shop for every special occasion.
Meiklejohns Confectioners - sweets and tobacco
0.4 km
A beloved Wick sweet shop blending traditional candies, local ice cream, and tobacco in a warm, welcoming setting.
B'Unique
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique local gifts at B'Unique, Wick’s charming destination for artisanal treasures and souvenirs.
McAllans
0.4 km
Explore McAllans in Wick for stylish men's clothing that combines quality and modern fashion, perfect for every occasion.
Highland Gift Shop
0.7 km
Discover authentic Highland heritage through unique gifts and local craftsmanship in the heart of Wick.
Lidl
0.9 km
Discover affordable shopping at Lidl in Wick, where quality meets savings on your travel adventures.
Wick Retail Park
1.1 km
Wick Retail Park offers a diverse and accessible shopping experience with major retailers in a relaxed, open-air setting in northern Scotland.
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
1.1 km
Affordable home and garden essentials combined with fuel services in Wick’s vibrant retail hub.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
13.0 km
Discover authentic Highland artistry and unique handcrafted gifts at Caithness Gifts & Crafts in Thurso, celebrating the spirit of northern Scotland.
Far North Gifts and Gallery
18.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local art treasures in the charming Far North Gifts and Gallery at Freswick, Caithness.
North Coast Emporium
22.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and rare collectibles in the heart of John o' Groats at North Coast Emporium.
Groatie Buckie Gift Shop
22.6 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
22.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and warm Highland hospitality at John O'Groats Knitwear Co, a charming coastal shop steeped in tradition.
Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
30.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Thurso for all your shopping needs, offering local products and friendly service.
The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
30.4 km
Discover unbeatable deals on branded fashion, beauty, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in Thurso’s bustling High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blackstairs Lounge
0.1 km
A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Mountain Dew Bar
0.3 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
Camps Bar
0.3 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Harpers Bar
0.4 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
The Village Inn
10.8 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Mey Hotel
23.4 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
25.1 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Grove Lounge
30.4 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Mr C's Bar
30.4 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Top Joe's
30.5 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
43.6 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The West End Guest House
60.3 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
60.5 km
Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.
Auld Motor Hoose
60.9 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
61.0 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Waterfront
0.3 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
Skinandi's Nightclub
30.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Orkney Club
61.0 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Purple Nightclub
85.2 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
Moray Jazz Club
88.7 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Joannas Nightclub
89.0 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Zed Bar
89.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
89.1 km
A welcoming members-only social club in Elgin offering great atmosphere, steak suppers, and a true sense of community spirit.
Deveronside Club
92.1 km
A warm and lively social club in Banff offering great events, affordable drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Banff Town & County Club
92.3 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly