Camps Bar: Wick’s Historic Pub and Social Hub
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Camps Bar, located at 128-132 High Street in Wick, is the town’s oldest pub, blending historic charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Open daily from mid-afternoon to late night, it offers affordable drinks, local ales, and occasional live music, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The bar also features upstairs rooms for accommodation, providing a unique stay in the heart of Wick.
A brief summary to Camps Bar
- 128-132 High St, Wick, KW1 4LR, GB
- +441955603273
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 2 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 2 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-12 am
- Friday 2 pm-1 am
- Saturday 2 pm-1 am
- Sunday 2 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit during happy hour for the best drink deals and to sample local ales.
- Try to catch live music or karaoke nights on Fridays and Saturdays for a lively experience.
- Ask the staff about the pub’s history to gain insight into its heritage.
- If staying overnight, be aware that rooms are basic and not en suite, with potential noise from the bar.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Camps Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Camps Bar
A Storied Past in the Heart of Wick
Camps Bar holds the distinction of being the oldest pub in Wick, a historic town in the Scottish Highlands. Its location on High Street places it at the center of local life, where generations have gathered for conviviality and community. The pub’s walls echo with decades of stories, blending a sense of heritage with the vibrancy of modern-day socializing. This combination makes Camps Bar a living piece of Wick’s cultural fabric.A Welcoming Atmosphere and Local Flavors
Inside, Camps Bar offers a warm and inviting environment where patrons can enjoy a range of affordable drinks. The bar is known for its selection of local ales, providing an authentic taste of the region’s brewing traditions. Friendly staff engage with guests, often sharing tales of the pub’s history and the local area. On weekends, live music events add an extra layer of entertainment, drawing lively crowds and creating a festive atmosphere.Accommodation Above the Bar
Upstairs, Camps Bar offers simple rooms for guests seeking convenient lodging in Wick. Though modest, these rooms provide a practical base for travelers exploring the town and surrounding Highlands. Guests have noted the clean sheets and basic amenities, though some have mentioned that the rooms are not en suite and can be affected by noise from the bar below. The accommodation’s affordability makes it a budget-friendly option for those prioritizing location and local experience.Local Tips and Social Scene
Visitors are encouraged to visit during happy hour to enjoy the best drink deals and to try the local ales for a true regional flavor. The outdoor seating area is a pleasant spot when weather permits, offering a chance to soak in the town’s atmosphere. Fridays and Saturdays often feature live music or karaoke nights, making these evenings particularly lively and fun. The bar’s dog-friendly policy and chatty staff add to its friendly, community feel.Setting and Surroundings
Situated on Wick’s main street, Camps Bar is close to several dining options and local attractions such as the Wick Heritage Centre and Pulteney Distillery. This central location makes it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists looking to relax after a day of sightseeing. The bar’s historic façade and interior details reflect its long-standing presence in the town, contributing to its charm and appeal.Balancing Tradition and Modernity
While Camps Bar embraces its historic roots, it also adapts to contemporary tastes and expectations. The bar has transitioned to offering bottled beers alongside traditional draught options and hosts events that keep the social calendar vibrant. Despite some mixed reviews about the accommodation and occasional operational quirks, Camps Bar remains a beloved fixture in Wick’s nightlife and hospitality scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caithness Inn
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Mackays Hotel
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Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.
Caithness.Org
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John O'Groats Signpost
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Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
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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
25.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Churchill Barriers
51.3 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
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A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
The Cannon
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Grain Earth House
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The Gloup
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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
61.2 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
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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
61.6 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
John O’Groats Trail - Wick to Keiss
0.3 km
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.
Caithness Seacoast Ltd
0.5 km
Experience thrilling boat tours along Caithness’s dramatic coastline from Wick Harbour with expert guides and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Pulteneytown and Thrumster Church
0.6 km
Historic Victorian church in Wick offering spiritual heritage and community warmth in the heart of Caithness.
Old Pulteney Distillery
0.9 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
1.0 km
Explore the UK’s civil nuclear legacy and Caithness heritage at this modern archive hub in Wick Airport.
Tesco Superstore
1.1 km
A convenient and comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Wick offering extended hours, fresh produce, a café, and petrol services for all your daily needs.
Tinker's Cave
1.6 km
Explore Tinker's Cave, a historic landmark in Wick, Scotland, where stunning landscapes meet rich heritage and adventure awaits.
Castle Of Old Wick
2.2 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
3.9 km
Historic coastal castle near Wick, blending dramatic clan history with haunting legends and modern hospitality.
Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
4.1 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
4.8 km
A charming Highland farm shop and restaurant blending local tradition with fresh, farm-to-table Scottish cuisine in scenic Caithness countryside.
Reiss Sands
5.1 km
A breathtaking white-sand beach framed by historic castles and rugged cliffs, offering tranquil walks and coastal wildlife near Wick.
Whitegate broch
10.2 km
Explore Whitegate Broch, a well-preserved Iron Age fortress perched above the Caithness coast, revealing ancient Scottish history and stunning sea views.
Old Keiss Castle
10.6 km
Perched on rugged cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s evocative ruins reveal centuries of Sinclair clan history and offer stunning coastal vistas.
Cairn of Get
11.2 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.
Essential places to dine
Bord De L'Eau
0.0 km
Experience exquisite French seafood dining with riverside views in the heart of Wick, blending local freshness and warm hospitality.
DeVitas Pizzeria & Cafe Bar
0.1 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and cozy cafe vibes in the heart of Wick, Scotland’s northern gem.
Morags Café and Sweet Shop
0.1 km
Cozy café on Wick High Street serving fresh pastries, hearty all-day breakfast, and quality coffee in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Riverhouse
0.1 km
Historic riverside pub and restaurant in Wick serving hearty Scottish breakfasts and fresh seafood in a welcoming, community-focused setting.
No.1 Bistro
0.3 km
Discover fresh Highland fare and warm hospitality at No.1 Bistro, nestled on the world’s shortest street in Wick.
The Printers Rest
0.4 km
Cozy Maltese-inspired restaurant in Wick offering fresh, shareable Mediterranean dishes with a welcoming BYO atmosphere.
The Bay Dunbeath
29.2 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
30.2 km
A lively Scottish pub and grill in Thurso serving local favourites, crafted drinks, and cosy stays for Highland explorers.
Olive
30.2 km
A cozy café and restaurant in Thurso offering delicious food, vegan options, and specialty coffee in a charming, detail-rich setting.
Bydand
30.2 km
Experience modern British dining with Highland charm at Bydand, Thurso’s boutique restaurant blending tradition and contemporary flair.
T's Café Restaurant
30.2 km
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Spice Tandoori
30.3 km
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Red Pepper
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Pride of Bengal Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
30.3 km
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The Blue Door Coffee Shop & Diner
30.8 km
Classic American diner charm meets hearty comfort food in the heart of Thurso’s welcoming community.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
McAllans
0.2 km
Explore McAllans in Wick for stylish men's clothing that combines quality and modern fashion, perfect for every occasion.
B'Unique
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique local gifts at B'Unique, Wick’s charming destination for artisanal treasures and souvenirs.
The Gift House
0.5 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
0.5 km
A beloved Wick sweet shop blending traditional candies, local ice cream, and tobacco in a warm, welcoming setting.
Highland Gift Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic Highland heritage through unique gifts and local craftsmanship in the heart of Wick.
Lidl
1.2 km
Discover affordable shopping at Lidl in Wick, where quality meets savings on your travel adventures.
Wick Retail Park
1.3 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
1.4 km
Affordable home and garden essentials combined with fuel services in Wick’s vibrant retail hub.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
12.8 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
17.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local art treasures in the charming Far North Gifts and Gallery at Freswick, Caithness.
North Coast Emporium
22.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and rare collectibles in the heart of John o' Groats at North Coast Emporium.
Groatie Buckie Gift Shop
22.3 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
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Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
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The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Camps Bar
0.0 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Harpers Bar
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Blackstairs Lounge
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Mountain Dew Bar
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The Village Inn
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The Mey Hotel
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Dunnet Bay Escapes
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The Grove Lounge
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Mr C's Bar
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Top Joe's
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Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
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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
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Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
60.2 km
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Auld Motor Hoose
60.5 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
60.6 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly