The River House, Wick: Historic Riverside Dining and Social Hub
Historic riverside pub and restaurant in Wick serving hearty Scottish breakfasts and fresh seafood in a welcoming, community-focused setting.
Located in the heart of Wick town centre overlooking the river, The River House occupies a historic building dating back to 1914 that once housed the telegraph, telephone rooms, and main post office. Today, it operates as a vibrant bar and restaurant serving hearty Scottish breakfasts, fresh seafood, and all-day drinks in a welcoming atmosphere that blends history with modern hospitality.
A brief summary to Riverhouse
- Market Pl, Wick, KW1 4LR, GB
- +441955609920
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-11 pm
- Thursday 9 am-11 pm
- Friday 9 am-1 am
- Saturday 9 am-1 am
- Sunday 9 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the full Scottish breakfast to start your day with a traditional local favourite.
- Enjoy the Breakfast Banana Split if you prefer a lighter, unique morning treat.
- Join the Loyalty Rewards Club to earn points and receive discounts on future visits.
- Reserve a table if visiting on weekends or evenings to avoid busy times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Riverhouse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Riverhouse
A Storied Building at the Heart of Wick
The River House stands proudly on Market Place in Wick, Scotland, overlooking the River Wick. Its building dates back to 1914, originally serving as the telegraph and telephone rooms and functioning as the town’s main post office until the 1990s. This historic legacy roots The River House deeply in the community, making it more than just a dining venue but a landmark reflecting Wick’s communication and social history.A Culinary Destination with Local Flavour
Today, The River House operates as a popular bar and restaurant offering an all-day menu. Guests can start their day with a traditional full Scottish breakfast or opt for lighter choices like the Breakfast Banana Split, a bestseller. The menu emphasizes fresh, locally sourced seafood and Scottish dishes, complemented by a selection of drinks including unlimited coffee and wines. The focus on quality and local ingredients ensures an authentic taste of northern Scotland’s culinary heritage.Atmosphere and Service in a Historic Setting
The interior combines historic charm with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The staff are noted for their friendly and attentive service, contributing to an intimate yet casual dining experience. The River House also fosters community connection through its Loyalty Rewards Club, encouraging repeat visits with points and exclusive offers. The venue’s riverside location adds scenic value, enhancing the overall ambience.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond its culinary offerings, The River House plays a role in Wick’s social fabric. Its long history as a communication hub transitioned into a gathering place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy food, drink, and camaraderie. The building’s preservation and adaptive reuse highlight the town’s respect for heritage while supporting contemporary hospitality needs.Exploring Wick and the Surroundings
Wick itself is a town rich in history, once the busiest herring port in Europe, with scenic river views and nearby landmarks such as the Castle of Old Wick. Visitors to The River House can enjoy a meal before exploring the rugged landscapes and cultural sites of Caithness, including the Old Pulteney distillery and dramatic coastal cliffs.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
The River House is open daily from 9am, closing at 11pm Sunday to Thursday and extending to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. It offers a versatile setting for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks. The venue accepts credit cards and provides free Wi-Fi, with outdoor seating available to enjoy the riverside atmosphere. Its central location in Wick makes it accessible and a convenient stop on any northern Scotland itinerary.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caithness Inn
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A welcoming 4-star inn in Wick offering clean rooms, attentive service, and a perfect base for exploring the rugged Scottish Highlands.
Mackays Hotel
0.2 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.
Caithness.Org
14.8 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
22.5 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))
23.5 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Braal Castle
24.3 km
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
51.4 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
51.7 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
The Cannon
58.4 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Grain Earth House
61.1 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
61.2 km
Experience the stunning cliffs and rich wildlife at The Gloup, a natural wonder on Mainland, Orkney, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
61.2 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of the Unstan Chambered Cairn, a historic site in Orkney that unveils the secrets of Scotland's Neolithic past.
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.
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.
Pulteneytown and Thrumster Church
0.5 km
Historic Victorian church in Wick offering spiritual heritage and community warmth in the heart of Caithness.
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.
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
1.1 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
1.7 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
4.2 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
5.1 km
A breathtaking white-sand beach framed by historic castles and rugged cliffs, offering tranquil walks and coastal wildlife near Wick.
Whitegate broch
10.3 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
10.7 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
11.1 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
Riverhouse
0.0 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
0.0 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and cozy cafe vibes in the heart of Wick, Scotland’s northern gem.
Morags Café and Sweet Shop
0.0 km
Cozy café on Wick High Street serving fresh pastries, hearty all-day breakfast, and quality coffee in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Bord De L'Eau
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French seafood dining with riverside views in the heart of Wick, blending local freshness and warm hospitality.
No.1 Bistro
0.2 km
Discover fresh Highland fare and warm hospitality at No.1 Bistro, nestled on the world’s shortest street in Wick.
The Printers Rest
0.3 km
Cozy Maltese-inspired restaurant in Wick offering fresh, shareable Mediterranean dishes with a welcoming BYO atmosphere.
The Bay Dunbeath
29.1 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
30.1 km
A lively Scottish pub and grill in Thurso serving local favourites, crafted drinks, and cosy stays for Highland explorers.
Olive
30.1 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
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors in a cozy, hidden gem above a newsagent in Thurso’s heart.
Spice Tandoori
30.2 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with friendly hospitality in the heart of Thurso.
Red Pepper
30.2 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
30.3 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
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
0.1 km
Explore McAllans in Wick for stylish men's clothing that combines quality and modern fashion, perfect for every occasion.
B'Unique
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique local gifts at B'Unique, Wick’s charming destination for artisanal treasures and souvenirs.
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.
The Gift House
0.4 km
Discover unique cards, personalized gifts, and Scottish-themed treasures at Wick’s cherished Gift House, your one-stop shop for every special occasion.
Highland Gift Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic Highland heritage through unique gifts and local craftsmanship in the heart of Wick.
Lidl
1.1 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
1.3 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
17.7 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
22.4 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
22.4 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
30.1 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)
30.1 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
Harpers Bar
0.1 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
Camps Bar
0.1 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Blackstairs Lounge
0.4 km
A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Mountain Dew Bar
0.6 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
The Village Inn
10.5 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Mey Hotel
23.1 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
24.8 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
30.1 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
30.2 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Top Joe's
30.2 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
43.3 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
60.1 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
60.3 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
60.6 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
60.7 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
0.2 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
Skinandi's Nightclub
30.1 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
60.8 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Purple Nightclub
85.5 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
Moray Jazz Club
89.0 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
89.3 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
89.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
89.3 km
A welcoming members-only social club in Elgin offering great atmosphere, steak suppers, and a true sense of community spirit.
Deveronside Club
92.5 km
A warm and lively social club in Banff offering great events, affordable drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Banff Town & County Club
92.6 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly