Whaligoe Steps: Historic Cliffside Staircase to a Hidden Scottish Harbour
A historic cliffside stairway leading to a secluded natural harbour, echoing with the legacy of Scotland’s fishing heritage and rugged coastal beauty.
Whaligoe Steps is a dramatic man-made staircase of 330 to 365 stone steps descending a 250ft cliff to a tiny natural harbour on Scotland’s northeastern coast. Once vital for local fishermen and fisherwomen hauling catches to market, this remote site offers breathtaking coastal views, a grassy picnic spot called the Bink, and a glimpse into Scotland’s maritime heritage. The steps are steep and require care but reward visitors with a unique and tranquil atmosphere surrounded by towering cliffs and seabirds.
A brief summary to Whaligoe Steps
- Lybster, Whaligoe, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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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
- Wear sturdy footwear with good grip, as the stone steps can be slippery, especially when wet.
- Visit early or late in the day to avoid limited parking congestion and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the car park or along the steps.
- Take care descending and ascending the steps; the climb back up is physically demanding.
- Consider visiting the nearby Cairn o’ Get chambered cairn for a complementary historical experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Parking
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving is the most practical way to reach Whaligoe Steps. From Inverness, take the A9 north to Latheron, then the A99 south. Look for the Cairn o’ Get sign and the nearby phone box, where a minor road leads to a small free car park with about 10 spaces. Travel time from Inverness is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Parking is limited and can fill quickly during peak season.
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Bus
A bus stop exists at Whaligoe on the A99, but services are infrequent and require careful planning. From nearby towns such as Wick or Lybster, local buses may connect, but expect limited schedules and walking to the site from the stop. This option suits travelers with flexible time and good mobility.
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Walking
For those staying nearby in Lybster or Ulbster, walking to Whaligoe Steps is possible but involves navigating rural roads and paths. The terrain can be uneven and includes steep sections. Allow at least 1 to 2 hours for a round trip, and exercise caution near cliff edges.
Whaligoe Steps location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Whaligoe Steps
Origins and Historical Significance of Whaligoe Steps
Whaligoe Steps were commissioned in 1793 by Captain David Brodie, who invested £8 to carve this remarkable stairway into the cliff face to improve access to Whaligoe Haven, a natural harbour surrounded on three sides by 250-foot cliffs. The steps served as a crucial link for the local fishing community, especially during the 19th century herring boom. Fisherwomen, some reportedly in their seventies, would descend these steep stone steps carrying heavy baskets of fish to be processed and transported on foot to markets in Wick, 7 to 8 miles away. The harbour supported numerous boats and fishermen until the mid-20th century, with the last fishing boat arriving in the 1960s. Since then, local volunteers have maintained the steps, preserving this slice of Scottish maritime heritage.Architectural and Natural Features
The staircase zigzags down the cliff in a series of flagstone steps, with estimates ranging from 330 to 365 steps. The descent is steep and exposed, with a low stone wall on the seaward side for much of the route, disappearing near the bottom to reveal dramatic vertical drops. At the base lies the Bink, a grassy area roughly the size of a narrow tennis court, historically used for storing salt to cure fish. Beyond the Bink, additional steps lead to the rocky Neist shelf by the water’s edge, where remnants of fishing activity such as winches and drilled hoops in the cliffs remain. The surrounding cliffs are home to nesting seabirds like fulmars, oystercatchers, and terns, adding to the wild coastal atmosphere.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Visitors approach the steps via a short track past fishermen’s cottages, giving a sense of walking through a lived-in landscape. The route is lined with wildflowers in season and offers spectacular panoramic views of the North Sea and rugged coastline. The climb back up is physically demanding but rewarding, with a waist-high flat rock halfway down where fisherwomen once rested their baskets. Nearby, the Cairn o’ Get, an ancient chambered cairn, offers an additional historical point of interest. The small car park at the top has limited spaces and no facilities, so planning your visit outside peak times is advisable. Donations are encouraged to support ongoing maintenance by local volunteers.Conservation and Community Efforts
The steps have undergone numerous repairs since their creation, including significant volunteer-led restoration after landslips. Dedicated locals like David Nicolson and historian Iain Sutherland have tirelessly worked to quarry stone, clear rubble, and maintain the path and surrounding grasslands. This community stewardship ensures the steps remain safe and accessible for visitors, preserving an essential part of Caithness’s cultural landscape. The site remains free to visit, emphasizing its value as a shared heritage asset.Practical Considerations for Visitors
Due to the steepness and uneven stone surface, caution is advised, especially in wet or windy conditions. The steps are not suitable for those with mobility impairments. Parking is free but limited to around 10 vehicles, with alternative parking available at the nearby Cairn o’ Get site, about a 10-minute walk away. There are no public toilets or bins at the car park. The remote location means that personal vehicles are the most practical way to visit, as public transport is sparse. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and parking difficulties.Whaligoe Steps in the Context of the Scottish Highlands
Whaligoe Steps is a quintessential North Coast 500 attraction, offering a blend of natural beauty, rugged adventure, and poignant history. It embodies the resilience and resourcefulness of coastal communities in Scotland’s far north and provides a striking contrast to more accessible tourist sites. The dramatic cliffs, echoing harbour, and the physical challenge of the climb create a memorable experience that connects visitors to the region’s maritime past and wild landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mackays Hotel
11.3 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.
Caithness Inn
11.6 km
A welcoming 4-star inn in Wick offering clean rooms, attentive service, and a perfect base for exploring the rugged Scottish Highlands.
Caithness.Org
20.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Braal Castle
26.9 km
A 14th-century Highland fortress overlooking the River Thurso, once seat of the Earls of Caithness.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
30.2 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Above and Beyond Tours
32.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
John O'Groats Signpost
33.6 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
61.6 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Churchill Barriers
62.8 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
63.1 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
64.0 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
The Cannon
68.4 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
71.4 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of the Unstan Chambered Cairn, a historic site in Orkney that unveils the secrets of Scotland's Neolithic past.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
71.6 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Bishop's and Earl's Palaces in Kirkwall, Orkney's remarkable historical landmarks.
The Tankerness House
71.6 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of The Tankerness House, a must-visit historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney Islands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cairn of Get
1.2 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.
Hill O' Many Stanes
3.2 km
Explore the mysterious Bronze Age stone rows of Hill O' Many Stanes, a captivating prehistoric monument set against scenic Highland coastlines.
Camster Cairns
7.1 km
Explore two of Scotland’s oldest Neolithic chambered cairns set in haunting Caithness moorlands, revealing 5,000 years of ancient burial traditions.
Puldagon Farm Shop & Restaurant
8.9 km
A charming Highland farm shop and restaurant blending local tradition with fresh, farm-to-table Scottish cuisine in scenic Caithness countryside.
Caithness Reindeer
8.9 km
Meet friendly reindeer and diverse animals in a scenic Highland park along the North Coast 500 route.
Lybster Harbour
9.4 km
A windswept Caithness fishing harbour with dramatic sea views, historic charm, and a quiet, authentic Highland atmosphere.
Castle Of Old Wick
9.8 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.
Tinker's Cave
10.9 km
Explore Tinker's Cave, a historic landmark in Wick, Scotland, where stunning landscapes meet rich heritage and adventure awaits.
Old Pulteney Distillery
10.9 km
Explore Scotland’s northernmost mainland distillery crafting award-winning maritime single malts in the historic coastal town of Wick.
Pulteneytown and Thrumster Church
11.1 km
Historic Victorian church in Wick offering spiritual heritage and community warmth in the heart of Caithness.
Caithness Seacoast Ltd
11.3 km
Experience thrilling boat tours along Caithness’s dramatic coastline from Wick Harbour with expert guides and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
The Wick Heritage Museum
11.3 km
Explore Wick’s rich maritime heritage through immersive exhibits and engaging stories at this charming seasonal museum.
John O’Groats Trail - Wick to Keiss
11.3 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.
Tesco Superstore
12.4 km
A convenient and comprehensive Tesco Superstore in Wick offering extended hours, fresh produce, a café, and petrol services for all your daily needs.
Nucleus: The Nuclear and Caithness Archive
12.6 km
Explore the UK’s civil nuclear legacy and Caithness heritage at this modern archive hub in Wick Airport.
Essential places to dine
The Printers Rest
11.3 km
Cozy Maltese-inspired restaurant in Wick offering fresh, shareable Mediterranean dishes with a welcoming BYO atmosphere.
No.1 Bistro
11.3 km
Discover fresh Highland fare and warm hospitality at No.1 Bistro, nestled on the world’s shortest street in Wick.
Riverhouse
11.5 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
11.5 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and cozy cafe vibes in the heart of Wick, Scotland’s northern gem.
Bord De L'Eau
11.6 km
Experience exquisite French seafood dining with riverside views in the heart of Wick, blending local freshness and warm hospitality.
Morags Café and Sweet Shop
11.6 km
Cozy café on Wick High Street serving fresh pastries, hearty all-day breakfast, and quality coffee in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bay Dunbeath
18.8 km
A welcoming coastal restaurant and pub in Dunbeath offering fresh pizzas, local dishes, and stunning sea views in a relaxed setting.
Olive
34.6 km
A cozy café and restaurant in Thurso offering delicious food, vegan options, and specialty coffee in a charming, detail-rich setting.
Pride of Bengal Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
34.6 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Thurso, offering fresh, robust dishes and a welcoming casual dining and takeaway experience.
Y Not Bar & Grill
34.6 km
A lively Scottish pub and grill in Thurso serving local favourites, crafted drinks, and cosy stays for Highland explorers.
Bydand
34.7 km
Experience modern British dining with Highland charm at Bydand, Thurso’s boutique restaurant blending tradition and contemporary flair.
Spice Tandoori
34.7 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with friendly hospitality in the heart of Thurso.
Red Pepper
34.7 km
Cozy Scottish dining with fresh seafood and hearty steakhouse classics in the heart of Thurso’s Holborn Hotel.
T's Café Restaurant
34.7 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors in a cozy, hidden gem above a newsagent in Thurso’s heart.
The Blue Door Coffee Shop & Diner
35.3 km
Classic American diner charm meets hearty comfort food in the heart of Thurso’s welcoming community.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
10.2 km
Affordable home and garden essentials combined with fuel services in Wick’s vibrant retail hub.
Wick Retail Park
10.2 km
Wick Retail Park offers a diverse and accessible shopping experience with major retailers in a relaxed, open-air setting in northern Scotland.
Lidl
10.4 km
Discover affordable shopping at Lidl in Wick, where quality meets savings on your travel adventures.
Highland Gift Shop
10.7 km
Discover authentic Highland heritage through unique gifts and local craftsmanship in the heart of Wick.
The Gift House
11.1 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
11.1 km
A beloved Wick sweet shop blending traditional candies, local ice cream, and tobacco in a warm, welcoming setting.
B'Unique
11.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique local gifts at B'Unique, Wick’s charming destination for artisanal treasures and souvenirs.
McAllans
11.5 km
Explore McAllans in Wick for stylish men's clothing that combines quality and modern fashion, perfect for every occasion.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
16.3 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
29.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local art treasures in the charming Far North Gifts and Gallery at Freswick, Caithness.
North Coast Emporium
33.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and rare collectibles in the heart of John o' Groats at North Coast Emporium.
Groatie Buckie Gift Shop
33.5 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
33.6 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
34.6 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Thurso for all your shopping needs, offering local products and friendly service.
Hallmark
34.6 km
Charming Hallmark gift shop in Thurso offering quality cards and thoughtful gifts in a historic setting at Sir John's Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mountain Dew Bar
11.1 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
Blackstairs Lounge
11.2 km
A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Harpers Bar
11.5 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
Camps Bar
11.6 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
The Village Inn
21.1 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
32.4 km
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
32.6 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Mr C's Bar
34.6 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
The Grove Lounge
34.7 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Top Joe's
34.7 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
54.6 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.
Brander Arms
69.5 km
A welcoming harbourside pub in Lossiemouth offering friendly service, scenic sea views, and a cozy atmosphere for relaxed drinks.
The Firth
69.9 km
Coastal charm meets hearty Scottish fare at The Firth, a welcoming pub and hotel with stunning sea views in Lossiemouth.
The West End Guest House
71.3 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
71.5 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Waterfront
11.6 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
Skinandi's Nightclub
34.6 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
72.0 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Purple Nightclub
75.4 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
Moray Jazz Club
77.8 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
78.1 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
78.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Seaforth Club
78.1 km
A welcoming members-only social club in Elgin offering great atmosphere, steak suppers, and a true sense of community spirit.
Deveronside Club
84.3 km
A warm and lively social club in Banff offering great events, affordable drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Banff Town & County Club
84.5 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
Jackos Bar & Diner
94.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
The Play House
94.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Play House in Nairn, where great drinks and lively entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
Aido's bar
94.4 km
Discover Aido's Bar in Nairn: A cozy pub with a friendly atmosphere, serving a great selection of local ales and spirits.
Uncle Bob's Bar
94.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn, a perfect blend of traditional pub charm and sports excitement.
Xplosive Discos
96.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- 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
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
