Activities in Caithness

CAITHNESS may not have the range of amenities offered in the city but what it does have is spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and castlefuls of history.
The story of Caithness can be traced back to ancient times and some of the sites in the county, such as Camster Cairns, are magnificent and unspoiled.

The county is littered with brochs and standing stones, and archaeological excavations and projects are truly fascinating.

Coming forward in time there are countless castles in Caithness. Many are now spectacular ruins and provide a glimpse into the county’s sometimes turbulent past.

Undoubtedly the most famous castle, though, is the late Queen Mother’s holiday home, the Castle of Mey.
The castle and its gardens are now managed by a trust and are open to the public.
There are also museums and visitors centres throughout the county – the award-winning heritage centre in Wick, Thurso Museum, Waterlines in Lybster and Dunbeath Heritage Centre are some examples.

If history isn’t your thing then look to the area’s natural heritage.
One can walk or hillclimb, spend the day at some of the beautiful unspoilt beaches around the Caithness and north Sutherland coast, or take a tour in the famous Flow Country. The renowned peat bogs are a sharp contrast to the rugged coastline.
Of course, these natural attractions also have lots of sporting potential.
The famous brown trout can be found in the lochs and lochans of Caithness and the county is an angler’s paradise. Local fishing tackle shops can help with equipment and experts can teach you how to fish.

Also on offer in the county is coastal fishing and trips out to sea.
If you prefer to be in the sea, rather than on it, then surfing is the thing. The waters around Thurso are among the best in Britain for the sport and the town boasts an equipment shop and surf school to help you get started.

Equestrian pursuits are also popular and there are a number of horse-riding opportunities available.

For golf fans, Caithness has some outstanding courses in fantastic surroundings. They offer different levels of challenge and, if you are visiting from the south, you’ll find fees are very reasonable.



Children can also enjoy a host of activities.

Quad-biking has become an established and popular option while the local authority offers boating, crazy golf, outdoor tennis and bowling.
If the weather is really warm, the kids might want to spend a day at one of Wick’s two outdoor swimming pools – the Trinkie and the North Baths.

A warmer option on a colder day is the indoor municipal swimming pools in Wick and Thurso.

In addition the county boasts a range of summer events to delight visitors. Pipe bands parade regularly in Wick and Thurso during the summer months while every town and village will have an annual gala. They’re great fun and well worth a visit, as are the local agricultural shows and Highland games.