Visitor Attractions in Sutherland and Caithness

Visit Cape Wrath near Durness

Scotland's most north westerly point can be reached by ferry and then a minibus journey of about 11 miles through wild unspoiled scenery. At the point is the Cape Wrath Lighthouse built by Robert Stevenson in 1828, a cafe, fantastic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Start the long walk to Sandwood Bay, or walk near the Cape and return on the bus and ferry for a fantastic day out. See website for more details.

Timespan Helmsdale

Timespan museum provides insight to the colourful history of Helmsdale, Sutherland and the surrounding area. The multi-faceted collection illustrates many aspects of past ways of life with re-creations of a croft, byre, smithy, and shop. Other displays present the areas' archaeology, geology and natural history.

The gallery showcases the work of international, national and local artists. We believe that our local community of Helmsdale and Sutherland should have access to the very best in contemporary art right on their doorstep.

John o'Groats Ferry and cruises

Passenger ferry service from John O' Groats in the Far North of Scotland to Orkney. Runs every day all summer from 1st May to 30th September.

Enjoy one of our spectacular 90 minute afternoon wildlife cruises.Pass rugged cliff scenery and see arctic skuas, storm petrels, colonies of guillemots, puffins, razorbills, kittiwakes, Atlantic grey seals and much more!

Carn Liath Broch near Golspie

Just off the A9, 3 miles east of Golspie, Carn Liath is a good example of a Sutherland broch. The double-walled circular structure is still visible to first floor level and the access and the remains of the associated settlement can still be made out. Park on the north side of the A9 which is signed and follow the signs to carefully cross the road to visit the broch. Or it can be visited as part of Brora to Golspie coast walk.

Caithness Horizons Thurso

Through telling the fascinating story of Thurso town and the county of Caithness, the museum aims to explore humanity's impact on the natural world. We show how people have used its resources to provide food, shelter and energy over the generations. We then examine what has been learned about the long term effects some of these activities have had on that environment and what we can do - and are doing - to ensure long term sustainability.

Historylinks Museum Dornoch

The museum is dedicated to the history of Dornoch parish. The permanent exhibition shows the Cathedral, feuding clans, the shameful burning of Scotland's last condemned witch and the treachery and violence of Picts and Vikings. Current displays show a golf professional's workshop where Donald Ross honed his skills, an unusual insight into Andrew Carnegie at home in Skibo and historic objects and local tales to give a precious insight into the lives of ordinary, and not so ordinary Dornoch folk.

Castle of Mey

The Castle of Mey was the property of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother from 1952 until 1996, when Her Majesty generously gifted it with an endowment to the Trust.

The castle is situated on the north coast of Caithness, about six miles west of John O'Groats and only a few miles from St John's Point. Visit Scotland awarded it the highest 5 star rating for the last two years. There is a tearoom, shop and animal centre as well as the castle, walled garden and wild garden.