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Museums and Heritage
From a local crofter's cottage captured in time to contemporary art, Caithness has a variety of attractions offering a captivating insight into the region’s rich heritage of fishing, agriculture, and Norse influence as well as its vibrant arts scene.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
Castlehill Heritage Centre showcases local heritage through engaging exhibits on archaeology, geology, and traditional crafts. Visitors can explore interactive displays, learn about the area's role in Scotland’s past, and take part in workshops that highlight local skills such as stone carving and weaving. The centre is located within renovated farm buildings immediately adjacent to the cutting yard and quarry of the now defunct flagstone workings. The workings were the first in the country to exploit the commercial possibilities of flagstone and in doing so put Castletown on the global map.
Lyth Arts Centre
Lyth Arts centre has a programme of live performances across Caithness alongside contemporary visual art and an extensive participatory programme of arts projects led by local creatives in our community. Housed in a charming converted church, the centre offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere where art, culture, and community converge. From captivating performances and engaging exhibitions to inspiring workshops and local events, the Lyth Arts Centre provides a rich cultural experience that celebrates both established and emerging artists.
Mary Anne's Cottage
Mary-Ann’s Cottage in Dunnet is just a short walk from the House of the Northern Gate. It offers a charming and intimate look at traditional rural life in Caithness. This beautifully preserved 19th-century croft was home to Mary-Ann Calder and her family for generations. With its original furnishings, tools, and personal items, the cottage provides an authentic snapshot of how crofting families lived and worked in the early 20th century.
Dunnet Head
Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, is a breathtaking experience for nature lovers and adventurers. With its dramatic cliffs towering over the Pentland Firth, this wild and rugged headland offers stunning panoramic views, including the Orkney Islands in the distance. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, with puffins, razorbills, and other seabirds nesting in the cliffs. The iconic Dunnet Head lighthouse, built in 1831, adds to the charm of the location. Whether you're exploring the coastal paths or simply soaking in the views, Dunnet Head provides an unforgettable connection to Scotland’s natural beauty.
John O'Groats
John O'Groats, one of Scotland's most iconic destinations, offers a unique experience at the northeastern tip of the mainland (Dunnet Head is the northernmost point). Famous as the starting or finishing point for many adventurers traveling the length of Britain, this vibrant village boasts stunning coastal views and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the striking seascapes, spot wildlife like seals and seabirds, and take boat trips to explore the nearby Orkney Islands. With its colorful harbor, local shops, cafes, brewery, distillery, and the famous "End of the Road" signpost, John O'Groats is a must-visit.
Nearby are the stunning Duncansby Stacks and what we call "shell beach" where children love hunting "Groatie Buckie" shells.
North Coast Visitors Centre
The North Coast Visitors Centre in Thurso is a fantastic starting point for exploring Caithness and the surrounding areas. This engaging museum showcases the region’s rich history, culture, and natural environment, with exhibits on Viking heritage. Interactive displays and local artifacts bring the area's past to life, making it a great stop for visitors of all ages.
Whaligoe Steps
The Whaligoe Steps are a hidden gem along the Caithness coast, offering both a glimpse into the region’s history and stunning natural beauty. This historic set of 365 stone steps leads down a steep cliff to a secluded harbour, once used by local fisherwomen to haul catches from the sea. The dramatic coastal scenery, with waves crashing against the rocks below, makes the descent well worth it. A visit to the Whaligoe Steps provides a unique blend of history, breathtaking views, and a sense of connection to the rugged life of Caithness’s past.
Laidhay Croft Museum
Laidhay Croft Museum offers a glimpse into traditional rural life in Caithness. This preserved 18th-century longhouse, located near Dunbeath, showcases how farming families once lived and worked, with authentic furnishings and tools that bring the past to life. Visitors can explore the croft's rooms, outbuildings, and farm equipment, gaining insight into the simple yet hardworking lifestyle of the area’s past residents. Laidhay Croft Museum includes a little tea room which serves homemade soup and baking.
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