Lybster Lighthouse, image by Chris Sinclair
Caithness: Wick & East Coast
The East Coast of Caithness is a stretch of dramatic cliffs, charming harbours, villages, and vibrant coastal towns. Famed for its sweeping skies and breathtaking coastal views, the royal borough of Wick has a rich maritime history. Once the busiest herring port in Europe, Wick’s harbour still buzzes with life, welcoming leisure boats and yachts to its modern marina.
East Caithness is a treasure trove of history. Visitors can immerse themselves in a landscape shaped by millennia, from Mesolithic chambered cairns and Iron Age Brochs to the more recent heritage of crofting and industry. Wander through historic harbours, stroll along scenic waterfronts, and enjoy the local food and drink while you discover stories of the land and sea.
Highlights of the region
Explore Ancient Monuments
From the Neolithic Grey Cairns of Camster to the Iron Age Nybster Broch in Aukengill, and the spectacular ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe perched dramatically on the rugged cliffs, Caithness’s east coast is rich with ancestral stories.
Breathtaking Coastal Features
Rugged sea caves, dramatic cliffs and soaring sea-stacks, Caithness’s wild east coast is a adventure playground for walkers, photographers and anyone eager to experience Scotland’s wild coastal beauty.
Charming Coastal Villages
Discover charming east coast villages with picturesque harbours, coastal walks, and local crafts, perfect for visitors eager to explore Caithness’s rugged coastline and vibrant community life.
Places to eat & drink
East Caithness is a treat for food lovers. Local menus brim with fresh seafood landed at nearby harbours, seasonal produce from surrounding farms, and locally sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Scottish classic or something with a global twist, you’ll find plenty of delicious options that reflect the region’s rich flavours and welcoming spirit.
Places to stay
The East Coast of Caithness offers a wide range of places to stay, from cosy retreats to spacious coastal lodges. Visitors will find welcoming hotels full of Highland hospitality, cosy self-catering cottages with breathtaking sea views, and campsites beneath star-filled skies.
Wick and East Caithness make the perfect base for exploring the region’s dramatic landscapes, charming villages, and stunning coastline.
Discover vibrant events in Caithness
East Caithness comes alive with events throughout the year. In summer, enjoy the carnival atmosphere of Wick Gala or the agricultural displays at the Caithness County Show. Winter brings comedy nights, heritage talks, and more.
From lively festivals to local gatherings, there’s always something happening and it’s a great way to get a feel for the local culture and enjoy the region’s strong sense of community.
John O’Groats, image by VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Aurora over Wick Riverside, image by Maciej Winiarczyk
Getting here
Train
Wick is served by the Far North Line, part of the National Rail Network. This scenic route offers a relaxing way to enjoy the landscapes of northern Scotland, with connections from Inverness and beyond.
Bus
Regular bus services connect Wick with surrounding towns and villages. The X99 route links Wick to Inverness, while other local services make it easy to explore the wider Caithness area.
Car
Wick is located along the A99, which connects to the A9—the main road through the Highlands. The drive from Inverness takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Electric vehicle charging points are available in Wick and other nearby towns.
Ferry
Ferries to Orkney are available from nearby harbours at Gills Bay with crossings to St. Margarets Hope and Scrabster with crossings to Stromness.
Getting around Caithness
On Foot
Wick is a great place to explore on foot. The town’s layout makes it easy to wander through its historic streets, visit the harbour, and take in the coastal views at a relaxed pace. The Wick Paths group have created a leaflet and map to explore Wick on foot.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular way to explore the wider East Caithness area. It’s a brilliant way to take in the landscape and reach places that are off the beaten track.
Public Transport & Taxis
Wick has regular bus services that connect the town with Inverness and other parts of Caithness. Taxis are also available for local journeys or day trips further afield.
Shopping
Wick has a great mix of local shops where you can pick up everything from handcrafted gifts and quirky souvenirs to everyday essentials. If you’re after food and essentials, there are supermarkets and petrol stations open daily. You’ll also find smaller convenience stores and independent shops dotted around the town centre, perfect for picking up snacks, supplies, or a last-minute gift.
Learn more about East Caithness’s Maritime roots which are still very much alive today.
Berriedale section of the John O’Groats Trail
