Wick Heritage Centre

The Wick Heritage Centre is a museum dedicated to preserving the history of Wick and its herring fishing heritage. During the 19th-century boom, Wick was the largest and busiest herring port in Europe, with around 1,000 fishing boats operating from the harbour during the summer months at its peak. Inside the museum, Wick’s maritime heritage comes to life as visitors explore fully furnished rooms featuring an array of authentic household furnishings, clothing, photography, and industrial artifacts. Outdoors, the garden and the historic fishing vessel Isabella Fortuna provide further insight into the area’s maritime past.

Why Visit?

For those interested in history or Scotland’s fishing traditions, the Wick Heritage Centre is a must see. Knowledgeable volunteer guides share stories from the heyday of herring fishing and the cultural life of Wick, making it a fantastic day out for visitors for all ages.

Highlights

The museum’s display areas showcase the rich maritime and cultural history of Wick, including a kipper kiln, cooperage, harbour scene, a restored fisherman’s house, an art gallery, classroom, and lighthouse.

Visitors can also view the Johnston Collection, featuring photographs taken by three generations of Caithness photographers between 1863 and 1975.

Additional exhibits include Edwardian and Victorian clothing, militaria from the 19th century through World War II, and displays on Wick’s musical heritage. The Wick Voices oral history project preserves stories from Wick and surrounding villages, offering an authentic perspective on local life.

Visitor Information

• Opening Times: Wick Heritage Centre is open seasonally from around April (Easter) to late October, check website for details.
• Accessibility: Partial wheelchair access, accessible parking, accessible toilets
• Parking: Car and coach parking available close by