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In this article we are going to share the best things to do in Caithness in 2025. Wild windswept coastline, breathtaking views, mysterious castle ruins, ancient burial mounds. If you love adventure you’re going to love Caithness.
Some people explore Caithness on the North Coast 500. Other people visit to get to the iconic John O’Groats. Yet sadly many people drive right past some of the most stunning and fascinating hidden gems! Don’t make this mistake. We have included all of the main must-see attractions and also some of the best hidden gems in the region.
We have explore Caithness several times and we keep going back for more. This unique county has so much to offer; whether you’re interested in history, culture, adventure of wildlife. If you’re exploring the northern-most county of mainland Britain, then this is the guide for you.
We hope this guide helps you to plan your trip and pull together the perfect itinerary. We have also included some of the best places to stay in Caithness at the end of this article. What’s more, we have also included some super helpful booking links to make your planning as easy as possible. Please do use our links. We use affiliate links, which enables us to earn a small commission when you book, and at no extra cost to you (everyone wins!)
Oh yeah, and don’t miss our amazing guide to the best Castle Hotels in Scotland
Where is Caithness?
Caithness is the northernmost county of mainland Britain. It is north of Sutherland and includes the famous John O’ Groats. Caithness is a relatively small county. It starts around Helmsdale on the north east coast of Scotland and extends round to Melvich on the North Coast. Caithness is a wild, desolate and intrepid country with a deep and fascinating culture.
Before you read on: If you’re visiting Caithness, it is very likely that you will also be exploring Sutherland. Don’t miss our amazing guide on the best things to do in Sutherland.
Summary of the best things to do in Caithness
Here is an overview of the best things to do in Caithness. Please read on for detailed descriptions.
- Explore John O’ Groats
- See the Duncansby Sea Stacks
- Visit Dunnets Head
- Try Glamping
- Visit the Laidhay Croft Museum & Tea Room
- Check out the Whaligoe steps
- Explore the Cairns of Camster
- Visit the Berriedale Pebble Beach
- See the Old Keiss Castle
- Try Cullen Skink
- Explore Latheronwheel Burn
- Go wildlife watching
Map of the best things to do in Caithness
Why visit Caithness?
If you’re exploring the North of Scotland, we highly recommend that you include Caithness in your itinerary. This is an extremely unique and beautiful destination. Not only is Caithness the most northern county of mainland Britain, but it is also one of the most unique counties in the United Kingdom.
This stunning county offers amazing scenery and an array of wildlife, rich history, and plenty of fascinating things to do.
If you are doing the North Coast 500, you will journey around the stunning coastline of Caithness. If you’re planning to visit the iconic John O’Groats this is also in Caithness – so make sure you read this article carefully so that you can make the most of your trip!
In this article, we’re going to recommend some of the best things to do, including the main must-not-miss attractions, and also some local hidden gems. We have tried to include a variety of activities so that there is something for everyone.
When is the best time of year to explore Caithness?
The best time of year to visit Caithness depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Here are some considerations for each season:
Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Caithness, and it’s a popular time to visit due to milder temperatures and very long daylight hours. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the coastal areas. However, being the high season, popular attractions and accommodations might be more crowded, and prices can be higher. If you plan to visit in the summer book well in advance.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Caithness can be cold and wet, but it also has its charm. If you prefer a quieter experience and don’t mind the colder weather, you can still enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery and unique winter landscapes. Additionally, this time of year might be more budget-friendly, with lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists. The winter has short daylight hours. On a clear night there is also a chance of seeing the northern lights.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Caithness depends on your interests and what you hope to see and do. Be sure to check the weather forecast and consider any specific events or activities that interest you. Caithness offers unique experiences throughout the year, so there’s no wrong time to visit!
TOP TIPS for visiting Caithness
It is very important to plan your trip carefully. Remember that Caithness is a very remote and rural county. The main town is called Wick, and this town does have a petrol station and shops, including a Lidl (which offers great value for money). However, when you’re exploring this county, we do recommend being prepared and stocking up. There are many long sections of road with no shops, petrol stations, or public services. Therefore, we recommend having plenty of reserve snacks and food for your trip. We also recommend checking carefully if you’re staying in self-catered accommodation and consider food that is appropriate to prepare based on the facilities in your accommodation.
Furthermore, we recommend that you visit an ATM machine before you set off and make sure you have some cash on hand because some places do not accept card transactions. If you’re planning to drive, we recommend making sure that your car is topped up with petrol. We also recommend taking special care on the roads; be aware that wildlife can often appear unexpectedly, so drive cautiously and watch for any signs or warnings regarding wildlife crossings.
1 Explore John O’ Groats
One of the most iconic and popular attractions in Caithness is John O’Groats. This is a beautiful and small village located at the northwest tip of mainland Britain. Many people believe that John O’Groats is the northernmost point of mainland Britain; however, this is technically inaccurate. John O’Groats is, in fact, the most northwestern point and the most distant point from Land’s End. The northernmost point of mainland Britain is Dunnets Head, a few kilometers from John O’Groats (we have included Dunnet’s Head in this guide).
If you are visiting Caithness, we strongly recommend that you include John O’Groats on your itinerary. Not many people explore this part of the United Kingdom without at least including a visit to John O’Groats and also getting the obligatory selfie at the famous John O’Groats signpost. We recommend allowing at least half an hour or an hour to explore this area and make sure you walk right up to the seafront to see the colorful buildings and pier. Close to John O’Groats, you can also see the impressive Duncansby Sea Stacks (we have also included this in the guide).
Being one of the most popular attractions in the region, this area can get busy from time to time. However, the remoteness of John O’Groats means that even when it is “busy,” it is actually not too intense.
Don’t miss our full guide to John O’Groats
2 See the Duncansby Sea Stacks
Looking for unique and breathtaking things to do in Caithness? If you are visiting John O’Groats, make sure you don’t miss the impressive Duncansby Sea Stacks. This is a remarkable natural landmark located to the southwest of John O’Groats. The Duncansby Sea Stacks are large natural columns that have been formed by physical weathering and erosion of the cliff landscape. As you walk along the coastal path, there are plenty of excellent viewpoints to admire the impressive sea stacks. In this area, you can also see puffins nesting in the cliffs.
The best way to get to Duncansby Sea Stacks is to park at the Duncansby Head Lighthouse. From here, you can walk a few kilometers south along a coastal path to reach the Duncansby Sea Stacks. It is worth being aware that this route would be challenging for prams and wheelchairs; however, it may be possible depending on the path conditions. The path can be muddy in sections; however, the terrain is relatively flat, crossing a grassy field. There is a fence separating the path from the cliff line along most sections of this walk; however, we recommend taking care near the cliffs and supervising children carefully. The carpark at Duncansby lighthouse is free. There is plenty of space for parking here.
3 Visit Dunnets Head
If you’re planning to visit John O’Groats and you have a little extra time, we highly recommend that you also visit Dunnets Head. This is located a few kilometers to the west of John O’Groats, and it also lays claim to be the northernmost point of mainland Britain. Compared to John O’Groats, there is not a lot to do here apart from enjoying the amazing view with a flask of tea and relishing the knowledge that everyone on mainland Britain is south of you. This is a great location for getting stunning ocean views. This area is free to visit. The best way to get here is to drive, no public transport travels to this northerly tip of Britain.
4 Try Glamping
Looking for luxurious things to do in Caithness? Why not try glamping? Glamping, short for glamorous camping, involves staying in a lodge, pod, or yurt. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the wilderness and beauty of Caithness while also relaxing in comfort and luxury. The great news is that there are several awesome places to try glamping in Caithness. However, if you are planning a glamping adventure, we do have a few recommendations.
Firstly, make sure that you book your accommodation nice and early. This is a very popular part of the UK, especially in the high season, the summer holidays between July and August. Therefore, we recommend booking as far in advance as possible. If you’re not sure of your date but you want to book early, then find a place with a good free cancellation policy. It may cost a little more to get a cancellation policy, but this will mean that you can cancel for free for any reason up until a specific date.
Another thing to consider before your trip is the catering. Some glamping places have small kitchens, allowing you to make some of your own meals. Some places also offer a free breakfast, but it’s important to check this before your trip. We highly recommend that you stock up with all the food, snacks, and drinks that you need for your trip. There are supermarkets available in Inverness, Tain, and Wick.
3 Sinclair Bay Lodges – located right on the east coast, private hot tub, very stylish & luxurious
Braeside Retreats – Lovely glampsite near John O’Groats – stylish & hot tub available
North point pods – simple stylish and cozy pods, great design
5 Visit the Laidhay Croft Museum & Tea Room
If you’re looking for great coffee, great food, or you just want to learn more about the history and culture of Caithness, make sure to stop at the Laidhay Croft Museum & Tea Room. This lovely little museum and tea room are located on the A9, which is a very convenient location if you are planning to visit John O’Groats. Whether you are just looking for a short stop to stretch your legs or some tasty local Scottish food, we highly recommend you spend a little bit of time here.
The traditional tea room is small, cozy, and quaint. The friendly staff are very welcoming, and they have a very good selection of hot food, sandwiches, hot and cold drinks, and also a very tempting counter packed with locally made cakes and treats. Some of our favorite items on their menu include the baked potato with haggis, a classic Scottish dish which is a must-try, and we also like the more unique and lesser-known Cullen skink. This marvellous rich haddock soup will tell you more about this soon. The cafe also has toilets, so after enjoying a bite to eat or relaxing coffee, we recommend that you take a little bit of time to walk around the museum.
It is a small museum that gives you an insight into the history, culture, and life in this area. The main building is a traditional Scottish longhouse, which is set up with original ornaments and plenty of information to help you learn about the history of Caithness. This is a great activity for kids.
6 Check out the Whaligoe steps
If you’re looking for a unique and fascinating stopping place on the North Coast 500, don’t miss the Whaligoe Steps. This unique attraction is surprisingly impressive and underrated in our opinion. It is one of the best hidden gems in Caithness. You may be wondering why we’re getting so excited about a set of steps. Well, if you have seen these, you would understand our excitement.
The Whaligoe Steps are a relatively steep set of steps that lead down the cliff to a small boat harbor. These steps were once used by fishermen as an access route to their boats. A set of steps down the cliff may sound a little terrifying, but in fact, they are not too steep or scary. However, we do recommend supervising children carefully, and it’s also important to be aware that this is not accessible for prams and wheelchairs.
One of the things that makes this attraction particularly remarkable is the impressive waterfall with a sheer drop of water from the top of the cliff all the way down to the ocean. The Whaligoe Steps are free to visit, and there is a small free car park located at the top of the steps. However, it is worth being aware that there is not a lot of space in this car park, and it would not be suitable for a larger vehicle like a camper van.
7 Explore the Cairns of Camster
The Cairns of Camster are one of the most unique and interesting attractions in Caithness. If you’re looking for historical things to do in Caithness, then these Cairns are a must-see. It’s hard to believe that these structures are amongst the oldest in the world.
It is thought that the Cairns of Camster are around 5,000 years old, dating back to the Neolithic period when the climate was very different in the region. At the time, northern Scotland enjoyed a warm, wet climate which was ideal for agriculture.
The Cairns of Camster are ancient burial mounds situated in the remote hills of Caithness. Considering their age, they are remarkably well-preserved. There are two main stone structures which are dome-shaped. You can walk along a wooden pathway from the road to see the Cairns of Camster up close. We don’t recommend walking away from this pathway because the ground in this area is very wet and boggy.
Although there are three mounds in the region, only two of them are considered to be part of the original grouping: Camster Long and Camster Round. It is even possible to crawl down a small narrow 6m passage to see the central burial chamber of the Cairns. Be aware that the tunnel is very narrow and low, and there is a risk of bumping your head on the ceiling. We don’t recommend this if you are claustrophobic or if you are concerned about getting your clothing dirty or scuffed on the walls.
For such an ancient and interesting attraction, it is amazing that this is free to visit, and you can visit anytime during the day. Situated in such a remote location, the Cairns of Camster are generally very quiet, and you are unlikely to see anyone else when you visit. This is genuinely one of our top-pick things to do in Caithness and a legit hidden gem.
8 Visit the Berriedale Pebble Beach
If you’re looking for a unique and very beautiful beach to visit in Caithness, we highly recommend a visit to the Berriedale Pebble Beach. This lovely beach is located on the East Coast, and it is very easy to access from the A9. If you turn right and drive down a small side road, you will come to a small car park which is free for parking and generally has a few spaces available. From here, you can walk down a small footpath and cross a very picturesque suspension bridge which leads onto the main beach.
The beach itself is made up of pebbles, rocks, and stones, providing a fascinating place for kids to play, and it’s also an amazing place to take photos or take a stroll to get some fresh air. If you’re doing the North Coast 500, there are also some traditional Scottish cottages lining the coast, adding to the ambiance of the area. It is worth being aware that the beaches and oceans in this area are cold throughout the year, and this is often a windy location. Therefore, we highly recommend being prepared for all weather conditions. If you’re planning to swim in the water, be aware that the waves can be quite big in this area, and also be cautious of strong currents. We recommend allowing around 30 minutes to an hour to enjoy this stunning location.
9 See the Old Keiss Castle
One of the things that we absolutely love about Scotland is the rich and beautiful history. In fact, many people who visit Scotland dream of seeing ancient castles, burial mounds, and immersing themselves in the stunning history of this beautiful country. As you drive up the east coast of Scotland, you will see many castles lining the coastline. We love the variety of different castles that you can see, ranging from large stately castles to ancient ruins standing eerily by the coast.
The section of coastline along the very northeast of Britain (Caithness) has many ancient castles from different periods of Scottish history. We have name-dropped the Old Keiss Castle, as we found this a very beautiful and interesting castle along this coastline. However, there are many other castles to see. It is also worth mentioning that most of the castles can only be observed from the outside, and it is free to walk up to the castles and see them.
If you’re looking for a very impressive castle to walk around and explore, we recommend heading south to Dunrobin Castle (which is actually in Sutherland). This castle is very well set up, with impressive rooms, a beautiful garden, falconry, and a museum onsite.
10 Try Cullen Skink
If you are exploring Caithness, then we highly recommend trying a unique local dish called Cullen skink. This is a traditional fish soup that originates from the small fishing village of Cullen, which is located to the east of Inverness. Cullen skink is made from smoked haddock, potatoes, leek, and cream. The strong flavor of the smoked haddock infuses through the soup, giving it a powerful, deep, rich flavor and a lovely thick consistency. It is very filling and satisfying, and it is one of the more unique foods that we have tried around the world. It is perfect for this climate, being warm, stodgy, and quite filling.
Cullen skink is generally served with a fresh bread roll and butter. It is worth being aware that this is normally quite an expensive dish to try due to the high prices of fish in the United Kingdom. Expect to pay £8 – £10 for a bowl of this soup, depending on where you eat. We already mentioned the Laidhay tea room, which serves a very tasty homemade Cullen skink.
11 Explore Latheronwheel Burn
If you’re traveling around Caithness with kids and you’re looking for a touch of magic, then we highly recommend stopping in Latheronwheel. If you turn right in the village and head down the road to the harbor, there is a small free car park located there.
A short walk of a few hundred meters back up the road (don’t miss the pretty arch bridge covered in grass). At the bend in the road will see a footpath that leads into some woodlands. This is the start of the Latheronwheel Burn.
The Latheronwheel Burn is a small woodland valley with a beautiful trail running alongside the river. A few hundred meters into the valley, you can also find a fairy garden in the woods. This is a collection of small fairies and fairy houses.
This quirky and eclectic attraction has been set up by locals to add a touch of magic to the woodlands, creating an amazing place for children to stimulate their imagination and explore.
If you’re doing the North Coast 500 with kids and you’re looking for a great stop to break up the journey, then we highly recommend a stop at Latheronwheel Burn.
12 Go wildlife watching
If you love nature and wildlife, then Caithness won’t disappoint. This is one of the most rural, wild, and intrepid counties in the United Kingdom, and as a result, there is an excellent array of wildlife. It’s actually not too difficult to see some fascinating creatures.
If you’re interested in seeing puffins, you can find many nesting in the cliffs along the east coast, including the Duncansby Sea Stacks. It is also very common to see wild deer roaming around the hills in this area. We recommend driving very carefully because deer can dart into the road from time to time. If you’re hoping to see deer in Caithness head inland to the woodland hills. Moreover, you can often see seals playing in the water and bathing on the beaches in the north of Scotland. For example, seals can often be spotted on Sannick Beach not too far from John O’Groats.
The oceans have an impressive biodiversity, and from time to time, people spot dolphins playing in the waters along these coastlines. There have even been whale sightings along the northeast coast of Scotland. As with any wildlife encounter, there is always going to be an element of luck and unpredictability. It’s also important to remember to treat wild animals with respect, giving them plenty of space, and avoid feeding wildlife in Scotland.
BEST places to stay in Caithness
1 Hawthorns B&B
Hawthorns B&B is a hidden gem in Caithness, offering exceptional value for money. Located amidst picturesque fields near John O’Groats, this homely B&B impresses with its spacious rooms featuring a comfortable double bed, single bed, and thoughtful furniture.
Ideal for families, the rooms can accommodate up to four people. With prices around £115 per night, including a delicious breakfast and a free cancellation policy, Hawthorns B&B is an affordable and family-friendly option on the north coast.
2 Northern Sands Hotel
The Northern Sands Hotel is a delightful property located just a 15-minute drive west of John O’Groats. You can choose a double and single room. The single rooms, priced at around £85 per night, feature an ensuite bathroom with a shower, a single bed, and a TV.
Alternatively the Superior Kind room costs £165 pounds per night, it boasts a spacious and comfortable double bed, an ensuite bathroom with a shower, and even a sofa within the room. There is a small restaurant and a bar on-site. What’s more, your booking includes a delightful breakfast, providing a perfect start to your day of exploration and adventure (always check this is included when you book).
3 A Castle View
Castle View is a small charming and inviting bed and breakfast located in Keiss. Surrounded by fields and panoramic coastal views, this B&B offers clean and cozy rooms, each complete with an ensuite bathroom. They also offer an excellent breakfast each morning (we love the Scottish breakfasts!)
In the village there is a small convenience store, a local butcher’s shop, and a welcoming pub. This location serves as an excellent base for exploring the captivating North Coast, while still being within a reasonable distance from John O’Groats. At Castle View, you can expect exceptional value for your money, with room rates typically ranging between £120 and £140 per night.
4 North Points Pods
North Points Pods near John O’Groats is an excellent and affordable glamping choice. These cozy pods provide a simple yet well-equipped space with a small kitchen, outdoor seating, and a barbecue area. The family pod, priced at £135 per night, can comfortably accommodate 3 people and has an ensuite bathroom with hot showers. You can add breakfast for an extra cost and enjoy a free cancellation policy for flexibility. This is a fantastic balance between comfort and immersion in nature.
5 Braeside Retreats
The remarkable Braeside Retreats are beautiful glamping pods situated on the north coast with lovely well designed light wood pods. The beautiful ensuite pods are excellently appointed and have nice comfortable clean vibes. There is also a hot tub for a luxurious dip in the wild. They also have pet friendly pods. You can get a pod here for around £140 per night.
6 The Granary Lodge Bed & Breakfast
The Granary Lodge, a stylish and charming hotel near John O’Groats, offers a range of thoughtfully designed rooms. From the king room at £215 per night to the luxurious superior suite at around £300 per night, each room exudes vintage charm and comes with an ensuite bathroom. A continental breakfast is included. Ideal if you’re looking for a unique and impressive experience without budget constraints.
7 Three Sinclaire Bay Lodges
3 Sinclair Bay Lodges in Keiss is a stunning glampsite on the East Coast. The lodge offers breathtaking ocean views and a private hot tub, ideal for observing wildlife, including seals. Inside, the well-furnished lodge features a small kitchen, a cozy double bed, and an ensuite bathroom with a hot shower. Priced at around £250 per night, this luxurious glamping experience seamlessly blends comfort with the beauty of nature. Early booking is recommended due to high demand for this remarkable destination.
8 John O’Groats
The John O’Groats apartments, located on the north coast by the pier, offer modern and stylish self-catered accommodation with breathtaking ocean views. The beautifully designed apartments feature clean interiors, minimalist Scottish artwork, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The options include affordable studios with sea views at around £300 per night and spacious three-bedroom apartments for larger groups, priced between £600 to £700 per night. Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of these well-furnished apartments in this stunning coastal destination.
