Things to do in Caithness

[MrsAmaretto]

I posted in Travel but only got 2 suggestions so fingers crossed for some more!

We’ll be self catering near Thurso, and although there for a family wedding we’ll have a few days to explore. What do you recommend for a 7&4year old to do? Also cafes/restaurants for family friendly meals?

Castle of Mey will be shut and a day trip to Orkney is of no interest as we’ll be going from Shetland via Orkney to Caithness.

Thanks

I think it’s good going to get two suggestions of things to do in Caithness, tbh! I went once. I didn’t stay long.

Smog Caves might be good... there's a craft village at Balnakeil... the beaches are lovely. There's a gin distillery for the adults! (Rock Rose).

*Smoo.

The beach at Dunnet Head is beautiful and has a very large bay area so great for kids as you can give them a lot of freedom while keeping an eye on them. There is a lighthouse to visit en route. John O'Groats is good for family friendly eating and there is a decent play area and of course the tourist sign for the top of the UK. My lot just enjoyed the freedom of so much countryside and so few people.

Fingers crossed you get decent weather as rain makes entertainment more difficult. The Weigh Inn just outside Thurso does really good food and also has a big games room off the bar area.

I don't know Thurso, but we have just been near Wick.
Two suggestions:

1. go and see the prehistoric ruins. there are loads in the area, so find the most interesting near where you are.
2. Don't forget your wells. hacking boots are pretty much useless... what you need is wells because the terrain is going to be flat and VERY boggy ;)

Thanks all for your suggestions I’ve also found Inspired by Caithness on Facebook which has some good ideas.

Hoping the broch project has something happening for the Easter hols and we’ll definitely be taking our wellies & waterproof suits!

Dunnet beach is lovely and Dunnet head has nice views south of the mountains.

Caithness Horizons in Thurso is the local museum.

Aso Dunnet forest

I may be biased but I'd say get to Orkney or Sunderland as quickly as possible. Although I agree that Dunnett Bay is lovely.

Heading south a bit the Timespan museum in Helmsdale is good, Capaldi's in Brora do excellent icecream, and Dunrobin Castle is worth a visit.