Thurso Travel Guide

Explore the best of Thurso, one of the most beautiful towns in the Scottish Highlands, with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, the best food and drink, where to stay, and much more.


Thurso is a picturesque town in the Scottish Highlands, located in Caithness and Sutherland, Scotland, United Kingdom. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to experience the best of Thurso. From the must-see attractions and the best hikes to the top places to eat and drink, we’ve got you covered.

Introduction to Thurso

Thurso is a small town with a big personality. Located on the north coast of Scotland, it’s the northernmost town on the mainland. It’s also one of the most beautiful towns in the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by stunning scenery, including beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, and rolling hills.

Thurso is a town steeped in history, too. It was founded around 1000 AD and has been an important center of trade and commerce ever since. It was an important stop on the trade route between Scandinavia and Scotland and has a rich maritime history. Today, Thurso is a thriving town with a lively cultural scene and plenty of things to see and do.

List of Places to Visit in Thurso

Thurso is a treasure trove of things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Caithness Horizons Museum: This museum tells the story of Caithness and its people, from the Bronze Age to the present day.
  • Old St Peter’s Church: This historic church dates back to the 12th century and is a stunning example of early Christian architecture.
  • Dunnet Head: This is the most northerly point of mainland Britain, and the view from the lighthouse is breathtaking.

Natural Attractions of Thurso: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Castle of Mey: This stunning castle is located in the nearby town of Mey and was the Queen Mother’s summer residence. It’s now open to the public.
  • Thurso Beach: This beautiful beach is perfect for a stroll or a dip in the sea.
  • Dunnet Bay: This beautiful beach has stunning views over the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thurso

Thurso is a great place for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Orkney Cycle Route: This is a stunning 130-mile circular route that takes in some of the best scenery on the Orkney Islands.
  • John O’ Groats Trail: This is a 147-mile trail that takes in some of the most stunning scenery in the Scottish Highlands.
  • Ben Loyal: This is a challenging hike that takes you up to the summit of one of Scotland’s most iconic mountains.

Best Things to Do in Thurso: Activities and Tours

Thurso has plenty of activities and tours to offer visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Surfing: Thurso is known for its great waves, and there are plenty of places to rent equipment and take lessons.
  • Whisky Tasting: Scotland is known for its whisky, and Thurso has a variety of distilleries to visit and sample.
  • Wildlife Watching: The Scottish Highlands are home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and puffins.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thurso

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Thurso, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Explore Thurso Castle, Old St Peter’s Church, and Caithness Horizons Museum
2 Hike to the summit of Ben Loyal
3 Take a surfing lesson at Thurso beach
4 Visit the Castle of Mey and take a whisky distillery tour
5 Drive the North Coast 500 route
6 Visit the Orkney Islands
7 Relax and enjoy Thurso’s great food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Thurso

Thurso has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of great places to eat and drink. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cullen Skink: This is a creamy Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions.
  • Haggis: This is a delicious Scottish dish made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, combined with oatmeal, spices, and onions.
  • Cranachan: This is a traditional Scottish dessert made with oats, cream, raspberries, and whisky.

Local Beverages

  • Whisky: Scotland is known for its whisky, and there are plenty of distilleries in Thurso that offer tours and tastings.
  • Real Ale: Thurso has a thriving microbrewery scene, and there are plenty of great pubs to sample the local brews.

Where to Stay in Thurso: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thurso has a variety of options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:

  • Pentland Hotel: This is a stylish and comfortable hotel in the center of Thurso.
  • Edinburgh House: This is a cozy bed and breakfast with stunning views over Thurso Bay.
  • Thurso Bay Hostel: This is a great budget-friendly option for travelers looking for a hostel in Thurso.

What to Buy in Thurso: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thurso has plenty of great souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the top things to buy in the area:

  • Hand-knitted woolen goods: Thurso is known for its high-quality woolen goods, including hats, scarves, and mittens.
  • Local whisky: Scotland is known for its whisky, and there are plenty of distilleries in Thurso that offer bottles to take home.
  • Artworks: There are plenty of local artists in Thurso, and their works are available for purchase in local galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Thurso

Thurso is a town with a rich history and culture. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the area’s heritage. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  • Respect local customs: Scotland has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Learn about local history: Thurso has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of museums and historical sites to explore.
  • Visit local festivals and events: Thurso has a lively cultural scene, with plenty of festivals, markets, and events to attend throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Thurso

The best time to visit Thurso is from May to September when the weather is warm, and the days are long. The summer months are also the best time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, and cycling. However, the area can be busy during this time, so book your accommodation and activities in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thurso

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Thurso:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Learn about the area’s rich history
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb wildlife
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions
  • Ignore safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Thurso

Thurso is a safe and welcoming town, but it’s important to take precautions, especially when participating in outdoor activities. Always follow safety guidelines and stay alert to any potential hazards, such as strong currents and unstable terrain.

Health in Thurso

Scotland has a high-quality healthcare system, and there are plenty of medical facilities in Thurso. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs, just in case.

Getting to Thurso: Transportation Options and Logistics

Thurso is located in the north of Scotland, and there are several options for getting there:

Airports Near Thurso

The nearest airport to Thurso is Inverness Airport, which is around 110 miles away. From there, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Thurso.

Bus Stations Near Thurso

Thurso has a bus station in the town center, with regular services to and from other parts of Scotland.

Other Options

You can also drive to Thurso, with the town being located on the A9, one of Scotland’s major roads.

How to Get Around in Thurso

Thurso is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you’re planning to explore the surrounding area, it’s a good idea to rent a car or take a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Thurso: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Thurso is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • John O’ Groats: This charming village is located just a few miles from Thurso and is the starting point of the famous Land’s End to John O’ Groats cycle route.
  • Orkney Islands: The Orkney Islands are a group of islands off the north coast of Scotland, known for their stunning scenery and rich history.
  • Durness: This beautiful village is located on the northwest coast of Scotland, and is known for its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Thurso is an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience the best of the Scottish Highlands. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, there’s plenty to see and do in this charming town. Whether you’re interested in hiking, surfing, or exploring local culture, Thurso has something for everyone.

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