Things to Do

Thurso is also a major surfing area and a premier heavy cold surf destination which hosts surfing championships, including Scottish National Surfing Championships and World Championships for Kayak surfing. The plentiful reefs, points, river mouths and beaches, on top of the consistent year-round surfing opportunities, make the location a paradise for water sports lovers.

Only 16 miles from Thurso is Castlehill Heritage Centre, a Dark Sky Discovery Site where anyone can stargaze. Firstlightoptics.com considers the cottage location Class 3 Bortle and the northern coast, especially Caithness and John O’ Groats, provide a front-row seat for Aurora Borealis 'Northern Lights'.

Keen walkers shouldn't miss North Highland Way, a fantastic walk across the north coast from Thurso to John O'Groats.

Bringing together a route of just over 500 miles (516 to be exact…) of stunning coastal scenery, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains, remote fishing villages, hidden gems, and a wealth of unforgettable experiences; the North Coast 500 is one of the world’s most beautiful road trips.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed break, a chance to relax or simply want to see more of the North Highlands’ breath-taking scenery, you will find it on the NC500. Start planning your next adventure today.

Situated on the north coast of Scotland, Scrabster Harbour is a bustling fishing port, ferry terminal, and commercial harbour, serving as the main gateway to Orkney and beyond. Located just a few miles from Thurso, this historic and strategically important harbour is not only a vital transport link but also a fantastic destination for seafood lovers, marine wildlife enthusiasts, and North Coast 500 travellers.

John O'Groats is a village at the northern tip of the Scottish mainland, with stunning views of the Orkney Islands and the North Sea. 

You'll find there's more to see and do at John O'Groats once you've taken your selfie alongside the iconic marker post. 

Situated on the rugged north coast of Scotland, Wolfburn Distillery was originally founded in 1821 and quickly became the largest distillery in Caithness.

To discover more or book a tour visit: Wolfburn.com

Geise Farm is located on the Stagecoach Route 82 (Thurso . Halkirk . Wick), just 2 miles from the town of Thurso.

Their magical woodland trail is a natural wonder with its winding gravel paths stretching over 12 acres. Viewing points overlook the River Thurso towards town, with Dunnet Head in the distance. 

The trail will take you round some beautiful nature scenes, including a wildlife pond, a waterfall, the Burn of Geise with the ruin of The Lost Geise Distillery, and the iconic Tree of Life