Wick

A journey to Wick will transport you to the rugged and picturesque north of Great Britain, a region steeped in Viking history and maritime traditions. This former royal burgh, located in the county of Caithness, serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the famous North Coast 500 route. You can reach this destination by air, enjoying coastal views, or by land, choosing a scenic trip by train, bus, or car.

The fastest way to reach the Highlands is to take a flight to the local Wick Airport (WIC). The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, ensuring convenient logistics for travellers who value their time.

If direct flights are unavailable, you can consider arriving via Kirkwall (KOI), which is approximately 61 km away. However, it is worth noting that this airport is located on the Orkney Islands, and the onward journey will require additional planning for the crossing.

Contrary to older data, the town boasts excellent rail connections and is the terminus of the famous Far North Line. A train journey from Inverness is not just a transfer, but a true excursion through moorlands and along the wild coast of the North Sea.

The railway station is conveniently located relative to the city centre, allowing tourists to immediately immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the north. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the summer season, to secure window seats for the best views.

Bus services allow you to get to Wick while observing the changing Scottish landscapes. The route from the city of Kirkwall (a distance of about 109 km) will take approximately 4 hours, including necessary transfers or ferry connections typical for this island direction.

For those travelling from the town of Lossiemouth, the journey will be significantly longer. Covering 255 km will take approximately 10 hours and 15 minutes, so this option is suitable for travellers with plenty of time who wish to see more towns along the way.

Travelling by car offers complete freedom of movement along the region's scenic roads. The journey from the city of Kirkwall, covering a distance of about 83 km, will take approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes (excluding ferry waiting times), revealing stunning views of the Pentland Firth.

An alternative route from the town of Lossiemouth (231 km) will require about 3 hours and 15 minutes of driving time. This is an excellent opportunity to drive along the Moray Firth coast, making stops in colourful fishing villages.

To ensure your visit to this northern outpost is as comfortable as possible, we have compiled several relevant recommendations for travellers.

1. Clothing and Gear. The weather in Caithness changes rapidly. Be sure to bring a high-quality waterproof jacket and layered clothing, as a cool breeze from the sea blows here almost constantly.
2. Transport. The town itself is compact and convenient for walking, but to visit castles on the cliffs or lighthouses, it is better to rent a car.
3. Finances. The official currency is the British Pound Sterling. Most shops and cafés accept cards, but it is better to carry cash for small souvenir stalls.
4. Health and Safety. This is a very calm and safe region. Pharmacies and medical assistance are available in the city centre; the emergency number is 999.
5. Communication. Locals speak English, though with a distinctive Scottish accent. They are very friendly, so do not hesitate to ask them to repeat something.
6. Local Etiquette. Scots value politeness and personal space. It is customary to greet bus drivers and respect queues.
7. What to Avoid. In the summer months (especially on windless days), beware of midges (small insects). It is recommended to buy a local repellent, as standard products often do not help.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to visit the historic Old Pulteney site to learn about the local maritime history and production traditions established in this rugged coastal climate.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to enjoy the rugged romance of the north without any inconvenience.