Dunnet Head
Dunnet, Caithness
This is officially the most northern point of mainland UK and the scenery here is just stunning. A narrow single track road will take you to Dunnet Head and here you will find the Dunnet Head Lighthouse standing proudly on top of the 300ft cliffs; this lighthouse was designed and built in 1831 by Robert Stevenson, the grandfather of Robert Louis Stevenson. There are two cosy cottages adjacent to the lighthouse known as the Keeper’s Cottages and these are available to rent as a holiday home.
While the lighthouse is worth the visit, the area is also known for its wide array of bird species, including puffins, razorbills and kittiwakes. Dunnet Head is an RSPB Nature Reserve where you can learn about the habitat and conservation efforts for the seabirds; I would recommend taking some binoculars with you to this location to see what you can spot!
Not all areas are suitable for someone with limited mobility, due to uneven ground, however, there are a number of areas that are now accessible — find out more about accessibility on the RSPB website.
Prices
Dunnet Head is free to visit.
Parking
There is parking available, for free, in the car park next to the lighthouse. Use the postcode KW14 8XS.
This is one of the many stops along the North Coast 500 route, for more information, visit out NC500 page here.
**Information correct as of November 2021**