The Scottish NC500 town with delicious seafood near stunning beaches
This spot is ideal for a late-summer getaway.
Summer may be coming to an end, but that doesn't mean you can't still head out for a Scottish staycation. In fact, the end of August is a great time for a wee break before autumn rolls around.
If you have been wanting to take on the North Coast 500, but have been put off by the summer crowds, now is your chance. The 516-mile scenic driving route passes by many spectacular Scottish Highlands settlements, but none are quite like our latest Town of the Week.
Wick is a small town and royal burgh situated in Caithness in the far north of Scotland. Home to around 7,000 people, it straddles the River Wick and extends past both sides of Wick Bay.
There are many things that make Wick special, but none compare to its stunning location. One of the northernmost settlements on the UK mainland, it offers easy access to magnificent beaches and dramatic coastal views.
Among the most beautiful bays in the area is Sinclair's Bay, which is around just four miles out of Wick. The beach, which is known locally as Reiss Sands, features soft white sand and deep blue water.
Elsewhere, another coastal highlight is the historic Castle Sinclair Girnigoe. The ruins, which are comprised of both the 15th century Castle Girnigoe and the 17th century Castle Sinclair, are believed to be one of the earliest seats of Clan Sinclair.
Wick itself is home to a number of attractions, with the Old Pulteney Distillery being a clear highlight. One of the most northerly whisky distilleries in Scotland, it offers a range of tours and visitor experiences.
Meanwhile, the town is also renowned for its food. In particular, if you are a seafood lover, you will be spoilt for choice.
Bord De L'Eau is a French restaurant that offers a friendly atmosphere and a good selection of wines. If it is something simpler you are after, then make a beeline for the Harbour Chip Shop.
See below for a few photographs showcasing a selection of Wick's highlights. For further Scottish travel inspiration, find some of the Daily Record's recent Towns and Villages of the Week below:
The hidden gem Scottish Borders town near alpaca farm perfect for Edinburgh Fringe escape
The Scottish village with nearby castle hosting 'thrilling' family fair this weekend
The Scottish Highlands village with sandy beach perfect for August day out
The Scottish seaside village with sandy beach and 'perfect' takeaway
The Scottish foodie village with gorgeous beach perfect for summer day out
The Scottish seaside town with pretty beach hosting music festival this weekend
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The Old Pulteney Distillery is a great place to begin your Wick adventure, offering guests an interesting insight into the workings of its whisky production. Visitors will even get the opportunity to taste its delectable range of single malts.
(Image: Alan Jamieson, CC BY-SA 3.0)1 of 5
While there are many beaches within easy reach of Wick, Sinclair Bay is definitely one of the prettiest. It is a popular destination over the winter amongst visitors hoping to get a peek of the Northern Lights, but it is also lovely in August when it enjoys long hours of daylight thanks to its northern position.
(Image: Sinclair Bay by Glen Breaden, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons)2 of 5
Whether you are a history lover or just love dramatic coastal views, a trip to Wick wouldn't be complete without visiting Castle Sinclair Girnigoe. The scheduled monument, which is set in a magnificent position overlooking the water, was once a mighty fortress.
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If all the seaside scenery has got you craving a fish supper, then head to the Harbour Chip Shop. The takeaway serves up a broad selection of chippy classics, including sausage, puddings, pizza crunches, and even deep-fried Mars bars.
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For those looking to celebrate their stay in Wick with a more traditional sit-down meal, then Bord De L'eau is a great choice. The French brasserie-style restaurant serves up lobster, scallops, prawns, and much more.
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