Map of Thurso, United Kingdom

🏄 What to do in Thurso

Thurso is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands. From rugged coastline explorations to cultural excursions, Thurso has something for everyone.

• Best Budget Activity in Thurso:

  Thurso Beach: Spend a relaxing day sunbathing, kite surfing, or simply strolling along the stunning sandy shores of Thurso Beach.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Thurso:

  Castle of Mey: Explore the historic Castle of Mey, the former summer residence of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and wander through its beautiful gardens filled with colorful blooms.

• Best Luxury Activity in Thurso:

  Orkney Day Trip: Indulge in a luxurious day trip to the Orkney Islands, where you can visit ancient archaeological sites, picturesque villages, and sample the local cuisine.

🍽 Where to eat in Thurso

Thurso is a culinary gem, offering a diverse array of dining options that cater to every palate. Don't miss out on trying the Scottish delicacies such as haggis, Cullen skink, and cranachan while in Thurso.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Thurso:

  The Bayview Hotel•$:

  Traditional Scottish dishes with a modern twist

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Thurso:

  Ola's Fish & Chips•$$:

  Fresh seafood and classic British fare

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Thurso:

  Forss House Hotel•$$$:

  Fine dining showcasing local Scottish produce

• Best Budget Bar in Thurso:

  The Pentland Hotel Bar•$:

  Try their signature cocktail, the Pentland Punch

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Thurso:

  The Captain's Galley•$$:

  Enjoy a pint of local craft beer with their fisherman's platter

• Best Luxury Bar in Thurso:

  The Park Hotel Bar•$$$:

  Indulge in a glass of fine Scotch whiskey while enjoying the elegant ambiance

🏰 What to see in Thurso

Thurso is steeped in history and natural beauty, boasting a range of must-visit landmarks that showcase the town's unique charm and heritage. From ancient castles to stunning coastal vistas, Thurso is a treasure trove of sightseeing opportunities.

• Thurso Castle

  Explore the ruins of Thurso Castle, once a grand seat of power overlooking the town, offering fascinating glimpses into its medieval past.

• Dunnet Head

  Visit Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, where dramatic cliffs and panoramic views of the Pentland Firth await.

• Old St Peter's Kirk

  Discover the historic ruins of Old St Peter's Kirk, a medieval church dating back to the 12th century, nestled amidst a tranquil graveyard.

• Holburn Head Lighthouse

  Admire the iconic Holburn Head Lighthouse, a striking beacon set against the rugged Caithness coastline, providing stunning vistas of the North Sea.

• Castlehill Heritage Centre

  Immerse yourself in Thurso's heritage at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, housing exhibits on local history, archaeology, and the town's rich maritime past.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Thurso

Thurso offers an eclectic mix of shopping experiences, from charming boutiques to local markets, providing visitors with a delightful array of goods to explore and purchase. Whether you're seeking unique souvenirs or trendy finds, Thurso's shopping scene is sure to cater to your preferences.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Thurso:

  Caithness Market: Browse the stalls at the Caithness Market for an assortment of locally-made crafts, gifts, and fresh produce at wallet-friendly prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Thurso:

  Sir Archibald Sinclair Court: Explore Sir Archibald Sinclair Court for a mix of independent shops, fashion boutiques, and artisanal stores offering quality goods at affordable rates.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Thurso:

  The Orkney Tweed Company: Indulge in luxury shopping at The Orkney Tweed Company, known for its exquisite tweed garments, accessories, and stylish home furnishings.

🚌 Getting Around Thurso

• Public Transport

  Thurso offers a reliable public transportation system primarily through buses. The main provider is Stagecoach, offering routes throughout the town and connecting Thurso to other nearby towns and cities. The bus fares are affordable, with single journey tickets starting from £1.50. A variety of pass options are also available for regular commuters. The bus schedules are frequent during peak hours and operate on a reduced timetable during off-peak times and weekends.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Thurso's main transportation hub is the Thurso Railway Station, connecting the town to other major cities in Scotland. The station is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers to access other transportation modes. Additionally, the nearest bus station is situated close to the town center, providing easy access to bus services within and outside Thurso.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rental: Visitors can rent cars from reputable providers such as Europcar and Enterprise in Thurso. Prices typically start from £30 per day for a small car, with options for larger vehicles available as well. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: For those interested in exploring Thurso on two wheels, bicycle rental services can be found at local shops like North Coast Adventure and Pentland Ferries. Prices for bicycle rentals vary but usually start from £15 per day, including helmets and locks for security.