This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Wick.
The town of Wick, Scotland, is a history enthusiast’s delight. It was formerly a viking settlement and, to this day, many historic remnants remain.
Located in Scotland’s far north, Wick is home to the remains of the Castle of Old Wick (also known as the Old Man of Wick). These historic ruins mark the place where one of Scotland’s oldest castles once stood, which was estimated to have been built sometime in the twelfth century. The castle also attracts visitors thanks to its striking location, atop a cliff and overlooking the sea. If castles are of further interest, the nearby ruins of the Sinclair and Girnigoe castles are well worth checking out. These remnants date back to the fifteenth and seventeenth centuries.
Other activities and sites of interest for tourists in close proximity to Wick include outdoor sports such as wind-surfing and sand-yachting in Sinclair Bay, a picturesque walk past Noss Head Lighthouse as well as exploring the local wildlife.
For those interested in discovering more about this old town’s history, there are several places that cater to your interests. For example, there is the Wick Heritage Museum, which provides a glimpse into Wick’s past, with displays including films, photographs, and household items from bygone eras showing what life was once like here. The history of the town’s prominent fishing era is particularly noteworthy.
Other places to visit while in the area are the Caithness Archive Centre, the Pulteney Distillery Visitor Centre, and the Lyth Arts Centre.
While hostels in Wick, Scotland, prove to be limited, there are several cheap hotel and accommodation options available for backpackers. Alternatively, Inverness is just over a two-hour drive away, making Wick the perfect day-trip destination from the hostel-rich destination of Inverness. For those conscious of their budgets, staying at one of Inverness’ many hostels then traveling to Wick during the day could be a good choice.
Written by local enthusiast for Wick hostels
Erin