Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Dunnet Head Lighthouse which includes cuddly or friendly animals and bird life
Dunnet Head Lighthouse which includes rocky coastline and a lighthouse
Dunnet Head Lighthouse showing cuddly or friendly animals, bird life and rugged coastline
Dunnet Head Lighthouse which includes rugged coastline and tranquil scenes
Dunnet Head Lighthouse showing rocky coastline and a lighthouse


Enjoy the impressive views from the top of this 19th-century lighthouse on the edge of a headland jutting into the Pentland Firth.

The Dunnet Head Lighthouse is located on the northernmost point of the Scottish mainland, perched on dramatic cliffs that plummet 300 feet (90 metres) into the turbulent Pentland Firth below. Drive or make the rewarding coastal hike up to this scenic viewpoint and enjoy vistas stretching over the sea to Orkney.

The lighthouse was constructed by Robert Stevenson, grandfather of famous novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Built in 1831, the lighthouse became automated over a century later in 1989. It is now monitored remotely from the Northern Lighthouse Board in Edinburgh. Admire this sturdy stone tower, which stands 65 feet (20 metres) high.

The lighthouse overlooks the Pentland Firth, a treacherous strait with one of the world’s most powerful tidal currents. Gaze up at the tall lighthouse and realise that strong storms have sometimes been thrown up by the sea and smashed its windows.

Take in the majestic view across the Pentland Firth. On a clear day, you should be able to see the Orkney Islands to the north, Duncansby Head to the east and Cape Wrath to the west. Look for seals and nesting seabirds on rocks near the base of the cliff.

For even more splendid views, follow the path behind the lighthouse which leads to the top of a gentle hill. Along the way, you’ll pass a number of interesting old army buildings, built during World War II to help defend the naval base at Scapa Flow on Orkney.

Although it’s possible to reach the lighthouse by car, consider visiting the lighthouse as part of the challenging Dunnet Head coastal walk. Beginning in the village of Dunnet, the hike stretches for 10 miles (17 kilometres) along the headland’s sandstone cliffs and back to town. In addition to superb views of the sea, the walk offers a chance to spot birdlife ranging from puffins and kittiwakes to cormorants and razorbills.

Dunnet Head Lighthouse is 13 miles (21 kilometres) northeast of Thurso. From Thurso, follow the small road leading up to the headland. Don’t miss a visit to the most northerly point on mainland Britain and its historic lighthouse.

Plan a trip to see Dunnet Head Lighthouse

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Probably best to drive up the road and do the last part on foot. If you are lucky enough to have a clear calm day the views are outstanding and you may see whales/dolphins depending on the time of year.

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Things to do near Dunnet Head Lighthouse

A trip to Dunnet Head Lighthouse offers a variety of enjoyable activities, including sailing and fishing, which allow visitors to explore the stunning coastal scenery. Adventurous souls can try their hand at sail boarding, while those seeking a more leisurely experience can enjoy horse riding along picturesque trails. Additionally, various day trips are available to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding area.

Shopping

At Dunnet Head Lighthouse, the local shops offer charming souvenirs and gifts, perfect for mementoes of your visit. If you're up for a drive, Thurso's Caithness Horizons and The Old Bank provide a wider selection of unique items and local crafts to explore.

Recreation

Thurso Golf Club, a luxurious country private club situated 5.6km from Dunnet Head Lighthouse, offers a tranquil golfing experience amidst stunning landscapes. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views while indulging in a round of golf, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation on your vacation.

Adventure

Explore the dramatic cliffs and coastal paths around Dunnet Head Lighthouse, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the North Sea. Engage in birdwatching to spot puffins and seabirds, or take a thrilling hike along the rugged coastline, immersing yourself in the stunning Scottish landscape.

Nightlife

Enjoy a serene evening at the Dunnet Head Lighthouse with stunning coastal views. For a lively night, visit the nearby Thurso, where you can find charming pubs like The Commercial Hotel for local ales and friendly banter, or the Olive Tree for a relaxed atmosphere with live music.

Find the best attractions near Dunnet Head Lighthouse

At Dunnet Head Lighthouse, visitors can explore stunning beaches, historic castles, and fascinating museums, making it an ideal destination for culture lovers and families alike. Attractions nearby include the iconic Dunnet Head itself and the scenic Dunnet Beach. Whether you're keen on soaking up the coastal beauty or delving into local heritage, there's plenty to keep you entertained during your visit to this remarkable area of Scotland.

  • Castle of Mey: A charming castle steeped in history and romance, Castle of Mey offers visitors a glimpse into royal heritage and stunning gardens. Located 3.7km from Dunnet Head Lighthouse, it provides a picturesque setting for leisurely exploration.
  • Dunnet Bay Beach: This beautiful beach, situated 3.1km from the lighthouse, boasts golden sands and breathtaking coastal views. It's perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere, making it a true gem of the area.
  • Mary-Ann's Cottage: Just 249m away, this quaint museum showcases local culture and heritage. Visitors can explore the traditional cottage and discover the fascinating history of the region, immersing themselves in its rich past.

Best time to go to Dunnet Head Lighthouse

The best time to visit Dunnet Head Lighthouse can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Dunnet Head Lighthouse falls in July and August. August has moderately high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature around Dunnet Head Lighthouse falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
February40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
March42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
September53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dunnet Head Lighthouse

To save money on your visit to Dunnet Head Lighthouse, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January to February and November when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield better rates, especially on Tuesdays, while Fridays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and filter for eco-friendly options. Combining flights and hotel bookings can lead to significant savings, and always look for free cancellation options to maintain flexibility in your travel plans.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Dunnet Head Lighthouse are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Dunnet Head Lighthouse about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Dunnet Head Lighthouse is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Dunnet Head Lighthouse is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel stay at Dunnet Head Lighthouse with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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