Scotland winter itinerary for a Wick break

Wick in winter is a showcase for displaying Scotland’s most rugged beauty. Around the coast, waves crash onto rocky outcrops. Inland, snowy weather can transform any landscape into a winter wonderland. It’s a great idea to experience some of our local treasures at this time of year. Here’s a suggestion for a gentle Scotland winter itinerary over a couple of days to see the beauty and experience the culture of Wick.

Day 1 Morning: Walk along the Wick River

A stroll along the Wick River can be refreshing even on the most crisp of winter mornings. Take a coffee and wrap up warmly to enjoy the peaceful scenery. Keep an eye out for local wildlife who love this river. Here’s a reasonably accessible circular walk alongside the Wick River. 

Then, why not take a look at some of Wick’s shops? We have plenty of independent shops offering local crafts and goods. Perfect for finding a unique gift for those back home or get everything you need for a picnic for your next destination.

Afternoon: Castle Sinclair Girnigoe

Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is a short drive from Wick. This ruined castle offers dramatic sea views, perfect for photographers looking to capture an atmospheric shot in Scotland. Building first started in the 1400s and housed Oliver Cromwell’s troops during the Civil War. It is one of the best surviving and unchanged examples of a late medieval/early modern fortified complex in Scotland and definitely deserves some of your time.

Evening: Pulteney Distillery

After all this exertion, you’re going to need a break! And where better than a local distillery? Warm up with a tour of Pulteney Distillery, one of the northernmost distilleries on the Scottish mainland. Since the early 1800s, this distillery has been producing delicious single malt scotch whiskies.  Learn about the whisky-making process and enjoy a tasting session of their drams. 

Then hit the hay at Mackays because we’ve got some more adventures for tomorrow!

Day 2 Morning: Cairn o’Get

Getting outside first thing is great for blowing away any lasting effects from last night’s distillery!  Cairn o’Get is a Neolithic chambered cairn near Thrumster, just a few miles south of Wick. It spans over 5,000 years of human history. The winter landscape adds a special charm to this ancient site, as it gives you a physical experience of what life must have been like in winter for the earliest inhabitants of Scotland.

Afternoon: Lyth Arts Centre

If the weather is a bit dreich, then there’s plenty to do indoors. Lyth Arts Centre is Scotland’s most northerly mainland arts centre and hosts exhibitions, performances, and workshops year-round. It’s a great way to engage with the local arts scene and find new artists to follow. Nearby is the Wick Heritage Museum which offers a warm, indoor location to uncover the town’s maritime history.

Evening: Mackays Bar

Relax back at your hotel in our fine bar. Choose from a wide range of whiskies from all over the country and take a taste tour of Scotland without leaving your seat. Enjoy a freshly-cooked meal at No. 1 Bistro, before heading to sample our drinks at Mackays Bar. Always warm and forever welcoming, our bar is the best place to spend a relaxing evening with friends, new and old. 

Take a break and enjoy our Scotland winter itinerary in Wick this winter at Mackays Hotel. Check out our range of offers to see which suits you to make the most of your stay with us.