North Coast Visitor Centre Museum, Gallery, Shop & Café
Explore the history of Caithness, Scotland
The North Coast Visitor Centre is based in the old Town Hall building and library in Thurso, Caithness. The buildings, dating from 1870 and 1910 have been converted into a modern visitor centre with a museum, gallery and theatre space, gift shop and cafe. Entry is free, but donations are accepted. Around a 40-minute drive or bus ride from Wick, this is a great place to visit during your stay with us at Mackays Hotel.
We stayed here as part of our NC500 tour. A very nice hotel with rooms obviously quite recently redecorated. A very large bed, and a decent sized bathroom to boot. The food was lovely too and even their Covid one way system wasn’t too much of a problem. They have a couple of car chargers in their off street car park which are free to use, just ask at reception
Café and Shop
Within the visitor centre, you’ll also find the welcoming Cafe North. A great place to relax after visiting the museum, which serves a range of sandwiches, cakes, and hot and cold drinks. View opening days and times. Then pick up a souvenir in the Gift Shop, which sells books, stationery, greeting cards and more.
What else is there to see?
Visiting Thurso in Caithness
In addition to the museum, cafe and shop, there is also a gallery and theatre in the North Coast Visitor Centre, which host a rolling programme of exhibitions and events. You can find out what’s on here.
The town of Thurso has plenty of other attractions, so you can make a day of it. This is the most northerly town on the British and Scottish mainland. It has plenty of shops and places to eat and drink, more museums and galleries, and a lovely beach. Things to do in Thurso.
Caithness history and heritage
Explore more local history with Mackays
Mackays Hotel is located in a historic area, with so much to discover during your stay with us. So, find more history and heritage sites in the far north of Scotland, and check out lots of other great things to do near Wick in our See and Do Guide.
Explore more below…
