Thinking of moving to Wick? Discover Life in Wick
When considering a move up north, finding the right place is about much more than choosing a home. It’s about getting to know the community, exploring the area, and seeing what day-to-day life could really feel like.
At Mackays Hotel here in Wick, that first visit can feel much more personal. Set in the heart of this historic harbour town, Mackays offers a warm and comfortable base for those who want to experience the character, pace and charm of life in Caithness before making a big decision.
A Town with a Strong Sense of Community
Wick is a town where community still feels very much part of everyday life. From local events and gatherings to the warm, friendly atmosphere in the town centre, it is something visitors often notice from the moment they arrive.
Throughout the year, Wick Gala Week, community markets and performances at the Assembly Rooms all help bring people together. Spending time in town gives visitors the chance to experience that spirit for themselves, whether that’s during a walk along the High Street, time around the harbour, or a relaxed afternoon getting to know the local rhythm of the town.
A Lifestyle That Suits Family Life
For many families, moving north is about looking for more balance. Wick offers that sense of space and calm that can be hard to find elsewhere, while still giving families access to the everyday amenities that matter.
A stay in Wick is a good way to explore that for yourself. You might spend part of the day discovering the town, enjoy some fresh air at Newton Hill, or take in the views along the Wick River path. For families who want to look beyond the surface, these are often the moments that help a place begin to feel familiar.
Rich Heritage on Your Doorstep
Wick has a character shaped by its long history, and that is part of what makes it such an interesting place to explore. From its harbour heritage to its links with fishing, trade and Highland life, there is a real sense of identity here.
A stay at Mackays places you close to some of the town’s most distinctive sights. Guests can visit Wick Heritage Museum, explore the harbour area, or head to Old Pulteney Distillery to discover another part of the town’s history. Mackays is also home to Ebenezer Place, known as the World’s Shortest Street, which adds another memorable piece of local character to your stay.
See More Than the Usual Visitor Sights
When you are thinking about a move, it helps to experience more than the well-known attractions. A stay in Wick gives you the chance to slow down, explore at your own pace, and notice the smaller details that matter.
That might mean seeing how easy it is to walk around town, discovering local places you would return to, or simply getting a feel for the pace of life here. It is often those quieter moments that help to decide whether you can picture your future in a place.
For more information on relocating, family life and working in the area, take a look at Live North’s guide to Caithness, Wick and the east coast.
A Comfortable Base for the Whole Family
A stay at Mackays makes it easy to explore Wick while enjoying the comfort of a relaxed and welcoming setting. As a family-run hotel in the centre of town, Mackays offers a stay that feels personal, which is ideal for families wanting to spend time getting to know the area properly.
Its central location means many of Wick’s best-known attractions are within easy reach, making it a practical choice for families exploring Caithness. For guests travelling with a dog, Mackays’ dog-friendly welcome also makes it easier to bring the whole family along and enjoy nearby coastal walks and open spaces together.
A Stay That Helps You Picture Your Next Chapter
Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions in one’s life, and spending time in a place before committing can make all the difference.
At Mackays Hotel, guests can enjoy more than simply a place to stay. They can experience a warm Highland welcome, a comfortable base in the centre of town, and the chance to immerse themselves in the local community and culture. For those thinking about making the move north, Mackays offers a personal first step towards discovering what life in Wick could really look like.
