Things to do on a summer break in Wick

Are you coming to stay with us at Mackays Hotel in Wick this summer? There’s still time to book your summer break in the far north of Scotland! And to help you plan your adventures, we’ve put together this guide to the best things to do in Wick and the wider Caithness area for the summer season.

Visit seasonal attractions

Most museums in Caithness are closed over the winter, so take this opportunity to visit them in the summer tourist season. These include Wick Heritage Museum, the North Coast Visitor Centre and Laidhay Croft Museum. This also goes for many of the local tours, such as day tours to Orkney with John O’ Groats Ferries and wildlife boat trips with Caithness Seacoast. There are so many local tours and attractions to enjoy. Take a look at our See and Do Guide for more ideas.

Have plenty of outdoor adventures

The great outdoors is your playground this summer, out here on the wild, rugged north coast of Scotland. Stroll along glorious beaches, such as Keiss Beach just north of Wick or the Bay of Sannick near John O’ Groats. Explore natural wonders like Dunnet Head, the most northerly point on mainland Britain, and nearby rock formation Geo of Sclaites, where hundreds of birds nest. Thrill seekers will enjoy watersports with North Coast Watersports Surf School. And golfers can experience challenging holes and stunning views at the historic Wick Golf Club.

Attend summer shows and events

There’s a lot happening in Caithness over the 2023 summer season.

We have traditional Highland Games events taking place in Halkirk on 29th July and Mey on 5th August. These are great family days out, which include Scottish sports competitions such as the caber toss, haggis hurl and tug o’ war, and traditional music, dancing and entertainment.

The Caithness Show, held in Wick on 14th and 15th July, is our local agricultural show. It features livestock displays and competitions, trade stands, speciality food and drink, and craft stalls.

Don’t miss Wick Gala Week, from 22nd to 29th July, with its fantastic opening parade, family events throughout the week, and a spectacular firework display on the closing night.

And on selected Saturday evenings in August, enjoy the sounds of the Wick RBLS Pipe Bands as they parade through the town.

Plus, every year, there is an action-packed calendar of events at the Lithe Arts Centre. From art classes to drama and learning to DJ. Or flower arranging, to circus skills and singing. These Summer Sessions are perfect for all!

So, come and visit us here in the far north of Scotland for an unforgettable summer break. We offer comfortable hotel rooms and self-catering accommodation at Mackays Hotel. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you need any help when booking.