A Highland Welcome, Generations in the Making
Family-run since the 1950s, rooted in the heart of Wick and the stories of Caithness.
Welcome to Mackays Hotel, a much-loved landmark in the heart of Wick where Highland hospitality and family heritage come together. The hotel has been part of Caithness life for well over a century and has welcomed generations of visitors to Scotland’s far north. Since the 1950s, Mackays has been lovingly cared for by the Lamont family, with three generations continuing a tradition of warm welcomes, personal service and deep local knowledge. We are immensely proud of our rich history, strong family roots and connection to the people and stories of Caithness.
Hotel Building History
The hotel was built in 1883 by Alexander Sinclair, and has a unique flatiron style shape, similar to some buildings found in large cities. Because it sits at the junction of Union Street and Ebenezer Place, the hotel tapers to a narrow point, giving it a distinctive triangular appearance and is also a recognition of the Herring fishing which was once an important part of Wick’s commerce.
Temperance History in Wick
From Herring Boom to Temperance Town
In the 19th century, Wick was Europe’s largest herring fishing port. During the fishing season, thousands of fishermen and workers flooded into the town. With dozens of public houses serving the rapidly growing population, heavy drinking became a major social issue, leading to family hardship and poverty, disorder and violence. However following new legislation, Wick voted for prohibition and for 25 years became a “dry town”.
During this period, the hotel was renamed Wick Temperance Hotel, and the text can still be faintly seen on the River Street side of the hotel!
Ebenezer Place
A World Record Holder...
After the hotel was built, the local council instructed Alexander Sinclair to put a name on the short end of the building, as they deemed it a separate street. Ebenezer Place then appeared in the town’s records from 1887.
Murray and Ellie submitted an application for Ebenezer Place to be recognised as the World’s Shortest Street in the Guinness Book of World Records, and this was verified and awarded in 2006. At a length of 2.06 metres, you can see that our No 1 Bistro is the only address on the street!
Family History
In 1954, Murray’s maternal Grandmother bought the hotel and Murray’s Uncle Wesley ran it for a short time. A year later, Wesley went to the States so Murray’s parents Donald J Lamont and Morag Lamont bought the hotel in 1956.
Murray was brought up in the hotel, and worked in it from about 8 years old, his first job was cellar boy! He returned to Caithness in 1982 to run the hotel, and along with wife Ellie bought it in 1996.
He knew his calling from the early age of 5!
The Stevenson Suite was added to the hotel in the 1970s, a major addition in those days and the first of its’ kind in Caithness.
What was the public bar was reopened as Ebenezer’s Bar in 1990, and in 2004 Ebenezer’s Bar became the No 1 Bistro.
Reasons to visit Wick
Wick is a truly friendly town with a strong community spirit. The saying that “You’ll arrive as strangers and leave as friends” is very accurate – when you explore the town and chat to locals, you’ll find that they’ll be keen to chat and tell you the best places to visit.
Whether you’re exploring our historic streets and harbour, walking along the rugged coastal paths, or simply enjoying the slower pace of life, Wick provides the perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure, right from the doorstep of our historic hotel.
