Visit Timespan Museum and Arts Centre in Helmsdale
Delve into local history at Timespan
Down the coast in Helmsdale, less than an hour’s drive from Mackays Hotel, Timespan is a fascinating place to visit in the far north of Scotland. Its museum first opened in 1987 and shares the local and social history of the area. It covers topics such as the Highland Clearances, the herring fishing industry and the Scottish gold rush. Shared through local stories, historical artefacts and virtual displays. It is also an arts centre, which hosts a programme of exhibitions and events.
We had booked this for the first of a two night stay in Wick. The food was so good we reserved a table for the following evening. The staff were excellent, one member of the team I think called Craig went above and beyond on both evenings to make our meal an experience. Highly recommend
Helmsdale history
The village of Helmsdale and its surrounding area have a rich history, which is explored in the Timespan Museum. The village was planned in 1814 to resettle communities that had been moved as part of the Highland Clearances. The museum tells the story of the clearances and the huge impact they had on the community. It also shares information on the local herring fishing industry, the history of crofting and the Kildonan Gold Rush of 1869.
Visiting Timespan
How to get there
Timespan is located in the village of Helmsdale, on the banks of the river by the old Telford stone bridge. This village on the east coast of Sutherland is easy to reach from Wick via the A99 and A9. The journey from Mackays Hotel takes less than an hour.
Scottish 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…
