Scotland is a land of diverse landscapes, rugged mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and pristine beaches. One such hidden gem of Scotland is Thurso Beach. Located on the north coast of Scotland, Thurso Beach is a picturesque coastal town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. In this article, we will explore Thurso Beach in detail, from its history to its natural beauty, and everything in between.
History of Thurso Beach
Thurso is a historic town that dates back to the Viking era. The name Thurso comes from the Norse “Thorsa,” meaning “Thor’s River.” The town has a rich history and was once a major center for fishing and agriculture. The Thurso Castle, built in the 17th century, still stands as a testament to the town’s history.
Getting to Thurso Beach
Thurso Beach is located on the north coast of Scotland, approximately 200 miles from Edinburgh. The easiest way to get to Thurso Beach is by car or train. The nearest airport is Inverness, which is approximately 2 hours away by car. Visitors can also take the train from Inverness to Thurso, which takes around 4 hours.
Things to Do in Thurso Beach
Thurso Beach is a small town, but it has plenty to offer visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Thurso Beach:
Surfing
Thurso Beach is known as the surfing capital of Scotland. The town hosts the annual Scottish National Surfing Championships and attracts surfers from all over the world. The beach offers some of the best waves in the UK, and visitors can rent surfboards and wetsuits from local surf shops.
Castle of Mey
The Castle of Mey is a historic castle located near Thurso Beach. The castle was once owned by Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, and is now open to the public. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and explore the beautiful gardens.
Orkney Islands
The Orkney Islands are a group of islands located off the coast of Thurso Beach. Visitors can take a ferry from Thurso to the Orkney Islands and explore the ancient ruins and beautiful landscapes.
Caithness Horizons
Caithness Horizons is a museum located in Thurso Beach that showcases the history and culture of the area. The museum has exhibits on the Viking era, the fishing industry, and the local wildlife.
Natural Beauty of Thurso Beach
Thurso Beach is known for its natural beauty. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and pristine beaches. Visitors can take a walk along the beach and enjoy the stunning views. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Thurso Beach:
Dunnet Head
Dunnet Head is the most northerly point of mainland Britain. The headland offers stunning views of the coastline and the Orkney Islands.
Duncansby Head
Duncansby Head is another headland located near Thurso Beach. The headland is home to the famous Duncansby Stacks, a series of sea stacks that rise out of the ocean.
John O’Groats
John O’Groats is a small village located near Thurso Beach. The village is known for its stunning views of the Pentland Firth and is a popular spot for whale watching.
Thurso East
Thurso East is a famous surf spot located on the east coast of Thurso Beach. The beach offers some of the best waves in the UK and attracts surfers from all over the world.
