Castle of Old Wick, Caithness

Castle in Caithness

Old Castle Wick
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Flaxton

Old Wick Castle is one of the top sights in Wick, a stark and atmospheric ruin perched on a narrow promontory high above the North Sea. Often called “The Old Man of Wick,” this ancient tower house dates back to the 12th century and is considered one of Scotland's oldest surviving castles. Its lonely silhouette, lashed by sea winds and waves, offers a powerful sense of how remote and defensive medieval life could be along the Caithness coast.

A highlight of any walking tour of Wick, the castle sits at the end of a spectacular clifftop path that adds drama to the approach. With crashing waves below and seabirds wheeling overhead, Old Wick Castle is a place where landscape and history merge in unforgettable fashion.

History and Significance of Old Wick Castle

Old Wick Castle is believed to have been built in the 1100s, possibly by Harald Maddadson, Earl of Orkney and Caithness. If so, it would make the tower one of the earliest surviving examples of a Norman-style keep in Scotland. Its location on a razor-thin headland, defended on three sides by sheer cliffs, made it a formidable stronghold during the turbulent medieval period.

The castle consisted originally of a tall rectangular tower house, with thick walls and narrow windows suited more to defence than comfort. Over time, additional outbuildings and defensive structures filled the promontory behind it, though only traces of these foundations remain today. The keep itself—now roofless and partially collapsed—still gives a strong sense of its original vertical scale and austere design.

Old Wick Castle changed hands many times, especially during conflicts between the Earls of Caithness and the Earls of Orkney. By the 18th century it had fallen into ruin, but its dramatic placement has made it one of the most evocative medieval sites in northern Scotland.

Things to See and Do in Old Wick Castle

The approach to Old Wick Castle is one of its great experiences. A coastal path winds south from Wick, following cliffs alive with seabirds and wild coastal flora. As the tower comes into view, the promontory narrows, creating an unmistakable sense of arrival at a truly ancient outpost.

Visitors can walk around the base of the keep, examine remaining wall sections, and trace the outlines of the courtyard and defensive works that once extended across the entire headland. The setting is superb for photography: the castle’s jagged profile stands stark against the Atlantic, making it a favourite for dramatic landscape shots.

Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy watching fulmars and other seabirds nesting on the cliffs, while those with a passion for history will appreciate the castle’s raw, untouched character.

How to Get There

Old Wick Castle is located just south of Wick and is most easily reached by car via local roads that lead to a small parking area near the start of the coastal path.
Visitors arriving by train can walk from Wick Station to the coastal path or take a short taxi ride to the trailhead. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
Regional travellers can fly into Wick John O’Groats Airport for quick access to the area. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Caithness on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting Old Wick Castle

  • Best time to visit Old Wick Castle: Late afternoon for atmospheric light over the cliffs.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
  • Opening hours: Open year-round.
  • Official website: Listed under Historic Environment Scotland.
  • How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Accessibility: Path is uneven and can be muddy; steep cliffs require caution.
  • Facilities: None on-site; Wick has shops and restrooms.
  • Photography tip: Shoot from the cliffs north of the promontory to capture the castle framed against the sea.
  • Guided tours: Occasionally offered by local guides.
  • Nearby food options: Wick offers cafés, bakeries, and restaurants.

Where to Stay close to Old Wick Castle

Wick offers several excellent accommodation choices for visitors exploring the castle and coastline. A comfortable option is Mackays Hotel, offering friendly hospitality. Another nearby choice is Norseman Hotel, close to the river and town centre. For a unique coastal stay north of Wick, consider Ackergill Tower Hotel.

Is Old Wick Castle Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—Old Wick Castle is one of the most atmospheric medieval ruins in Scotland. Its remote clifftop position, early history, and sweeping sea views create a visit that feels both dramatic and deeply authentic. Anyone interested in castles, wild landscapes, or early Scottish history will find it unforgettable.

FAQs for Visiting Old Wick Castle

How long is the walk to the castle?
Around 20–25 minutes each way along a scenic clifftop path.

Is the site safe in windy weather?
Take great care—winds can be strong and the cliffs are sheer.

Can I go inside the tower?
No, the tower is unstable, but you can explore around its base.

Are dogs allowed?
Yes, but keep them on a lead near the cliffs.

Is the walk suitable for children?
Yes, with close supervision, especially near cliff edges.

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The Castle of Old Wick appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Caithness!

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Visiting Castle of Old Wick

Address: Castle Of Old Wick, March Road, Wick, UK
Caithness: 20 km

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