Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Caithness

Lighthouse, Nature Reserve and Walk in Caithness

Dunnet Head Lighthouse
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Peter_Glyn

Dunnet Head is one of the top attractions in Dunnet, a spectacular windswept peninsula that holds the title of the northernmost point of mainland Britain. This rugged headland, crowned by the 19th-century Dunnet Head Lighthouse, rises dramatically above the Pentland Firth and delivers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Scotland. From sheer cliffs alive with seabirds to rolling heathland bursting with seasonal flowers, Dunnet Head is a place where Scotland’s wild beauty takes centre stage.

A highlight of any tour of Dunnet and its coastline, the journey from Dunnet’s sweeping beach and sand dunes to the lighthouse offers unforgettable views. On clear days, you can see across to the Orkney Islands, while westward the coastline unfolds majestically toward Cape Wrath. It’s a location defined by solitude, sea winds, and the raw power of nature.

History and Significance of Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Dunnet Head’s exposed position has long made it an important navigational landmark. The lighthouse, designed by David Stevenson and completed in 1831, was built to guide vessels through the notoriously turbulent waters of the Pentland Firth. Its whitewashed tower stands boldly against the sky, surrounded by former keepers’ cottages and enclosed within a protective wall.

The peninsula itself is managed as a nature reserve by the RSPB, reflecting its ecological importance. Its cliffs and maritime grasslands provide nesting grounds for thousands of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars, and kittiwakes. This combination of maritime heritage and rich wildlife makes Dunnet Head one of the most distinctive natural and historic sites in Caithness.

Things to See and Do in Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse

The lighthouse viewpoint offers panoramic vistas across the Pentland Firth to Orkney’s cliffs and islands. Visitors can walk along the cliff-top paths that wind through heather and wildflowers, experiencing the dramatic coastal scenery and the fierce winds that shape the headland.

Birdwatching is especially rewarding in early summer, when the cliffs come alive with thousands of nesting seabirds. Puffins are a particular highlight, and their industrious activity is fascinating to observe from safe distances above the cliffs.

The short drive to Dunnet village reveals one of Scotland’s loveliest beaches—a long, golden stretch of sand backed by dunes. Together, the beach and headland create a perfect pairing of tranquil shoreline and wild, exposed cliffscape.

How to Get There

Dunnet Head is a few miles from Dunnet village and is best accessed by car along coastal roads leading north from the A836. Visitors arriving by train can travel to Thurso Station and continue by taxi or local bus toward Dunnet. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. Those flying regionally can use Wick John O'Groats Airport for convenient access to northern Caithness. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Caithness on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse

  • Best time to visit Dunnet Head: Late spring to early summer for seabirds and clear views.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Free.
  • Opening hours: Open year-round; daylight hours recommended.
  • Official website: RSPB and VisitScotland provide site information.
  • How long to spend: 1–2 hours for walks and viewpoints.
  • Accessibility: Cliff paths are uneven and exposed; caution required in windy weather.
  • Facilities: Limited; parking area near the lighthouse.
  • Photography tip: Capture the lighthouse with Orkney on the horizon during golden hour.
  • Guided tours: Local wildlife and nature tours occasionally include Dunnet Head.
  • Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants available in Dunnet, Thurso, and nearby villages.

Where to Stay close to Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Thurso and Dunnet both offer excellent bases for exploring the peninsula. A comfortable and nearby option is Northern Sands Hotel, perfect for beach and headland access. In Thurso, Pentland Hotel provides convenient facilities in the town centre. Travellers seeking a dramatic coastal retreat might enjoy The Castletown Hotel, located a short drive away.

Is Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse Worth Visiting?

Absolutely—Dunnet Head is one of Scotland’s great coastal landmarks. Its sweeping sea views, abundant wildlife, dramatic cliffs, and the atmospheric lighthouse make it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re birdwatching, walking, photographing, or simply soaking in the northern wildness, it’s a deeply rewarding experience.

FAQs for Visiting Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Is Dunnet Head really the northernmost point of mainland Britain?
Yes—it is farther north than John o' Groats.

Can I enter the lighthouse?
No, the lighthouse itself is not open to visitors, but the grounds and viewpoints are accessible.

Are puffins visible here?
Yes, especially in late spring and early summer.

Is the area windy?
Often extremely so—wear suitable clothing and take care near cliffs.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, with close supervision around cliff edges.

Nearby Attractions to Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse

  • Dunnet Beach: A sweeping stretch of sand backed by dunes.
  • Castle of Mey: A homely and historic royal residence restored by the Queen Mother.
  • Duncansby Head: Iconic cliffs and sea stacks at the far northeast of Scotland.
  • Castle Sinclair Girnigoe: Evocative ruins on a dramatic coastal promontory.
  • Whaligoe Haven: A cliff-surrounded harbour reached by the historic Whaligoe Steps.

The Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Caithness!

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Visiting Dunnet Head & Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Caithness: 15 km

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