Caithness, Scotland

The county of Caithness is located at the very north of Scotland, with Sutherland on one border and the sea around the rest. Caithness is an area of about 712 square miles, and is mostly flat, which is a contrast to the rest of the North of Scotland. It is an area of vast farmland & moorland (in fact the largest area of blanket bog in Europe is in Caithness, known as Flow Country).

Caithness is covered in evidence of prehistoric occupation, from ruined castles along the coasts to standing stones & hundreds of ruined broch’s (an iron age structure unique to Scotland). Norse settlers arrived in the 10th century, which has influenced the names of settlements throughout the county, the word “ster” is Norse for settlement or town, for example Scrabster, Lybster, Haster, Sibster & Ulbster etc.

A number of rare birds and other animals can be seen around Caithness, both on land and in the sea. The diverse landscape provides a haven for many species which have disappeared elsewhere.

Caithness provides visitors with a huge range of activities & attractions.  The surfing in Thurso has been rated as one of the top 10 locations worldwide.  For those who don't surf; fishing, horse riding, cycling, canoeing or walking are just a few options.  There are many historical sites to see, and plenty of places to stay & eat.

Caithness stone was once a material unique to Caithness, but is now found all over the world. Using modern techniques a huge range of things from furniture to bathroom fixtures can be made from it.

Today Caithness is a rich & diverse area with a population of approximately 24,000 people, like much of Highlands the population was dramatically affected by the Highland Clearances. It is a county of beautiful landscapes and habitats. Thurso & Wick are the two main settlements in Caithness, located roughly 20 miles from one another with Halkirk (the third largest town in between).

This photo captures Caithness, the past; ruined crofts in the distance, possibly abandoned during the Highland Clearances.  The present; sheep which the land was cleared for, and the future; wind turbines.

Dounreay has been the major employer in the area over the last few decades, as it is now being decommissioned the need for alternative industry has become clear.

Caithness has a resource which in the coming years will see it flourish; renewable energy, both tidal and wind generated power. The Scottish government hopes that Scotland will be using 100% renewable power by 2020, and for electricity to become a major export. If this is to happen, Caithness will play an important part in this future. It is estimated that the Pentland Firth represents 25% of the total capacity for tidal power in the European Union, and may be capable of accommodating 10 GW of electricity generating capacity (enough to power 7 million homes, or 8 DeLoreans).  Work has begun to upgrade Scrabster Harbour to provide the facilities necessary for the emerging energy industry.