5-Day Family Friendly Road Trip in Wick, Scotland

Day 1: Exploring Wick

Wick, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pavilion Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast featuring haggis, local sausages, and fresh eggs to fuel your adventures ahead.
Located in Wick, just a short drive or walk from the town centre.
GBP15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Wick Heritage Museum

Delve into the local history at this engaging museum, perfect for families, showcasing Wick’s past and fishing heritage.
Still within Wick, only a 10-minute drive from breakfast.
GBP5, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll along Wick Harbour

Enjoy a relaxing walk by the water, watching the fishing boats and spotting local wildlife, perfect for children to explore.
Located adjacent to the museum, just a 5-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Harbourside Restaurant

Savour fresh seafood, including the catch of the day, while overlooking the charming harbour.
Only a 5-minute walk from Wick Harbour.
GBP20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Castle of Old Wick

A short drive to the ruins of this impressive castle provides a dash of history and stunning coastal views for a family photo opportunity.
Around a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Pulteney Distillery

Take a fascinating family-friendly tour of one of the top whisky distilleries and learn about the whisky-making process.
A 5-minute drive from the castle.
GBP10 for adults; free for children., 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Chippy

Indulge in traditional fish and chips, a family favourite, perfect after a day of exploring.
Head back into Wick, a short 5-minute drive.
GBP12, 1 hour

6:30PM

Relax at Wick Bay

Unwind as you listen to the waves and let the kids play in the sand for a lovely end to your first day.
Just a few minutes' drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Journeys to John O'Groats

John O'Groats, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café on the Green

This charming café serves delicious scrambled eggs and toast with fresh coffee to start the day right.
Just a short walk from your accommodation.
GBP10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to John O'Groats

Enjoy the scenic drive along the coast; it sets a picturesque backdrop for your family adventure.
About a 30-minute drive southeast.
N/A, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore John O'Groats

Take iconic family photos at the famous signpost marking the end of mainland Britain, explore local shops, and visit the beach.
Easily walkable once you arrive.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Wildlife Tour or Ferry to Orkney

Join a family-friendly wildlife tour or take the ferry to Orkney for an unforgettable adventure to spot seals, dolphins, and more.
Booking in advance is recommended.
GBP25 per person; price varies for ferry., 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Post Office Café

Have a light lunch with homemade soup and sandwiches to refuel after your morning adventures.
Located nearby; a short walk from the ferry terminal.
GBP15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Duncansby Stacks

Drive to this stunning natural landmark that features dramatic sea stacks and offers lovely hiking opportunities suitable for families.
A quick 15-minute drive from John O'Groats.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Ice Cream at The Ice Cream Shop

Enjoy a refreshing afternoon treat at this delightful local ice cream parlour, perfect for cooling off after your hike.
Located in John O'Groats.
GBP5, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Northern Lights Hotel

Indulge in a family-friendly dinner menu featuring local dishes that give you a taste of Scotland.
A short drive back to John O'Groats.
GBP25, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Sunset at John O'Groats

End your day with a stunning sunset at the coast, a perfect opportunity for family photos.
Near the hotel and café.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Day Trip to Thurso

Thurso, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Lighthouse Café

Enjoy fresh pastries and local jams with a lovely cup of tea or coffee next to the beach.
Located in John O'Groats; perfect for a coastal start.
GBP12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Thurso

Set off on a quick 30-minute drive to Thurso, soaking in beautiful views along the way.
Straightforward drive along A9.
N/A, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Thurso East Beach

Explore sandy shores and let the kids enjoy the sea breeze at Thurso's beautiful beach, a wonderful spot for a family walk.
Just off the main road when you arrive.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at The George Café

Savour delicious homemade pizzas and salads while taking a break from your beach fun.
Within Thurso city centre, just a short drive.
GBP18, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Caithness Horizons Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits at this museum that provides a wonderful insight into local culture and history, suitable for all ages.
Only a few blocks from the restaurant.
GBP5, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Old St. Peter’s Church

Wander through this historic church and its grounds, a lovely spot for quiet reflection and exploration.
A short walk from the museum.
Free, 30 minutes

3:30PM

Enjoy Mini Golf at Thurso Mini Golf

Have a fun-filled afternoon with a round of mini golf, a perfect family-friendly activity to engage everyone.
Only a 5-minute drive from the church.
GBP15 for family pass, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at the Brewery Bar

Try pub grub with a twist, perfect for casual dining with a menu featuring local meats and vegetarian options.
Located in Thurso city centre.
GBP20, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Scenic Drive Back to Wick

Enjoy the tranquil scenery as you make your way back to Wick for a relaxing evening.
Follow same route back.
N/A, 30 minutes
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Day 4: Adventure at Dunnet Head

Dunnet Head, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cabin Café

Start with a variety of breakfast options, including pancakes and locally-sourced ingredients for a delicious start.
In Wick, a quick drive from central accommodation.
GBP12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Dunnet Head

Embark on a scenic 30-minute drive to Dunnet Head, featuring breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Follow the A836 for beautiful views.
N/A, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Dunnet Head Lighthouse

Explore one of the most northern points in the UK and enjoy stunning views from the lighthouse, offering great photo opportunities.
Approach via Dunnet Head Road; limited parking available.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Walk the Coastal Path

Take a leisurely family walk along the coastal paths to appreciate the stunning cliffs and perhaps spot seabirds.
Head along marked trails near the lighthouse for beautiful routes.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dunnet Bay Café

Refuel with fresh, locally-sourced produce with dishes that feature traditional Scottish flavours.
A 10-minute drive back towards Dunnet village.
GBP17, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Castle of Mey

Discover the beautifully restored castle once owned by the Queen Mother, complete with gardens to explore with the family.
Just a 10-minute drive from the café.
GBP12 for adults; free for children., 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Tavern Restaurant

Enjoy a comforting dinner with traditional dishes that highlight local ingredients, perfect for families.
Located nearby; about a 15-minute drive from the castle.
GBP22, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Evening Beach Walk at Dunnet Beach

Wind down with a sunset stroll along the picturesque Dunnet Beach, a lovely end to your adventurous day.
Close to the restaurant, just a short drive.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

Lybster, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Customs House

Indulge in a freshly made breakfast with locally sourced ingredients to energise you for the last day.
A drive from Wick towards Lybster, located along A99.
GBP12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lybster

Enjoy the scenic drive to Lybster, perfect for a gentle morning.
A 30-minute journey via A99.
N/A, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Lybster Harbour

Explore the quaint harbour, take in the fresh sea air, and let the kids enjoy a scavenger hunt on the rocks.
Located in Lybster, easily found upon arrival.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at The Lybster Takeaway

Grab some delicious takeout known for local fish and chips and enjoy a picnic by the harbour.
Only a short walk away from the harbour.
GBP10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Local Nature Trails

Take some time for relaxation and reflection with family-friendly trails around Lybster that showcase the natural beauty of Caithness.
Start from the harbour; well-marked paths are available.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Coffee at The Lybster Café

Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and treat yourself to some pastries before concluding your delightful trip.
Located in central Lybster, a brief walk from your nature explorations.
GBP5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Departure from Lybster

Say goodbye to the stunning landscapes and cherished memories created in Wick and its surroundings as you depart.
Head back to your original departure point or continue your journey.
N/A, N/A
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