Wick, Highland

Wick, Highland
Country	Scotland
Official name	Wick
Gaelic name	Inbhir Ùige
Population	6,954
Population ref	(2020)
Os grid reference	ND365505
Coordinates	58.441°N 3.089°W
Unitary scotland	Highland
Lieutenancy scotland	Caithness
Constituency scotland	Caithness, Sutherland and Ross
Constituency westminster	Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross
Post town	WICK
Postcode district	KW1
Dial code	01955
Static image caption	Wick Harbour, with the Old Town and Pulteneytown in the background.

Wick, Highland. It is a town and former royal burgh on the far north-eastern coast of Scotland, situated within the historic county of Caithness. Serving as the principal administrative centre for the area, the town is bisected by the River Wick and comprises the older settlement on the north bank and the planned community of Pulteneytown to the south. Historically famed as a global centre for the herring fishing industry, its economy has since diversified, while its deep natural harbour and dramatic coastal setting continue to define its character.

History

The area's early history is marked by the presence of the Norse and the Kingdom of the Isles, with the name deriving from the Old Norse 'vík', meaning bay. It was designated a royal burgh by James VI in 1589. The town's modern development was profoundly shaped in the early 19th century by the British Fisheries Society and the vision of Thomas Telford, who designed the planned settlement of Pulteneytown to expand the fishing port. During the 19th century, Wick became the busiest herring port in Europe, with its harbour teeming with boats from across the continent, including the Baltic Sea and the North Sea. This era is documented in the local Wick Heritage Museum, which holds an extensive archive related to the herring fishery. The town also played a role in the development of aviation, with the Castle of Mey and John o' Groats nearby, and was home to the pioneering aviator Robert Blackburn.

Geography

Wick is located on the north-eastern coast of the Highland council area, approximately 16 miles south of John o' Groats and 110 miles north of Inverness. The town is built around the sheltered inlet of Wick Bay, at the mouth of the River Wick, which flows from the nearby Loch of Wester. The coastline is characterised by dramatic cliffs and sea stacks, including the famous Old Man of Hoy visible to the north, and is part of the North Coast 500 touring route. The surrounding landscape is predominantly flat, peat-rich moorland, typical of the Caithness region, with significant areas of blanket bog that are important for wildlife. The climate is cool and maritime, heavily influenced by the North Atlantic Current.

Economy

The traditional economic mainstay was the herring industry, which collapsed in the mid-20th century. Today, the economy is more diversified, with key sectors including renewable energy, tourism, and public administration. The harbour remains active, supporting a small commercial fishing fleet, a lifeboat station, and services for the offshore wind and decommissioning sectors. Caithness General Hospital is a major employer, as are the local offices of Highland Council. The Pentland Firth to the north is a major focus for tidal power and wave power development. Distilling is also represented, with the Old Pulteney distillery being a notable local employer and tourist attraction.

Landmarks and culture

Notable landmarks include the ruins of Castle of Old Wick, a 12th-century Norse fortification, and the 19th-century Wick Baptist Church with its distinctive clock tower. The Wick Heritage Centre houses the remarkable Johnston Collection of photographs. The town's architectural heritage is evident in the Georgian and Victorian buildings of Pulteneytown, designed by Thomas Telford. Cultural events include the Wick Gala and the Wick Folk Festival. The local newspaper is the John O'Groat Journal, and the town is within the broadcast area of BBC Radio Scotland and BBC Radio nan Gàidheal. The dramatic coastline is protected as part of a Special Protection Area for seabirds.

Transport

Wick is connected by the A99 and A882 road to the wider road network, linking to the A9 at Helmsdale. Wick Airport, located just north of the town, provides daily flights to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Kirkwall in Orkney, operated by Loganair. The town is the northern terminus of the Far North Line, a scenic railway line operated by ScotRail that runs south to Inverness. Wick John o'Groats Airport has historically been used for general aviation and connects to other parts of Caithness.

Education and sport

Secondary education is provided by Wick High School, with several primary schools including Pulteneytown Academy and South Primary School. The town has a campus of the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), known as the North Highland College UHI. Sporting facilities include Harmsworth Park, home to Wick Academy F.C., which competes in the Highland Football League. The town also has a rugby union club, Caithness RFC, and a swimming pool at the Wick Sports Centre. The Royal British Legion and local bowling clubs provide further recreational activities.

Category:Wick, Highland Category:Ports and harbours in Scotland Category:Towns in Caithness