Stargazing in Caithness

Huge open skies and very low levels of light pollution make Caithness in Scotland the perfect location for stargazing. View the night sky and all its wonders … and if you’re lucky you may even see the northern lights! Below we’ve listed some astronomy groups, locations and resources to help you get started…

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The

Caithness Astronomy Group

Caithness Astronomy Group hosts public meetings, talks and observations throughout the year. Check out this year’s event programme and learn more about stargazing in the far north of Scotland…

Castlehill Heritage Centre

Castlehill Heritage Centre is a Dark Sky Discovery Site, an officially recognised stargazing location. Approved as a safe and accessible area with low light pollution. Car parking is available.

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Northern Lights in Caithness Scotland

Stargazing Locations Map

Use this map on the Caithness Astronomy Group website, to find more great local stargazing locations near us, including Naver Forest, Rumster Forest, Thurso Harbour, Dunnet Head and Grey Cairns of Camster.

AuroraWatch UK

Sign up for AuroraWatch UK alerts to find out when the Northern Lights may be visible. The best time to see them is in the winter, between 10 pm and 2 am, when the sky is at its darkest. However, they may appear at any time of year.

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A man stargazing and looking through binoculars

Visit the Caithness Science Festival

The Caithness International Science Festival explores science and technology, with a programme packed with events and learning experiences for all ages. The annual event takes place every March. It includes events covering many scientific topics and interests. Stargazing and northern lights events are often included. See the latest programme here.

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Stay at the Ulbster Arms Hotel

Book your stay at the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Halkirk. The perfect base for these trips and tours around Caithness and beyond! Call us today on 01847 831 641 or contact us for more information.

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Ulbster Arms Hotel Map

Accommodation

Discover our hotel rooms at Ulbster Arms Hotel …

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Special Offers

See our special offers here and book your deal today…

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Testimonials

Very cosy and spacious rooms with large bathroom and hall. Value for money is one of the best on NC500 – nice stay with breakfast included are less than for a hundred pounds. The hotel also has a bar, a restaurant and lobby & library, where you can rest after trip. The off street parking area is large and very convenient.

Absolutely stunning meal here at the weekend. Excellent service, great food and high standards. Lovely setting. Would recommend highly.

The best staff who will look after you, great food in the best 4 restaurant , really well furnished rooms with comfortable beds for a great nights sleep. Access to the best salmon fishing in Scotland . A friendly atmosphere and I would thoroughly recommend.

This is the second time we have stayed here and it was just as good as last time. We stayed in room 7 which was warm and cosy, had everything we needed and had a sizeable bathroom. We did eat here and I can say the fish and chips where amazing, the batter was light and the fish very fresh, breakfast was excellent too and the waitress was welcoming and attentive. Thanks for another faultless stay.

A fantastic stay yet again for a short fishing break.||Jess and the team looked after us tremendously well as always, and a special thank you to Holly for sorting out a last minute room for me thanks to a booking error on my part.||Steaks in the bar arrived just as ordered.||Looking forward to returning again soon

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