St Mary's Chapel is a small ruined early-medieval chapel on moorland near the cliffs at Crosskirk, on the north coast of Caithness a few miles west of Thurso. Plain and roofless, it is built of rough, uneven stone in two parts, a nave and a lower square-ended chancel, joined by a very low, narrow do...
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Parking nearby
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Food Spots nearby
0
Staycations nearby
Parking:
Food:
Staycations:
3 day, 2 overnight
The Ferry Inn – Scrabster
FAQ's/Things to Know
Where is St Mary’s Chapel?
Gales howl across the exposed Caithness headland where you will discover these ruins bracing against the Atlantic Ocean. Medieval coastal travellers once used this spot as a lonely sanctuary on the northern fringes of mainland Scotland.
What type of place is St Mary’s Chapel?
St Mary’s Chapel is a ruined twelfth-century religious site on the rugged coast of Caithness in northern Scotland.
When is the best time to visit St Mary’s Chapel?
Spring through to autumn offers the most manageable weather for walking along the windswept coastal path. Clear sunny afternoons provide the best light to fully appreciate the vast marine horizon.
What can you do at St Mary’s Chapel?
Walking through the roofless nave evokes a profound sense of isolation as the roar of crashing waves fills the empty stone doorway. People can also gaze through the deep eastern window opening to see the dramatic cliffs slicing into the cold grey waters.
How long should I spend at St Mary’s Chapel?
Allocating around forty minutes provides ample time to view the ancient masonry and watch nesting seabirds on the rocky ledges. A longer stay suits those who want to explore further along the cliffs toward other coastal features.
Where do I park at St Mary’s Chapel?
Space is available for five vehicles nearby, including three day and two overnight spots. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.
Where can I eat near St Mary’s Chapel?
The Ferry Inn in Scrabster offers a place to get a hearty meal nearby. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.
Where can I stay near St Mary’s Chapel?
There are no staycation spots recorded immediately near St Mary’s Chapel, check the UK Hidden Gems app for the nearest options.
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Last Updated:
02 July 2026



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