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Whaligoe Steps

Hidden Gem

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Coastal, Cliffs, Caves

Walking, Photography, Wildlife Watching, Picnicking, Birdwatching

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Fergus Mather via Geograph.org.uk

Whaligoe Steps are a steep flagstone staircase down the cliffs to Whaligoe Haven, a narrow rock inlet on the Caithness coast south of Wick. The haven was once a busy herring landing, where women carried creels of fish up the steps to be taken overland to Wick. At the top are a small car park and a c...

1

Parking nearby

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Food Spots nearby

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Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

1 overnight parking

The Smiddy Inn – Thrumster

Lybster Cabin

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Whaligoe Steps?
Caithness cliffs hold this remarkable site along the rugged northeastern coastline of Scotland. Walkers encounter the path just south of Wick along the coastal road.

What type of place is Whaligoe Steps?
Whaligoe Steps is a historic hand-carved cliffside stone staircase leading to a natural harbour in northern Scotland.

When is the best time to visit Whaligoe Steps?
Spring through autumn brings the most reliable weather for descending the exposed coastal cliff face. Crisp morning light during these months provides excellent visibility for photography and birdwatching.

What can you do at Whaligoe Steps?
Clambering down the stone switchbacks allows people to explore the ruined harbour at the bottom of the gorge. People frequently watch nesting seabirds and photograph the dramatic waves crashing against the stone walls.

How long should I spend at Whaligoe Steps?
Allowing around an hour ensures plenty of time to safely navigate the steep descent and explore the old port. Everyone needs a bit of extra time to handle the arduous climb back up the cliff face.

Where do I park at Whaligoe Steps?
A tiny roadside parking area provides space for just a single vehicle, which permits overnight parking. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Whaligoe Steps?
Thrumster houses The Smiddy Inn, which offers a place to eat in the area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Whaligoe Steps?
Lybster Cabin provides a place to stay for people visiting this part of the coast. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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