Top Attractions Accessible from Far North Line Stations

The Far North Line is one of Scotland’s most scenic railway lines and perhaps the UK. It also allows you to visit some landmarks, nature reserves, castles, etc. It’s hard to select from so many; however, here are a few must-see places near the Far North Line Stations.

1. Fearn Station

Attractions:

• Nigg Old Church: This church dates back to the 12th century and is home to the Nigg Stone, an impressive carved Pictish cross-slab
• Shandwick Stone: If you fancy looking at another Pictish monument, then the Shandwick stone is a must. It is near Shandwick’s village and part of the Easter Ross Pictish Trail.
• Tarbat Discovery Centre: This centre is located in Portmahomack, a 15-minute drive from the station. Inside, various interactive displays and dig finds explore the history of the Picts.

So, if you fancy learning more about the history of the Picts, Fearn is your go-to place.

2. Tain Station

Attractions:

• Glenmorangie Distillery: The distillery is about a 20-minute walk from Tain Station (though that might vary depending on the whisky sampling!). This world-famous distillery offers tours around its facilities, and you can sample its whisky.
• Tain Through Time Museum: Tain is the oldest royal burgh and is a fascinating Highland museum and visitor centre set in the grounds of the beautiful medieval church of St Duthac.
• St Duthac’s Church: After visiting the museum the actual church is worth a visit, too. This 14th-century church once drew pilgrims, including Scottish kings, and offers a look into Tain’s past.

3. Ardgay Station

Attractions:

• Balblair Distillery: It’s another whiskey distillery, but it’s a very worthwhile to visit. Founded in 1790 by John Ross, Balblair is one of Scotland’s oldest single-malt whisky distilleries. They, too, offer a tour of the distillery and show its traditional whisky-making process. Of course, a tour would only be complete with a bit of sampling.
• Falls of Shin: About a 15-minute drive from the station, The Falls of Shin is known as one of the best places in the UK to spot salmon in their natural habitat. It also has some lovely woodland you can wander around in, and when you have had enough, there is a lovely café close by.

4. Culrain Station

Attractions:

• Carbisdale Castle: About a 15-minute walk from Culrain Station, it is also known as the Castle of Spite. The Duchess who had it built located the Castle there to spite her husband’s family and the settlement agreement after their divorce.
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5. Lairg Station

Attractions:

• Loch Shin: Loch Shin is the largest Loch in Sutherland, around 17 miles long, running NW to SE. The Loch flows out to the south into the River Shin. There is a café overlooking the Loch where you can enjoy the peaceful views,
• The Ferrycroft Visitor Centre: This centre offers a chance to learn about the area’s natural history and heritage. It has family-friendly exhibits and walking trails.

6. Dunrobin Station

Attractions:

• Dunrobin Castle: This Castle is like something out of a fairytale. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the station. You can explore the Castle either by yourself or on a tour. The gardens are equally impressive, and there are daily falconry displays. There is also a café within the Castle.
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7. Brora Station

Attractions:

• Brora Beach: A few minutes walk from the station, this wild, unspoiled beach, which runs alongside the local golf course, is a hidden gem. It offers spectacular views over the North Sea and the Moray Firth and a chance to spot seals.
• Brora Heritage Centre: Here, you can explore the village’s industrial past, including its coal mining history, whisky production, and woollen mills.

8. Helmsdale Station

Attractions:

• Timespan Museum and Arts Centre: Just a short walk from the station, the Timespan Museum features interactive exhibits on the history of the Highland Clearances and local heritage.
• Kildonan Gold Rush Site: This is an enjoyable and unique experience. You can try your hand panning for gold in the nearby River Helmsdale,

9. Wick Station

Attractions:

• Wick Heritage Museum: A short walk from the station, it captures the town’s rich history, particularly its herring fishing boom.
• Castle of Old Wick: The ‘Old Man of Wick’ is one of Scotland’s oldest castles, perched on a promontory in the far north-east.
• Pulteney Distillery: Yes, it’s another distillery. One of Scotland’s northernmost distilleries, it offers tours and tastings of traditional single malts.

Explore the Highlands with the Far North Line

These are just a few of the places you can access while travelling on the Far North Line. There are many, many more. Please see the write-ups on each of the stations for more local information and places to visit.

Plan your trip today and discover the best of the Highlands, all within easy reach of the Far North Line!