The best hikes from bus stations around Loch of Yarrows
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Bus station hiking trails around Loch of Yarrows offer access to a landscape rich in archaeological history and natural features in Caithness, Scotland. The area is characterized by open moorland, freshwater lochs, and coastal sections, providing varied terrain for hikers. Prehistoric remains, including Iron Age brochs and Bronze Age cairns, are prominent features along many routes. The trails often traverse exposed ground, with some sections being boggy, requiring appropriate footwear.
Best bus station hiking trails around Loch of Yarrows
- The…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
3.0
(1)
3
hikers
19.8km
05:17
220m
220m
Hike the challenging 12.3-mile Cairns of Camster from Mid Clyth route to explore ancient Neolithic cairns in Scotland's remote Flow Country.
4
hikers
8.06km
02:08
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
3.43km
00:55
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
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6
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6.95km
01:50
60m
60m
This easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) loop through Newtonhill Community Wood offers panoramic views and a chance to explore developing woodland.
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Tips from the Community
Actually not a real street at all, more of a product of bureaucracy. But it's funny.
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Newtown Hill is a quiet woodland close to the centre of Wick. An ideal spot for bird watching and enjoying stretching views across Caithness.
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Lots to capture your attention at Wick harbour. Alongside the attractive boats, there is a lighthouse on both North and South piers, also a lifeboat station, fog cannon and other landmarks to take note of.
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Probably a wise choice to make this the last stop on any hike. Founded in 1826, today you can visit and tour the distillery but spaces are limited so booking is advisable. Open Mon to Sat 10:00 - 17:00 (Apr-Sep) and Mon to Fri 10:00 - 16:30 the rest of the year.
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Welcome to Ebenezer Place, Wick. Recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as being the world's shortest street at 2.06 m (6 ft 9 in). It's pretty exclusive - the street only has one address: the entrance to No. 1 Bistro, part of Mackays Hotel. The hotel has other frontages on Union Street and River Street, but save yourself the journey and use the one on Ebenezer Place.
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The port city of Wick is located on the north-east coast of Scotland about 410 km north of Edinburgh and about 1060 km north of London. Wick, with a population of 7155, is the county town of Caithness. The name Wick is apparently derived from the Norse word for bay.
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The Grey Cairns of Camster are two large Neolithic chambered cairns that are among the oldest structures in Scotland, dating to about 5,000 years ago. The cairns demonstrate complex neolithic architecture, with central burial chambers accessed through narrow passages. They were excavated and restored by Historic Environment Scotland in the late 20th century. The cairns were constructed in the third of fourth millennium BC in an empty, boggy and peat-covered moorland. Although the surrounding countryside is now inhospitable with little population, it was a fertile farming land in the Stone Age, only becoming covered in peat during the Bronze Age.
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Impressive grave. In 2017 it was possible to enter the tomb by crawling in. The entrance is very narrow and low of height. Camster Round is, as the name suggests, a circular cairn; it measures 18 metres in diameter by 3.7 metres high. It is virtually intact with a high vaulted chamber at its centre, accessed from a passage 6 metres long and 0.8 metres high at the east-south-east side of the cairn. The passage appears to have been deliberately put out of use by blocking it up with stones piled up to the height of its roof. When it was excavated, archaeologists found that the floor of the cairn was composed of a 0.3 metres deep layer of black earth, ash and burnt bones. It appears that bodies were placed there in a sitting position, though, oddly, without leg bones; the legs appear either to have been removed or to have rotted off before the bodies were deposited in the cairn. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grey_Cairns_of_Camster
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available around Loch of Yarrows?
There are currently 5 bus-accessible hiking trails detailed in this guide for the Loch of Yarrows area. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, making it easy to find a suitable adventure directly from a bus stop.
What kind of terrain can I expect on bus-accessible hikes near Loch of Yarrows?
The terrain around Loch of Yarrows is quite varied. Many routes traverse exposed and sometimes boggy moorland, especially those venturing further into the archaeological landscape. You can also find coastal paths and routes through community woodlands. Appropriate waterproof footwear is highly recommended due to potentially wet conditions underfoot.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus around Loch of Yarrows?
Yes, there are several easy options perfect for families. For a shorter, gentle walk, consider the View of the Castle of Old Wick loop from Wick, which offers scenic coastal views. Another easy option is the Newtonhill Community Wood loop from Pulteneytown, providing a pleasant woodland experience.
What historical landmarks can I see on bus-accessible hikes in this region?
The Loch of Yarrows area is rich in prehistoric remains. While specific bus routes might vary, the wider region is known for its Iron Age brochs (like the one near the loch and South Yarrows Broch), Bronze Age chambered cairns, hut circles, and standing stones. The Yarrows Archaeological Trail, though not directly a bus route in this guide, highlights the extraordinary concentration of these ancient sites.
Are there any circular hiking routes accessible by bus?
Yes, several routes in this guide are circular and start conveniently from bus stops. For a moderate coastal walk, the Wick Harbour – Old Pulteney Distillery loop from Wick is a great choice. Shorter circular options include the View of the Castle of Old Wick loop from Wick and the Newtonhill Community Wood loop from Pulteneytown.
What is the best time of year to hike around Loch of Yarrows using public transport?
Spring and summer generally offer the most pleasant conditions with longer daylight hours and drier ground, making it ideal for exploring the moorlands. However, the coastal paths can be enjoyed year-round, though autumn and winter may bring stronger winds and wetter conditions. Always check local weather forecasts and be prepared for changeable Scottish weather.
Are dogs allowed on the bus-accessible hiking trails?
Most outdoor areas in Scotland, including the trails around Loch of Yarrows, are dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, especially in areas with livestock or ground-nesting birds. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. When using public transport, check the specific bus operator's policy regarding dogs.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the bus-accessible routes near Loch of Yarrows?
The komoot community rates the hiking experience in this area highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 7 reviews. Hikers often praise the convenience of accessing trails directly from bus stops, the blend of historical sites with natural beauty, and the opportunity to experience the unique Caithness landscape without needing a car.
Are there any longer or more challenging bus-accessible hikes?
For those seeking a more challenging and longer adventure, the Cairns of Camster from Mid Clyth route is classified as difficult. This extensive hike takes you through significant archaeological landscapes, offering a rewarding experience for experienced hikers.
Where can I find amenities like cafes or shops near the bus-accessible trailheads?
The town of Wick serves as a primary hub for many of these bus-accessible routes and offers a good range of amenities. You'll find cafes, shops, and other services in Wick, particularly near the harbour and town centre, which are starting points for several listed hikes like the Old Pulteney Distillery – Wick Harbour loop from Wick.
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