Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Helmsdale
POP 900
Surrounded by hills with gorse that explodes mad-yellow in spring, this sheltered fishing
town, like many other spots on this coast, was a major emigration point during the Clear-
ances and also a booming herring port. It's surrounded by breathtaking, undulating coast-
line.
In the centre of town, the
Timespan Heritage Centre
(
www.timespan.org.uk
; Dun-
robin St; adult/child £4/2; 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, noon-5pm Sun Mar-Oct, 11am-4pm Sat
& Sun, 2-4pm Tue Nov-Feb)
has an impressive display covering local history (including
the 1869 gold rush) and Barbara Cartland, the late queen of romance novels, who was a
Helmsdale regular. There are also local art exhibitions, a geology garden and a cafe.
The River Helmsdale offers some of the best
salmon fishing
in the Highlands. Permits,
tackle and advice can be obtained from the
Helmsdale Tackle Company
(
01431-821372;
www.helmsdalecompany.com
;
15-17 Dunrobin St; 9am-5pm Mon, Tue,
Thu & Fri, to 12.45pm Wed & Sat)
.
Sleeping & Eating
HOTEL
Bridge Hotel££
(
01431-821100;
www.bridgehotel.net
; Dunrobin St; s/d £77/117; )
Ideally loc-
ated and exceptionally welcoming, this early 19th-century coaching inn is the smartest
place to stay and the best place to eat in town. Proud of its Highland heritage, it displays a
phalanx of antlers, even on the key fobs, part of the owner's eclectic collection that in-
cludes a huge array of wildlife prints. The guest lounge has to be seen to be believed: it's a
who's who of the dead-deer world, but they all have their backstory - ask at reception.
The rooms don't have the expected patina of age; they have wonderfully plush fabrics and
a smart contemporary feel; there's a handsome suite that's ideal for families. The down-
stairs bar, with impressive whisky selection, and restaurant (April to mid- October only,
closed Mondays) hum with good cheer and relaxed hospitality.
HOSTEL
Helmsdale Hostel£
(
01431-821636;
www.helmsdalehostel.co.uk
; Stafford St; dm/tw/f £17.50/40/60;
Apr-Sep; )
This caringly run hostel is in very good nick and makes a cheerful, comfort-
able budget base for exploring Caithness. The dorm berths are mostly cosy single beds
