About
Dunnet Head nature reserve, a rugged peninsula in Caithness located on the north coast of Scotland, is the most northerly point of mainland Britain. It's a wild and untamed landscape, with stunning sea cliffs and coastal grasslands. As you might expect, this highland reserve is a seabird sanctuary, home to Puffins, Razorbills, Guillemots, Fulmars and Kittiwakes.
Above the cliffs, you’ll find a rich mix of coastal heathland and grassland habitats with special plants such as Spring Squill, Thrift and Roseroot. We manage the reserve for the benefit of the wildlife that calls it home. We also monitor the seabirds every year as part of national surveys. This helps us keep track of how they're doing and learn more about their behaviour.
At a glance
There is a large car park at Dunnet Head (run by Highland Council).
No accessible toilets on-site.
Nearest toilet facilities at the Seadrift-Dunnet visitor centre at Dunnet Sands, 4 miles (6 km) away, during opening hours.
The path is an all-abilities access path with a firm surface to the cliff-top viewpoint.
The summit viewpoint is now improved, having a gravelled surface, without steps.
The path is an all-abilities access path with a firm surface to the cliff-top viewpoint.
The summit viewpoint is now improved, having a gravelled surface, without steps.
Nearest toilet facilities at the Seadrift-Dunnet visitor centre at Dunnet Sands, 4 miles (6 km) away, during opening hours.
This nature reserve is important for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
During the ground-nesting bird breeding season (1 April to 15 August) we would ask that you keep your dog close to you, preferably on a short lead and please clean up after your dog.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
See what’s here
Contact Dunnet Head
nsro@rspb.org.uk Dunnet Head, Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Thurso, Highland, KW14 8XS 01463 715000