Halkirk’s history can be explored through very different traces: from vehicles and local documents to a Georgian church, the story of an old bridge and a planned village layout. The River Thurso and the Halkirk Riverside core path are also among the features that shape the place. If you are looking for accommodation in Halkirk, you can tailor your stay to your interests – for example, the history of technology, historic buildings or the river.
Vehicles and Local Collections
The Halkirk Heritage & Vintage Motor Society displays an extensive collection of cars, motorcycles, bicycles, tractors and other interesting machinery. The society also holds numerous documents, newspapers, books and leaflets relating to Halkirk and Caithness. The two collections have different focuses: one features vehicles and machinery, the other documents relating to local and regional history. Admission is free, and donations are welcome. Check the latest visitor information before your visit.
Church, Village Planning and Bridges
Halkirk Old Parish Church is a Georgian church with a T-shaped plan. It was built in 1753 and repaired in 1833. It is no longer in use; as a place of worship, it was replaced by the church at ND 1300 5942. The church and cemetery are listed as a Category B building under designation number 7801. This site thus brings together its former religious function and its present listed status.
The village’s planning can also be read in specific details. In 1803, Sir John Sinclair planned a model village south of his bridge at Comlifoot and at Halkirk Moor. The streets were laid out in a square grid. Each plot covered one acre; corner houses were planned at the intersections, along with communal wells. The Ross Institute was gifted to Halkirk by John Ross of Dunedin, New Zealand, who was originally from Halkirk. It was opened by his son, John Sinclair Ross.
Another bridge story concerns Halkirk Bridge: the original bridge, built of Caithness stone, had three arches. John Sinclair of Ulbster funded it for his tenants; it opened in 1731. It was replaced by the present bridge in 1970. The design and imagery of the Halkirk War Memorial are also part of the village’s history. Alexander Ross & Son of Inverness designed the memorial; Sir Archibald Sinclair, Bart of Ulbster, unveiled it in 1922. The statue of a grieving widow with her child represents “Sorrow” and is considered rather unusual because it depicts no soldier.
By the River Thurso and at Historic Sites
The CA06.02 – Halkirk Riverside core path follows the banks of the River Thurso. The Highland Council included it in its core paths plan in September 2011. It had been in public use before February 2005 and meets the requirements for a public path under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. Only fly fishing is permitted on the River Thurso. Except in drought years, the river generally produces around 1,500 salmon a year.
Braal Castle is a roofless ruin, probably dating from the 14th century, and is at risk of collapse. The interior is inaccessible. Its exterior can be seen from the village of Halkirk on a walk along the single-track road by the river; parking is available at the Mansion. Check local conditions before your visit. Tulach Mor is a possible broch in Halkirk: a prominent mound on a rock on the east bank of the River Thurso, about two miles upstream from Westerdale.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Ardvasar, Insh, Corpach, Watten, Tomatin, Bowermadden, Munlochy, Glenfinnan.
Return to the main travel overview: Highland.
