For many driving through Sutherland to catch a ferry or a train, Golspie stands out as the place with the huge statue on the hill. If you choose to stop here for a rest, however, you’ll quickly discover how much more there is to it. Here’s what to explore during a quick stop.
Park at the Fountain Road Car Park. Payment is voluntary and any funds are reinvested locally. There are public toilets and shops and cafes nearby.
Turn right along Main Street and walk towards the public square on Shore Street. On your way note the clock hanging outside the YMCA building which has a different date on each side. One marks Queen Victoria’s ascension to the throne and the other the year of her Diamond Jubilee. A postbox on the wall further along the street also dates from her reign.
At the square you can take in some local history and art. This was the site of part of Fishertown, built for the fishing community in the 1840s. There are markings on the ground showing where some of the original houses were sited, as well as a series of mosaics around this theme. For more information visit this website or walk slightly further along to Golspie Pier, where there is an information board. At the square there is also some play equipment, an outdoor gym and picnic benches.
Head back to the car via Golspie’s long sandy beach. There are various places to cut back through to Main Street from the shorefront, and benches to stop and enjoy the view. Look out for coastal birds including species of gulls, oystercatchers and herons.
Have a safe onwards journey, and check out the rest of our ideas on what to do if you stay longer next time. ADD LINK
