One of Caithness’ most dramatic landmarks has reopened to the public after months of careful inspection and specialist conservation work led by Historic Environment Scotland.
The Castle of Old Wick, known locally as the Old Man of Wick, is once again accessible following a fresh round of high level masonry checks which form part of a nationwide assessment of historic sites across Scotland.
The inspections took place in October when expert teams used ropes and scaffolding to access the upper levels of the four storey tower and examine every section of exposed stone by hand.
These tactile checks are part of the High Level Masonry programme launched by Historic Environment Scotland in April 2022 to assess structures with masonry above 1.5 metres and to understand how age, weather, construction techniques and climate change are affecting their long term stability.
The programme has seen teams travel the length of the country as they determine what work is required to protect Scotland’s built heritage and ensure sites can safely welcome visitors.
The Old Man of Wick stands on a narrow rocky headland that reaches out into the North Sea, making it one of the most striking silhouettes in the Caithness landscape.
Behind it lie deep rock cut defences and earthworks, reminders of the tower’s defensive purpose and the lives shaped by its presence over centuries.
Although tradition links the site to Earl Harald Maddadson in the 12th century, the surviving fabric is understood to date from the 14th century or later.
Its exposed coastal position means it has faced centuries of harsh weather and ongoing deterioration, making regular inspection essential to preserve the historic structure.
Welcoming the reopening, Sian Evans, Regional Visitor and Community Manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said:
“The ‘Old Man of Wick’ is one of Caithness’ most striking medieval sites, a much loved landmark for both locals and visitors, who I hope will enjoy visiting the site and exploring its history.”
The castle’s dramatic setting has long made it a favourite among walkers, photographers and anyone with an interest in the county’s medieval past.
Visitors can approach the site along a rugged coastal path that offers sweeping views of cliffs, seabirds and the open sea before reaching the remains of the tower itself.
The reopening will be welcomed locally as part of a wider return of heritage access across the region, with more sites expected to return to full public availability as conservation work progresses nationally.
Historic Environment Scotland says the safety checks remain an essential part of maintaining historic structures, especially in locations where weather and exposure take an increased toll.
For visitors planning to explore the Old Man of Wick, the site is open year round and offers one of the most atmospheric historic experiences in the north.
To find out more about the site and plan your visit, head to historicenvironment.scot.
