Spring is here, and that means our seasonal visitor centres and museums are throwing open their doors just in time for the Easter holidays!
The Ferrycroft Visitor Centre in Lairg is first to reopen on 26 March, with the North Coast Visitor Centre in Thurso and the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore both welcoming visitors from 1 April. Best of all — entry to all three is free, although donations are always warmly appreciated.
It's a really exciting time of year for our teams at Ferrycroft, the Highland Folk Museum and the North Coast Visitor Centre — they are really looking forward to welcoming back visitors. Our attractions offer visitors to the region a real insight into the rich cultural heritage of the area and with special events taking place throughout the season, there is something for everyone.
Head of Museums and Visitor Attractions
North Coast Visitor Centre, Thurso — opens 1 April
Located in the historic former Thurso Town Hall on the High Street, the North Coast Visitor Centre takes visitors on a journey through millions of years of Caithness history, heritage, and culture.
Highlights include intricately carved Pictish stones and Viking runes — including the recently discovered Ulbster 2 Stone, unveiled in 2025 — as well as botanical specimens and fossils collected by celebrated Caithness naturalist Robert Dick. The story of Dounreay and the groundbreaking development of nuclear research in the region is also told in fascinating detail.
This season's first exhibition is 'Joy' — a vibrant collection of works by the Caithness Society of Artists celebrating the moments, places, and experiences that inspire creativity across the region. During the Easter holidays, the centre will also host BookBug sessions and ranger-led nature activities for families.
Highland Folk Museum, Newtonmore — opens 1 April
Step into the past at our unique open-air museum in Badenoch, where over 35 carefully reconstructed historical buildings bring to life the story of Highland communities from the 1700s through to the mid-20th century. Discover how people worked, learned, and spent their leisure time — and don't miss Kirk's Store Sweetie Shop for a taste of the old days!
Later in the season, look out for the ever-popular Vintage Day and Outlander Day, as well as a series of Heritage in Action Days — where you can have a go on a spinning wheel in the Jacobite township or watch the blacksmith at work down on the farm.
Ferrycroft Visitor Centre, Lairg — opens 26 March
Nestled in Sutherland, the Ferrycroft Visitor Centre is a wonderful hub for history, nature, and family fun. Inside, three themed rooms — Water, Land, and People — feature interactive displays, games, and seasonal exhibitions that bring the story of the area to life.
Outside, beautiful gardens with wood carvings and seating provide a peaceful spot to relax, while a play area with swings, a climbing frame, and a zip wire will keep younger visitors thoroughly entertained.
Plan your visit
All three attractions are free to enter — donations are encouraged and go directly toward caring for the collections and developing future exhibitions and learning programmes.
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