Name: Cape Wrath
Rating: 5.0

Cape Wrath

20 Balnakeil, Durness, The Highlands, IV27 4PT, Scotland

1-90 Years

Paid

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Description

Cape Wrath is the most north-westerly point of mainland Britain, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Durness and the Scottish Highlands. This rugged wilderness and coastal attraction offers an unparalleled adventure where the Atlantic Ocean meets the North Sea at the base of spectacular cliffs. Families can enjoy a unique ferry crossing and a mini-bus journey across "The Parph" to reach the iconic lighthouse at the edge of the world.

Prices for the 2026 season for minibus journey typically start from £15 for adults and £14.00 for children. It is important to note that access is strictly weather-dependent and subject to Ministry of Defence (MoD) firing schedules, so checking daily availability is essential. Many families find the journey itself to be the highlight, offering a rare chance to see a truly untouched part of the British landscape.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that offers a true sense of exploration and raw natural beauty, this is it. It provides an educational day out where children can learn about maritime history, unique geology, and diverse Scottish wildlife in their natural habitat. From spotting golden eagles to standing atop the highest sea cliffs on the mainland, it is a bucket-list destination for adventurous families.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: No

Features

The Cape Wrath Lighthouse: Built in 1828 by Robert Stevenson, this towering structure is the main landmark and offers a glimpse into the life of a lighthouse keeper.
Clo Mor Cliffs: The highest sea cliffs on the British mainland, rising 920 feet above the crashing waves—a massive hit for kids who love dramatic scenery.
The Ferry Crossing: A short but exciting boat trip across the Kyle of Durness that starts the adventure with a splash.
The Parph Mini-Bus Tour: An 11-mile journey through a vast, uninhabited moorland that feels like traveling to another planet.
Ozone Café: Located at the lighthouse, this is officially the most remote café in mainland Britain, serving hot cocoa and snacks at the edge of the world.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for red deer, golden eagles, and puffins nesting on the rocky ledges during the summer months.
MoD Training Area: Kids often find it fascinating to see the vast military range and the "red flag" system that controls when people can visit.
The "Edge of Britain" Interactive Map: A new display at the lighthouse base detailing the shipwrecks and myths of the "Cape of Turning."

Facilities

Ozone Café: Small, remote café at the lighthouse providing basic hot drinks, cakes, and sandwiches.
Toilets: Available at the Ozone Café and back at the ferry slipway in Durness.
Walking Trails: Several marked paths for older kids and teens who want to hike portions of the Cape Wrath Trail.
Information Boards: Detailed signs at the lighthouse explaining the history and construction of the Stevenson tower.

What to see

Pro-Tips

Check the Flags: Always call ahead or check the local notice boards to ensure the MoD range is open; if the red flags are up, the road is closed.
Dress for Four Seasons: Even in July, the Cape is windy and cold; bring waterproofs and extra layers for every family member.
Cash is King: While some digital payments are reaching the remote North, the café and ferry often prefer cash due to intermittent signal.

What Visitors Love

Sense of Achievement: Parents love the "I survived the edge of Britain" feeling and the unique photos they get at the lighthouse.
The Journey: The combination of boat and rugged bus ride is often more exciting for kids than the destination itself.
Remote Peace: Families enjoy the lack of crowds and the feeling of having a whole corner of the world to themselves.

What Visitors Don't Like

Bumpy Roads: The mini-bus journey is famously rough; it may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness or very small toddlers.
Weather Cancellations: The ferry can be cancelled at short notice due to tides or wind, which can be disappointing for those on a tight schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth it for toddlers?: The journey is long and the bus ride is very bumpy, which can be stressful for toddlers. It is generally recommended for children aged 6 and up who can enjoy the scenery and handle the 3-hour round trip without facilities.
How long does a visit take?: A standard visit takes about 3 to 4 hours. This includes the ferry crossing, the 45-minute bus ride each way, and about an hour to explore the lighthouse and visit the café.
Where is the best place to park?: The best place to park is at the Keoldale Ferry Slipway. It is free and puts you right at the start of the boat journey. Ensure you arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled ferry.
Cheap indoor activities in Durness?: If the weather is too rough for the Cape, the Balnakeil Craft Village offers several indoor workshops and shops, or you can take a sheltered tour of the front chambers of Smoo Cave.

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Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Adult Return: £20
Adult Single: £15
Under 14: £14
Family concessions available (drivers discretion)

Pricing URL: https://www.visitcapewrath.com/fares/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Seasonal: Typically operates from May to September.
Ferry Times: Generally runs 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, depending on the tide.
Note: Access is closed when the MoD is using the range for live firing.

Address: 20 Balnakeil, Durness, The Highlands, IV27 4PT, Scotland

Post Code: IV27 4PT

Council: Durness

County: The Highlands

By Car: Drive to the Keoldale Ferry Slipway, about 2 miles south of Durness. Free parking is available at the slipway.
By Bus: The "Far North Bus" service links Durness to Lairg and Inverness, but timings are infrequent.