Discover Helmsdale

Helmsdale lies on the A9 on the east coast of Sutherland. A still-working fishing harbour and the history of the community shape the place for visitors planning a trip. Both come together at Timespan museum: its themes range from the sea and the river mouth upstream to the Strath of Kildonan. If you are interested in coastal and river history, you can explore different aspects of this region brought together in one place.

History and Craft at Timespan

The museum explores the local and social history of the community and its people. Topics include the rise and decline of the herring fishery, the Highland Clearances and the 1869 gold rush. Domestic production and traditional crafts are also part of the museum’s themes. Alongside historical events, the focus is on work and everyday life.

A reconstructed street from the mid- to late 19th century includes The Smiddy. It houses original tools and equipment from Helmsdale’s old smithy, which closed in the 1950s. The exhibition brings a specific craft to life alongside the broader themes of local history. Helmsdale Icehouse is also part of the fishing harbour’s history: it was used to store ice and fish. The vaulted stone building probably dates from the early 19th century.

Harbour, Remembrance and Railway History

Helmsdale harbour is still a working harbour, home to several active fishing vessels. In the 19th century, it was one of Scotland’s most important herring ports. The harbour’s present-day activity and the historical significance of the herring fishery are two different sides of a subject also explored at Timespan.

The Emigrants Statue in Couper Park commemorates people who were evicted from their ancestral homes during the Highland Clearances. It stands above the river, the village and Helmsdale harbour. Another historical landmark is the Thomas Telford bridge in Helmsdale, built in 1811. The station, signal box and footbridge form a significant group of historic railway buildings. The station is part of the Far North Line from Inverness to Thurso.

Events and activities in the area

The Helmsdale and District Highland Games take place annually and welcome visitors. Competitions and performances include caber tossing, Highland dancing and the Massed Pipes and Drums. If you would like to plan your trip around the event, check the dates in advance.

The river and the surrounding Strath also offer a range of activities. Three-quarters of a mile of good fishing water below Marrel Pool, down to the tidal zone, is reserved for local anglers and visitors. Local regulations may change, so check them in advance. Near Helmsdale, Baile an Or on Kildonan Burn is open for recreational gold panning with a permit. Rules, seasonal access and permits may change, so it is advisable to check these conditions in advance.

The Strath of Kildonan follows the Helmsdale to its source at Badanloch, about 20 miles inland, and is suitable for cycling. Helmsdale harbour wall and the bridges in the village offer good vantage points for watching salmon. The river, harbour and valley thus complement the historical themes with glimpses of the landscape and local fishing.

Discover more destinations: Ardersier, Muir Of Ord, Shieldaig, Evanton, Rosemarkie, Glenmore, Mey, Kyle.

For the main travel overview: Highland.