Behind Hidden Doors – Arts & Crafts of the NC500
The natural beauty of the North Coast 500 landscape provides inspiration for artists and crafters throughout the North Highlands. Our inspirational landscape and Highland way of life fuels creativity; it is little wonder that we have so many studios and galleries, even in the most remote corner of the North Highlands.
Take a moment to stop by and feel inspired, or purchase a painting of your favourite place as a memory of your North Coast 500 travels.
There are also many craft shops and luxury retail experiences to help uncover just some of the work of our diverse and talented artists and craft makers – from painting, photography, pottery and sculpture, to hand-made textures, spinning, carving, wood turning and much more. Many local artists and craft makers offer the opportunity to get involved and create your own fragrance, pottery or jewellery, for a Highland experience like no other.
Many venues host events throughout the year, including classes and open studios where visitors are welcome to come along and paint.
Photos: Petra Palumbo – Beauly, Lochcarron Weavers, Golspie Stone Shop, Jail Dornoch
NC500 arts, music & retail experiences
1. Discover galleries & studios around the route
From painters’ studios to art galleries, glass blowers, museums, jewellery designs and much more, make some time during your travels to learn about the artists and craft makers of the North Highlands, and the beautiful scenery which inspires them.
Many venues host events throughout the year, including classes and open studios where visitors are welcome to come along and paint.
Photos: Cheeky Highlander – Inverness, The Harbour Gallery – Ullapool, Fiona Matheson Art – Inverness, RhueArt – Ullapool
2. Visit craft shops & other retail experiences
Support local crafters and the North Highland economy during your trip, and buy your gifts and holiday mementos from the NC500’s wide range of craft shops and other retail experiences.
Photos: Lindsey Gallacher Studio and Workshop – Thurso, Ortak Ltd – John O’Groats, The Lybster Studio, Lochview Guesthouse Gift Shop
3. Take a stroll through some of Scotland’s finest markets
From craft shops to farmers markets – there are so many options in the North Highlands when it comes to buying fresh produce and local crafts.
4. Discover art in the great outdoors
Art isn’t just kept indoors on the NC500! Go off the beaten track and discover sculptures such as Kenny Hunter’s ‘The Unknown’ and ancient art on The Pictish Trail.
5. Indulge in local experiences
Immerse yourself in experiences in the Scottish Highlands to really discover the place, people and culture that inspires all our wonderful artists and crafters.
6. Discover Art & History
From nuclear-bomb-proof bunker to Art Fund Museum of the Year 2020 – Gairloch Museum is a fantastic example of an innovative use of space. From the history of herring to WWII, Picts to local bards, take a walk through time in Gairloch Museum and while you’re there take a sneak peek at the visiting art exhibitions on show.
seeskysea by Catherine Sargeant, Gairloch Museum October 2022
