Thurso

Thurso lies at the mouth of its river on the north coast of Caithness, facing the Pentland Firth. Its name reflects the Norse history of the region, and the port traded with northern European ports in later centuries. The old church of St Peter recalls the medieval settlement. In 1633 Charles I established Thurso as a burgh of barony. In 1649 an armed group from Ireland attacked the town and was driven off by inhabitants led by Sir James Sinclair. Fishing and trade remained important, and the town also became known for linen cloth and tanning. Its harbour and river connected the surrounding countryside with the sea routes of northern Scotland.