Lairg

Lairg is a village in the Highland council area of Scotland, located in the far north of the country within the historic county of Sutherland. It sits at the head of Loch Shin, where the River Shin descends into the loch, making it a natural crossroads for the surrounding crofting communities and a service centre for the wider north-west Highlands.

Geography and features: The landscape around Lairg comprises moorland, lochs, and rivers, with outdoor activities such as walking, fishing, and wildlife watching common in the area. A nearby feature is the Falls of Shin, a well-known salmon viewing waterfall on the River Shin that attracts visitors during the fishing season.

Transport: The village is served by Lairg railway station on the Far North Line, linking Inverness with Wick and Thurso. Road connections link Lairg with towns such as Dornoch and Ullapool, reinforcing its role as a regional hub despite its remoteness.

Economy and community: Lairg provides essential local services, including shops and a primary school, to residents and visitors. The surrounding area is primarily rural, with agriculture and tourism forming the backbone of the local economy.

History: Lairg began to develop in the 19th century as a central point for the crofting era and as a railway and estate services hub, gradually becoming a focal point for the wider north Sutherland region. Today it remains a sparsely populated rural centre that year-round supports the surrounding communities and travellers.