Helmsdale is a charming fishing village in the East Highlands of Scotland, about 1.5 hours by road or rail North from the capital City of Inverness.

The highlight is the Timespan museum and art gallery, open Easter to October, with its fascinating exhibitions of local life, natural heritage and events - such as the old gold rush - you can still pan for gold further up the valley. Or take a GPS guide to that site and others from Timespan - there are good walks and drives in the area, with real wilderness to explore within a few miles.

The gallery and shop show the best art and crafts from local and national makers, and there is a great cafe with homebakes and the best position in town - right on the river bank, with views of curious seals and otters if you are lucky! www.timespan.org.uk