Key Facts

Location: Sutherland is in the northern Highlands of Scotland, north of the city of Inverness. Sutherland is one of eight administrative areas of the Highland Council.  For a map of Sutherland's transport routes and other services, click here. 

Character: Sutherland is a county of contrasts.  Its north and west are primarily impressive mountain and moorland, a natural playground but also the location for a surprising number of small, go-ahead enterprises.  The scenic south and east of the county, just an hour from Inverness and its airport, contains thriving communities with vibrant business activities.

Principal Settlements: Dornoch, Golspie, Brora and Helmsdale march in sequence up the eastern coast, on the Moray Firth.  Lairg guards the centre of the county, gateway to the north and west.  Lochinver, Kinlochbervie and Durness are the principal settlements in that rugged and impressive northern and western area.

Places of interest: there is a wide variety of places to see and things to do, with outdoor activities including hill walking, angling, bird watching and golf.

Population: the population of Sutherland is 13,000.  Sutherland has a population density of around 2 people per square km - the least densely populated county in the UK.

Regional economy: Sutherland's main industries include tourism (with high-quality accommodation, food and drink on offer) call and contact centres; construction; agriculture; aquaculture; and sea fisheries.

Workforce: the region has a well educated, skilled and adaptable workforce. Loyalty and low staff turnover are key benefits provided to employers, and the local enterprise company is well-placed to offer advice to employers considering setting up in Sutherland.

Property: members of the Sutherland Partnership are able to assist companies with a range of property issues, such as the development of facilities which meet business needs.