Family Life and Creative Living in the North Highlands
In this video blog, Charlotte Mountford shares her journey of moving to Caithness more than eight years ago to lead Lyth Arts Centre, Scotland’s most northerly mainland arts venue. From wild swimming to a vibrant creative community, Charlotte highlights the unique lifestyle, strong support networks, and inspiring landscapes that make the North Highlands a remarkable place for creative living and work.
She explains how the stunning landscape of the North Highlands provide immense inspiration to the region’s artists, shaping the arts centre’s ambitious programme, which extends beyond its venue to streets, beaches, forests, lighthouses, bothies, and more.



Eight years on, Charlotte hasn’t looked back. Balancing a busy creative career with raising a young family, she has found a network of great friends and a supportive close-knit community, offering plenty for children and young families throughout the year.
Her advice: “The sense of community in Caithness is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. If you’re thinking about moving to the North Highlands… I’d say go for it.”

Begin Your North Highlands Journey
Thinking about a fresh start in the North Highlands? Whether you’re exploring new career opportunities, dreaming of a better work–life balance, or inspired by the stories of people who’ve already made the move, your next step starts here.
Make Your Move to the North Highlands with Live North
Inspired by Charlotte’s story and her experience balancing a creative career with raising a young family? If you’re considering a move to the North Highlands, get in touch with the Live North team to see how we can support you to make the move to the North Highlands.



