Brough on the map

Location in HighlandBrough sits where the marker shows within the county.

11,514
Population
5,951
Households
£57,262
Avg. household income
1,148
Businesses
78
People per km²
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About Brough

Brough is a small settlement located in the Highland region of Scotland, within the postcode area KW14. It lies on the west coast of the Scottish mainland, near the mouth of the River Oykel, and is part of the historic county of Sutherland. The village is situated close to the A837 road, which connects it to nearby towns such as Dornoch and Golspie. Brough has a small community and is known for its coastal location, offering views of the Dornoch Firth and the surrounding hills. The area is popular with walkers and birdwatchers, particularly during the summer months when the nearby beaches and dunes provide habitats for various species. There is a small harbour and a few local amenities, including a shop and a community hall. The village retains a quiet, rural character, with a mix of traditional and modern housing.

Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Brough

Local crime rates sit lower than national averages. Criminal damage & arson accounts for the highest share in Brough, with 6 incidents logged in April 2026.

Household Income in Brough ONS 2023

The average total household income in Brough is approximately £57,262 a year before tax, 4% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £43,395. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.

Brough £57,262
England & Wales avg. £55,302

Net (after tax) household income averages £43,395.

Businesses in Brough ONS 2025

There are approximately 1,148 active businesses based in Brough, around 100 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 91% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 16 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.

1,148 Total businesses
100 Per 1,000 residents
Micro, 0-9 91%
Small, 10-49 7%
Medium, 50-249 1%
Large, 250+ 1%

Crime in Brough 28 crimes · April 2026

Low Crime Area

Reported crime in Brough falls below the national average, suggesting a comparatively safe environment. Violence & sexual offences tops the list of recorded incidents, but figures are low overall. Residents and visitors alike tend to find this a quiet and reassuring small town.

Violence & Sexual Offences 12
Criminal Damage & Arson 6
Other Theft 3
Public Order 3
Weapons 2
Burglary 1
Vehicle Crime 1
Data from data.police.uk · Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.

Nearest Train Stations 1 stations

Thurso Train Station 7.8 miles

Location

Local Government

District Highland
Ward Thurso and Northwest Caithness
Constituency Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross

Home Ownership in Brough

Of the 10,784 households in and around Brough, 80% are owned, 6% are socially rented and 14% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.

Owned 80% Social rented 6% Private rented 14%

Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Brough.

Frequently Asked Questions about Brough

What is the population of Brough?
Brough has a population of approximately 11,514 residents, based on the latest census figures for the surrounding postcode area.
What postcodes cover Brough?
Brough is covered by the HU15 postcode district.
Where is the nearest train station to Brough?
The nearest railway station to Brough is Thurso Train Station, about 7.8 miles away.