The Castle & Gardens of Mey
Explore the northernmost Scottish castle restored by the Queen Mother, with stunning gardens and panoramic coastal views.
Nestled on Scotland's northernmost mainland coast near Thurso, The Castle & Gardens of Mey is a historic 16th-century castle famously restored by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Visitors can explore its charming interiors, beautifully maintained gardens, an animal centre, and enjoy panoramic views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands. The site offers a unique blend of royal heritage, natural beauty, and tranquil atmosphere.
A brief summary to The Castle & Gardens of Mey
- Thurso, Mey, KW14 8XH, GB
- +441847851473
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit between May and September, Wednesday to Sunday, to experience the castle and gardens fully open.
- Allow 2 to 3 hours to tour the castle, gardens, animal centre, and enjoy refreshments in the tearoom.
- Photography is not permitted inside the castle; purchase the official guidebook for detailed images.
- Dogs are welcome on leads in the grounds but are not allowed inside the castle, walled garden, or animal centre.
- Consider booking private dining or special events well in advance, as these experiences are exclusive and limited.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Thurso, take the A836 east for approximately 14 miles to reach the Castle of Mey. The route offers scenic coastal views and parking is available onsite. Travel time ranges from 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic.
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Public Transport
From Thurso Train Station, approximately 14 miles away, take a local bus or taxi to Mey village and the castle. Bus services are limited, so taxis are recommended for convenience. Travel time by taxi is about 25 minutes; bus times vary and should be checked in advance.
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Train
Scotrail operates train services to Thurso and Wick stations. Thurso station is closer at 14 miles from the castle, while Wick is about 23 miles away. From either station, onward travel by taxi or bus is necessary to reach the castle.
The Castle & Gardens of Mey location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Castle & Gardens of Mey
Historical Roots and Royal Legacy
The Castle of Mey, originally known as Barrogill Castle, was constructed between 1566 and 1572 by George Sinclair, the 4th Earl of Caithness. Built as a Z-plan tower house, it served as a family seat before passing through several generations of the Sinclair family. The castle’s turbulent history includes family tragedies and architectural expansions through the 17th and 18th centuries, culminating in Tudor Gothic style alterations in the early 19th century. In 1952, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother purchased the then dilapidated castle, restoring it lovingly and reinstating its original name. She made it her private retreat, spending several weeks annually here until her death in 2002. Since then, the castle has been managed by the Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust, ensuring its preservation and public accessibility.Architectural Charm and Interior Highlights
The castle’s architecture is a harmonious blend of historic and restored elements, featuring turrets, a three-sided courtyard, and honey-coloured stone that exudes warmth and character. Inside, visitors can tour rooms used by the Queen Mother, including the Front Hall, Library, Drawing Room, Dining Room, Butler’s Pantry, and Kitchen. The interiors maintain a homely and comfortable atmosphere, with period furnishings and personal touches that reflect mid-20th-century royal life. The castle’s kitchen, uniquely positioned on the ground floor at the front, holds a special place with its vintage appliances and a symbolic box of lemons on the table.Gardens, Grounds, and Wildlife Experience
Surrounding the castle are 30 acres of meticulously maintained gardens and parklands. The walled garden includes a tower offering sweeping views of the Pentland Firth and the Orkney Islands, including the distant Old Man of Hoy on clear days. The gardens showcase a mix of flowering plants, vegetables, and ornamental features, many influenced by the Queen Mother’s personal touch. An on-site animal centre provides an engaging experience for families, featuring friendly animals like the famous Alice the Donkey. The grounds also include a tearoom and a shop, enhancing the visitor experience with refreshments and local crafts.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The Castle & Gardens of Mey welcomes visitors from May through September, open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm, with the castle tours running from 11:00 am to last admission at 3:00 pm. The site is accessible but has some limitations due to its historic nature; for example, dogs are allowed in the grounds but not inside the castle or animal centre. Photography inside the castle is prohibited to preserve its interiors, but a detailed guidebook with photographs is available. The visitor centre operates a cashless system, accepting card payments only. The tearoom and shop provide additional comfort, and the castle also serves as a unique venue for private dining and weddings.Scenic Location and Surrounding Landscape
Set on the rugged north coast of Scotland, the castle overlooks the Pentland Firth, offering spectacular views towards the Orkney Islands. The surrounding landscape is a mix of coastal beauty and pastoral farmland, contributing to the castle’s isolated charm. The location’s northern latitude means visitors can experience unique light conditions, including long summer days and the possibility of spotting local wildlife. The castle’s position near John o’ Groats and Thurso makes it a key cultural and historical landmark in the far north of Scotland.Conservation and Community Engagement
The Castle of Mey Trust, established in 1996, manages the property with a focus on conservation, education, and community benefit. The Trust aims to secure the castle’s future, promote historical and architectural knowledge, and support local agricultural projects, including native sheep breeds. The castle’s ongoing restoration and public opening reflect a commitment to preserving Scotland’s heritage while fostering tourism and local engagement. The Trust also supports events and activities that celebrate the castle’s royal connections and natural surroundings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Above and Beyond Tours
8.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
John O'Groats Signpost
9.0 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
10.3 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Caithness.Org
15.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Braal Castle
20.5 km
A 14th-century Highland fortress overlooking the River Thurso, once seat of the Earls of Caithness.
Caithness Inn
24.0 km
A welcoming 4-star inn in Wick offering clean rooms, attentive service, and a perfect base for exploring the rugged Scottish Highlands.
Mackays Hotel
24.1 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and locally inspired cuisine in the heart of historic Wick at the family-run Mackays Hotel.
Churchill Barriers
33.3 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
33.5 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
The Cannon
34.7 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
40.4 km
Experience the rich heritage and unique flavors of Orkney's finest spirits at The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre in Kirkwall.
Spirit of Orkney
40.5 km
Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of the Orkney Islands at the Spirit of Orkney, a captivating historical site in Kirkwall.
Grain Earth House
40.6 km
Explore Kirkwall’s hidden Iron Age subterranean marvel, Grain Earth House, where ancient stone pillars guard secrets beneath a modern industrial estate.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
41.7 km
Explore the stunning Yesnaby Coastal Walk in Orkney, where breathtaking cliffs and rich wildlife create an unforgettable hiking experience.
Yesnaby Castle sea stack
41.9 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Yesnaby Castle, a breathtaking sea stack in Orkney, perfect for rock climbing and nature exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sinky's Beer Garden & Grill
5.2 km
Savor authentic Scottish beef in a unique farm-to-table beer garden and grill nestled in the scenic Caithness countryside near Thurso.
Mary Ann's Cottage
8.3 km
Step back in time at Mary Ann's Cottage, a perfectly preserved 19th-century Highland croft offering authentic cultural heritage and coastal charm.
Peedie Sands
8.9 km
Discover Peedie Sands, a tranquil hidden beach on Scotland’s northern coast, perfect for solitude, wildlife watching, and pristine coastal beauty.
The Cabin
9.0 km
Cozy harbour-side fish and chips eatery at Scotland’s northern tip, famed for fresh seafood and warm hospitality.
First and Last in Scotland
9.0 km
Historic octagonal landmark and souvenir shop marking Scotland’s northern gateway at John o' Groats.
8 Doors Distillery
9.0 km
Discover Scotland’s most northerly mainland whisky distillery with artisan spirits, stunning sea views, and immersive tours in John O’Groats.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
9.2 km
Scotland’s northernmost lighthouse atop dramatic cliffs, offering wild coastal views, rich wildlife, and historic maritime heritage.
Bay of Sannick
10.5 km
Discover the wild beauty and tranquil shores of the Bay of Sannick, a serene coastal escape near iconic John o' Groats in Scotland's far north.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
10.8 km
A community-run museum in Castletown, Caithness, preserving the maritime and industrial heritage of Scotland’s far north with engaging exhibits and local stories.
Duncansby Stacks
11.1 km
Dramatic sandstone sea stacks rising 60m off Scotland’s northeastern coast, framed by wild cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas.
Duncansby Head Lighthouse
11.5 km
Scotland’s northeastern sentinel, Duncansby Head Lighthouse offers dramatic cliffs, iconic sea stacks, and rich maritime history at Britain’s edge.
Bucholie Castle
12.2 km
Discover Bucholie Castle, a dramatic 15th-century clifftop ruin steeped in Norse legend and medieval history on Scotland’s wild Caithness coast.
Caithness Broch Centre
12.8 km
Discover Scotland’s Iron Age brochs and coastal heritage at the Caithness Broch Centre, a vibrant museum nestled in Auckengill’s historic old school.
Nybster Broch
13.4 km
Discover Nybster Broch, a 2,000-year-old Iron Age fortress perched on Caithness cliffs with stunning sea views and rich archaeological heritage.
Old Keiss Castle
13.9 km
Perched on rugged cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s evocative ruins reveal centuries of Sinclair clan history and offer stunning coastal vistas.
Essential places to dine
Y Not Bar & Grill
18.0 km
A lively Scottish pub and grill in Thurso serving local favourites, crafted drinks, and cosy stays for Highland explorers.
Bydand
18.1 km
Experience modern British dining with Highland charm at Bydand, Thurso’s boutique restaurant blending tradition and contemporary flair.
T's Café Restaurant
18.1 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors in a cozy, hidden gem above a newsagent in Thurso’s heart.
Red Pepper
18.2 km
Cozy Scottish dining with fresh seafood and hearty steakhouse classics in the heart of Thurso’s Holborn Hotel.
Spice Tandoori
18.2 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors served with friendly hospitality in the heart of Thurso.
Olive
18.2 km
A cozy café and restaurant in Thurso offering delicious food, vegan options, and specialty coffee in a charming, detail-rich setting.
Pride of Bengal Indian Restaurant and Takeaway
18.4 km
Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Thurso, offering fresh, robust dishes and a welcoming casual dining and takeaway experience.
The Blue Door Coffee Shop & Diner
18.4 km
Classic American diner charm meets hearty comfort food in the heart of Thurso’s welcoming community.
Captain's Galley Restaurant
19.1 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served in a charming harbour-side setting in Scotland’s northernmost reaches.
Capilla Tapas Restaurant
19.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of Scrabster, offering a cozy taste of Spain in northern Scotland.
Skerries Bistro
19.2 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking Pentland Firth views at Skerries Bistro, South Ronaldsay’s coastal dining jewel.
The Ferry Inn Scrabster
19.2 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Scrabster offering hearty Scottish fare, cozy rooms, and stunning views of the bustling northern port.
Emily’s
21.7 km
Charming and quirky café in Lyness offering homemade treats and warm hospitality near Stromness ferry terminal.
Morags Café and Sweet Shop
24.0 km
Cozy café on Wick High Street serving fresh pastries, hearty all-day breakfast, and quality coffee in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
DeVitas Pizzeria & Cafe Bar
24.0 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and cozy cafe vibes in the heart of Wick, Scotland’s northern gem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
North Coast Emporium
8.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and rare collectibles in the heart of John o' Groats at North Coast Emporium.
Groatie Buckie Gift Shop
8.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish coastal treasures and local crafts inspired by the legendary Groatie Buckie shell at John o' Groats’ charming gift shop.
John O'Groats Knitwear Co
9.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and warm Highland hospitality at John O'Groats Knitwear Co, a charming coastal shop steeped in tradition.
Far North Gifts and Gallery
11.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local art treasures in the charming Far North Gifts and Gallery at Freswick, Caithness.
The Original Factory Shop (Thurso)
17.9 km
Discover unbeatable deals on branded fashion, beauty, and footwear at The Original Factory Shop in Thurso’s bustling High Street.
Nickel & Dime
17.9 km
Discover Nickel & Dime in Thurso: Your essential convenience store for snacks, drinks, and local flavors in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Eye Candy
18.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Thurso’s historic High Street at Eye Candy.
Buttress's
18.0 km
Discover unique fashion at Buttress's in Thurso, where style meets exceptional service in a cozy boutique setting.
Co-op Food - Thurso - Meadow Lane
18.0 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Thurso for all your shopping needs, offering local products and friendly service.
The Kiln Store
18.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Thurso at The Kiln Store, a family-run treasure trove of northern Scottish heritage.
The Cave
18.2 km
Discover The Cave in Thurso, a vibrant comic book shop offering graphic novels, collectibles, and a welcoming atmosphere for fans and newcomers alike.
Hallmark
18.2 km
Charming Hallmark gift shop in Thurso offering quality cards and thoughtful gifts in a historic setting at Sir John's Square.
Spellbound Caithness
19.1 km
Discover Spellbound Caithness, Thurso’s magical gift shop blending Highland enchantment, artisan crafts, and spiritual community in a unique creative haven.
Caithness Gifts & Crafts
20.0 km
Discover authentic Highland artistry and unique handcrafted gifts at Caithness Gifts & Crafts in Thurso, celebrating the spirit of northern Scotland.
Wild Heather Crafts
21.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and handmade treasures at Wild Heather Crafts, a cozy artisan shop in Stromness.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mey Hotel
1.2 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
7.6 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Village Inn
13.8 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Grove Lounge
18.0 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Top Joe's
18.1 km
A welcoming and lively pub in Thurso serving great Guinness, live sports, and a friendly Highland atmosphere.
Mr C's Bar
18.1 km
Lively cocktail bar in Thurso crafting fresh drinks with hand-selected spirits in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Harpers Bar
24.0 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Wick offering classic pub vibes, vibrant social scenes, and versatile event spaces.
Camps Bar
24.0 km
Wick’s oldest pub where historic charm meets lively local spirit and affordable drinks in a welcoming Highland setting.
Blackstairs Lounge
24.5 km
A cozy and lively bar in Wick offering flavorful curries, warm hospitality, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Mountain Dew Bar
24.7 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Wick offering authentic Highland hospitality and a perfect pint in a cozy setting.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
25.2 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The West End Guest House
39.8 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
40.0 km
Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.
Auld Motor Hoose
40.3 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
40.4 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skinandi's Nightclub
18.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
24.1 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
The Orkney Club
40.5 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
