John O'Groats Signpost
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Scotland's most iconic landmark, the John O'Groats Signpost marks the northeastern terminus of the legendary Land's End to John o' Groats route—Britain's longest overland journey spanning 874 miles. Installed in 1964 on a dramatic clifftop overlooking the Pentland Firth, this freely accessible monument has become one of the most photographed signs in the UK, attracting cyclists, walkers, and travelers completing epic personal challenges. The windswept location offers sweeping coastal views, opportunities to spot seals and seabirds, and serves as the perfect endpoint for adventurers traversing the length of Great Britain.
A brief summary to John O'Groats Signpost
- Wick, John o' Groats, GB
- +441955602215
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late evening for the best light and fewer crowds. Sunrise and sunset create spectacular photography conditions over the Pentland Firth.
- Dress for strong, persistent winds—the exposed clifftop location is notoriously windy year-round. Waterproof and windproof layers are essential.
- Customize the signpost's directional arm with your chosen destination before photographing. Note the distance you want displayed so the staff can prepare the correct lettering.
- Explore nearby Duncansby Stacks and the Geo of Sclaites for dramatic coastal scenery and seabird viewing. Allow extra time for coastal walks if weather permits.
- Watch for grey seals in the harbor below and listen for the cacophony of seabirds. July to October offers the best chance of spotting harbor porpoises in the Firth.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Wick
Drive north from Wick town center via the A836, following signs toward John O'Groats. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes covering roughly 20 kilometers. A pay-and-display car park is available at the signpost location with typical daily rates around £3.90, payable by card or the RinGo app. The route is straightforward and well-signposted.
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Public Bus from Inverness
Stagecoach operates bus services from Inverness to Wick and John O'Groats. The journey from Inverness takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours depending on service and stops. Services run several times daily but frequency varies seasonally. Fares typically range from £15 to £25 for a single journey. Check current timetables as services may be reduced during winter months.
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Cycling via North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 scenic route passes through John O'Groats, making it a natural cycling destination. From Wick, the route follows coastal roads covering approximately 40 kilometers. The terrain includes rolling hills and exposed sections with strong winds. Allow 2 to 3 hours for the cycle depending on fitness level and weather conditions. No rental shops are immediately adjacent, so arrange bike hire in advance from Wick or larger towns.
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Ferry Access to Orkney
A passenger and vehicle ferry operates from John O'Groats harbor to Orkney Islands, primarily serving Burwick on South Ronaldsay. Journey time is approximately 45 minutes. Ferry services operate seasonally with reduced frequency in winter months. Fares vary by season and passenger type, typically ranging from £20 to £35 for adults. Check ferry operator schedules in advance as services depend on weather conditions.
John O'Groats Signpost location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about John O'Groats Signpost
The Iconic Endpoint of Britain's Greatest Journey
Perched on the northeastern coast of mainland Scotland, the John O'Groats Signpost stands as the symbolic terminus of the Land's End to John o' Groats route, the longest distance between any two towns in Britain. This legendary 874-mile traverse stretches from the southwestern tip of England to Scotland's far north, representing one of the world's most famous long-distance challenges. The signpost itself, installed in 1964, marks "Journey's End" and has evolved into one of the most photographed landmarks in the United Kingdom, gracing countless social media feeds, travel blogs, and media articles worldwide.A Monument to Human Endurance and Adventure
Since the 1960s, the signpost has served as the focal point for extraordinary personal achievements. Cyclists, walkers, and adventurers of all kinds have documented their journeys here, many undertaking the challenge as charity fundraisers or personal endurance tests. The earliest known pedestrian journey occurred in 1871, long before the signpost existed. Modern walkers typically cover approximately 1,200 miles and require several months to complete the route, while cyclists often finish in two weeks to under two days. The location has hosted remarkable feats: David Sullivan famously hit golf balls the entire way, and adventure filmmaker Ewan McGregor launched his documentary "The Long Way Down" from this very spot, beginning a journey that would take him to Cape Agulhas in South Africa.Dramatic Coastal Setting and Natural Wonders
The signpost overlooks a small working harbor and commands sweeping views across the Pentland Firth toward the Orkney Islands, including Stroma, Hoy, South Ronaldsay, and the Skerries. The location's dramatic clifftop position creates an atmospheric backdrop, particularly during sunrise and sunset when golden light bathes the seascape. The surrounding waters teem with marine life: grey seals inhabit the harbor year-round, harbor porpoises appear from July to October, passing orcas visit from April to September, and Minke whales are occasionally spotted from June to October. Nearby Duncansby Stacks, a series of towering sea cliffs and rock formations, adds to the region's geological drama and provides additional photographic opportunities for visitors willing to explore the coastal paths.Practical Visitor Experience
Access to the signpost is completely free, though a pay-and-display car park operates nearby with typical charges around £3.90 for a full day. The site features essential amenities including public restrooms, souvenir shops, and gift stores selling local crafts. A small hotel, bistro, and camping facilities serve visitors seeking overnight accommodation. The signpost itself allows visitors to customize one of its directional arms with letters or figures to display distances to any chosen destination, adding a personalized element to the classic photograph. The site remains open throughout the year, though weather conditions can be challenging—the exposed clifftop location experiences strong, persistent winds that require appropriate clothing and can make photography technically demanding.Gateway to Scotland's North Coast
John O'Groats functions as a natural hub within the North Coast 500 scenic route, one of Scotland's premier road trips. The village itself sprawls across a large coastal area, offering visitors multiple vantage points and exploration opportunities. The location sits approximately 30 minutes from Wick by car and remains accessible via public transportation, making it feasible for day trips from larger towns. The combination of the signpost, nearby natural attractions, and coastal scenery creates a compelling destination that justifies the journey to Scotland's northeastern extremity, whether visitors are completing an epic personal challenge or simply experiencing one of Britain's most symbolically significant locations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John O'Groats Signpost
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Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
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Unmissable attractions to see
First and Last in Scotland
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Bay of Sannick
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Duncansby Stacks
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Duncansby Head Lighthouse
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Bucholie Castle
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Sinky's Beer Garden & Grill
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Old Keiss Castle
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Whitegate broch
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Olav's Wood
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Mary Ann's Cottage
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Essential places to dine
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The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
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Morags Café and Sweet Shop
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DeVitas Pizzeria & Cafe Bar
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Bord De L'Eau
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Riverhouse
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No.1 Bistro
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The Printers Rest
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Emily’s
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The Sands Hotel, Orkney
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Y Not Bar & Grill
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Bydand
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Red Pepper
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Olive
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Groatie Buckie Gift Shop
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North Coast Emporium
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Far North Gifts and Gallery
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Workshop & Loft Gallery
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McAllans
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B'Unique
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Meiklejohns Confectioners - sweets and tobacco
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The Gift House
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Caithness Gifts & Crafts
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Highland Gift Shop
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Wild Heather Crafts
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Lidl
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Mr C's Bar
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The Neuk
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Photowalk
- Roadtrip Stop
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
