Castle of Mey offers two distinctive accommodation options on the northernmost inhabited castle estate in mainland Britain. The Captain’s House provides luxury self-catering for six guests in a detached cottage where the Queen Mother enjoyed picnic lunches, while The Granary Lodge operates as a luxury bed and breakfast in a converted 17th-century granary building with ten individually styled rooms. Both properties sit within the castle estate purchased and restored by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1952, offering unprecedented access to royal history in Caithness, Scotland.
These accommodations place you at the heart of Scotland’s dramatic northern coastline along the famous North Coast 500 touring route. The castle, grounds, and gardens occupy a stunning position overlooking the Pentland Firth to Orkney with views that captivated the Queen Mother during her widowhood and inspired her remarkable restoration project. Guests experience the same peaceful Highland setting that provided solace and joy to the royal family for five decades while enjoying modern comfort in historic buildings carefully preserved by The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust.
The Captain’s House Castle of Mey
The Captain’s House stands as the only self-catering holiday property on the Castle of Mey estate, formerly known as Seaview House before its current designation honoring its maritime connections. This detached cottage sleeps six guests across two double bedrooms and one twin room, all furnished and equipped to the highest standard with luxury amenities throughout. The Queen Mother personally enjoyed this property, often taking picnic lunches here while surveying views across the Pentland Firth that so enchanted her during visits to this remote corner of Scotland.
A spectacular 20-foot conservatory forms the centerpiece of The Captain’s House accommodation. This glass-enclosed space overlooks an enclosed garden while providing panoramic views across turbulent waters to Orkney’s southern islands visible on clear days. The conservatory creates an ideal setting for morning coffee, afternoon reading, or evening relaxation while watching spectacular northern sunsets paint the sky in shades impossible in more southerly locations.
Accommodation Layout and Features
The Captain’s House provides spacious accommodation across its three bedrooms with flexible sleeping arrangements suitable for families or groups of friends exploring Caithness. Two double bedrooms offer comfortable queen or king-size beds while the twin room features single beds ideal for children or guests preferring separate sleeping spaces. All bedrooms include quality linens, ample storage, and thoughtful touches reflecting the property’s connection to royal heritage.
The fully equipped kitchen contains modern appliances including cooker, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave alongside comprehensive cookware and utensils for self-catering throughout your stay. A comfortable living area provides space for gathering while the conservatory extends living space into a light-filled environment connecting interior comfort with dramatic coastal landscapes. Central heating ensures warmth during Scotland’s cool seasons when Atlantic winds sweep across Caithness bringing weather systems from northern seas.
The enclosed garden offers private outdoor space for enjoying rare sunny days or watching seabirds wheel above coastal waters. This garden setting provided the Queen Mother with peaceful retreat space during her castle visits, and contemporary guests enjoy the same sense of seclusion and natural beauty that made Mey her beloved northern sanctuary. Short-term rental license number HI-00208-F ensures the property meets Scottish government accommodation standards.
Queen Mother’s Castle Scotland Stay Experience
Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother purchased the Castle of Mey in 1952 during the first months of her widowhood following King George VI’s death. Traveling north to comfort a friend, she discovered the 16th-century castle then known as Barrogill Castle facing demolition due to its deteriorated condition. Despite its dilapidated state, she fell in love with the building’s beauty and dramatic setting, making the remarkable decision to purchase and restore this remote Highland castle as her personal retreat.
Her restoration work beginning in 1953 transformed a building lacking electricity or running water into a comfortable residence while respecting its historic character. The Queen Mother restored the castle’s original name and supervised extensive renovations completed by 1955 that made the property weathertight and habitable. She visited regularly each year, spending three weeks every August and ten days every October from 1955 through 2001, finding peace and joy in Caithness that sustained her through decades of royal duties.
Royal Family Connection and Legacy
The Queen Mother established The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust in July 1996 to secure the property’s future beyond her lifetime. The trust objectives include preserving the building, advancing historical and architectural education, developing native Aberdeen Angus cattle and Cheviot sheep breeds, and undertaking community benefit projects. Her son, now King Charles III, served as trust president and continues this role while maintaining the family tradition of annual August visits to Mey.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla typically close the castle for ten days at the end of July and beginning of August for their private holiday. This annual royal visit means contemporary guests following in royal footsteps experience the same estate recently occupied by the reigning monarch. The castle opens to public visitors from May through September, welcoming nearly 30,000 annual visitors exploring rooms preserved as they were when the Queen Mother died in 2002.
Staying in estate accommodations provides intimate connection to this royal legacy impossible for day visitors. Walking grounds where the Queen Mother strolled, viewing the same Pentland Firth seascapes she loved, and experiencing Caithness’s profound peace offers insight into what drew her repeatedly to this remote corner of Britain. The accommodations represent living history where royal tradition continues through careful preservation and thoughtful hospitality.
Granary Lodge Castle of Mey Bed and Breakfast
The Granary Lodge occupies a meticulously converted 17th-century granary building nestled between Castle of Mey and the seashore. This luxury bed and breakfast features ten individually styled rooms including eight ground-floor guest rooms with individual outside access and two upper-floor luxury suites containing relaxing lounge areas. The historic granary structure now houses guest rooms while an adjacent building contains the Drawing Room, Dining Room, and Reception areas where guests gather for breakfast and evening relaxation.
Each room receives individual design treatment creating unique character throughout the property. Beautiful appointments include luxury linens, contemporary bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities ensuring comfortable stays. The Drawing Room features an open fire and stunning sea views over the Pentland Firth providing a communal space for guests to meet, share travel stories, and plan daily adventures along Scotland’s northern coast.
Luxury Amenities and Services
The Granary Lodge emphasizes genuine Highland hospitality with attentive service creating memorable stays. Breakfast features quality locally-sourced ingredients prepared to guest preferences, with options ranging from traditional Scottish breakfast with local bacon and eggs to lighter continental selections. The property offers evening platters for guests preferring to dine on-site rather than driving to nearby restaurants after long days exploring Caithness.
A selection of beverages includes gins, whiskies, and ales from local Caithness distilleries and breweries. This focus on regional products connects guests to the area’s food and drink traditions while supporting local producers. The property maintains a premises license allowing alcohol service to residential guests in the Drawing Room and dining areas.
Room 7 welcomes dogs, allowing guests to bring furry family members on Highland adventures. This dog-friendly accommodation recognizes that many visitors touring the North Coast 500 or exploring Scottish Highlands travel with canine companions. Private car parking includes accessible spaces and an electric vehicle charging point supporting sustainable tourism in this remote region.
Special Occasions and Add-Ons
The Granary Lodge caters to special occasions with optional add-ons enhancing celebrations. Private castle tours can be arranged allowing guests exclusive access to spaces normally seen only during standard visiting hours. Special occasion cakes, handcrafted local artisan chocolates from Caithness Chocolates, Prosecco or Champagne bottles, and fresh flower arrangements transform accommodations for anniversaries, birthdays, or romantic getaways.
The property offers attractive booking promotions including a July special where guests booking two nights receive the second night at half price. This represents significant value for North Coast 500 travelers wanting to spend extra time exploring Caithness rather than rushing through Scotland’s spectacular northern coastline. Contact details include telephone 01847 851861 or email thegranary@castleofmey.org.uk for availability checks and booking inquiries.
The Granary Lodge particularly appeals to couples seeking romantic Highland retreats. The combination of luxury accommodations, stunning seascapes, potential Northern Lights viewing during dark winter nights, and connection to royal history creates an atmosphere of special occasion celebration. Many guests return annually, drawn back to the peace and tranquility that originally attracted the Queen Mother to this remarkable location.
North Coast 500 Royal Accommodation
Castle of Mey sits along Scotland’s North Coast 500 touring route, a 516-mile scenic highway circling the northern Highlands. This route ranks among the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, passing dramatic cliffs, white sand beaches, ancient castles, and remote villages barely changed over centuries. Castle of Mey provides an ideal stopping point for travelers completing the full circuit or exploring the northeastern section between Wick and Thurso.
The accommodation location places guests just six miles from John O’Groats, mainland Britain’s northeastern extremity marking the traditional endpoint for Land’s End to John O’Groats challenges. This proximity means guests can easily visit this famous landmark while enjoying superior accommodation compared to limited John O’Groats lodging options. The castle estate offers peace and space impossible in the more commercialized John O’Groats village setting.
Exploring Caithness from Mey
Caithness presents a distinctive Scottish landscape where fertile agricultural land meets dramatic coastline. The county’s unusual flatness contrasts with Highland mountains further south, creating vast skies and expansive horizons. This unique geography captivated the Queen Mother who loved Caithness’s sense of space and the way weather systems could be watched approaching across distant seas before arriving with full force.
Dunnet Head, Scotland’s true northernmost point, lies just ten miles west of Castle of Mey. This headland extends further north than John O’Groats, offering spectacular clifftop walks and seabird colonies. On clear days, views extend across the Pentland Firth to Orkney’s southern islands while westward vistas reveal Cape Wrath’s distant outline marking Scotland’s northwestern corner.
Thurso, Caithness’s largest town, sits eight miles west providing shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The town features excellent surf beaches where Atlantic swells create surprising wave quality attracting surfers to these far northern waters. Thurso’s High Street retains traditional Scottish character with independent shops, bakeries, and butchers serving the local community alongside visitor amenities.
Castle of Mey Gardens and Grounds
The Queen Mother purchased Castle of Mey with just 30 acres of parkland, all in poor condition after years of neglect. Her restoration work between 1953 and 1955 transformed these grounds into the beautiful gardens visitors enjoy today. She designed gardens to reach peak beauty during her August and October visits, creating seasonal displays timed to her annual residence periods.
The Walled Garden represents the Queen Mother’s particular passion, developed from abandoned vegetable plots into elaborate flower gardens featuring traditional herbaceous borders. She personally selected plants and worked alongside head gardeners to develop planting schemes reflecting her love of cottage garden styles and traditional Scottish horticulture. The garden walls provide essential shelter from fierce Atlantic winds that would otherwise prevent tender plants from thriving in this exposed location.
Seasonal Garden Highlights
Spring brings early bulbs and flowering shrubs to Castle of Mey gardens with hardy varieties selected to withstand Caithness’s harsh climate. May flowers appear later here than in southern Scotland, with the growing season compressed into brief intense summer months. The Queen Mother timed plantings to ensure color throughout her annual visits rather than creating early spring displays she would never witness.
Summer transforms the Walled Garden into peak magnificence with herbaceous borders reaching full height and flower production. Traditional cottage garden favorites including delphiniums, lupins, roses, and campanulas create colorful displays. The garden design emphasizes informal abundance rather than formal bedding schemes, reflecting the Queen Mother’s personal taste for relaxed country gardens over rigid formality.
Autumn extends the season with late-flowering perennials and shrub foliage developing rich colors. October visits coincided with harvest displays and the particular quality of northern light that intensifies during autumn months. The Queen Mother appreciated how Caithness gardens retained beauty later into autumn than many Scottish locations, with coastal influences moderating early frosts that damage more inland gardens.
Practical Information and Planning
Castle of Mey is located six miles west of John O’Groats on the A836 coast road between Wick and Thurso. The castle sits on Scotland’s north coast facing the Pentland Firth, the turbulent strait separating mainland Scotland from Orkney’s southern islands. This remote location requires advance planning as local services are limited compared to more populated Scottish regions.
The castle and gardens open to visitors from May through September, Wednesday through Sunday from 10:30am to 4pm. Annual closure for King Charles III’s private visit typically occurs late July through early August for approximately ten days. The castle closes Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the season. Adult admission costs £16 for castle, grounds, and gardens or £10 for grounds and gardens only. Children aged 5-16 pay £8.50 with under-5s entering free.
Getting to Castle of Mey
Driving remains the most practical way to reach Castle of Mey given limited public transport in Caithness. From Inverness, the journey covers approximately 125 miles taking three hours via the A9 north to Wick then A99 and A836 west to Mey. The route follows Scotland’s scenic east coast passing historic sites including Dunrobin Castle before reaching Caithness’s distinctive flat landscapes.
Wick Airport receives daily flights from Edinburgh and Aberdeen operated by Loganair, providing air access for visitors without vehicles or those combining Highland visits with southern Scotland destinations. Car hire is available at Wick Airport, essential for exploring Caithness as public transport options are extremely limited in this rural region.
Thurso railway station on the Far North Line connects to Inverness with two to three trains daily making this Britain’s most remote railway. The scenic four-hour journey passes through spectacular Highland landscapes but requires onward road transport to Castle of Mey as the station sits eight miles from the estate.
Booking Accommodations
The Captain’s House bookings are managed through CKD Galbraith property agents in Inverness. Contact them by telephone at 01738 451610 or through their Cottages and Castles website for availability, rates, and booking procedures. The property books quickly for summer months and the North Coast 500 peak season from May through September, requiring advance reservation for preferred dates.
The Granary Lodge accepts direct bookings by telephone 01847 851861 or email thegranary@castleofmey.org.uk. Their website features availability calendars showing open dates and current pricing. Booking direct often provides more flexibility for special requests including dietary requirements, room preferences, and add-on services like private castle tours or celebration packages.
Both properties require minimum stay durations during peak summer season, typically two or three nights ensuring guests have adequate time to explore Caithness rather than using accommodations merely as overnight stops. Weekly bookings often receive discounted rates and provide the most economical way to experience extended stays in this remarkable location.
Castle of Mey History and Architecture
The Castle of Mey was built in 1566 by George Sinclair, 4th Earl of Caithness, as a Z-plan tower house. This defensive architectural style features a rectangular main block with square towers projecting from diagonally opposite corners, creating excellent sightlines for defense while maximizing interior space. The castle originally served as the Sinclair family seat before passing through various owners as family fortunes declined over subsequent centuries.
The building underwent Victorian modifications in the 19th century when architect William Burn added a west wing and made interior alterations reflecting contemporary tastes. These Victorian additions were in poor condition when the Queen Mother purchased the property, requiring extensive restoration work. The castle had been renamed Barrogill Castle but the Queen Mother restored its original Castle of Mey designation, reconnecting the building to its historic identity.
Restoration and Preservation
The Queen Mother’s restoration work focused on making the castle habitable while preserving its historic character. Essential modernization included installing electricity, running water, and central heating—amenities absent when she purchased the property. Roof repairs made the building weathertight while interior work addressed decades of deferred maintenance that had brought the castle near collapse.
Hugh Macdonald of Sinclair Macdonald and Son architects in Thurso oversaw the restoration project. The Queen Mother participated actively in design decisions, though she resisted ambitious proposals for grand rebuilding in favor of more modest repairs respecting the building’s existing form. Her approach emphasized practical restoration over architectural ambition, creating a comfortable home rather than a showpiece residence.
The west wing restoration completed in 1960 for a fraction of originally estimated costs. The Queen Mother’s reluctance to spend unnecessarily meant the project proceeded incrementally as funds allowed rather than through comprehensive expensive rebuilding. The only significant external embellishment was a coat of arms carved by Hew Lorimer, designed with help from Captain Michael Wemyss whose wife served as Extra Woman of the Bedchamber.
What to Expect During Your Stay
Staying at Castle of Mey accommodations immerses you in Scotland’s dramatic northern landscape where Atlantic weather systems arrive with startling speed and clarity of light surpasses anywhere in Britain. The sense of remoteness proves profound, with population density among Scotland’s lowest and dark skies offering exceptional stargazing and Northern Lights viewing opportunities during winter months.
Caithness’s distinctive character stems from its isolation and the resilience required to thrive in this harsh environment. Winds from the Pentland Firth buffet the coastline while short summer growing seasons limit agriculture to hardy crops and livestock breeds. This challenging climate creates landscapes of stark beauty where human settlement feels precarious against nature’s overwhelming power.
Wildlife and Natural Environment
The Castle of Mey estate and surrounding coastline support remarkable wildlife populations. Seabird colonies nest on coastal cliffs with puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes visible during breeding season. The Pentland Firth attracts marine mammals including seals regularly hauled out on rocks and occasional dolphin and whale sightings from shore.
The estate maintains Aberdeen Angus cattle and Cheviot sheep breeds as part of the trust’s conservation mission. These traditional Scottish breeds connect to agricultural heritage while demonstrating sustainable livestock farming adapted to Caithness conditions. The Queen Mother took particular interest in the farm operations, viewing agricultural activities as integral to the estate’s character and local economy.
Wildflowers carpet grasslands during brief summer months with hardy species adapted to salt spray and strong winds. The combination of coastal, grassland, and wetland habitats within compact areas creates ecological diversity supporting butterflies, moths, and other invertebrates. Birdwatchers appreciate species including corncrakes in hay meadows and various raptors hunting across open landscapes.
Dining and Local Provisions
Both accommodations require advance planning for meals as Caithness restaurant options are limited compared to more populated regions. The Captain’s House self-catering necessitates bringing provisions or shopping in Thurso or Wick before arrival. Thurso supermarkets include Tesco and Lidl for general supplies while local butchers, bakers, and fishmongers provide quality regional products.
The Granary Lodge breakfast features locally-sourced ingredients with options including traditional Scottish breakfast, smoked fish, and continental selections. Evening platters available for order provide convenient dining without leaving the property. This proves particularly valuable after long days exploring when driving to distant restaurants feels unappealing.
Nearby Dining Options
Thurso offers the broadest restaurant selection in Caithness with traditional pubs serving classic Scottish fare alongside contemporary restaurants featuring local seafood and game. The town’s proximity to major fishing ports ensures fresh fish availability while Caithness beef and lamb feature prominently on local menus.
John O’Groats village contains several cafes and restaurants serving visitors to this famous landmark. The Seaview Hotel and John O’Groats House Hotel offer traditional dining while newer establishments focus on quality local ingredients. Most establishments close during winter months when visitor numbers drop dramatically, making Thurso the more reliable year-round dining option.
Castle of Mey’s own Castle Cafe operates during visitor season serving light lunches, afternoon teas, and refreshments. The cafe emphasizes local products including Caithness ice cream, Scottish baking, and regional specialties. Accommodation guests can visit during castle opening hours though the cafe closes when the castle closes for the royal visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you stay overnight at Castle of Mey?
Yes, Castle of Mey offers two accommodation options on the estate. The Captain’s House provides self-catering for six guests in a detached cottage, while The Granary Lodge operates as a luxury bed and breakfast with ten individually styled rooms. Both properties sit within the castle estate purchased by the Queen Mother in 1952.
What is The Captain’s House at Castle of Mey?
The Captain’s House is the only self-catering holiday property on the Castle of Mey estate, sleeping six guests across two double bedrooms and one twin room. Previously known as Seaview House, it features a 20-foot conservatory with panoramic views over the Pentland Firth to Orkney. The Queen Mother often enjoyed picnic lunches at this property during her castle visits.
How much does it cost to stay at Castle of Mey?
The Captain’s House bookings are managed through CKD Galbraith property agents with rates varying by season and length of stay. The Granary Lodge bed and breakfast rates vary by room type and season, with special offers including July promotions for two-night stays at reduced rates. Contact properties directly for current pricing and availability.
Where is Castle of Mey located?
Castle of Mey sits on Scotland’s north coast in Caithness, six miles west of John O’Groats on the A836 coast road. The castle overlooks the Pentland Firth strait separating mainland Scotland from Orkney’s southern islands. The location places it along the North Coast 500 touring route between Wick and Thurso.
When is Castle of Mey open to visitors?
The castle and gardens open May through September, Wednesday through Sunday from 10:30am to 4pm. Annual closure of approximately ten days occurs late July through early August for King Charles III’s private visit. The castle remains closed Mondays and Tuesdays throughout the visitor season.
What is the connection between Castle of Mey and the Queen Mother?
Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother purchased Castle of Mey in 1952 during her widowhood after discovering the 16th-century castle facing demolition. She restored the property between 1953 and 1955, creating a beloved retreat where she spent three weeks every August and ten days every October from 1955 through 2001.
Is Castle of Mey dog-friendly?
The Granary Lodge offers dog-friendly accommodation in Room 7, welcoming guests traveling with canine companions. The Captain’s House policy regarding dogs should be confirmed directly with booking agents. Castle of Mey estate grounds allow dogs on leads during visitor hours.
What is The Granary Lodge at Castle of Mey?
The Granary Lodge is a luxury bed and breakfast in a converted 17th-century granary building with ten individually styled rooms. It features eight ground-floor rooms with individual outside access and two upper-floor suites with lounge areas. The property includes a Drawing Room with open fire and stunning sea views over the Pentland Firth.
How far is Castle of Mey from Inverness?
Castle of Mey sits approximately 125 miles north of Inverness, a three-hour drive via the A9 north to Wick then A99 and A836 west. The scenic route follows Scotland’s east coast through the Highlands. Thurso railway station eight miles from the castle connects to Inverness with two to three trains daily on the Far North Line.
What can you see at Castle of Mey?
Castle tours show rooms preserved as they were when the Queen Mother died in 2002, including her sitting room, bedroom, and dining room. The Walled Garden features traditional herbaceous borders developed by the Queen Mother. The estate includes an Animal Centre, Visitor Centre, and views across the Pentland Firth to Orkney.
Does King Charles III visit Castle of Mey?
Yes, King Charles III maintains the family tradition of annual summer visits to Castle of Mey, typically staying for ten days at the end of July and beginning of August. The castle closes to public visitors during this royal residence period. The King served as trust president since his mother established The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust in 1996.
What is the North Coast 500 route?
The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile scenic touring route circling Scotland’s northern Highlands, often called Scotland’s Route 66. The route passes Castle of Mey along the northeastern coastal section between Wick and Thurso, featuring dramatic cliffs, beaches, castles, and remote villages throughout its circuit.
Can you get married at Castle of Mey?
Yes, Castle of Mey welcomes wedding bookings for up to 60 guests between April and October. The Granary Lodge offers a more intimate wedding venue suitable for year-round ceremonies. Both venues provide romantic Highland settings with spectacular coastal views and connections to royal history.
What is there to do near Castle of Mey?
Nearby attractions include John O’Groats six miles east, Dunnet Head (Scotland’s northernmost point) ten miles west, and Thurso town eight miles away. The dramatic coastline offers clifftop walks, seabird colonies, and beaches. The castle itself features tours, gardens, an Animal Centre, and cafe during visitor season.
How do I book accommodation at Castle of Mey?
The Captain’s House books through CKD Galbraith property agents at 01738 451610 or via their Cottages and Castles website. The Granary Lodge accepts direct bookings by telephone 01847 851861 or email thegranary@castleofmey.org.uk. Both properties require advance booking, especially during peak summer season and North Coast 500 touring months.
For More Travel Insights Click On Travel Section:
Liverpool Eco Tourism 2025: Sustainable Nature & Adventure Tours
Walmer Castle Holiday Cottages: Stay in Queen Mother’s Garden at Kent Coast
Liverpool Historic Landmarks 2025: Explore Iconic Heritage & Culture
Liverpool John Lennon Airport Traffic 2025: Trends, Growth, and Economic Impact
Must-Visit Museums in Liverpool November 2025: Top Cultural Attractions
For More News; Liverpool Herald
For more verified updates, you can also check trusted sources like:-
About the Author
