The Castle & Gardens of Mey

The Castle of Mey built between 1566 and 1572 was purchased by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in 1952 after the death of her husband, King George V1. It soon became a cherished retreat for her and she stayed at the castle every year from 1955 to 2001. In 1996 The Queen Mother created The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust and gave the castle, gardens, farm and estate to the trust in perpetuity.

Situated on the most northerly coast of mainland Scotland, and overlooking the Pentland Firth, the castle is 7 miles West of John O'Groats on the A836 from Thurso. The castle is not large and there is a warmth and intimacy about it which is unique. The guides, some of whom worked for the Queen Mother, are in most rooms and have fascinating reflections and anecdotes to impart. The rooms in the castle are furnished comfortably rather than lavishly, a style which very much reflects The Queen Mother's own character.

The Castle is constructed on a Z-plan and seen from a distance its turreted aspect is very striking. The jutting towers and corbelled turrets are typical of its period of the sixteenth century, particularly the chequered character of the corbelling of the smaller turrets. Outside with an impressively high protective wall, known as 'The Great Wall of Mey', the woods and garden are relatively sheltered. The thick hedges, in the walled garden, also serve to add an element of surprise as they reveal new features at every turn. The garden, designed by The Queen Mother, is a real 'find' for visitors offering the opportunity to see a variety of flowers, plants and vegetables, many of which may be bought from the castle shop.

The new visitors’ centre is open with a tearoom and gift shop (see below). Down at the old granary there is an animal centre with sheep, pigs, ducks and hens to give you an idea of some of the animals that are there.

Opening times and Tarrifs below.

There will be a special opening of the Castle and Visitor Centre for Easter this year on the following dates: 21, 22, 23 and 24 March 10.30 am. to last entries 4.00 pm.