Britain's Most Northerly Point

Leave the capital of the Highlands and prepare for your adventure into the wild mountains and craggy coast of Scotland's most beautiful region.

Stock up with gourmet treats and local farm produce for your road trip from the well-stocked food hall at The Storehouse. Their regional cheeses, home baked bread and yummy cakes will provide delicious titbits for along your journey.
Open Hours: Monday – Saturday: 09:00 – 17:00 Sunday: Closed

Discover one of Scotland's most spectacular and impressive castles. With 189 rooms, it is not only one of the country's biggest residences, it is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited houses in the UK.
Built sometime around 1235, Dunrobin Castle was dramatically re-modelled in 1845 by architect Sir Charles Barry (who had also designed the iconic Houses of Parliament in London). Walk down to the stunning gardens below, to get the most breath-taking view of this castle and to fully appreciate Barry's vision.
While in the immaculate 150-year-old gardens, and before taking the self-guided tour of the luxurious interiors of the Earl of Sutherland's castle, make sure to pay a brief visit to the museum hosted in the summer house.
Also look out for the falconry displays that occur during the summer months and are held down in the gardens.
While up at the castle, enjoy lunch at the Tea Room.
Open Hours Note: The castle is open from the beginning of April to the end of October.

Timespan gives an informative overview of the region around Helmsdale, focusing on stories surrounding the 1869 gold rush, the herring boom, Pictish settlement and the tragic Highland Clearances.
Open Hours

Descend the historic Whaligoe Steps to the tiny harbour that once boasted 20 fishing boats during the height of the herring boom in the Nineteenth Century.
The 365 steps, which are made of flagstone, wind down the 250ft cliffs and offer dramatic views. Maintained by local volunteers, the Whaligoe Steps have become an intrinsic part of the community.
Ensure that you wear appropriate footwear.

Park your car and prepare for the short walk to the castle.

As the name hints, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe is actually two castles, built side by side.
The ruined seat of the Clan Sinclair, Castle Girnigoe was built in the 15th-century, with Castle Sinclair constructed two centuries years later, with the two castles being connected by a drawbridge over a ravine.

Head back to your car and prepare to continue your adventure.

Park on the approach to Duncansby Head Lighthouse and get ready to view the spectacular seascape.

Take the well-trodden path to view the Duncansby Stacks, which thrust out of the shore line beyond. These impressive jagged sea stacks are also joined by the rocky arch of Thirle Door.
Along the path on the way to the viewpoint, you will also see the Geo of Sclaites, where the cliffs dramatically part. You will probably hear it before you see it, since it is home to a huge colony of sea birds!

Once back at your car, set off for the famous little settlement of John o'Groats.

Leave your car and make the short walk to the signpost.

Take your chance to have a snap beside one of the most photographed signposts in the country.
The starting point for the gruelling 874 mile journey from John O’Groats to Land’s End in Cornwall, the signpost has become an iconic sight of Scotland.

Return to your car and prepare to drive to Thurso.

Enjoy a hearty British meal at this friendly and relaxed restaurant. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the Y Not Bar & Grill offer weekly specials, tasty meals made from local produce, and create exciting cocktails.
Open Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 08:00 – 24:00 Friday – Saturday: 08:00 – 01:00 Note: Food is served until 21:00

Enjoy a well-earned rest at this comfortable family-owned hotel.
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