Castle of Mey Castle

Address: Castle of Mey, near Mey, Caithness, Scotland

Website: https://www.castleofmey.org.uk

Hours: Seasonal opening (check website)

Admission: Seasonal admission fee applies for house/gardens; check official site for dates and prices

The Castle of Mey is a small coastal castle on the north coast of Caithness in Scotland, restored and made famous by its 20th-century owner, Elizabeth The Queen Mother. The property became her private retreat and was sympathetically restored and maintained as a country residence.

The building dates in parts from the 16th century and was long known as Barrogill Castle before later alterations; it was purchased and restored by Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1952 who used it as a private residence and holiday home. After her death the property was transferred to a trust which maintains the castle and gardens and provides public access.

Situated on the north coast of Caithness near the small settlement of Mey, the castle is on the northern Scottish mainland and is the closest large historic house to the Pentland Firth.

• Royal association and access: Purchased and restored by Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1952, the property is now overseen by a charitable trust and opens seasonally for tours.
• Location highlight: The castle occupies one of the northernmost mainland coastal positions in the United Kingdom, offering strong coastal views and seabird sightings.

What to See#

• Gardens and terraces: Walled formal gardens and coastal terraces created and restored during the 20th century are open to visitors and provide sea views and floral displays in season.
• State rooms and displays: Restored principal rooms contain furnishings and memorabilia associated with the 20th-century royal ownership and are presented on guided tours.

• Confirm seasonal opening dates and book tickets or tours ahead; the Castle of Mey is typically open in summer and can close for private events, so check the Trust's calendar before you travel.
• Don't miss the Walled Garden and the coastal footpaths: many visitors focus on the house but the nearby cliffs and shoreline offer excellent seabird and seal‑watching opportunities, especially in the quieter early morning.