The Castle of Mey, located on the northern coast of Scotland in Caithness, is a stunning historic castle with deep royal connections. Overlooking the Pentland Firth and facing the Orkney Islands, this beautiful 16th-century fortress is famous for being the beloved retreat of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. Surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery and meticulously maintained gardens, the Castle of Mey remains one of Scotland’s most charming and significant heritage sites. History of the Castle Castle of Mey in 1964 photo © Copyright John Baker and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence Originally known as Barrogill Castle, the Castle of Mey was built between 1566 and 1572 by George Sinclair, the 4th Earl of Caithness. Designed as a defensive stronghold, the castle featured thick stone walls, towers, and a strategic position on the northern coastline to protect against potential threats. The Sinclairs owned the castle for generations, but by the 20th century, it had fallen into disrepair. In 1952, following the death of King George VI, the castle caught the attention of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. While mourning the loss of her husband, she visited the area and fell in love with the castle’s charm and remote beauty. Despite its dilapidated state, she purchased the property and dedicated herself to restoring it. After extensive renovations, the castle became her personal retreat, where she spent time every summer until her final visit in 2001, a year before her passing. The Castle and Its Interiors The Castle of Mey retains much of its original charm, offering visitors a glimpse into both its historic past and its life as a royal residence. The rooms inside the castle are furnished much as they were during the Queen Mother’s time, providing a warm and personal insight into her love for the home. Unlike many grand royal palaces, the Castle of Mey has a cozy and welcoming feel, reflecting the Queen Mother’s personality and taste. Highlights of the interior include the drawing room, with its comfortable furniture and family photographs, and the dining room, which features elegant table settings and historical artifacts. The Queen Mother’s bedroom is another key attraction, offering visitors a look at where she spent her summers enjoying the peace and beauty of the Scottish Highlands. The Gardens and Wildlife Castle of Mey’s spectacular gardens photo © Copyright PaulT (Gunther Tschuch) and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence One of the most enchanting aspects of the Castle of Mey is its beautiful walled garden. Despite the harsh northern climate, the Queen Mother worked to create a lush and colorful sanctuary. The gardens are filled with a variety of flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees, with well-kept pathways that visitors can explore. The sheltered nature of the walled garden helps protect delicate plants from the strong coastal winds, making it an oasis of tranquility. Beyond the gardens, the surrounding estate is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, seabirds, and seals along the nearby shore. The castle also features an animal center, where visitors can see rare breeds of sheep, goats, and poultry—something the Queen Mother herself enjoyed. Visiting the Castle of Mey Memorial bench to Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother photo © Copyright David Purchase and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence Today, the Castle of Mey is managed by the Prince’s Foundation and King Charles visits regularly. The estate is open to the public during certain times of the year. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the scenic coastal landscape. The nearby visitors’ center provides additional information about the castle’s history, its restoration, and the Queen Mother’s deep affection for the place. Castle of Mey map The Castle of Mey is a treasured piece of Scotland’s history, blending the grandeur of a historic fortress with the warmth of a cherished royal home. Its stunning location, well-preserved interiors, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the far north of Scotland. Whether drawn by its royal connections, its historical significance, or its natural beauty, visitors to the Castle of Mey will find themselves enchanted by this extraordinary retreat. Castle of Mey, Braes of Harrow, Harrow, Mey, Highland, Scotland, KW14 8XA https://www.castleofmey.org.uk Grid Ref: ND 290 738What3Words Location: ///alert.snug.blues Header image: The grand exterior of Castle of Mey photo © Copyright Andrew Abbott
