The Castle & Gardens of Mey is a former holiday home of the late Queen Mother in Mey, near Thurso. A guided visit takes you through a selection of rooms, where personal belongings and knowledgeable guides bring the house’s history to life. Outside, stroll through the carefully tended walled gardens, which thrive in the region’s challenging climate, and see the animal area with its geese, ducks, hens, sheep and pigs. There is also a cafe and a shop, with views towards the coast and the Orkneys.
Inside the Queen Mother’s home
The castle was a holiday home of the late Queen Mother. Its rooms feel personal and lived-in, with belongings that offer a glimpse of the woman who spent time here. The visit covers a selection of rooms rather than the entire house.
Guides share stories about the rooms, their occupants and royal guests. They also discuss the family’s visits and historical moments connected with the castle, including Britannia mooring offshore. Ask questions as you go if you would like to hear more about the house.
The gardens and animal area
The walled gardens are carefully maintained and grow in a challenging coastal climate. Take time to walk through them after the indoor tour; the grounds also have an animal area with geese, ducks, hens, sheep and pigs.
The site has a cafe, a shop and visitor facilities. A book about private rooms, including bedrooms that are not open to visitors, is available for under £10.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I allow for a visit?
Plan for about two hours to explore the rooms and gardens.
Can you go inside the castle?
Yes. Staff guide visitors through a selection of the castle’s rooms. Private rooms, including bedrooms, are not open to the public.
What can you see in the gardens?
The walled gardens are carefully tended, and the grounds include an animal area with geese, ducks, hens, sheep and pigs.
