Description
The Castle & Gardens of Mey is a historic royal residence on the north coast of Scotland that offers a unique glimpse into the private life of the Queen Mother. As one of the best things to do with kids in Caithness, this castle and animal centre features beautiful walled gardens, a woodland walk, and a popular animal centre where children can interact with farm animals. It is a fantastic destination for families visiting the northern Highlands who want to combine history with outdoor play.
Admission prices for the castle, grounds, and gardens are £18.30 for adults, £9.35 for children, and £14.50 for concessions. A family ticket is available for £47.85. These rates provide access to the castle, gardens, and the animal centre, ensuring a full day of activity. The site also includes a visitor centre with a tea room and a well-stocked gift shop for souvenirs.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids in the North of Scotland, The Castle & Gardens of Mey is a top contender. It provides a perfect setting for an educational day out where children can learn about royal history and local wildlife through interactive exhibits at the animal centre and exploration of the lush grounds.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
What makes The Castle & Gardens of Mey unique?
The Castle of Mey is unique as the only home ever owned by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, who personally restored it from a ruin into a warm, lived-in family home. Unlike many formal royal sites, it maintains a cozy atmosphere with sensory play opportunities found in the extensive gardens and woodland areas. The site perfectly balances regal heritage with rugged coastal beauty, offering an educational day out that feels adventurous rather than stuffy.
- Royal Residence: It remains a private home for the Royal Family, visited by King Charles III every summer.
- Walled Garden: A stunning, sheltered garden that produces vegetables and flowers despite the harsh northern winds.
- The Animal Centre: A dedicated space where children can meet and learn about traditional farm breeds in a safe environment.
Top 5 Highlights
- The Animal Centre: This is a major draw for families where children can see donkeys, sheep, and poultry up close and learn about farming life.
- The Walled Garden: A magical space for children to explore, filled with winding paths and vibrant flowers that thrive behind high stone walls.
- Castle Tours: Friendly guides share stories about the Queen Mother’s life, making history relatable for younger visitors.
- The Woodland Walk: A peaceful trail through the trees that is perfect for a short family ramble and spotting local birds.
- Coastal Views: Take a moment to look out over the Pentland Firth toward the Orkney Islands for some of the best scenery in the UK.
The Castle & Gardens of Mey features the following attractions and activities:
- The Castle of Mey (Guided tours through the Queen Mother’s rooms).
- The Animal Centre (Hand-reared animals and interactive learning).
- The Walled Garden (Historic gardening and floral displays).
- Woodland Walk (Sheltered trails through the estate).
- Visitor Centre (Exhibitions on the castle's restoration).
- Castle Shop (High-quality Scottish crafts and gifts).
- Castle Tea Room (Homemade cakes and lunches).
- The Shell Map (A curious and detailed outdoor feature near the garden).
- Princess of Wales Garden (A dedicated garden area for reflection).
- The Granary Lodge (Luxury bed and breakfast on the grounds).
Beyond the Main Attraction: Just a short drive away is Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland Britain, which offers dramatic cliffs and lighthouse views. John O'Groats is also nearby, providing further coastal walks and the famous signpost for a family photo.
42.91 miles
