Things to do in John O’Groats: Our top 5 attractions
John O’Groats sits at the very northern tip of mainland Britain, in the historic county of Caithness, Scotland. Visitors from around the world travel here to experience its striking coastal scenery and the wide range of outdoor adventures on offer, all set against the rugged backdrop of the Scottish Highlands.
Looking for things to do in John O’Groats? As one of the best hotels near John O’Groats, we’re well-positioned at the Ulbster Arms to inform you about this remarkable corner of Scotland. As such, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to create a jam-packed itinerary.
Why is it called John O’Groats?
First, you might be wondering – why is it actually called John O’Groats? Well, the name is believed to derive from “Jan de Groot,” a Dutch settler who arrived in Scotland in the 15th century. He is famed for building an unusual octagonal house with eight doors: one for himself and one for each of his seven sons. Today, visitors of the area venture to the mound where the house once stood.
Now, onto some of the top things to do in John O’Groats, courtesy of the Ulbster Arms Hotel.
Visit the John O’Groats signpost and enjoy the route from John O’Groats to Land’s End
One of the most popular things to do at John O’Groats is to stop for a photo at the famous John O’Groats signpost. First installed in 1964, it marks one end of the iconic journey between John O’Groats and Land’s End. It has since become one of the most photographed landmarks in the country.
How far is John O’Groats to Land’s End?
The distance from Land’s End to John O’Groats is approximately 600 miles in a straight line. The route regularly features in travel guides and charity challenges, largely because it spans the entire length of Britain. What’s more, the Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle path has become something of a benchmark achievement for avid cyclists. If you’re keen to attempt the full cycling route, the journey typically takes 10 to 14 days. However, this all depends on your pace and the number of stops factored in.
On the hunt for hotels near John O’Groats, Scotland? Just a short drive away is The Ulbster Arms. Book in with us, so you can put your head down and let us wait on you before the next leg of your trip.
Take a boat trip to the Orkney Islands
John O’Groats acts as a main gateway to the Orkney Islands, with regular ferries crossing the Pentland Firth. You can catch an Orkney ferry from Scrabster, Gills Bay or Thurso. There are around four sailings a day, and the journey takes roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes. Take your pick from short crossings to full-day tours, depending on how much time you have to spare.
During the John O’Groats to Orkney ferry route, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including seals, whales, and puffins!
Once you reach Orkney, you’ll discover some of the UK’s most fascinating ancient sites. A real highlight is Skara Brae, an incredibly well-preserved Stone Age village that gives a rare glimpse into how people lived 5,000 years ago. And, just a stone’s throw away is the Ring of Brodgar, a huge Neolithic stone circle, dating back to the 3rd millennium BC.
You can also visit Maeshowe Chambered Cairn, an impressive burial tomb built into a grassy mound. Inside, you’ll not only see remarkable Neolithic construction, but also Viking-era carvings left behind hundreds of years later.
The main town of Kirkwall is also worth a wander. You could spend a few hours here visiting the St Magnus Cathedral and taking a stroll along the harbour.
Once you’re back in John O’Groats, the natural place to stop is the Ulbster Arms Hotel for a well-earned lunch. If you remember to plan this little pit stop into your itinerary, it takes the pressure off finding somewhere to eat on the day. We’re also located close to the Scrabster Ferry Terminal, making us the perfect base for a stopover, as the drive from most UK locations is a long one.
Walk along Dunnet Head
Exploring Dunnet Head is one of the most popular things to do around John O’Groats for outdoor enthusiasts.
Dunnet Head sits right at the very northern tip of mainland Britain, just a 30-minute drive from John O’Groats. It’s the sort of place you come to when you want total peace and quiet, away from the everyday hustle and bustle.
Perched right on the edge of dramatic cliffs above the Pentland Firth, it offers incredible, wide-open views across to the Orkney Islands on a clear day. It’s wild, exposed, and extremely windy, but that’s all part of the fun.
In the warmer months, you might be lucky enough to spot puffins, guillemots and razorbills nesting along the cliff tops. And if you make your way to the highest point, you’ll see the 19th-century Dunnet Head Lighthouse perched atop.
Bringing your dog along and looking for suitable hotels near John O’Groats? The Ulbster Arms Hotel offers dog-friendly rooms, so you don’t have to worry about seeking out kennels or pet sitters. Your four-legged companion is welcome to join you on those exciting outdoor adventures, after all!
Visit The Castle of Mey
Just a 15-minute drive from the Ulbster Hotel lies The Castle of Mey, which was once the personal residence of HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
Originally known as Barrogill Castle, the property had fallen into disrepair before Her Majesty acquired it in 1952. She undertook a long-term restoration project of the structure and its surrounding 30-acre gardens. During the process, she also reinstated its original name, “Castle of Mey”. Over the years, it became a much-loved retreat where she would return regularly until 1996.
Today, the castle opens to visitors on selected days between May and September. The rooms are kept much as she left them, and what often stands out most is how relaxed and personal it feels, far removed from the formal grandeur you might expect.
Visit John O’Groats mill
John O’Groats Mill is the very last surviving water-powered mill of the rural Caithness life. Many visitors exploring the area from the Ulbster Arms Hotel often include this attraction in their wider coastal itinerary. In our opinion, it’s well worth a stop-off to get a glimpse of real working Scottish life at the turn of the century.
Built in 1901 to replace an earlier structure, it continued operating until 2001, when the death of the last miller brought a long-standing local tradition to a close.
However, it wasn’t until 2017 that the structure was preserved for future generations. This was all thanks to the creation of the John O’Groats Mill Trust. What followed was a programme of fundraising and restoration to bring the mill back to life and into full operation.
Reopened in 2025, the mill now welcomes visitors from around the world. Guided tours explore how it once operated, from traditional grain processing to the broader role mills of the day.
What’s the typical weather for John O’Groats?
Due to its position on the far northeastern tip of Scotland, the weather in John O’Groats is known to be cool and often changeable. It’s not unusual to experience a mix of conditions in a single day, from bright coastal sunshine to a passing shower or two. Plus, you’re also likely to experience blustery spells along the shoreline. So, it’s a good idea to pack a warm, waterproof layer, as the weather can shift quite quickly.
Not sure what to do at John O’Groats when the weather isn’t playing ball? Head back for a cosy afternoon at the Ulbster Arms, one of the most famous hotels near John O’Groats. Inside, you’ll discover the cosy Lounge Bar where you can settle in with a hot drink or something stronger. Or, lose yourself in a good book in the library.
Book luxury accommodation in John O’Groats
After a day spent in the crisp Highland air, there’s something truly rewarding about checking into one of the best John O’Groats hotels.
On the hunt for places to stay near or in John O’Groats? The Ulbster Arms Hotel makes a conveniently located base for exploring the village and the wider Caithness coastline. You’ll be close to many of the region’s best-loved attractions. This means time spent travelling and more time making memories with your loved ones.
And after a full day out and about, it’s nice to put your feet up and enjoy some good food in our à la carte restaurant. Come evening, drift off in one of our comfortable rooms, so you’re fresh and ready to do it all again tomorrow.
Book your stay at the Ulbster Arms Hotel and discover the stunning North Highlands for yourself.