John o' Groats, Caithness

Regarded as the most northerly settlement on the mainland, John o' Groats is actually the other end of the longest distance between two inhabited points on the British mainland, the other being Land's End.  The most northerly point is actually near Dunnet Head.

The name John o' Groats was coined to reflect the Dutch ferryman's charge of one groat payment for a ride to Orkney, as local legend goes.

Recently HIE has announced the John o' Groats Masterplan.  There are four phases to this plan, the first includes the restoration of the John o' Groats hotel, a new harbour square, refurbishment of the Last House Museum and the restoration of coastal paths to Duncansby Head and the John o' Groats Mill.  Additional phases would include building out Market Street, additional restoration and renovation of commercial and residential units, the possible relocation of the craft village, creation of more parking and a new hotel. www.hie.co.uk/.../john-o-groats-masterplan.

John o' Groats attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world, all year round.  If you are coming to the area on holiday and like the idea of staying in a Scottish Castle please click here.