A light in the far north: John O’groats is one of Scotland’s star attractions
As the most northerly village on the mainland, John O’groats is a place of pilgrimage for many looking to explore the length and breath of our isles.
Chris Taylor, regional leadership director at Visitscotland, is keen to point out the village is a location in itself, worth exploring and enjoying after you’ve taken a certain photograph.
“John O’groats is the start or finish location for ‘endto-end’ record attempts and attracts many tourists, keen to pose by the famous sign,” says Chris. “But there is more to this jaw-dropping location than that.”
It has gone through a redevelopment in recent years, and is home to a number of great attractions. A gallery showcases a selection of local art pieces, as well as running classes for those who feel creative themselves.
There is also a plethora of independent craft and gift shops, as well as a few wee cafes, pubs and restaurants, perfect if a coastal walk to take in the local scenery – whether from Land’s End or somewhere a little closer – proves thirsty work!
The coastal cliffs welcome an abundance of Atlantic puffins during the summer and there are many animals at all times of the year.
“Visitors can enjoy our bays and beaches and experience dramatic, unspoiled scenery and wildlife, including an array of bird life on the cliffs, as well as seals, dolphins, minke and killer whales in the waters,” Chris says.
A few companies offer wildlife ferries, cruising out to breeding grounds, and giving visitors a chance to visit the amazing Stacks of Duncansby or nearby Island of Stroma.
Searching on the coast for an elusive “Groatie buckie” – a wee, round cowrie shell – is a fun activity for all.
There’s also the opportunity to surf or take part in other watersports in the striking blue water, a perfect activity for any adventurers. For those not keen on taking to the waves, the more secluded beaches such as the Bay of Sannick make for a peaceful afternoon of relaxation.
As such a scenic place, it’s no surprise that there are so many fantastic walks around John O’groats.
“It’s a fantastic location for walkers, who can follow the coastal paths from the village,” says Chris. “The beautiful Castle and Gardens of Mey and Castle Sinclair Girnigoe are also nearby.”
A three kilometre (1.6 mile) walk from the village to Duncansby Head Lighthouse and the impressive Duncansby Stacks is one of Scotland’s most striking routes, with the three imposing sea stacks quite a sight to behold. It is a relatively short walk along a surfaced path, but do bring snacks for the return walk.
On some clear evenings, you may even be lucky enough to see the aurora borealis, thanks to the northerly location.
“The area benefits from fantastic dark skies for star gazing, as well as being a great location from which to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The further north you are, the greater your chance of seeing them,” Chris says.
No matter how far you’ve travelled, John O’groats is worth exploring. From the famous signpost to spectacular views and wildlife, there’s good reason why mainland Britain’s most northerly village is one of our top visitor attractions.