Amazing castle and grounds. The staff were extremely helpful and very informative. Included in the admission price are two falconry displays which really made the day. Best to arrive early before the coaches turn up. Definitely worth the visit.

This was one of the most beautiful castles that we went into. It was completely furnished and had attendance in rooms that you can ask questions. Was really a nice morning spent. On the first floor was a snack area where you can get coffee tea or to nibble on after the tour was over.

A stunning castle. The gentleman at the castle passionately explained its history to us and even let us take a photo of a castle photo taken in the late 1800s. If we had had the energy to go down to the garden, we could have seen the castle from the other side for an amazing view.

You must buy tickets for this castle in advance, as they only open for a short time period and are quite busy. This castle looks amazing from the garden. It's like a castle pops out from a fairy tale. The garden is very nicely designed as well, especially the thistle and lavender, which are very well bred. Inside is not that impressive, as most of the rooms are quite low key, and not much extravagant furniture. However, the white lilac ceiling was quite stunning. I have not seen any interior design like that before. One thing I dislike about the castle are the over amount of deer head specimens and some animal carpets. Apparently the owners used to live hunting deets and went to Africa and killed some lions and leopard and made them into carpets. I understand those are a part of the castle so I have no complain to the staff, but I am simply saying animal lovers should be aware of this before they enter the castle. Do not miss the falconry show in the garden. It’s very educational. You get to meet Harris Hawk, American Kestrel, Barn Owl, etc. The cafe is great too. Their cakes and soup are very good. Overall, I had a great experience here. Definitely worth coming for.

The self managed tour was very interesting with some very well informed volunteers to give information if asked for it. We did not manage to go round the gardens as our mobility is not too good, but the views over the gardens are beautiful.. The cafe was very busy but food was lovely.

Spectacular castle, beautiful history, beautiful monarchs and the castle very well preserved. The staff is well trained and very kind. A small garden in the back is clean and pleasant for a walk. A small souvenir shop, a kiosk that had one liter bottles for sale, I think of Dunrobin gin... I think it was good but I'm not a gin taster but a whiskey taster 😉. I liked it. PS. A large parking lot on the left as you enter and for the disabled at the entrance to the castle.

Beautifully impressive building. You can smell the old, if you know what I mean. Loads of rooms set up how they would likely be used, a little eerie about so interesting to see the kids toys, train tracks and dolls house set up. The gardens are beautiful. You can hang around to see the birds show, it’s on at set times. We didn’t. We enjoyed our walk round both building & gardens. At the exit you can see the canons built in to the top of the walls along the long drive way. There is ample parking with attendants to tell you where to go. Think we paid about £40 for 2 adults and a teenager. The gift shop is lovely, not over prices either, if you see the little highland cow - but it! I still regret not buying it! Thought I’d find a million the same but none compare 🤦🏼‍♀️😂. There is a cafe but we didn’t go in as we’d already eaten. Check out the giant rhubarb in the garden! 😱 HUGE 😂 you’re never getting a sugar bowl big enough 😂

Excellent place to stop. Car park can be a bit busy, however, there is a regular turnover of people, so you shouldn't have to wait too long for a space to become available. There are toilets at the car park too. It's a little walk down to the cave and back, but nothing too strenuous. there are tours of the cave available, however, you can just wander to the first pool by yourself at no cost.

Very busy at the car park when I went in August, but still had an amazing experience going into the cave. Lots of steps to go down, but well worth it. The water fall is pretty spectacular. Places to eat and public toilets at the car park.

Did the nc500 at start of october & this should definitely be included as 1 of ur must see places. Unsure of the force of water during the summer months but we were their just after storm Amy had been through the Highlands & the force of water inside this natural cave was just incredible. We will definitely re-visit in October '26 when we're back on the NC.

The Cave is OK, bit of a anticlimax, and not that interesting. However the journey from John O'groats follow g the NC 200 is jaw dropping and we'll worth the journey.

Smoo Cave is a spectacular natural wonder set just east of Durness on Scotland’s rugged North Coast. Its enormous sea-cave entrance (about 40 m wide and 15 m high) opens into a dramatic interior where freshwater and sea erosion combine in one of the UK’s most memorable cave systems. From the road-side car park, a steep but well-maintained path leads you down to the cave (expect some steps and uneven ground). The walk isn’t long, but the setting is so dramatic that the drop in elevation is part of the experience. You can explore the front chamber and waterfall viewpoint free of charge any time of year. For deeper access — including a small boat ride into the inner chambers — you need to take a guided tour (seasonal, weather permitting). Tours cost about £15 for adults and £5 for children. Highlights The scale is impressive: a huge cavern entrance and a dramatic waterfall where the river plunges inside. Very photogenic, particularly the view across the wooden walkway, the waterfall chamber and the interplay of light, water and rock. It’s easy to just spend 20-30 minutes enjoying the front chamber; add another ~30 minutes (or more) if doing the boat tour. Things to Know / Tips Tours are weather dependent. Heavy rain or high water can lead to cancellations — since the cave is “active” (river + sea), water levels change quickly. Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear. Paths are rough, with steps and uneven surfaces. Not very accessible for people with mobility issues — the descent/ascent from car park to cave entrance is steep/stepped. The best time to visit is late spring through early autumn — longer daylight, nicer weather, more chance the tours are running. Verdict Smoo Cave is a must-see if you’re travelling the North Coast 500 or exploring the far north Highlands. Even without doing the full tour, the front cave and waterfall chamber are dramatic enough. With the paid tour, you get a bit of adventure and insight into its geology. Just be prepared for the terrain and the weather to possibly disrupt plans.

Great stop whilst in the area, nice but challenging walk down and the up from the cave, entry into the cave to view the waterfall is free, if you want to go further in by boat then that is chargeable.

It was an incredible tour and I liked the beautiful waterfall. Great day out for all the family!

Beautiful castle and walled garden. The castle felt very homely and had so many personal effects of the late Queen Mother. The walled garden is a beautiful delight. There’s also a cafe on site and shop. Well worth a visit

A castle on the outside but very homely inside. The late Queen Mother lived very simply if the small dining room and servery are anything to go by. The upstairs and other areas are still private of course and King Charles does spend a few days here every year. I liked to hear about Britannia mooring offshore and the royal party being ferried to the jetty and walking up the path to the front door. I bet they had a car waiting if it rained. The animal shed was slightly off. Although it was interesting to learn the history of the breeds I don't need to see them cooped up. The gardens were stunning. It never ceases to amaze me what will grow in the far north of the UK when given shelter behind walls.

Lovely castle and gardens. The stories about the history and Queen Mother were great. I think the entrance fee is a bit high but overall a good day.

Lovely gardens and home. The docents are remarkable, especially Nancy, who knew the Queen Mother and tended to her during the queens stays each year. She made the visit heartwarming as did all the docents ❤️

Interesting Castle and contents previously owed and loved by the late Queen Mother. King Charles still visit's the castle and enjoys time there. Plenty of parking space and motorhomes welcome. Enjoyed my time here and a nice café and facilities. Well worth a look while on the North Coast of Scotland..👍

Right from arriving to park the motorhome the staff were all incredibly friendly and helpful . Nancy was a star at the castle entrance but everyone was so helpful and told stories of the late queen mother . In every room . This was more like a big house rather than a castle .

A very interesting castle, still in royal use by the King. Very friendly staff, with insights into the life of the Queen Mother, and who take time to explain the history of the rooms. It is a shame that only 2 floors of the castle are visitable but as it is still used, there are still areas that are private, and no photography is allowed inside. The walled garden is very pretty - it would be nice for some of the thicker and taller plants to have a more visible name tag though, and the kids loved the animal centre, getting up close to rabbits, sheep, chickens and pigs. There is a nice tea room, very reasonably priced with tables inside and out. To note: cash is not accepted, all payments for visits and food are card only.

Woe that you get stuck behind a campervan on the single track road to it, but it's definitely worth a visit. It can be a little bit breezy though, so make sure you've got plenty of rocks in your pockets for ballast

Stunning scenery and beautiful views of North Sea. It is the most northern part of mainland Britain. Also, it's the best place to see northern lights.

Me and the wife camp in the carpark ever year for our anniversary it our favourite place to be we proper love it there

The light post is nice but the real gem is the viewpoint which is about a min walk and that offers you stunning 360 views

We came here in the evening and it was peaceful and quiet so that we were able to sit quietly and observe some beautiful birds. I saw my favourite bird puffins and other birds like red-throated diver, razorbill, fulmar and gannet. Definitely worth visiting!!

The most northerly place on the British mainland, took the opportunity to visit as was in the area working and was pleasantly surprised and glad I took the time out. seeing Nature at its rawest was very welcome. we went out of season so it wasn't busy at all. the Puffins were not out, so took in the light house and out buildings. Overall a very enjoyable couple of hours or so.

Beautiful landmark. John O'Groates is more popular but this one is the most northerly point of mainland Britain. That's why I went there with my son. Great scenery leading upto it. Lakes on the way. Car park is very cheap. Think I paid £1. Can pay by card. Phone signal works here.

Awesome spot. Bit tight for parking in the peak however we managed. Unique looking lighthouse and plenty of cool walks around. My partner even managed to spot a seal lazing about on a rock near the stacks.

Amazing location, not many people can make it due to the distance from either South of Scotland or England/Wales etc. Bending the lighthouse (1min walk) beautiful scenes of the ocean (NorthSea) and if extremely fortunate, you’ll be able to spot the Orcas and Dolphins. There’s a gorgeous looking Cliff to the front left side of the lighthouse which looks like it belongs on the discovery channels. You’ll know what I mean when you visit. All the best. Simon.

Nice wee drive along the coast to get up to the car park. The lighthouse itself, its a lighthouse! Fenced off a couple of signs telling you about it, generally in that respect maybe not some would expect. What does make the whole effort worthwhile is the views you get long the coast and the Duncansby Stacks!!

Beautiful view point to blow away the cobwebs! Keep an eye out for seals bobbing their noses out the water. Wear good footwear as it can be wet and a bit boggy. Worth a visit.

Duncansby Cliffs near John O’ Groats are a breathtaking sight, with towering sea stacks and dramatic coastal views. It’s definitely an epic stop, like a scene out of a Jurassic Park movie. The cliffs offer a wild, prehistoric vibe, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers seeking solitude and cinematic landscapes. A must see on any Scottish road trip.

Just a stone’s throw frae the Duncansby Head Lighthouse lie the mighty Duncansby Stacks – ancient sea stacks carved out by centuries o’ waves batterin’ the cliffs. They rise like jagged giants from the North Sea, standin’ proud against the ever-changin’ sky. This wild and windswept corner o’ Caithness is steeped in natural drama and quiet beauty. We made our way to the lighthouse first, a bonnie wee spot in itself, then wandered over tae the stacks – only a short stroll away, really. It was one of those rare Highland days: no rain, mind ye, though the skies were a touch gloomy. But that only added to the magic – so still, so peaceful. Nae crowds, nae noise – just the sound of seabirds, wind, and waves crashin’ below. You can walk for miles along the cliff paths, takin’ in views that’ll stop ye in your tracks. So if you’re headin’ that way, pack a good pair of boots, a sturdy raincoat (just in case – ye never know in Scotland!), and off ye go. It's the kind of place that gets into your soul, quiet and mighty all at once.

Nice place to visit and see the sea stacks, not a clear day for us a bit rainy but worth the effort, free parking not far to walk and some birds to see as well

My family and I enjoyed our visit today. Didn’t have a chance to see leaping salmon but liked the falls and tge walking trails. Also enjoyed a good coffee at the cafe with some cake.

A wonderful place to stop. The parking payment service is a mess. They use Ring Go which didn’t work when we were there. But once parked and paid we had one of the best coffees and cakes of our trip. We went down to the falls and were fortunate to see salmon attempting to swim up the falls. Once in a lifetime experience to see for us city folk

The walk is a little steep , Beautiful place , chances to see salmon beautiful surroundings a very large car park with a play area , cafe , toilets

Look out for the cameras taking your reg and locals park for free but everyone else has to pay .Bollocks to falls of shin . Only good thing was the walk doon to see the mighty salmon jumping up the falls .The restaurant was closed .very clean toilets 50p a go .

Walked the riverside trail but were disappointed as we didn’t spot any salmon leaping. Had lunch at the Salt and Salmon Company then walked back to the zigzag path overlooking the car park. We stood patiently and saw about 15 salmon leap within 45 minutes at the falls. Probably not all salmon, a few were quite small. Visited 26th Oct.

We were there maybe 10 minutes and saw 3 salmons leaping. Amazing place

Great watching the salmon leap. We stayed overnight in our campervan. Nice peaceful night but very over priced. Everything is an extra charge on top of parking fee.