Information on accommodation available on this holiday.

Visit the Castle of Mey, where the The Queen Mother could relax and be herself.

Choose from Scotsell's recommended hotels - you'll be glad to take your time to visit the Castle of Mey and explore this amazing area for at least a day or two, perhaps before or after a visit to Orkney.

This 'Jewel of the North' is located 6 miles west of John O'Groats about 400 metres from the shore, about 15 miles east of Thurso. Exposed to all the wild elements of the Pentland Firth it is also blessed with magnificent views of the Orkney Isles.

The Queen Mother loved the Castle of Mey, her private Scottish holiday home. The Castle is not large, and there is a warmth and intimacy about it. Guides, some of whom worked for The Queen Mother and knew her well, have fascinating reflections and anecdotes. A visit to the Castle will show you the home she created. She called it her heaven on earth. The wonderful walled garden, designed by The Queen Mother, is a real 'find'.

Constructed on a z-plan, the castle was built between 1566 and 1572. Seen from a distance, its turreted aspect is very striking. The jutting towers and corbelled turrets are typical of that period of the 16th century, particularly the chequered character of the corbelling of the smaller turrets. The parapet of the large turret is supported on winged cherub heads as corbels, similar to those on Carberry Tower, Midlothian.

Normal opening times for The Castle and Gardens of Mey are from 1 May to 17 October 2010 inclusive (and Easter 2-5 April) but will be closed from 29 July to 9 August inclusive and will also be closed on 6, 7 and 8 October 2010. The castle is open every day from 10.30 am until last admission at 4.00 pm.

Tel. 01847 851 473, www.castleofmey.org.uk