The Dunnet Estate, Thurso

Highland. Sleeps up to 18

The Dunnet Estate holds a magnificent location on the north coast of the Scottish Highlands, set on Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of the UK mainland. The 2,000 acre estate boasts remarkable coastal views in all directions and a makes a truly extraordinary setting for a family get-together or special occasion stay. While guests will enjoy total tranquility and privacy, a variety of helpful amenities, including supermarkets and restaurants, can be found in the nearby town of Thurso, less than a twenty-minute drive away.

The home boasts a varied and fascinating history, originally completed in 1906 by Admiral Sir Edwyn Alexander-Sinclair, notable for firing the first shots of the Battle of Jutland. In 1948, the Estate was purchased by Commander Clare and Lady Doris Vyner, a close friend of Elizabeth, HRH the Queen Mother, and invited her to stay at the house in 1953 after the death of her husband, King George VI. During her stay, she spotted Barrogill Castle from one of the upstairs windows, she arranged to view and purchase the dilapidated castle, later renaming it the Castle of Mey, its original name. This story was even touched upon in the first series of the popular tv show, The Crown. Since then the home has been hotel, a private residence and even nearly became a recording studio for Led Zeppelin. The house gradually fell into a state of disrepair until it was eventually purchased by its current owners who have lovingly restored and transformed the house into the beautiful home that it is today.

The ground floor is home to the fabulous entertaining spaces which comprise of the elegant sitting room, library, games room and formal dining room which can comfortably seat up to twenty guests. The kitchen comes fully-equipped with all the tools you could possibly need to create delicious meals, while a second caterers’ kitchen is available for those who wish to really relax and hire in the professionals! The Dunnet Estate can comfortably accommodate up to eighteen guests across the nine beautifully-appointed bedrooms, seven of which feature en-suite facilities, while the remaining two share the use of a fantastic family bathroom. On request, four of the bedrooms can be set up with twin beds, making them ideal for siblings or friends to share.

Outside, wonderful views can be enjoyed from every direction: south to Dunnet Bay, west to Peedie Sands beach which is a short walk away, north to Dunnet head and east to St John’s loch and the Castle of Mey. Any children in the group will enjoy exploring, playing games, and having yummy picnics in the large grounds.

The Dunnet Estate is situated on the north coast of the Scottish Highlands, while guests will enjoy the tranquil position, helpful amenities can be found in the village of Castletown, less than 10-minutes away. A wider variety of shops and restaurants can be found in the town of Thurso, less than a 20-minute drive away. For those travelling from further afield, Inverness Airport is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive away. A day trip to Orkney can also be easily arranged from the house.

There is plenty for guests to see, do and explore in the surrounding area. Hike across the Estate to the beautiful Peedie Sands or Dunnet Bay Beaches, spend perfect days swimming, surfing and watching the sun set over the Atlantic. For history enthusiasts, the Castle & Gardens of Mey and Old Keiss Castle are well worth a visit and both less than a 30-minute drive away. Any keen whisky or gin drinkers will enjoy informative tours of the Wolfburn Single Malt Distillery and the Dunnet Bay Spirits Distillery, both less than 20-minutes away, be sure to book in advance to secure tickets. Finally, no trip to this remarkable part of Scotland would be complete without a visit to John o’Groats to have a picture taken next to the iconic signpost, just a 20-minute drive away. From here, enjoy a 3km coastal walk to Duncansby Head Lighthouse and admire the truly out of this world scenery.