Castle and Gardens of Mey

The most northerly castle on the Scottish mainland, it was built between 1566 and 1572. The castle was acquired by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1952 and renovated and restored by her. For almost 50 years she spent every summer here. Sheltered by a 12-foot high wall from fierce winds and salt spray, this traditional two acre garden is a delight with its generous herbaceous borders and beds full of scented roses. The immaculate kitchen garden grows a wide variety of fruit and vegetables. Woodland walks, castle shop, tearoom and Animal Centre.