Understand

John o'Groats, an intriguing name for a place, has an interesting origin. It is named after a Dutchman named Jan de Groot, who obtained a grant for the ferry from the Scottish mainland to the recently acquired Orkney islands in 1496. Back then, Orkney was under the control of Norway, but it had just been acquired by Scotland. This grant was given by none other than the Scottish King James IV himself. So, next time you visit John o'Groats, remember the Dutchman who played a crucial role in its history!

Get in

Embarking on a journey to John o'Groats is an exhilarating experience. The best way to reach this remote destination is by road. Follow the picturesque A99, which branches from the main A9 Inverness to Thurso road at the village of Latheron. If you're coming from the Orkney Islands, take the A939 heading due east from Thurso. The route to John o'Groats might be a long one, especially if you're traveling from the Central Belt. Consider the grand adventure ahead and relish the approximately 280-mile (450km) drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh. This distance is similar to traveling to the Midlands of England. From the Central Belt to Inverness, enjoy a scenic 2.5-3 hour drive, followed by another 2-hour journey to Caithness, where the A9 becomes a charming rural single carriageway.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first most popular food in the United Kingdom is Fish and Chips. This classic dish consists of battered and fried fish, typically cod or haddock, served with hot, crispy French fries. The fish is coated in a light, crunchy batter that contrasts with the tender, flaky fish inside. It's often accompanied by a side of mushy peas or tartar sauce for added flavor.

The second most popular food in the United Kingdom is Full English Breakfast. This hearty meal is typically enjoyed on weekends and includes bacon, sausages, eggs (often scrambled or fried), black pudding, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans, and toast or fried bread. Sometimes, it can also include kippers (smoked herring) or haggis (a Scottish specialty made of sheep's heart, liver, and lungs).

The third most popular food in the United Kingdom is Shepherd's Pie. This traditional comfort food is made with minced lamb (or beef) mixed with onions, carrots, and sometimes celery, forming a savory meat mixture. This mixture is then topped with a layer of mashed potatoes and baked until the potato is golden brown. Some recipes may also include a layer of cheese or breadcrumbs on top for added flavor and texture.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing