The Queen Mother fell in love with the Castle and Gardens of Mey on the north coast of Caithness in Scotland when she saw it for the first time in 1952 - and little wonder. This enchanting edifice and crumbling garden had a magic about them that mesmerised the then mourning royal and she acquired it, oversaw its restoration and created the beautiful gardens you see today. Outside you will find a traditional Scottish walled garden with fruit and vegetables and herbaceous plants which includes the rose-strewn Shell Garden where her Majesty would sometimes sit in the sun with her corgis. Don't miss the castle tour with lots of fascinating information about how the Queen Mother would retreat here every summer - her old blue coat and walking shoes are still hung by the door.
