Project of the week

This last of the great Caithness corn mills stands prominently at the northernmost tip of mainland Scotland. The Houston family operated mills on this site from 1750 until the current mill ceased operation in 2001. A 1901 redevelopment resulted in the L-shaped, three-storey building that exists today. Having lain unused for 20 years, it was clear that without a new use this iconic building would slowly deteriorate and be lost forever.

For many years, there had been efforts to explore options for the restoration of John O’Groats Mill, and, in 2017, a new trust was formed to develop a community-led solution. The John O’Groats Mill Trust's ambition was to develop the building as a venue that would serve the interests of both the local community and visitors alike.

Following the repair and extension of John O’Groats Mill, May 2025 saw its opening as a brand new heritage visitor attraction and community venue. Open from April to October, the restored mill is fitted with artefacts and museum displays, and provides fun for all the family, with plenty of activities and public events on offer throughout the year.

“The mill is very close to the hearts of our rural community who have supported its re-development right from the start. We have been delighted with the support from the Architectural Heritage Fund and all our funders who enabled this project to turn an unused historic watermill into a vibrant community asset.”

Rognvald Brown, Chairman of the John O’Groats Mill Trust