John O'Groats Mill

Bringing the last working watermill in Caithness back into vibrant use at the heart of the community

This last of the great Caithness corn mills stands prominently at the northernmost tip of mainland Scotland. Originally dating from 1750, a further phase of development in 1901 resulted in the L-shaped, three-storey building that exists today. The mill ceased operation in 2001 and lay unused for 20 years, but was otherwise intact, with machinery in situ and largely in working order. The entire mill complex holds particular meaning for the community, as it has been a focal point for this remote community to gather for centuries. The wider site includes the mill pond, a large enclosed vertical overshot wheel, a kiln, a grain store, and a workshop. There is also an older mill and stables, which had already been converted into holiday cottages prior to this project.

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. The Trust's ambition was to develop the mill as a venue that would serve both local and visitor interests – an event and community meeting space, combined with a visitor attraction. Letting of the existing holiday cottages was part of the revenue mix, and plans for the mill enhanced the visitor offering at John O’Groats. Capital works comprised restoration of the existing buildings, the insertion of a lift and a single-storey glazed extension with a ‘green roof’ and viewing deck.

The AHF has supported this project with two grants since 2018, initially contributing to the cost of design team fees to help make the case for acquisition funds from the Scottish Land Fund. The building was successfully acquired in 2020 and the AHF subsequently assisted with project development costs, including specialist surveys necessary to support the Trust in obtaining planning permission and listed building consent. The Trust went on to successfully make the case to capital funders, including The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund.

Works commenced on site in autumn 2023 and the project completed in spring 2025, with the building open to visitors for the summer season.

AHF Funding

Project Development Grant - £7,360 (2018)

Project Development Grant - £30,000 (2021)

Image Credits

The John O'Groats Mill