CASE STUDY
See how things have changed
15 years of transformation
John O'Groats
From weary to world-class – the changing face of John O’Groats
A destination synonymous with intrepid expeditions, the UK’s most famous northerly mainland village John O’Groats is celebrating its own epic 15-year journey.
On 9 September 2009, local residents, business owners, and private and public sector representatives gathered to launch a masterplan for the future. The vision was to create an experience more in fitting with its national status and stunning coastline location – for both locals and visitors alike.
Many of that same group, alongside some new faces, are marking the anniversary in what is a much-changed village from the one which held the unenviable title of "Carbuncle of the Year’.
John O’Groats today
Take a look at the transformation at John O’Groats. It's testament to the power of community, collaboration, and the belief that even the most challenging situations can be turned around with vision and determination.
With the masterplan providing the blueprint, the redevelopment has attracted millions of pounds in investment through private, public and community-led projects.
Key milestones include:
- the renovation of the Inn and more than 20 new lodges built
- upgrade of Journey’s End Café, now known as Cafe Groats
- redevelopment of the nearby Caberfeidh Guest House
- development of a community-led car park with a fund which has been instrumental in financing local development
- investment in the public realm, including a network of pathways, wifi, free public toilets, and art installations
- creation of a permanent signpost
- refreshed retail offering including Stacks deli and bakery, ice-cream from Flavours, and world-renowned jeweller Ortak
- expansion of John O’Groats Brewery into the Last House
- development of the 8 Doors Distillery, tasting room and cafe
- community purchase and re-development of the John O’Groats Mill
We've invested just over £3m across a number of these projects.
Where it started
The refurbishment of the John O'Groat's Inn and creation of accommodation lodges started in 2009.
8 doors
Local couple Derek and Kerry Campbell chose John O'Groats as home to their small independent distillery. 8-Doors distillery has transformed what was a derelict site into a vibrant hub, featuring a distillery, visitor centre, and a warehouse.
Kerry explains why the location is so special.
John O'Groats Mill
This community-led project has secured £4.9m to restore one of the last water-powered grain mills in Scotland.
John O'Groats sign
Now a permanent and free feature, it's a great place to mark your journey to John O'Groats. You'll find there's so much more to do now with year round facilities.
Visit John O'Groats website
Local ambition
Andrew Mowat is a lifelong resident, businessman, and treasurer of the development trust. He runs a number of facilities for visitors including Café Groats.
He says the collaboration between the community with its development fund, HIE, the Highland Council, private owners Heritage GB and JOG 2 has enabled enormous change.
Hear more in our interview.
What’s next?
Looking ahead, the community remains committed to building on this momentum. While there is a fully operational harbour, locals would like to see the return of the ferry service to Orkney and associated tours. A revival could potentially be driven through community ownership.
There are also community aspirations to develop affordable housing and enhanced visitor facilities. These initiatives are aimed at ensuring that John O'Groats continues to thrive for generations to come.
The John O'Groats Development Trust, with some help from Caithness Voluntary Group is fund-raising to improve the local children's playpark. Find out more.
John O'Groats is a fantastic example of place-based development. Public, private and community commitment have worked together - identifying opportunities, attracting and maximising investment, improving facilities and creating jobs.Hilary Budge, senior development manager, HIE
Some more organisations making a difference in the Highlands and Islands
Could you benefit from our support
Find out more about IMPACT30 and our other support programmes
Browse all support services
We support businesses, communities and social enterprises through a range of support services, including advice, funding, events and property. Find out how we can help you.
HIE's Innovation Service
HIE's innovation service can provide you with expert advice and funding to help you get your ideas off the ground.
Northern Innovation Hub
Wide range of business support and funding, including business development, events, training and one-to-one workshops.