Despite the popularity and fame of John O'Groats, Dunnet Head is actually the most northerly point of mainland Britain so it is worth a visit for this reason alone, but it has plenty more to offer too.
Beyond Castletown is Dunnet Bay. On one side of the road you will see Dunnet Forest, with well-marked forest walks, and on the other side is Dunnet Beach and campsite. With all this going, it is often quite busy here, although there are car parks at either end of the beach as well as one or two along its length.
This impressive sweep of beautiful sand, backed by dunes, offers all the usual delights of beaches that children and adults alike enjoy, and it is also a popular surfing beach.
After the beach, take the left turn at Dunnet onto the A855, signposted to Dunnet Head. It is still quite a way from here and a little windy but stick with it until you reach the large car park at Dunnet Head.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse is close to the car park but it is still operational and not open to the public. Follow the path past the buildings to the viewing area close to the edge of the cliffs.
From here, depending on the season, you can watch various sea birds including the always popular puffins.
To get to the point of the headland, follow the path back towards the car park and then walk around the other side of the lighthouse and out to the end of the headland. On a clear day you can enjoy views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Isles.
Notes for visitors with limited mobility:
It is possible to park right at the edge of the beach at Dunnet Bay, with a good view across the beach. At Dunnet Head there is a substantial car park and wheelchair accessible footpath towards the enclosed edge of the cliffs where you can watch puffins flying around.