The true edge of the world, or at least mainland Britain, can be found in Thurso which bills itself as the Gateway to the Orkney Isles.

Ferries run from the port in Thurso to Stromness on the main Orkney Isle, giving access to Kirkwall further inland. Thurso itself is also the gateway to the famous John o’Groats just up the coast from the town.

For the pedantic amongst you, we really should call it Gateway to Dunnet Head which is strictly the most northerly place in Britain, with John o’Groats being the most northerly settlement.

Facilities are a little limited in Thurso, but there are plenty of hotels including The Station Hotel and the The Royal Hotel Thurso, both central to the town. Mrs. Patterson