Set on Dunnet Head and overlooking a sweep of beaches, distant islands and moorland, the 1,800-acre House of the Northern Gate in Scotland’s far north has reopened to travelers as a restored 5-star estate.
© House of the Northern Gate
Originally completed in 1906, the estate has seen varied lives: a private residence that once hosted Elizabeth, the Queen Mother; a hotel; and even nearly became a recording studio for the rock band Led Zeppelin. In 2018 the Dunnett family acquired the property and carried out a careful restoration using local craftsmen and regional materials.
The renovation emphasized authentic details such as Caithness stone and salvaged local slate while adding modern amenities. The estate now features a fitness center, cinema room, games room, a study and a walled garden. Accommodation is arranged for up to 18 guests, with high-end textiles and a range of bespoke services: spa treatments, itinerary planning, luxury transfers, private yoga instruction and fully catered stays with a personal chef.
© House of the Northern Gate
Despite its remote feel, the estate offers many activities. Guests can join tours and tastings at nearby whisky and gin distilleries, take guided excursions throughout the region, visit historic castles and Iron Age brochs, or set out on day trips to view Viking tombs. Watersports are plentiful—canoeing, paddleboarding and surfing are all available, with a surf school operating on Dunnet Bay.
Land activities include golf on renowned local links such as Royal Dornoch, driven shoots across the moorland and salmon fishing on the celebrated Thurso River. On the estate itself, visitors can explore three lochs, a broad beach and a hidden cave, all set within the rugged beauty of Scotland’s northern Highlands.