Where it all began...
Who was Jan De Groot?
Jan de Groot was a Dutchman who migrated to Scotland during the reign of King James IV (1488–1513). He is remembered primarily for running a ferry service between the Scottish mainland and the Orkney Islands, a route that was vital for travel and trade at the time. His fare for the crossing was two pence, and the coin used for this payment became known as a "groat", a term that would later contribute to the famous name John O’Groats.
A Dispute Among His Sons
Jan de Groot had seven sons, and as they grew older, a dispute arose about who should hold precedence in family matters. To prevent conflict, he devised a clever and diplomatic solution—he constructed an octagonal house that featured eight doors, allowing each son (along with Jan himself) to enter from his own entrance, eliminating any sense of hierarchy. This unique feature is still present in the design of the Inn today! Inside, he placed a large, eight-sided table, further ensuring that no one sat at the "head" and that every son had an equal place in family discussions.
Legacy and Influence
The story of Jan de Groot and his fair-minded resolution to family disputes became well-known, and over time, his name evolved into John O’Groats, which is now recognised as one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks. Situated at the northernmost tip of mainland Britain, John O’Groats is often associated with long-distance journeys, as it forms one end of the famous Land’s End to John O’Groats route, a journey covering the length of Britain from Cornwall to Scotland.
His tombstone can still be seen in Canisbay churchyard, and to preserve this piece of history, it has been placed inside the entrance porch of the church for protection. Despite being a simple ferry operator, his influence on Scottish legend and geography has been remarkable, ensuring that his name lives on.
A Walk Through the Last 150 Years
The Inn has stood the test of time, evolving while maintaining its deep connection to the history and spirit of John O’Groats. Have you ever visited this iconic location? Check out our luxury accommodation and be part of something historic.
