Standard rooms at the Ulbster Arms Hotel near Thurso

Welcome to the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Halkirk, a warm and welcoming hotel near Thurso on the banks of the river.

Our standard rooms are found inside our original 1878 house, and they’re perfect for guests who enjoy a traditional atmosphere with modern comforts. With eight standard rooms in total, you’ll find two small doubles and six standard doubles. Each features a comfortable double bed, an ensuite bath and/or shower, and modern essentials to make travel simple. And if you’re travelling by electric car, we’ve also got three of the fastest chargers in the Highlands.

So, whether you are touring Caithness, considering the John O’Groats to Lands End challenge, working nearby, or searching for quiet places to stay near Thurso, we offer the perfect choice with our standard rooms.

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A Standard Room type in the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Caithness with a double bed and flat screen TV

Comfort and character in every stay

When you choose a standard room at the Ulbster Arms Hotel, you choose the classic feel of a Scottish hotel built over 140 years ago. The main house remains traditional in layout and style, with thick walls, high ceilings, and period charm at every turn. Yet, inside each room, you’ll find fresh décor, cosy beds, quiet spaces to unwind, and the convenience of ensuite facilities. All in all, it’s the perfect blend of history and homely comfort.

And because sleep is crucial, every standard room features comfortable bedding and blackout curtains, too. Because after a day enjoying the Scottish outdoors, there’s nothing better than returning to a soft bed, a hot shower, and a peaceful night’s rest. And that’s exactly what you’ll find at the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Caithness.

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Continental hotel breakfast

What's included in our standard rooms?

Each standard room at The Ulbster Arms Hotel comes with everything you need for a relaxed and comfortable stay. This includes:

  • Ensuite bath and/or shower room with complimentary toiletries
  • Tea and coffee-making facilities
  • TV and high-speed Wi-Fi
  • Soft towels, fresh linens, and daily housekeeping
  • Free private parking in our car park to the rear of the hotel

Breakfast is always included, too, so guests can enjoy a full Scottish breakfast made fresh each morning. There’s also fruit, yoghurt, cereal, and juice available. So, whether you’re heading out early for work or taking your time over your coffee, the day starts as smoothly as possible.

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Close up of bed detail at the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Caithness. Scottish Highlands Accommodation

Relaxed evenings and Highland dining

After exploring Caithness or the nearby Highlands, walk downstairs to the Ulbster Arms Lounge Bar for a drink, sit by the fire in the library, or enjoy dinner in our restaurant. You don’t ever need to leave the building, which is ideal during winter weather or after a long day of sightseeing. Friendly staff, hearty meals, and quiet corners create the perfect end to the day, no matter the time of year.

And during summer, guests can enjoy our beer garden, watching the evening light stretch across the village. Then, when you’re ready to rest, your Ulbster Arms standard room is just a few steps away. And a good night’s sleep awaits.

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Haggis Neeps and Tatties
Testimonials

The library was a very relaxing after-dinner lounge and the smoked haddock breakfast a delight as was our server.

The best staff who will look after you, great food in the best 4 restaurant , really well furnished rooms with comfortable beds for a great nights sleep. Access to the best salmon fishing in Scotland . A friendly atmosphere and I would thoroughly recommend.

Lovely stay at Ulbster arms. Room was comfortable, staff were welcoming and the restaurant was great! Exceptional value for money, cannot recommend enough.

Absolutely stunning meal here at the weekend. Excellent service, great food and high standards. Lovely setting. Would recommend highly.

After many years hoping , with good friends I finally got my first opportunity to visit for an angling trip last week of season. I stayed in a chalet which was spotless each day no matter how bad I I had managed to leave it.. The food was exceptional, no other words and its testimony how many non fishers are in every day from late afternoon dining.

Fishing was all the more made special by morning encouragement from Geordie, The two Pats and all the rest of the team that were always around to see everyone off…

Finally I cant point out that not one staff member that was nothing but professional and charming.. Its a small hotel operation at first glance, but its a much bigger operation than you imagine. It gets everything right and I cant wait to return. Whether as angler or just a resident guest… quite excellent.. All I can say.. They are very good at what they do and can feel proud …

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Hotel facilities made for easy travel

As a standard room guest, you’ll have direct access to all Ulbster Arms Hotel facilities. Enjoy dinner in our restaurant, relax in the lounge bar, or spend a quiet hour in our cosy library. During warmer days, our beer garden offers fresh air and a peaceful place to sit outdoors. Because everything is under one roof, evenings feel relaxed, warm, and unhurried.

If you need family-friendly accommodation, we also offer dedicated rooms for larger groups and visiting families. View our family rooms here, located both in the main hotel and our quiet private wing.

A hotel near Thurso with easy access

One of the reasons so many guests return to the Ulbster Arms is our location. We are only a short drive from Thurso, Wick, Scrabster Harbour, and Dounreay, which makes travel simple whether you are working in the area or exploring the Highlands. Rather than staying in a busy town, guests enjoy the peace of Halkirk, then reach Thurso in minutes when needed.

Drivers love the convenience of free parking beside the hotel, too, which helps after long journeys across Caithness. If you’re continuing along the North Coast, the Ulbster Arm’s location is a perfect overnight stop, with a warm bed, a hot meal, and an early breakfast ready when morning comes.

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A dog friendly hotel in Caithness

If you are travelling with a four-legged companion, you’ll be pleased to know the Ulbster Arms is a dog-friendly hotel in Scotland. Dogs are welcome in most standard rooms and in designated public areas. With riverside walks nearby and easy outdoor access, it’s a sfimple place to relax with pets. Just let us know when booking so we can reserve an appropriate room.

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A dog sits by the fire in the hotel being patted by it's owner.

Who our standard rooms suit best

Our standard rooms are popular with travellers who prefer comfort without complications. They suit:

  • Couples exploring Caithness and the NC500
  • Solo travellers needing reliable accommodation near Thurso
  • Business guests working in Wick, Scrabster, or Dounreay
  • Dog owners looking for dog friendly hotels Scotland side of the Highlands
  • Guests who love the feel of a traditional hotel set in a quiet village

Because the main house offers easy access to dining, check-in, and parking, these rooms remove the stress from travel. Everything you need is within reach.

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A couple hiking in the summer

A calm Highland base for your journey

Many travellers stay with us as part of a Highland road trip or a stop on the NC500. Others stay for work, family holidays, or solo journeys. Whatever brings you north, our standrd rooms provide a calm base to return to. With good beds, hot showers, and breakfast ready in the morning, the essentials are covered with ease.

If you’re continuing further into the Highlands, our friendly staff can help with directions, local tips, and travel information. Whether you’re heading to John O’Groats, Orkney, Sutherland, or the west coast, you’ll start the journey rested and ready.

Book a standard room at the Ulbster Arms

If you’re looking for a traditional hotel near Thurso with warm hospitality and reliable comfort, our standard rooms are the ideal choice. Book online in minutes, or call our helpful team if you’d like to ask about room types, dog friendly stays, or longer visits. Whatever you need, we’re here to help.

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Ulbster Arms Hotel Map

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FAQs: Standard Rooms at the Ulbster Arms Hotel

How many standard rooms does the Ulbster Arms Hotel have?

The Ulbster Arms Hotel has 8 Standard Rooms in total. These include 2 Small Doubles and 6 Doubles. All are located in the original 1878 main house building, giving them a traditional Highland hotel character that the lodge buildings don’t replicate.

What is the difference between a Standard Room and other room types at the Ulbster Arms?

Standard Rooms are located in the original main house and have a classic, traditional feel with period character. They are the most affordable room type at the hotel. Premium Rooms offer more space and upgraded furnishings, while Executive Rooms and Dale Rooms are located in separate lodge buildings with additional living space.

Do the standard rooms have ensuite bathrooms?

Yes. All Standard Rooms at the Ulbster Arms Hotel include an ensuite bath and/or shower room with complimentary toiletries. Soft towels and fresh linens are provided, with daily housekeeping included throughout your stay.

Is breakfast included with a standard room booking?

Yes, a full Scottish breakfast is included with every standard room booking. This includes a cooked option alongside fresh fruit, yoghurt, cereal, and juice, served each morning in the main hotel building. Early breakfast can be arranged on request for guests with site visits or early starts.

Are standard rooms at the Ulbster Arms dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome in most standard rooms at the Ulbster Arms Hotel. The riverside location and surrounding Caithness countryside provide excellent walking close to the hotel. Let the team know you’re travelling with a dog at the time of booking so they can reserve the right room.

Do standard rooms have a workspace for business travellers?

Yes. Every standard room includes a dedicated desk area and high-speed Wi-Fi, making them a practical choice for business travellers working in the Thurso, Wick, or Dounreay area. The main house location also gives direct access to the hotel’s lounge, library, and restaurant without needing to go outside.

What views do the standard rooms have?

Standard Rooms in the main house offer views of either the River Thurso or Halkirk Church and its historic clock tower, depending on which room you’re in. Both are pleasant outlooks in a quiet village setting.

Is there parking at the Ulbster Arms Hotel for standard room guests?

Yes. Free private parking is available for all guests in the car park to the rear of the hotel. This is suitable for cars, and the hotel also has three of the fastest EV chargers in the Highlands on site for electric vehicle users.

Can I upgrade from a standard room after booking?

Yes. If you’d like to upgrade to a Premium RoomExecutive Room, or one of the Dale Rooms, contact the hotel team directly on 01847 831 641 and they’ll check availability and arrange it for you.