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Where to stay on the North Coast 500

Most travellers overnight in two or three places rather than one, and the far north is where drivers most often get it wrong. Skipping Caithness means a long, tiring day between Ullapool and John O’Groats, and missing some of the best coastline on the entire route.

Halkirk sits just inland from Thurso, about 20 minutes off the coastal loop, which makes it a restful stop after a day of driving. From the Ulbster Arms Hotel, Dunnet Head, mainland Britain’s true most northerly point, is 30 minutes away. The famous John O’Groats is 45 minutes away, Duncansby Head and its sea stacks are 50, and the Castle of Mey the same.

So, if you want a hotel on the NC500 route that is close to the sights but not on top of the road, this is the sweet spot. It is also the ideal overnight stop before the Orkney ferry at Scrabster.

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Dunnet Head Lighthouse aerial view - the most northern point in the UK.

Tackling the Northern Stretch of the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 loops 516 miles around the Highlands, from Inverness through Caithness and back again, past rugged coastline, castles, and small fishing villages. Most travellers take five to seven days, which means your NC500 accommodation choices shape every driving day.

The Ulbster Arms is one of the best-placed hotels on the route. Why? Firstly, it’s a 4-star riverside hotel in Halkirk, Caithness, on the quieter northern stretch. It also boasts six of the fastest EV chargers in the Highlands, dog-friendly rooms, and private parking. Not to mention one of the best restaurants in the region.

And whether you need one night, a family stopover, or a dog-friendly stopover, here is why the Ulbster Arms Hotel is the perfect place to break up your NC500 journey.

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An aerial view of the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Halkirk, premium Scottish Highlands Accommodation, showing its rural landscape and location at sunset.

Explore the Caithness section of the NC500 route

This northern stretch of the North Coast 500 runs from Dunbeath to Dounreay, weaving through dramatic cliffs, fishing harbours and magnificent open country.

Here are a few highlights while staying with the Ulbster Arms Hotel:

  • Fishing and river walks: start your day on the River Thurso, famous for its salmon fishing, then take a gentle riverside stroll before dinner in ourrestaurant.
  • Golf with a sea view: Thurso and Wick both have welcoming golf clubs with sweeping coastal fairways. However, visitor tee times need a little planning, so book ahead.
  • Local history: from Norse roots to royal connections at the Castle of Mey, Caithness is full of stories. The Wick Heritage Centre is an excellent rainy-day option, too.
  • Nearby towns: Halkirk, Thurso and Wick each offer something different, from harbours and traditional pubs to local shops, and all three are a short drive from the Ulbster Arms Hotel.

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A family-friendly NC500 base

The North Coast 500 with kids works beautifully in the far north, because you can build day-length loops instead of long transit days. Dunnet Head’s lighthouse and clifftop puffins are a hit with older children, the sandy beaches at Dunnet Bay and Sinclair’s Bay handle any weather, and John O’Groats and the Duncansby Stacks deliver proper “how is this in Britain” moments.

Back at the Ulbster Arms Hotel, we have excellent family rooms, a restaurant that welcomes children, and space to unwind after the drive.

Dog-friendly hotels on the NC500: bring your best friend

The far north is one of the best sections of the whole route for dogs: empty beaches, cliff paths and barely a crowd in sight. As a dog-friendly hotel, the Ulbster Arms has dog-friendly rooms and excellent walks straight from Halkirk.

And just as importantly, there’s a drying room, gear storage, and a warm bar waiting when you both get back.

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Why stay at Ulbster Arms on the NC500 route?

Firstly, the Ulbster Arms Hotel enjoys a central location in Halkirk, Caithness, right on the route’s northern stretch. Secondly, we offer traditional, comfortable hotel rooms and dog-friendly accommodation options, exactly as you would expect from a 4-star hotel. We also serve fresh, locally sourced food in our restaurant and bar, perfect after a day of driving and exploring.

We are also one of the most EV-friendly hotels in the Highlands, with six of the Highlands’ fastest chargers in our private car park, ideal for anyone travelling the NC500 sustainably. Finally, our team offers deep local knowledge and a warm Highland welcome, which is what a NC500 road trip base should really provide.

Book your NC500 stay

Make the Ulbster Arms Hotel your home from home on the North Coast 500. Stay in comfort, enjoy Highland cooking, and discover why so many travellers call us one of the best hotels on the NC500 route. Planning your wider route first?

Read our NC500 itinerary and stopover guide, then take a look at our rooms and book your stay today. You can also call us on 01847 831 641 or contact us for more information.

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Ulbster Arms Hotel Map

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Testimonials

Went here today to celebrate Father’s 90th birthday. Had a lovely lunch, the food was excellent and so we’re the staff. They were very attentive, bringing the kids colouring books and crayons when they started getting restless. Lovely atmosphere in the dining room.

Good location. Good facilities and food. Staff very friendly and helpful. I had an issue with my car on our morning of departure and the hotel was helpful and accommodating.

Very cosy and spacious rooms with large bathroom and hall. Value for money is one of the best on NC500 – nice stay with breakfast included are less than for a hundred pounds. The hotel also has a bar, a restaurant and lobby & library, where you can rest after trip. The off street parking area is large and very convenient.

Just had dinner in the Ulbster, it was superb!! So tasty, lovely presentation. I had the featherblade of beef cooked to perfection, hubby had the pan roasted breast of chicken, the sauce was gorgeous. A pleasure to visit, very friendly young staff, reasonably priced. Highly recommended.

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

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NC500 hotel FAQs

Where is the best place to stay on the NC500?

Most travellers break the route in two or three places. A west coast stop, plus a Caithness stop in the far north, covers the route comfortably. Halkirk is ideal for the northern leg: close to John O’Groats, Dunnet Head and the Orkney ferry, but away from the busiest roads.

How far in advance should I book NC500 accommodation?

For summer trips, book several months ahead. The far north has limited accommodation, and the best-placed hotels fill first. Spring and autumn offer more flexibility and quieter roads.

Is the Ulbster Arms dog friendly?

Yes, we have dog-friendly rooms, walks from the door, and drying facilities for wet paws and wet gear alike.

Does the Ulbster Arms Hotel have EV charging?

Yes, our private car park has six of the fastest EV chargers in the Highlands, so you can set off each morning with a full charge.