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Dog Friendly Breaks in Scotland & Attractions Near the Ulbster Hotel

Planning dog friendly breaks in Scotland with the whole family, four legs included? You’ve picked the right corner of the country. The Ulbster Arms Hotel sits on the banks of the River Thurso in Halkirk, Caithness, with two miles of sand at Dunnet Bay a short drive north and the North Coast 500 winding past the door.

This is your guide to what you and your dog can do, from dog-friendly beaches to forest trails, cosy indoor stops, and more. Read on to plan your visit, then book one of our dog-friendly rooms at the Ulbster Arms Hotel.

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Ulbster Arms Hotel drone shot of the River Thurso and the hotel on its banks.

Why Caithness Is Made for Dog Friendly Breaks in Scotland

Caithness sits at the far north-east tip of mainland Britain, and the space makes it fantastic for dogs. The county’s beaches stretch for miles, the forests are quiet, and the walks reveal a new view around every corner. The Ulbster Arms Hotel is 11 minutes from Thurso town centre and a short drive from Scrabster ferry to Orkney. So, you’re within easy reach of the coast, the countryside, and every main Caithness village.

All in all, dog friendly Scotland is a real thing this far north. The North Coast 500 route passes close by, giving you a scenic drive between walks. Meanwhile, our riverside setting means an evening stroll doesn’t require a car. For dog holidays in Scotland where you can let your dog roam, few areas match this stretch of coast.

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The Best Dog Friendly Beaches in Scotland Near the Ulbster Arms Hotel

Some of the best dog friendly beaches in Scotland lie within 30 minutes of the Ulbster Arms Hotel, and Dunnet Bay is the headliner. This is one of the longest beaches in mainland Britain, running for over two miles of firm pale sand between Castletown and the village of Dunnet. Dogs are welcome off-lead year-round, and the scale means you’ll rarely see a crowd. Parking sits next to the Dunnet Bay Caravan Club campsite, with free public toilets nearby.

Sinclair’s Bay to the south is another of the Scotland beaches that are dog friendly with no restrictions. Reiss Beach forms the sheltered southern half beside Wick Golf Club, while Keiss Beach picks up at the northern end, close to the ruins of Old Keiss Castle. Both offer white sand, big skies and space to run.

Finally, for something wilder, head along the coast to Melvich, Mey Sands or Sannick Bay. All of which welcome dogs year-round.

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Dunnet Bay Beach in Caithness on the North Coast 500.

Dog Walks in the Scottish Highlands: Forest and Riverside Trails

Dog walks in the Scottish Highlands are incredibly accessible from the Ulbster Arms Hotel. Riverside paths follow the River Thurso from the hotel, so morning and evening strolls need no driving at all. For something longer, drive around 25 minutes north to Dunnet Forest. Here, you’ll enjoy the most northerly community woodland in mainland Britain.

Managed by the Dunnet Forestry Trust and planted in the 1950s, Dunnet Forest has waymarked yellow-arrow trails suitable for all abilities. There are also mountain-bike and horse routes if you fancy varying the pace. Sculptures dot the longer loop, and a wooden xylophone sits somewhere in the trees for kids to find. The forest also features an orienteering course, a family zone, a quiet zone and an active zone.

For coastal dog walks in Scotland, the cliff paths above Wick towards Castle of Old Wick are among the best. Keep clear of the edges and your dog on the lead where cliffs are exposed. Walk Highlands lists detailed routes across Caithness and Sutherland. And they’re all mappable from the Ulbster Arms Hotel.

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Dog Friendly Activities in Scotland: Coastal Adventures With Your Dog

Dog friendly activities in Scotland go well beyond a walk on the sand. From the Ulbster Arms Hotel, you can drive up to Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland Britain. Here, an 1832 lighthouse crowns the cliffs and seabirds nest in season. Dogs are welcome on the paths, however, ground-nesting birds mean leads are essential in spring and early summer.

John O’Groats is a short drive further along the coast, with the famous signpost and Duncansby Head’s sea stacks nearby. Both are walkable with a dog on the lead. For history lovers, the Castle of Mey welcomes well-behaved dogs on a lead in its gardens. What’s more, the whole coastline is dotted with brochs and chambered cairns for a stop-and-sniff detour.

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Indoor Dog Friendly Activities in Scotland for Rainy Days

Scottish weather can be tricky, so indoor dog friendly activities in Scotland are a necessity. Our Lounge Bar has designated dog-friendly areas beside the open fire. There’s also a historic carved fireplace salvaged from a Dutch galleon. So, it’s the spot to warm up after a windswept beach walk with a coffee or dram in hand.

Many local cafés and pubs across Caithness welcome dogs, too. So, a wet-weather afternoon can drift easily from one to the next. Some whisky distilleries in the area also allow dogs in outdoor spaces and shops, so it’s worth ringing ahead to check.

For essentials, Pets at Home in Wick stocks food, treats and any last-minute supplies you’ve forgotten.

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Dog Walking Breaks in Scotland: Longer Routes From the Ulbster Arms Hotel

Dog walking breaks in Scotland tend to draw people to the well-trodden south. However, the far north rewards those who make the drive. From the Ulbster Arms Hotel, you can plan multi-day walks by linking short routes across Caithness. Follow sections of the John O’Groats Trail along the eastern cliffs, mixing coastal drama with village pubs and beach detours.

Alternatively, pair Dunnet Forest with Dunnet Bay on the same day, since the two sit either side of the A836 between Thurso and John O’Groats. Add a morning riverside walk from the hotel, and you’ve a full day covered. For quieter holidays in Scotland with dogs, this stretch of the north coast offers what busier parts of the Highlands can’t.

Responsible Dog Walking Under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Dog friendly stays in Scotland come with a small handbook worth reading. This is called the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. It grants everyone the right to responsible access to most land and inland water, and dogs are included. However, they must be kept under proper control.

Between April and July, keep your dog on a short lead or close at heel across moorland, forests, grassland, loch shores and the sea shore. This is because ground-nesting birds are vulnerable during nesting season.

Around farm animals, use a short lead and give livestock a wide berth. Always pick up dog waste, too, as it can spread parasites to grazing sheep and cattle.

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Plan Your Dog Friendly Stay at the Ulbster Arms Hotel

Dog friendly holidays in Scotland need a base that treats your dog as a proper guest, and the Ulbster Arms Hotel does exactly that. Up to two dogs are welcome per room at £15 per dog, with dog-friendly areas throughout the Lounge Bar, Beat 4 Restaurant, beer garden and library.

And getting here is simple. Most guests drive the A9 north from Inverness in around two and a half hours, while ScotRail’s Far North Line runs to Thurso station. What’s more, dogs travel free on Scottish trains to encourage dog friendly breaks in Scotland.

Book direct with the Ulbster Arms Hotel for 10% off, or call 01847 831 641 to plan your stay with our team.

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Testimonials

Had a great stay here, staff were very friendly and the rooms are clean and well decorated, all staff are very attentive and I will be back again!! Terri was very informative taking us a tour around the hotel and giving advise on local walks and fun things to do.

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.

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.

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

This place is great!! We had the best meal here tonight, delicious dishes and beautiful presentation, and the deserts were 5 star!! The service we received from the staff was first class, would highly recommend the ulbster arms.
Can’t wait to return.

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Dog Friendly Breaks in Scotland FAQs

Are dogs allowed on beaches in Caithness year-round?

Yes. Dunnet Bay, Sinclair’s Bay (Reiss Beach), Keiss Beach and Sannick Bay all welcome dogs off-lead year-round with no restrictions. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code still applies, so keep dogs under close control, particularly during the bird nesting season between April and July.

Where are the best Scottish dog walks near the Ulbster Arms Hotel?

Yes, there are plenty. Riverside paths start at the hotel itself. Within 30 minutes’ drive you’ll find Dunnet Forest, Dunnet Bay, Sinclair’s Bay and the cliff paths above Wick towards Castle of Old Wick. Ask at reception for our self-guided walking maps when you arrive.

Can dogs go off-lead in Dunnet Forest?

Dunnet Forest recommends leashed dogs on the main trails, since horses, cyclists and other walkers share the paths. Managed by the Dunnet Forestry Trust, the woodland has waymarked yellow-arrow routes suitable for all abilities.

What indoor dog friendly activities are there in Scotland near Thurso?

The Ulbster Arms Hotel Lounge Bar has dog-friendly areas beside the open fire, ideal after a coastal walk. Many local cafés and pubs across Caithness welcome dogs, and Pets at Home in Wick stocks any supplies you might need for the rest of your stay.

Is Caithness a good location for a dog walking holiday in Scotland?

Yes. The far north offers long empty beaches, quiet forest trails and dramatic cliff walks, all with easy off-lead access and few crowds. The Ulbster Arms Hotel makes a natural base, with dog-friendly rooms and communal spaces plus riverside walks starting at reception.

Dog Friendly Breaks in Scotland & Attractions Near the Ulbster Hotel