The pick of the bunch for NC500 hotels
If you’re looking for places to stay on the North Coast 500, we’d like to introduce the Ulbster Arms Hotel. A family-friendly and dog-friendly hotel, we’re very close to the famous North Coast 500 driving route. Based in Halkirk, a small village near Thurso in Caithness, we offer a perfect stop along this trip around Scotland’s northern coastline.
Check availability and book your stay.
Discover your new favourite NC500 hotel
The Ulbster Arms Hotel is a traditional Highland retreat full of 19th-century charm and character, and one of the best hotels on the North Coast 500 route. Cosy log fires and warm, welcoming spaces create a relaxed and homely feel. We take pride in our excellent service and high comfort standards, too, and superb, lovingly prepared food.
Browse our image gallery to find out more about our guest accommodation and don’t be shy about checking out our eat and drink facilities. You can also find suggestions for things to do in this beautiful part of Scotland, such as salmon fishing, a popular activity we run at the hotel.
If you have any questions about your stay, get in touch here.
Places to eat and drink on the NC500
If you’re passing through, we make a great pitstop for refreshments. Amenities include the Lounge Bar for relaxed drinks and dining, our cosy library, and the more formal Beat 4 Restaurant. We also have a lovely outdoor garden, ideal for those sunny days.
So, there’s plenty of choice, whether you’re looking for a quick coffee, a light lunch, or a three-course dinner. All of which can be a welcome break on the NC500.
Find out more about our dining facilities.
Driving the North Coast 500 route
For those looking to drive the North Coast 500 route on their next Scottish holiday, we’ve created a handy driving guide. It’s important to always drive on the left and follow the road safety advice and the Highway Code at all times.
Planning your NC500 trip?
We’re proud to be rated as one of the best hotels on the North Coast 500, and look forward to welcoming you. With comfortable rooms, delicious Scottish food, and knowledge of the NC500 and wider area, we make your stay a memorable one.
So, don’t be shy; book your stay at the Ulbster Arms Hotel today. And don’t forget to book directly with us online to save.
NC500 highlights near the Ulbster Arms
As far north as you can go, and it’s not John O’Groats
Caithness has plenty to offer those driving the NC500, with many highlights on the doorstep of our grounds.
For example, Dunnet Head is nearby, AKA the official most northerly point of mainland Britain. And no, it’s not John O’Groats, which is a wee nugget you can impress your pals with. As well as being the actual most northerly point, Dunnet Head is a stunning place to stop off with majestic views of the North Sea, and there’s plenty of opportunity for wild bird spotting, too.
You’ll also find Dunnet Head Lighthouse, perched atop an 85m sheer cliff face. Built in 1830, the lighthouse is still in use, although nobody lives there any more. It’s still a fantastic place to visit, and one that’s popular with holidaymakers.
Golf trips near Ulbster Arms Hotel
If you’re a golfer, perhaps a shot on the most northerly course on mainland Britain is in order?
Thurso Golf Club’s 18-hole, tree-lined parkland course offers lush fairways and well-maintained greens and presents a rewarding challenge for golfers of all abilities. You can also enjoy the stunning views of the Orkney Islands and the surrounding landscapes.
The Ulbster Arms has sponsored a hole at Thurso Golf Club, and you can ask at reception about free golf passes during your stay.
Whisky and gin in the Scottish Highlands
For the whisky and gin lovers, there are plenty of distilleries to explore in the local area. All of which are within touching distance of Ulbster Arms Hotel, one of the leading NC500 hotels.
Wolfburn Distillery, for example, was established in 1821 and revived in 2013. Today, it produces incredible single malt Scotch whisky using water from the Wolf Burn stream.
Then, there’s Dunnet Bay Distillers near Thurso, crafting Rock Rose Gin, Holy Grass Vodka and Mapmaker’s Rum. Their visitor centre also offers tours and a selection of locally made products, making it popular with holidaymakers and business travellers alike.
We also have North Point Distillery in Forss, near the Ulbster Arms Hotel, which produces award-winning rum and gin. And let’s not forget John O’Groats Brewery, which offers ales and stouts in their tasting room for those who’ve had their fill of spirits.
Scottish Highland areas to visit
Our local and surrounding areas offer many attractions, perfect for every type of visitor. For example, Wick is a royal burgh and former Viking settlement, and a short drive from our hotel. Once a major fishing village, it’s now a delightful town to visit for some downtime by the sea.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also love the activities nearby, including watersports like surfing and kayaking at North Coast Watersports. Walkers and hikers can enjoy scenic routes, too, while anglers will appreciate the excellent fishing opportunities.
Then, there are the dramatic cliffs and stunning views at Duncansby Head, a history-lover’s dream location in the Castle of Mey, and beautiful beaches all around the local region.
All in all, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!
Check availability and book with Ulbster Arms Hotel today.
Orkney Ferry from Scrabster
As one of the best places to stay on the North Coast 500, we’re the perfect stop-off for a detour to Orkney.
Ferries to Orkney leave from nearby Scrabster regularly, taking you straight to Stromness. Scrabster is a 15-minute drive north of the Ulbster Arms and ideal for a day trip to these beautiful islands.
A visit to Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic settlement in Western Europe and older than the Egyptian pyramids, is also a must-do.
Booking hotels on the North Coast 500
It’s important to book your North Coast accommodation early to ensure you have a place to stay every night. Hotels and holiday accommodation can be booked out well in advance, so please plan ahead.
If you’re looking for places to stay on the North Coast 500, we’d love to welcome you to the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Halkirk.