Caithness Accommodation
Cosy and comfortable Caithness accommodation
Where rugged landscapes meet Highland hospitality, you’ll find the Ulbster Arms Hotel, a four-star hotel on the banks of the River Thurso. Nestled in the village of Halkirk, everything about this Caithness accommodation feels timeless and traditional, but your comfort and convenience come first. So, you’ll enjoy crisp linens, high-speed WiFi, and rapid EV chargers, all designed to make your stay effortless.
Step outside, and the story continues. Caithness itself is rich in character and history, framed by open skies, winding rivers, and unspoiled beaches. Every direction leads to somewhere worth discovering, and wander further to uncover hidden coves, peaceful trails, and views that stretch for miles. The north of Scotland feels positively wild, but never unwelcoming, and is a region famous for exploration.
When evening arrives, our restaurant and bar become your haven. Here, Highland produce takes centre stage, whisky flows freely, and stories are shared beside the fire. All in all, it’s not a surprise we’re known as one of the best Scottish hotels near Thurso. Why? Because the Ulbster Arms brings comfort, scenery, and story together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re here on business, driving the North Coast 500, or visiting John O’Groats, every stay feels personal. Because it is.
Comfortable rooms with Highland views
At the Ulbster Arms Hotel, every stay is defined by comfort, character, and a view worth waking up to. The main house features 13 en-suite bedrooms, many overlooking the River Thurso, while others face Halkirk Church and its historic clock tower. Each space blends 19th-century charm with fresh, modern design, so it feels both authentic and refined.
Across our private car park, you’ll find three additional luxury buildings that offer more secluded Caithness accommodation. These rooms are ideal for guests who value privacy and a little extra space. Inside, soft furnishings and thoughtful touches create a calm, inviting atmosphere, while modern amenities ensure you have everything you need to relax completely.
No matter which you choose, all of our hotel rooms include a full Scottish breakfast, with fresh fruit, juices, yoghurt, and cereals. So, whether you’re staying for a weekend break, a business trip, or a fishing holiday in Scotland, you’ll find every detail designed around you. And because comfort should come easily, we make sure every part of your stay feels effortless, from check-in to your final goodbye.
Caithness accommodation for fishing holidays
If dreams of fishing breaks in Scotland bring you north, the Ulbster Arms Hotel is where your journey begins, no matter the time of year. Just steps from the River Thurso, one of Scotland’s most celebrated salmon rivers, our guests enjoy direct access to some of the finest fly fishing holidays in Scotland’s Highlands. And because the surrounding lochs are teeming with trout, there’s always a worthy challenge nearby.
We welcome anglers of every level, too, from curious beginners to lifelong professionals, and we make it easy to feel at home between time on the water. Start the morning with a hearty Scottish breakfast, then head out to the water with expert local guidance available on request.
When the rods are packed away, you can unwind in style thanks to our unique riverside setting. Here, crackling fires,and excellent dining make the Ulbster Arms a favourite fishing hotel in Scotland, even in winter. Many guests combine their fishing holidays with NC500 adventures, too, knowing they can return each evening to comfort, warmth, and a dram by the fire.
Luxury hotels in the Scottish Highlands on the NC500
For travellers exploring accommodation on the North Coast 500, the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Halkirk offers a rare blend of luxury, warmth, and setting. Set in the far north of Scotland, it’s one of those Scottish Highlands hotels where the road feels endless but the welcome is warm. From here, you’re perfectly placed to explore Dunnet Head’s dramatic cliffs, the sweeping sands of Dunnet Bay, and the royal heritage of the Castle of Mey, all of which are within easy reach.
And because every season has its own beauty, winter might just be the most enchanting of all. The air is crisp, the light is golden, and the roads grow quieter, letting you discover the NC500 as few others see it. Stop in Thurso for a seaside walk or drive to John O’Groats for views that stretch beyond the mainland. Along the coast, you might spot seals basking in the cold sunlight or seabirds tracing the horizon.
After a day on the road, returning to the Ulbster Arms feels like coming home. Soft lighting, hearty food, and fireside drams provide a fitting end to your Highland adventure. And we’re living proof that comfort and exploration can go hand in hand.
Perfect for business travel in Caithness accommodation
When work brings you north, the Ulbster Arms Hotel offers comfort and reliability, even in the middle of a Highland winter. We’re perfectly located for those travelling for business through Caithness, the North Coast, or en route to Orkney, with flexible options for both individuals and teams.
In terms of room options, our Ulbster and Milton buildings are ideal for contractors or group bookings, comfortably hosting six to eight people. Each includes private lounges for meetings or downtime, so you can unwind or connect without leaving the building. For solo travellers, our main house offers a true home-from-home. No matter your choice, everything is simple to book online, easy to settle into, and built around your schedule. And if you are in the region for a prolonged project, contact our team for a special corporate rate.
And because working holidays shouldn’t mean compromise, we provide strong Wi-Fi, quiet workspaces, and early breakfast options to suit your routine. When the day is done, hearty food, local whisky, and fireside warmth make it easy to switch off. All of these reasons and more are why professionals return year after year, calling the Ulbster Arms one of the best business hotels in Thurso, where practicality meets genuine Highland hospitality.
Explore Caithness and Thurso accommodation
The Ulbster Arms Hotel is perfectly placed to explore the very best of Caithness. History lovers can explore nearby castles and ancient ruins, while the outdoor enthusiast can navigate the dramatic coastline with its secluded beaches and hidden coves. For wildlife enthusiasts, you can enjoy spotting playful seals, curious otters, and flocks of seabirds along the rivers and shores.
If you are an adventure seeker, Caithness Seacoast offers thrilling powerboat tours along the coast, where you can explore sea stacks, caves, lighthouses, and even offshore wildlife from a unique perspective. A day trip to the Orkney Islands provides a glimpse into rich history, too, from Neolithic sites to charming harbours, while a journey to John O’Groats showcases iconic Highland landscapes.
All in all, the Ulbster Arms makes the perfect stop to explore this vast and interesting corner of Scotland. Wander through rolling hills, discover local culture and crafts, or enjoy nearby fishing spots.
Book Your Stay in our Halkirk hotels’ cosy rooms
The Ulbster Arms is the perfect choice for Caithness accommodation, whether you’re planning romantic getaways, family holidays, or business trips. Located near Thurso, we combine 19th-century Highland charm with modern comforts, making us one of the finest hotels in Caithness and Sutherland.
From cosy rooms and hearty meals to riverside walks and easy access to fishing spots, we provide everything you need for a truly memorable stay. In winter, when the Highlands fall quiet and the fires burn brighter, the Ulbster Arms becomes a place to slow down, eat well, rest deeply, and enjoy Scotland at its most peaceful.
Guests return year after year for walking holidays, road trips, or fishing holidays in Scotland, drawn back by the same warmth, comfort, and service that define our reputation. So if you’re searching for the best Caithness accommodation near Thurso, look no further.
If you’re searching for the best accommodation in Thurso, look no further. Book online today or contact our friendly team to experience one of the best-loved hotels in Caithness.
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