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Standard rooms at the Ulbster Arms Hotel near Thurso

Welcome to the Ulbster Arms Hotel in Halkirk, a warm and welcoming hotel near Thurso, set beside the River Thurso in the quiet Caithness countryside. Our Standard Rooms are found inside the original 1878 house, making them ideal for guests who love the charm of a traditional hotel with all the comforts of a relaxing stay. Soft lighting, classic furnishings, and peaceful surroundings create a calming place to rest after a busy day exploring the North Highlands.

We offer 8 Standard Rooms in total, including 2 Small Doubles and 6 Doubles. Each features a comfortable double bed, an ensuite bath and/or shower, and modern essentials to make travel simple. 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, these rooms are a dependable, comfortable choice.

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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 enjoy 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 we know sleep matters, every room features comfortable bedding, blackout curtains, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. After a full Scottish day outdoors, there is nothing better than returning to a soft bed, a hot shower, and a peaceful night’s rest in a traditional hotel room that feels familiar from the moment you arrive.

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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:

  • 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 enjoy a full Scottish breakfast made fresh each morning, along with fruit, yoghurt, cereal, and juice. Whether you’re heading out early for work or taking your time over your coffee, the day starts smoothly.

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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 our lounge bar for a drink, sit by the fire in the library, or enjoy dinner in our restaurant. You don’t 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.

During summer, guests often enjoy the beer garden, watching the evening light stretch across the village. And when you’re ready to rest, your room is just a few steps away.

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Haggis Neeps and Tatties

Hotel facilities made for easy travel

As a guest in the main house, you’ll have direct access to all 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 for pleasure. 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, which helps after long journeys across Caithness. If you’re continuing along the North Coast, our location makes us a perfect overnight stop, with a warm bed, hot meal, and 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 simple 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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Testimonials

The breakfast was exceptional. Well-cooked full breakfast. A very good selection of fresh fruit was particularly notable. Service was very efficient and the staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about the local area.

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