Business Details
Luxury Hotel in Thurso | Ulbster Arms Hotel
The Ulbster Arms Hotel, established in 1878, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort in the Scottish Highlands. Our team prioritises people, exceptional service, and tradition, ensuring every guest experiences genuine Highland hospitality. We provide high standards of cuisine and service, with a focus on sustainability and local sourcing. Our family-friendly and dog-friendly policies cater to diverse guests, while our commitment to the Zero Waste Initiative Scotland underscores our environmental responsibility.Located in Halkirk, we serve as a gateway to the North Coast 500 and Caithness adventures. Recognised with awards like the Hospitality Gold Medal, we combine 19th-century character with contemporary amenities. Our EV charging facilities and partnerships with the Scottish Food Guide reflect our dedication to innovation and quality. Whether for business or leisure, we create memorable stays rooted in tradition and care for our community.
Services
Accommodation
Dining
Business Events
EV Charging
Guided Fishing
North Coast 500 Base
Corporate Retreats
Wedding Venues
Local Tours
Sustainable Stays
Highlights and features
- We offer family-friendly and dog-friendly accommodation with tailored amenities.
- Our hotel features three of the fastest EV chargers in the Highlands.
- Awarded the 2023 Hotel of the Year for Romantic Breaks.
- We hold the prestigious Hospitality Gold Medal for excellence.
- Our menus prioritise locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from Caithness producers.
Associations and certifications
- Scottish Food Guide
- Zero Waste Initiative Scotland
What people say
Excellent service
Delicious dishes
Comfortable rooms
Stunning surroundings
Memorable experience
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Our 4-star hotel offers 13 traditional ensuite bedrooms in the main house and 23 additional rooms across four lodges. All accommodations feature Highland views, modern amenities, and include breakfast. Guests enjoy access to lounges, libraries, and a beer garden, blending 19th-century charm with contemporary comforts for business or leisure stays.
Award-Winning Dining
Beat 4 Restaurant and our lounge bar serve locally sourced, seasonal Scottish cuisine. Our menus highlight fresh seafood, Highland beef, and regional specialties, paired with an extensive whisky selection. Recognised by the Scottish Food Guide, we offer formal dining and casual meals in settings featuring historic fireplaces and antler chandeliers.
Corporate Hospitality
We provide tailored corporate packages with meeting spaces, private dining, and accommodation for business travellers. Our facilities include dedicated lounges, high-speed Wi-Fi, and customisable catering for conferences, team-building events, or client dinners in a serene Highland environment.
Sustainable Tourism
As a Zero Waste Initiative Scotland member, we use biomass heating, recycle rigorously, and offer three rapid EV chargers. Our field-to-fork dining and partnerships with local producers reduce carbon footprints while providing guests with authentic, environmentally conscious Highland experiences.
Adventure Base
Located on the North Coast 500 route, we serve as a base for exploring Caithness landscapes, historic sites, and wildlife. Guests enjoy easy access to salmon fishing on the River Thurso, coastal walks, and day trips to Orkney, combining adventure with comfortable post-excursion amenities.
Questions
Does Ulbster Arms Hotel offer family-friendly facilities?
Yes, we provide family rooms, children's meal options, and accessible common areas for families with children of all ages.
Are pets allowed at the hotel?
Yes, we are a dog-friendly hotel with designated rooms and easy access to scenic walking areas.
What dining options are available?
We offer Beat 4 Restaurant for fine dining, a lounge bar with casual meals, and seasonal menus featuring local Scottish produce.
Is the hotel accessible for guests with mobility needs?
While we have some ground-floor rooms, the historic building lacks elevators. Please contact us to discuss specific accessibility requirements.
What sustainability initiatives does the hotel implement?
We use biomass heating, recycle extensively, offer EV charging, and source 80% of food from local Caithness producers to reduce environmental impact.
Can I book event space at the hotel?
Yes, we host weddings, corporate events, and private dinners in our function spaces with customisable menus and Highland-themed decor.
