Frequently asked questions about the Ulbster Arms Hotel
Where is the Ulbster Arms Hotel located?
The Ulbster Arms Hotel sits in the village of Halkirk in Caithness, just 11 minutes from Thurso town centre. The hotel stands on the banks of the River Thurso, making it one of the most scenic places to stay in Thurso and the surrounding Highlands. The address is Bridge Street, Halkirk, Caithness, KW12 6XY.
Is the Ulbster Arms Hotel a good base for the North Coast 500?
Yes. The Ulbster Arms Hotel is one of the most popular NC500 places to stay in the far north of Scotland. Halkirk sits just off the North Coast 500 route, giving guests easy access to Thurso, Dunnet Head, John O’Groats, and the Caithness coastline. The hotel offers year-round availability, making it a reliable NC500 base in every season.
What types of accommodation does the Ulbster Arms Hotel offer?
The Ulbster Arms Hotel offers a range of room types to suit every guest. These include Standard Rooms, Premium Rooms, Dale Rooms, Executive Rooms, Family Rooms, and Dog-Friendly Rooms. Business travellers can also choose from dedicated corporate accommodation options including private group buildings for contractor teams.
Is the Ulbster Arms Hotel dog friendly?
Yes. The Ulbster Arms Hotel welcomes dogs in the majority of its rooms. Dog-friendly rooms are available across the hotel, and the riverside location and surrounding Caithness countryside make it one of the best dog-friendly hotels in the Scottish Highlands for walks and outdoor time.
Does the Ulbster Arms Hotel offer accommodation for business travellers?
Yes. The Ulbster Arms Hotel is one of the leading business hotels in Thurso and Caithness. The hotel offers dedicated corporate facilities, in-room workspaces, fast Wi-Fi, early breakfast, private meeting rooms, and tailored corporate rates for contractors and project teams. It is a popular base for workers travelling to Dounreay and on energy and infrastructure projects across the North Highlands.
What is there to do near the Ulbster Arms Hotel?
The Ulbster Arms Hotel is perfectly placed for exploring Caithness and the wider North Highlands. Nearby highlights include Dunnet Head (the most northerly point of mainland Britain), the Castle of Mey, John O’Groats, Dunnet Bay, and salmon fishing on the River Thurso. Day trips to the Orkney Islands are also popular, with the Scrabster to Stromness ferry a short drive from the hotel. Explore the full things to do guide for more ideas.
Does the Ulbster Arms Hotel have EV charging?
Yes. The Ulbster Arms Hotel has three of the fastest EV chargers in the Scottish Highlands on site. These are available to all guests and make the hotel one of the best-equipped places to stay in Thurso for electric vehicle drivers travelling the North Coast 500.
Is the Ulbster Arms Hotel suitable for families?
Yes. The Ulbster Arms Hotel offers family rooms and a range of family-friendly facilities. The hotel’s riverside setting, outdoor surroundings, and proximity to Caithness attractions make it one of the best family-friendly hotels in the Scottish Highlands for a memorable break.
What dining options are available at the Ulbster Arms Hotel?
The Ulbster Arms Hotel has two dining areas. Beat 4 is the hotel’s main restaurant, serving an à la carte menu built around locally sourced Scottish produce. The Lounge Bar offers a more relaxed menu alongside an extensive selection of spirits, cask ales, beers, and ciders. The hotel library provides a quieter space for drinks and coffee. Private dining and corporate catering are also available on request.