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Northern Sands Hotel

3.0 star property
Beach hotel near Dunnet Bay Beach

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Photo gallery for Northern Sands Hotel

Beach nearby
Point of interest
3 bars/lounges
Game room
Deluxe Double or Twin Room, 1 Bedroom | View from room

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Housekeeping
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Business services

Explore the area

View in a map
Dunnet, Dunnet Head, Thurso, Scotland, KW14 8XD
  • Place, Dunnet Bay Distillery
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Dunnet Bay Beach
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Scrabster Ferry Terminal
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Airport, Wick (WIC)
    ‪38 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Single Room, 1 Twin Bed

Single Room, 1 Twin Bed | Hypo-allergenic bedding, Select Comfort beds, desk, blackout drapes

Single Room, 1 Twin Bed

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)
  • 54 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Triple Room, Garden View

Deluxe Triple Room, Garden View | View from room

Deluxe Triple Room, Garden View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 75 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 2 Twin Beds and 1 Twin Sofa Bed OR 1 King Bed and 1 Twin Sofa Bed

View all photos for Classic Double or Twin Room

Classic Double or Twin Room | Hypo-allergenic bedding, Select Comfort beds, desk, blackout drapes

Classic Double or Twin Room

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(7 reviews)
  • 54 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds OR 1 King Bed

View all photos for Classic Double Room, 1 King Bed

Classic Double Room, 1 King Bed | Hypo-allergenic bedding, Select Comfort beds, desk, blackout drapes

Classic Double Room, 1 King Bed

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(7 reviews)
  • 54 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Double or Twin Room, 1 Bedroom

Hypo-allergenic bedding, Select Comfort beds, desk, blackout drapes

Deluxe Double or Twin Room, 1 Bedroom

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(5 reviews)
  • 75 sq ft
  • Hill view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds OR 1 King Bed

View all photos for Premier Double Room, 1 King Bed, Sea View

Hypo-allergenic bedding, Select Comfort beds, desk, blackout drapes

Premier Double Room, 1 King Bed, Sea View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 75 sq ft
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Thurso

Dunnet Bay Beach is a short stroll from Northern Sands Hotel, and other popular attractions like Mary-Ann's Cottage are within a 10-minute drive. This 3-star hotel welcomes guests with 12 rooms and conveniences like free in-room WiFi, free self parking, and a conference center.

What's nearby

  • Dunnet Bay Distillery - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Dunnet Bay Beach - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Dunnet Head Lighthouse - 11 min drive - 5.6 miles
  • Castle of Mey - 13 min drive - 6.9 miles
  • Scrabster Ferry Terminal - 16 min drive - 11.8 miles

Getting around

  • Thurso Station - 15 min drive
  • Wick (WIC) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Northern Sands - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪The Reel - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Logan’s Bar - ‬1 min walk

About this property

Northern Sands Hotel

Beach hotel near Dunnet Bay Beach
Guests of Northern Sands Hotel enjoy access to free WiFi in public areas, meeting rooms, and a conference center. You can take advantage of free parking, along with an airport shuttle (available on request) for GBP 70 per vehicle one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with luggage storage and tours/tickets. Other amenities at this beach hotel include an arcade/game room, a garden, and a picnic area.
Smart TVs come with digital channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi and wired Internet. Select Comfort beds grant a restful night's sleep, and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Coffee makers, free local calls, and ironing boards are also available.

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Forss House Hotel
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9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, 219 reviews
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The price is $95
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Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM on request
  • Free extended parking on site

Food and drink

  • 2 restaurants
  • 3 bars/lounges

Restaurants on site

  • Logans Bar
  • Pentland Lounge
  • The Links

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room

Family friendly

  • Arcade/game room

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Conference center
  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Bathroom emergency pull cord
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • No elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 1 floor
  • Banquet hall
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Blackout drapes
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • Select Comfort mattress

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with digital channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle

More

  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Guests will receive an email within 72 hours before arrival with check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: GBP 70 per vehicle (one-way)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-10:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available during limited hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with free extended parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

National rating

This establishment has received its official star rating from VisitScotland, the National Tourist Board for Scotland.

Property is also known as

Northern Sands Hotel
Northern Sands Hotel Thurso
Northern Sands Thurso
Northern Sands
Northern Sands Hotel Hotel
Northern Sands Hotel Thurso
Northern Sands Hotel Hotel Thurso

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Northern Sands Hotel?

Northern Sands Hotel provides free cancellation on certain room rates. To learn more, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What is there to do within easy reach of Northern Sands Hotel?

This hotel in Thurso is within a 10-minute walk of Dunnet Bay Beach and Dunnet Bay Distillery. You'll also find Dunnet Head Lighthouse and Mary-Ann's Cottage within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Northern Sands Hotel?

Yes, self parking and long-term parking are offered for free at the hotel.

Does Northern Sands Hotel have a casino on the premises?

No, Northern Sands Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Northern Sands Hotel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What do couples enjoy most about Northern Sands Hotel?

Couples will appreciate amenities at this hotel, including a comfy mattress and a smart TV in each guestroom with some featuring sea views.

Does Northern Sands Hotel have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Northern Sands Hotel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Northern Sands Hotel has 2 restaurants, and serves breakfast for a surcharge.

Will Northern Sands Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Northern Sands Hotel.

Are there connecting rooms at Northern Sands Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from Northern Sands Hotel?

The closest major airport to Northern Sands Hotel is Wick (WIC), which is 18.1 mi away (29 minutes by car). Another top airport is Kirkwall (KOI), which is around 27.9 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Northern Sands Hotel?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Northern Sands Hotel.

Northern Sands Hotel Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 165 out of 217 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 44 out of 217 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 217 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 217 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 217 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The comfort and cleanliness of the room were both excellent. What impressed us the most was the absolute perfect choreography of breakfast being served! The food was delicious and everything was served in perfect order so hot goods were hot and cold foods were cold when eaten. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Wonderful stay!!!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janette

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities
The staff were all really friendly. Good food at night and at breakfast. Comfortable room. Hotel in nice quiet location.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bipul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a lovely hotel to stay in. After a very lovely welcome and walked to my room. I had a lovely dinner and dessert followed by a walk to a beautiful surfers beach. I walked back and enjoyed a comfortable nights sleep. Great hotel and friendly staff.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donald

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ruen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I really enjoyed my stay. Room was small but cosy. The fire alarm went off when i was eating breakfast, but these things happen. Staff were friendly and helpful and lent me a small screwdriver which i needed. I recommend this hotel
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Really enjoyed our stay, it was short but sweet. Very comfortable and spacious room, loved the touch of naming rooms after clans
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

martin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Wonderful Location

Fantastic overnight stay, evening meal and breakfast excellent, staff friendly and very efficient. Wonderful location, would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
From entering the hotel, the staff were lovely. The food was exceptional and service was first class. We met all the staff in the bar later in the evening and enjoyed the craic with them. Would absolutely recommend and plan to return soon.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

karen, WEAVERVILLE

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Nice room with comfortable bed, small area for making tea/coffee and good shower. The breakfast was ample and the staff were all very friendly and efficient. We had dinner there as there was not much in the way of other restaurants and it was fine - nothing special but hot, good portions and vegetarian options available. There is a bar at the hotel.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Rhian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A lovely hotel, staff were very friendly. I would definitely stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

George

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
This hotel was just perfect for what we needed. The room was comfortable and spacious with all amenities in good working order. The staff were so polite and helpful. It all added up to a great stay before we boarded our ferry at Gills Bay.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Delshad

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Liz

Traveled with partner
The property has been decorated to a very high standard. Every area is spotless. The staff are all friendly and helpful. Nothing is too much trouble. There is a wide choice of breakfast items and come cooked to perfection. It is a lovely calm place to stay. Loved it and already booked our next stay.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
THE ONLY COMMENT AS A CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM WAS THAT THE STAIRS WERE DIFFICULT TO CLIMB FOR DISABLED PEOPLE. HANDRAILS NEED TO BE ON BOTH SIDES OF THE STAIRS AND SHOULD BE ROUND IN SECTION FOR WHOLE HAND GRIP RATHER THAN FINGER TIP GRIP
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Ian, Oxford

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Directly on NC500, friendly staff, excellent breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

MICHAEL

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very comfortable no problems.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jefferson

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very good
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was my forth stay at this property it's clean and tidy with friendly staff and on the NC500 route definitely recommend staying here
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jill

Traveled with group, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great hotel for the NC500

A great hotel, lovely rooms all with Scottish names. Great service and food.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Clive

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovey staff and service made our stay a joy. Very reasonable too. Thank you
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Super nice staff, clean comfortable rooms, good quality bed, well situated in an incredible part of the country.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great stay, very convenient if using the Gills Bay ferry to Orkney as only 15 minutes away from terminal. Newly refurbed room, comfortable bed, excellent shower and great food served in bar/restaurant at both dinner and breakfast. All staff encountered very cheery. One small critique - the Smith room could do with a lamp for in the evening, rather than just the harsh spotlights. Even a dimmer switch would do the job! Wi-Fi in room could also be better as signal quite poor. Those small issues aside, a great stay and would visit again when the opportunity comes up.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer Anne

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025