"This hotel is world famous for its fireside whisky bar with a compelling selection from every day drams, through otherwise unobtainable whiskies produced onsite to museum quality rarities by the glass."
HopefulTraveller46 from United Kingdom
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"We where travelling with a young dog and the staff went above and beyond to accommodate the dog"
Andy from United Kingdom
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"The room we stayed in had a stunning view of the sun trap of a garden, which doubled as a beer garden for the restaurant and bar on the ground floor."
Jamie from United Kingdom
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Dining
The hotel offers a Garden Restaurant with views of formal walled gardens, serving a curated menu focused on local produce. Guests can enjoy an intimate dining experience in The Vault, which features a specially designed menu with wine and whisky pairings. The Whisky Bar is acclaimed for its extensive selection of rare whiskies, perfect for tasting events led by knowledgeable staff.
Rooms
Dornoch Castle Hotel offers Four Poster Deluxe rooms located in the oldest part of the castle, providing unique charm and amenities like spa baths. Superior Rooms offer views of Dornoch Cathedral or walled gardens, featuring ensuites with walk-in showers. Recently refurbished Garden Standard rooms overlook beautifully maintained gardens, catering to both comfort and heritage.
Whisky Distillery
The hotel is recognized as the number one whisky hotel as ranked by whiskybase.com and houses Dornoch Distillery, known for producing multi-award-winning gin and whisky. Guests can explore the distillery's commitment to traditional methods without formal tours, but staff are available to answer questions. The on-site whisky selection includes exclusive bottlings and a variety of spirits.
Location
Situated in the historic town of Dornoch directly opposite the 12th-century Dornoch Cathedral, the hotel provides an ideal backdrop for weddings and events. It is conveniently located along Scotland's North Coast 500 route, showcasing the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Nearby attractions include Dornoch Beach, which offers stunning views and various seaside activities.
Weddings
Dornoch Castle Hotel hosts a variety of wedding services, accommodating up to 90 guests in the Garden Restaurant or larger numbers with marquee options. The venue offers complimentary wedding planning services, ensuring each couple's special day runs smoothly. Scenic locations for photographs include the walled gardens, the castle grounds, and nearby Dornoch Beach.
Whisky: Number 1 Whisky Hotel according to whiskybase.com
Weddings: Scenic venue with complimentary planning services
“Staying in a converted 15th-century castle certainly sets a tone, and the whisky collection rightly earns international acclaim. The Vault offers unique private dining, while the award-winning kitchen focuses on innovative, seasonal menus. I think it's a perfect spot for couples planning a wedding, especially with local vendor contacts at hand.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type
The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Double or Twin Room Garden View
2 persons
195 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Standard Family Room Not Dog-Friendly
2 persons
195 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Superior Double Room Not Dog-Friendly
2 persons
195 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Deluxe Double Room Not Dog-Friendly
2 persons
270 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
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Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Facilities
The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi
Free parking
Off-site car park
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Hiking
Horseback riding
Golf course
Fishing
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Housekeeping
Laundry
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Facilities for people with disabilities
Toilet for disabled
Spa & Leisure
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
Dornoch Castle Hotel boasts a delightful array of onsite dining options that showcase local flavors and a rich selection of whiskies. With a focus on seasonal, high-quality ingredients, guests can enjoy unforgettable meals in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Restaurant #1
Local cuisine with innovative twists
Ambiance
Welcoming and intimate, with a contemporary design reflecting the historic charm of the castle
Key Offerings
Experience gin-cured salmon made using Thompson Bro's Gin from Dornoch Distillery, and indulge in succulent beef stews that are made exceptionally tender with the Instant Pot. Complement meals with cheese from Highland Fine Cheese in Tain or select from the vast whisky collection renowned worldwide.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Hours vary; please check for specific meal times.
The Whisky Bar
Bar and lounge with a focus on whisky
Ambiance
Cozy and sophisticated, with an extensive display of whiskies creating a regal atmosphere
Key Offerings
Explore one of the most extensive collections of old bottlings in the world, perfect for whisky aficionados. The bar also offers a selection of drinks that pair beautifully with light snacks, making it an ideal spot for relaxation after a day of adventures.
Reservation
Not needed.
Hours vary; please check for specific opening times.
Location
Castle Street,
Dornoch,
United Kingdom,
Highlands
Map view
Castle Street,
Dornoch,
United Kingdom,
Highlands
City landmarks
Golf Course
Royal Dornoch Golf Club
5000 ft
Landmark
Dornoch Firth
2.7
mi
Nearby
Church
Dornoch Cathedral
500 ft
Museum
Historylinks Museum
500 ft
Carnaig Street
Janet Horne Memorial Stone
1700 ft
Restaurants
Dornoch Castle Hotel
0 ft
Castle St
Sutherland House Ltd
300 ft
Argyle Street
The Coach House
200 ft
Castle Street
Cocoa Mountain Dornoch
300 ft
Castle Street
One up Restaurant
400 ft
The Square
The Coach House Bar And Restaurant
500 ft
Castle Street
Milk & Honey
500 ft
High Street
Luigi's Restaurant
600 ft
Castle Street
Harry Gow Bakery
600 ft
2 High Street
Explore Dornoch
Explore Dornoch
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Dornoch Cathedral
2 minutes' walk
12th-century Dornoch Cathedral boasts stunning architecture and historic significance, making it a key heritage site.
Historylinks Museum
2 minutes' walk
Local History Museum showcases the rich heritage of Dornoch with engaging exhibits, ideal for curious minds.
Dornoch Beach
18 minutes' walk
Scenic Dornoch Beach features miles of soft sand, perfect for leisurely strolls and family picnics amid natural beauty.
Royal Dornoch Golf Club
6 minutes' drive
World-renowned golf course offers stunning views and a challenging layout, appealing to golfers of all levels.
Golf at Royal Dornoch
6 minutes' drive
Renowned golf course for thrill-seekers, providing stunning vistas and well-maintained greens, open year-round.
Beach Walks
18 minutes' walk
Relaxing strolls along Dornoch Beach allow guests to unwind while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.
Sutherland House Ltd
2 minutes' walk
Charming eatery with a warm atmosphere, specializing in locally sourced dishes and seasonal specialties.
Cocoa Mountain Dornoch
2 minutes' walk
Delightful chocolaterie offering handcrafted chocolates and tempting desserts, perfect for a sweet treat.
The Coach House
1 minute' walk
Cozy pub serving a range of local brews, with a welcoming atmosphere and occasional live music events.
One Up Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Casual dining spot known for its vibrant ambiance and a menu featuring both local and international flavors.
Getting around
City Centre
Dornoch3 min
·
700 ft
Airports
Inverness Airport (INV)120 min
·
49.7
mi
Wick John O'Groats Airport (WIC)154 min
·
63.8
mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:30-21:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
is available in public areas for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
22
Questions of the users
About Dornoch Castle Hotel
Are there any accessible rooms with walk-in showers available, and is there a lift in the hotel?
12 November 2024
Standard rooms on the ground floor have accessible showers, but there is no lift in the hotel.
Can dogs accompany guests, and if so, what are the additional charges?
14 December 2024
Dogs are allowed in only two of the ground floor standard rooms for an additional fee of £10.00 per dog per night. Booking directly with the hotel is recommended to ensure the correct room allocation.
What is the best way to check available rooms in the hotel?
10 March 2025
Contacting the hotel directly at 01862810216 allows for a better understanding of room availability.
Are there gluten-free meal options available at the restaurant?
22 January 2025
Yes, the restaurant provides gluten-free options for guests with dietary restrictions.
Is there a facility to charge electric vehicles at the hotel?
5 February 2025
There is an electric charging point in the hotel car park for guests with electric vehicles.
Do the hotel rooms include hair dryers?
20 March 2025
Yes, all rooms are equipped with hair dryers for guest convenience.
Is parking available at the premises, and are there any associated costs?
17 April 2025
Car parking is available in the hotel courtyard and along the street in designated spaces, all free of charge.
Can guests see the northern lights from the hotel grounds?
11 July 2025
Unfortunately, the northern lights cannot be seen from the hotel's grounds.
Are there any fun local activities or attractions near the hotel?
3 August 2025
There are numerous activities available nearby, including hiking, exploring castles, and enjoying Dornoch Beach's golden sands.
What events or tastings are hosted in the hotel's whisky bar?
8 September 2025
The whisky bar hosts public tastings and special events, guided by knowledgeable staff. Check for the latest offerings.