Dornoch Castle Hotel, Dornoch
About the Hotel
Dornoch Castle Hotel is a 15th-century castle located in the historic town of Dornoch, opposite the 12th-century Dornoch Cathedral. Known for its exceptional whisky bar, it boasts one of the most extensive collections of rare whiskies globally. The hotel is also a key stop along Scotland's North Coast 500 route, showcasing the stunning scenery and cultural richness of the Scottish Highlands.
Location
Situated 49.5 miles from Inverness, the hotel is easily accessible via the North Coast 500, which passes through picturesque landscapes and nearby attractions. The surrounding area includes historical sites such as Dornoch Cathedral and the Historylinks Museum, while outdoor activities and local distilleries offer diverse exploration opportunities. Transport options include roads suitable for cars, and modest parking provisions are available.
Rooms
The hotel features a variety of accommodations, including Deluxe Rooms with unique character and spa baths. Superior Rooms are available with views of the walled gardens or Dornoch Cathedral, and many rooms include modern amenities such as tea and coffee facilities, flat-screen TVs, and en-suite bathrooms. There are also family rooms designed to accommodate up to three guests, providing spacious and comfortable settings.
Eat & Drink
Dornoch Castle Hotel's Garden Restaurant serves a seasonal menu focusing on local produce, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including a Hogmanay Gala Dinner. Pairings of wine and whisky are available in the intimate Vault for private dining experiences. The culinary team emphasizes efficient and friendly service, with popular dishes highlighted by unique flavor combinations.
Leisure & Business
Guests can enjoy the award-winning whisky bar known for an impressive selection of unique and rare whiskies. The hotel provides a charming terrace and walled gardens for leisure activities, while options for private dining and event hosting cater to both personal and business gatherings. The Dornoch Distillery is located nearby, though tours are not available due to its size.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
- Parking
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Security
- Baggage 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
- Cribs
- Board games
- Children's menu
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Live entertainment
- 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
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel has a great location, being in the center of town, making it ideal for exploring the scenic old town. The rooms, though basic, were sparkling clean. The service was friendly and helpful, despite some noise issues. The dining experience was average, with some hits and misses. Overall, a good value for money stay.
The hotel offers a truly unique experience with its amazing room design and convenient location. While the room may have a distracting color, it's still fantastic for what we paid. The service went above and beyond to make our stay memorable, from locating a forgotten iPad to arranging a special museum visit. The location couldn't be better, right in the heart of a scenic old town. Dining was decent but lacked a bit of attention. Overall, a great choice considering the value for money.
My stay at the hotel was pleasant overall. The room was fine but not spotless and somewhat expensive. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the service was absolutely brilliant. The location was nice and traditional, with easy access to explore the town and beaches. The dining experience was to a high standard, offering a lovely selection of dishes. The facilities were good, though not exceptional.
Staying here was like stepping into the TV series 'Outlander' with a charming four-poster bed and antique vibe, though a bit pricey at around £220/night. The room, part of a suite option, offers a mix of modern facilities with a classic touch, including a bath but not spotlessly clean.
The hotel offers traditional rooms at a somewhat expensive rate, but the friendly service and amazing location in the cute town of Dornoch make up for it. The dining could be better for the price paid.
Staying at the hotel felt like being transported back to the TV series 'Outlander' with its four poster bed and antique vibe, all while enjoying modern amenities. The rooms were spacious and luxurious, maintaining their original charm. The service was superb, from the engaging and friendly staff to the impressive whisky collection. The location at the heart of Royal Burgh of Dornoch was ideal, and the whiskey bar was a standout feature. However, the dining experience, albeit to a high standard, was limited in options. Overall, a place I would revisit primarily for the exceptional whisky.
The hotel has spotless rooms with great amenities, although the soundproofing could be better. The service is fantastic with freshly baked bread every morning and friendly staff. The location is superb, right in the center of Dornoch, but the dining experience could be improved. Overall, a cozy and compact stay with some limitations.
The standard rooms were nothing special compared to the beautiful castle rooms but came at the same premium price, lacking renovation. The service was attentive, offering advice on scotch pairings and complimentary desserts or espresso. The hotel's location in the heart of the Royal Burgh of Dornoch was fantastic, with a cozy atmosphere and close proximity to the Royal Dornoch golf course. Overall, the hotel offers a mix of positives and negatives for a stay.
My stay at the hotel was a mix of comfort and charm. The rooms were clean and comfortable with a great view, but a bit cold and dated. The service was friendly and accommodating, although there was a slight issue with cigarette smoke. The location was cosy and inviting, with a unique old castle feel. The dining experience was good overall, especially with wood-fired pizzas. Facilities were well-kept and inviting.
Next best alternative
Moline Bell
Ala Hotel Kyoto
The Venice Venice Hotel
Hotel Tagoo
La Reserve Eden Au Lac Zurich
Nh Ciudad De Zaragoza
Hotel Palacio De Santa Paula, Autograph Collection
City Hotel
Burnsville Inn & Suites
Hotel Conde Duque Bilbao
Timhotel Invalides Eiffel
Leonardo Inn Glasgow West End