Ulbster Arms Hotel Near Thurso

My company booked this hotel for two of us at a cost of £900 for two rooms with breakfast. The staff on breakfast were extremely helpful and friendly and couldn’t do enough for their guests however the night staff are a different experience. It nearly the end of our stay and I asked the very young lady manager the following; we’re going to be checking out a day earlier than expected & I’m not asking you to refund me however with us leaving early it’s going to mean you can book the two rooms to someone else and it would be very nice if you could by way of thank you possibly giving us both a basic dinner free or a discount for the restaurant. She simply said NO we don’t do that end of conversation. Nice touch I thought!

The Ulbster Arms got everything right and I strongly recommend it for anyone who expects first class service. Our lodge was comfortable stylish and warm, the restaurant had great atmosphere and the staff are professional and friendly but the food is outstanding and you can understand why it’s so popular. One stand out was the children’s menu which was the same quality and presentation as the full menu even the “ mocktail” was no problem even although it was not on the menu. Highest praise goes to breakfast and again the quality is superb, there are skilled chefs at work here, special mention to Liz who saw to our every need and gave great advice on the area and the history of the hotel. The hotel sits right on the river Thurso and is popular with fishermen but I think it’s the food that attracts them, it is a must try it if you are anywhere near Halkirk.

I have visited the Ulbster Arms on a number of previous occasions and the quality of service and overall experience have never faltered. If it is any recommendation, I travel from New Zealand purely to enjoy the fishing the atmosphere and the hospitality of staff and service of everyone at the hotel. Special mentions are not necessary as everyone there works so hard to do all that they can to look after their clients. If you want big flash ostentatious soul-less lodging then go elsewhere, if you want a true wholesome homely atmosphere, great food sourced locally, a yarn in the bar and a comfy bed you should spend a night or two here. Special word for Karla, the very best of luck to you on your new journey.

First time staying at the Ulbster Arms in Halkirk. Staff are friendly and attentive, nothing is too much trouble. My room was clean and tastefully decorated, the bed was very comfortable ,just what's needed after a long day on the river. Great hearty breakfast menu to set you up for the day. Dined in the bar in the evenings and was glad to see the kitchen using locally sourced ingredients. Good wholesome food. Advisable to book a table for the evening as it can get busy. My trip was for fishing on the RiverThurso which flows beside but is also a great base for exploring the North Highlands too. I certainly recommend staying at the Ulbster Arms and will definitely be returning. Lee

A fantastic stay yet again for a short fishing break. Jess and the team looked after us tremendously well as always, and a special thank you to Holly for sorting out a last minute room for me thanks to a booking error on my part. Steaks in the bar arrived just as ordered. Looking forward to returning again soon.

Visited with my partner and had a great steak and chips, she had crab cocktail and Cajun chicken burger - both meals were delicious and beautifully presented , I would highly recommend to come here and enjoy dinner in the bar lounge and a coffee in the library area afterwards