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Northern Sands Hotel

3.0 star property
Beach hotel near Dunnet Bay Beach

Photo gallery for Northern Sands Hotel

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

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Housekeeping
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Business services
The current price is AU$191
includes taxes & fees
19 Dec - 20 Dec

Explore the area

View 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 Single Bed

Single Room, 1 Single Bed

Single Room, 1 Single Bed

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(6 reviews)

Highlights

Heating
Smart TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Select Comfort bed
Hairdryer
Electric kettle
Coffee/tea maker
  • 5 sq m
  • 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)

Highlights

Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Smart TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Select Comfort bed
Blackout curtains
Hairdryer
Electric kettle
  • 7 sq m
  • 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

Classic Double or Twin Room

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(7 reviews)

Highlights

Heating
Smart TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Select Comfort bed
Hairdryer
Electric kettle
Coffee/tea maker
  • 5 sq m
  • 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

Classic Double Room, 1 King Bed

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(7 reviews)

Highlights

Heating
Smart TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Select Comfort bed
Hairdryer
Electric kettle
Coffee/tea maker
  • 5 sq m
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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

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

Deluxe Double or Twin Room, 1 Bedroom

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(5 reviews)

Highlights

Heating
Smart TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Select Comfort bed
Hairdryer
Electric kettle
Coffee/tea maker
  • 7 sq m
  • 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 curtains

Premier Double Room, 1 King Bed, Sea View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)

Highlights

Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Smart TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Select Comfort bed
Blackout curtains
Hairdryer
Electric kettle
  • 7 sq m
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

About the area

Thurso

At Northern Sands Hotel, you'll be 0.8 km (0.5 mi) from Dunnet Bay Beach and 6.9 km (4.3 mi) from Mary-Ann's Cottage. Highlights at this beach hotel include in-room free WiFi, free high-speed Internet and Smart TVs. .Logans Bar serves local cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. With 3 lounge bars to choose from, you can enjoy a drink at the hotel. Meeting rooms and a conference centre are among the business amenities offered. Other amenities include 2 restaurants and free Wi-Fi in public areas. There's also free self parking, along with the convenience of an airport shuttle. .Places within a 15-minute drive of this 3-property class Thurso hotel include Dunnet Head Lighthouse and Castle of Mey.

What's nearby

  • Dunnet Bay Distillery - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Dunnet Bay Beach - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Dunnet Head Lighthouse - 11 min drive - 9.0 km
  • Castle of Mey - 13 min drive - 11.0 km
  • Scrabster Ferry Terminal - 16 min drive - 19.0 km

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
There are 2 restaurants on site. You can unwind with a drink at one of the 3 bars/lounges. Public spaces have free WiFi. An airport shuttle (available on request) is available for a fee. An arcade/games room, tour/ticket assistance, and a garden are also featured at the business-friendly Northern Sands Hotel. Free self parking is available.

This 3-star Thurso hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 1 floor
  • 12 guestrooms or units
  • 2 dining venues
  • 3 bars or lounges
  • Conference rooms
  • Conference centre
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Games room or arcade
  • Garden
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • No smoking on site
Northern Sands Hotel offers 12 accommodations with coffee/tea makers and a hairdryer. Beds feature Select Comfort mattresses. Smart televisions come with satellite channels. Bathrooms include baths or showers and complimentary toiletries.

This Thurso hotel provides complimentary wired and wireless Internet access. Business-friendly amenities include desks and telephones; free local calls are provided (restrictions may apply). Additionally, rooms include an iron/ironing board and blackout curtains. Housekeeping is offered on a daily basis and hypo-allergenic bedding can be requested.

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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 transport

  • Return 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 centre
  • 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 lift

More

  • 1 building
  • 1 floor
  • Banquet hall
  • Smoke-free property

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

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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

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

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

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

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

What is the cancellation policy at Northern Sands Hotel?

Northern Sands Hotel offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at Northern Sands Hotel?

As of 12 Dec 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Northern Sands Hotel on 19 Dec 2025 start from AU$190.59, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at Northern Sands Hotel?

Yep, Northern Sands Hotel has a free self car park and free extended parking.

Are there any beaches close to Northern Sands Hotel?

Yep, Northern Sands Hotel is a short 10-minute walk from Dunnet Bay Beach. Fun beach activities include fishing.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Northern Sands Hotel?

No, but there's an airport shuttle that runs from 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM on request for a fee.

Is there a bar or restaurant at Northern Sands Hotel?

Yep, you can grab a meal at Northern Sands Hotel's onsite restaurant that serves local cuisine.

What time are check-in & check-out at Northern Sands Hotel?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10 AM.

Are pets allowed at Northern Sands Hotel?

No, pets are not allowed.

Reviews

Northern Sands Hotel Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.4/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness
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

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Helen

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
First visit for over 10 years and it didn't disappoint. The hotel is modern and the staff were all lovely and couldn't do enough to make sure we felt welcome. The bonus is that it's just a short walk to the beach
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erica M

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Simon

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

10/10

Excellent hotel. Friendly staff, clean room, great breakfast.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

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

Travelled 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

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

10/10 Excellent

Donald

Business traveller
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

Travelled 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

Travelled 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

Travelled 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

Travelled 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

Travelled 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

Travelled 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

Travelled with family, Travelled with group
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

Travelled 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