Thurso, located in the far north of Scotland, is a charming town that offers a warm welcome to visitors. Situated near the town, the scenic Thurso Beach is a must-visit, offering breathtaking views of the North Sea. The town itself is a cultural hub, with its vibrant arts scene and historic attractions. For nature enthusiasts, Thurso is an ideal getaway, with its proximity to the stunning North Coast and its abundant wildlife. Don't forget to explore the nearby town of Wick, known for its rich heritage and friendly locals. In Thurso, you can also experience the mesmerizing Northern Lights, go birdwatching, or enjoy hunting expeditions. With its budget-friendly options and stunning sunrises, Thurso promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

Thurso Hotels from โน6,476
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Our top choices for Thurso hotels




1. Park Hotel
Park Hotel



2. The View by BIDE Hotels
The View by BIDE Hotels



3. Pentland
Pentland



4. Greenland House B&B
Greenland House B&B



5. Forss House Hotel
Forss House Hotel



6. Premier Inn Thurso
Premier Inn Thurso



7. Manor House
Manor House



8. Northern Sands Hotel
Northern Sands Hotel



9. Celtic Lodges
Celtic Lodges



10. Sandra's Backpackers Hostel
Sandra's Backpackers Hostel



11. 8 Achnabat
8 Achnabat



12. Castletown Hotel
Castletown Hotel



13. Bettyhill Hotel
Bettyhill Hotel



14. Mackays Hotel Wick
Mackays Hotel Wick



15. Norseman Hotel
Norseman Hotel



16. Murray Arms Hotel
Murray Arms Hotel



17. Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast
Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast



18. Broadhaven Road
Broadhaven Road



19. Cozy Cabin Retreat in Halkirk
Cozy Cabin Retreat in Halkirk



20. The Royal Hotel Stromness
The Royal Hotel StromnessStay near popular Thurso attractions

Castle of Mey

Dunnet Head Lighthouse
Dunnet Bay Beach
Mary-Ann's Cottage
Dunnet Bay Distillery
Torrisdale Beach
Strathy Bay
Thurso Beach
Learn more about Thurso
Surfers flock to Thurso East for world-class waves while history buffs explore the ruins of Old St Peter's Church. Visit nearby Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, for dramatic cliff views and seabird colonies.
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Top Thurso Hotel Reviews
The View by BIDE Hotels
"The view was amazing! We appreciated the good-sized fridge."
Northern Sands Hotel
"After a less satisfactory night in a much more expensive hotel, I suddenly had to book this one at the last minute because of travel chaos. What a great find. The room was ideal for doing some work (maybe a wee wifi extender would have made it even better and quicker), and it was great to be able to eat on-site - and that was good quality too. I'll certainly be making this my go-to in the far north when I'm in the area."
Castletown Hotel
"Stay here every time up in Caithness on business. Very comfortable rooms and food is excellent reasonably priced & huge portions."
Park Hotel
"Iโve stayed here each time Iโve come to Scotland. The only hotel Iโve stayed in more than once. Youโre central to just about anywhere youโd like to go in the area. The folks who work there are the best of the best. Rooms are clean, all appliances work, bathrooms are huge, big windows, a fabulous bath & water pressure to write home about. Cannot recommend highly enough!"
Greenland House B&B
"This was a centrally located bed and breakfast in a lovely old home. The room was very small and there was no desk or anywhere to sit other than one chair. The bathroom was well equipped and breakfast was good. I might have been the only guest so it was very quiet - but very convenient to the ferry terminal just 7 miles away."
Manor House
"Nice room, lovely helpful staff"
Pentland
"Hotel check in was friendly, was asked if wanted quiet room but ended outside main road! Room was big as had an extra bed in. Off white bed covers was a bit odd but clean, windows werent the best as couldnt see out due to marks or condensation. Bathroom was OK. Breakfast was simple but nice. Hotel is next to a pub so had dinner there with was good"
Norseman Hotel
"The staff were excellent, courteous and especially cheerful. We enjoyed an excellent dinner and breakfast. Definitely recommend."
Forss House Hotel
"This place is special. It's like checking into a royal house and getting the royal experience for a couple of days. The house itself gives you a very warm feeling, and dinner experience was very fancy, following all the rules. They also have a great collection of whiskeys. All in all, we loved living the dream."
More cheap stays in Thurso

The View by BIDE Hotels

Celtic Lodges

The Stromness Hotel

North Star Glamping

The Sands Hotel
Hotels in Thurso with star rating

3 Star Hotels
Find out more about Thurso
Untouched natural beauty and rich Scottish heritage in Thurso
Top reasons to visit Thurso
- Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Thurso boasts beautiful hiking trails, a lovely golf course, and excellent bird-watching opportunities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Historic Attractions: Explore notable sites like Thurso Castle and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Scottish Highlands.
- Stunning Coastal Landscape: Enjoy the picturesque Thurso Bay and Thurso Beach, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with friendly locals and experience the vibrant culture of Thurso while discovering its charming centre.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels, Thurso offers a range of lodging to suit all travellers.
Find your hotel in Thurso
Thurso offers a variety of hotel options to suit all budgets and preferences. From eco-friendly accommodations to family-friendly hotels, there is something for everyone. Here are some popular hotels in Thurso:
- Park Hotel - This 3.0-star hotel features ecotourism and sustainable practices. With amenities like room service, a bar, and free breakfast, it's a great choice for a comfortable stay.
- Pentland - Another 3.0-star hotel, Pentland offers a cozy atmosphere with cafes, a golf course, and a bar. Its friendly staff and no smoking policy make it a popular choice.
- Greenland House B&B - If you're looking for a 4.0-star Bed and Breakfast, Greenland House is a fantastic option. With amenities like hunting, birdwatching, and a bar, it's perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Staying in Thurso provides a great opportunity to explore the beautiful Scottish countryside and enjoy a range of outdoor activities. With its friendly people and unique cultural experiences, Thurso is the ideal destination for a memorable holiday.
Where to stay in Thurso
Thurso, a charming city in the Scottish Highlands, offers an array of experiences perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can explore the scenic River Thurso and enjoy the vibrant centre of Thurso, which is rich in culture and friendly locals. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly options or luxury excursions, Thurso and its surroundings provide unforgettable short breaks and delightful adventures for every type of traveller.
- Bettyhill: Nestled along the stunning northern coast of Scotland, Bettyhill is a charming village offering a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With its visitor numbers peaking in April and from July to August, the village is a popular destination for eco-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy the nearby beach, or venture into the enchanting caves that dot the coastline. The village park provides a perfect spot for relaxation, making Bettyhill an ideal base for outdoor adventures.
- Scrabster: Located close to Thurso, Scrabster is a quaint village that offers a delightful mix of culture and coastal charm. With peak tourist visits occurring in February, May, and July, Scrabster attracts those looking for a beach getaway infused with cultural experiences. The picturesque marina is a highlight, providing access to boat tours and fishing trips. Visitors can also appreciate the significant architecture and explore the historic castle nearby, making Scrabster a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
- Castletown: Just a stone's throw from Thurso, Castletown is a village that captivates visitors with its beautiful scenery and adventure opportunities. With a surge of visitors from March to April and July, Castletown is ideal for outdoor activities, including hiking and enjoying the local spa facilities. The surrounding landscapes feature majestic mountains and a striking lighthouse, providing stunning backdrops for photography and exploration. For those seeking an adventure-filled getaway, Castletown offers a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement.
Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Thurso
Thurso is a charming town in Scotland, known for its friendly people, ferry connections, stunning northern lights, rich cultural heritage, budget-friendly options, breathtaking sunrises, hunting opportunities, vibrant bar scene, and abundant wildlife and birdwatching.
- Castle of Mey: Explore this historic castle and experience its friendly atmosphere, stunning views, and cultural significance.
- Scrabster Ferry Terminal: Take a ferry ride from this terminal, enjoy the friendly service, and experience the beautiful coastal scenery.
- Dunnet Head Lighthouse: Visit this historic lighthouse to witness its breathtaking surroundings, learn about its history, and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the coast.
How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Thurso
- You can find affordable accommodation options in Thurso on the Expedia website. Look for budget-friendly hotels that offer comfortable rooms at a lower cost.
- Consider booking your stay during the off-peak season to get better rates on hotels in Thurso. This is usually during the months of October to April.
- Take advantage of the search filters on Expedia to find hotels that suit your preferences and budget. Filter options include amenities, location, and price range.
- Save on travel expenses by using public transportation within Thurso. The local bus system is a convenient and affordable way to get around the town and explore nearby attractions.
- Don't miss the opportunity to witness the stunning Northern Lights in Thurso. Check the local forecast and plan your stay accordingly for a chance to see this natural phenomenon.
- Experience the local culture by visiting museums, art galleries, and historical sites in Thurso. Many of these attractions offer free or discounted admission.
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of Thurso by going wildlife and birdwatching. Explore the surrounding countryside and coastal areas for a chance to spot various bird species and marine life.
- For a unique experience, consider going hunting in the nearby countryside. Make sure to follow local regulations and obtain the necessary permits.
- Visit the local bars and pubs in Thurso to immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere and enjoy a taste of Scottish hospitality.
- Wake up early to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the sea in Thurso. Find a beach or coastal spot to witness this magical moment.
- Plan your travel to Thurso in advance and keep an eye out for special deals and discounts on Expedia. Saving on accommodation and travel expenses will help make your trip more affordable.
Discover the flavours of Thurso
Thurso offers a delightful dining experience for those looking to indulge in authentic Scottish fare. One of the highlights is Thyme Restaurant, which provides a charming restaurant with rooms concept. Here, you can savor locally sourced ingredients transformed into mouth-watering dishes by talented chefs. From hearty Scottish breakfasts to delectable seafood platters, Thyme Restaurant showcases the best of the region's culinary delights.
When it comes to local restaurants, Thurso offers a variety of options to cater to different tastes. Robins is a popular seafood restaurant, serving up the freshest catches from the nearby waters. For a true seafood experience, Captain's Galley is another excellent choice, known for its delicious seafood dishes and sustainable sourcing practices. If you're craving Asian flavours, Spice Tandoori offers a taste of the East with its aromatic and authentic Asian cuisine. Whether you're a seafood lover or craving something different, Thurso has a diverse culinary scene to satisfy every palate.
Best time to go to Thurso
Thurso boasts a year-around average temperature of 7.7ยฐC, peaking at 12.7ยฐC in July, August, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 3.6ยฐC in January, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 72.0mm annually, with January, October, November, December seeing the heaviest showers and May, June, July being the driest month.
Month![]() | Temperature (Celcius)![]() | Rainfall (mm)![]() |
| January | 3.6 | 88.9 |
| February | 3.7 | 87.6 |
| March | 4.8 | 87.6 |
| April | 6.2 | 53.3 |
| May | 8.4 | 45.7 |
| June | 10.7 | 45.7 |
| July | 12.7 | 45.7 |
| August | 12.7 | 61.0 |
| September | 11.0 | 81.3 |
| October | 8.5 | 88.9 |
| November | 5.8 | 88.9 |
| December | 4.2 | 88.9 |
The nearest major airports for your trip to Thurso
Travelling to Thurso, Scotland, can be accomplished via several nearby airports. INVerness Airport (INV) is situated 121km away, with luxurious options like Ness Walk and Rocpool Reserve, both 13km from the airport, offering comprehensive shuttle services. Stornoway Airport (SYY) lies 169km from Thurso, with hotels such as The Cabarfeidh Hotel and Stornoway Bed and Breakfast located a mere 3km from the airport. Finally, Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is 53km away, with charming options like Hildeval B&B and The Ayre Hotel just 5km from the airport. Each airport provides convenient access to Thurso, ensuring a pleasant stay.
The Thurso info point: What you need to know
Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Thurso, Scotland, United Kingdom |
| Population | Approximately 8,000 |
| Main Attractions | Thurso Beach, Castle of Mey, Dunnet Head |
| Best Time to Visit | May to September |
| Weather | Temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters |
| Local Cuisine | Scottish dishes like haggis, fish and chips, and whisky |
| Activities | Surfing, hiking, fishing, exploring historical sites |
| Transportation | Train station, bus services, taxi services |




