Northern Sands Hotel Dunnet Exterior photoNorthern Sands Hotel Dunnet Interior photoNorthern Sands Hotel Dunnet Exterior photo

Northern Sands Hotel, Dunnet

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From$161 /night
Check-in
02Sept
Check-out
03Sept
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Northern Sands Hotel, Dunnet, KW14 8XD
-
Close to Dunnet Beach
Great
8.8
9.7
/10
5.0
4.7
/5

4-star coastal retreat in Dunnet with stunning views

Amenities

Northern Sands Hotel offers direct access to Dunnet Bay, allowing guests to enjoy scenic coastal walks right outside their door. The hotel has a bar and a restaurant on-site, providing a range of dining options for all tastes. A well-equipped lounge area invites relaxation and socializing after a day of exploring the surrounding natural beauty.

Rooms

The hotel has 22 rooms, including family accommodations that come with spacious layouts. Each room features a private bathroom, enhancing comfort and practicality for all guests. Select rooms offer breathtaking views of Dunnet Bay, allowing guests to wake up to stunning landscapes.

Location

Northern Sands Hotel is strategically located near the picturesque village of Dunnet, providing easy access to local attractions and points of interest. Nearby attractions include the iconic Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Scotland, and beautiful wildlife-rich landscapes. The hotel is also a short drive from Thurso, which offers additional shopping and dining options.

Dining

The on-site restaurant offers a menu that highlights local ingredients and traditional Scottish dishes. Guests can enjoy an extensive breakfast menu, ensuring a strong start to the day. Evening dining options allow guests to unwind and savor regional flavors in a welcoming setting.

Wellness

Northern Sands Hotel emphasizes wellness with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages rest and rejuvenation. Guests can explore the nearby beaches for leisurely strolls or partake in various outdoor activities in the surrounding areas. The hotel promotes a tranquil environment, supporting physical and mental well-being.

Highlights

Location: Direct access to Dunnet Bay

Rooms: 22 rooms with family accommodations

Dining: On-site restaurant with local ingredients

Wellness: Tranquil environment for rejuvenation

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll Dunnet Beach for breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.
  • Visit the historic Castle of Mey, once home to the Queen Mother.
  • Don't miss the delicious local seafood at The Bay Owl restaurant.
  • Explore the Dunnet Head Lighthouse for stunning sunset vistas.
  • Check out the local craft market on Saturdays for unique souvenirs.

Select your room type

Northern Sands Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
  • Deluxe Twin Room
    2 persons
    13 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
    Bathtub
    Heating
  • Standard Twin Room
    2 persons
    12 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Coffee machine
  • Family Room
    2 persons
    16 sq. feet
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Coffee machine
Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Northern Sands Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Horseback riding
  • Golf course
  • Darts
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Picnic area/ Tables
  • Dinner
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu
  • Game room

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access
  • Live entertainment

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

Northern Sands Hotel offers a delightful array of dining experiences, featuring local flavors and warm hospitality. Guests can indulge in traditional British cuisine and refresh with a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options, all set within inviting atmospheres that cater to families and those seeking a contemporary dining experience.
  • The Pentland Lounge

    Traditional British
    Ambiance
    Warm and inviting with a traditional charm.
    Key Offerings
    A menu showcasing local produce along with a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options, perfect for casual meals with family or friends.
    Reservation
    Recommended for larger groups.
    Open daily from 12:00 to 21:00.
  • Logan's Bar

    Casual Family Dining
    Ambiance
    Family-friendly with a blend of traditional and modern decor, suitable for gatherings and casual dining.
    Key Offerings
    A selection of delightful vegetarian and gluten-free options served throughout the day, ideal for brunches and afternoon relaxation.
    Reservation
    Not needed, walk-ins are welcome.
    Open daily from 11:00 to 21:00.
  • Links Restaurant

    Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-free
    Ambiance
    Comfortable and accommodating atmosphere focused on dietary needs.
    Key Offerings
    Specializes in vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, providing an inclusive dining experience.
    Reservation
    Recommended during peak times.
    Open daily from 12:00 to 21:00.

Northern Sands Hotel Location

Northern Sands Hotel, Dunnet, KW14 8XD
Explore Dunnet
Local Highlights Near Northern Sands Hotel
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Dunnet Bay Beach
35 minutes walking
Stunning beach known for its golden sands and scenic views. Perfect for leisurely walks and photography.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
Castlehill Heritage Centre
40 minutes walking
A charming museum showcasing local history and culture. Features exhibitions and guided tours.
Loch Heilen
Loch Heilen
45 minutes walking
Picturesque loch offering serene landscapes, ideal for birdwatching and picnicking in nature.
Hiking at Dunnet Head
60 minutes walking
Thrilling hiking trails with dramatic cliff views. Paths suitable for various skill levels, open year-round.
Relaxation at Mary Ann's Cottage
3 minutes walking
A quaint cottage offering yoga sessions and wellness workshops. Perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation.
Northern Sands Hotel Restaurant
5 minutes walking
Cozy atmosphere specializing in local dishes made with fresh ingredients. Vegetarian options available.
The Seadrift Cafe
3 minutes walking
Casual dining spot known for its hearty breakfasts and baked goods. Family-friendly with gluten-free choices.
Ceilidh Nights at the Local Hall
10 minutes drive
Fun-filled nights featuring traditional Scottish music and dance. Ideal for families and couples alike.
Dunnet Bay Distillery
10 minutes drive
Local distillery offering tours and tastings of fine spirits. A great evening event for solo travelers and groups.
Getting around
  • City Centre
    Dunnet 3 min  ·  700 ft
  • Airports
    Wick John O'Groats (WIC) 44 min  ·  18.0 mi
    Kirkwall (KOI) 99 min  ·  40.7 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-22:00
Check-out
from 06:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP 0.1 per person.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
12

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Northern Sands Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 472 verified reviews
9.0 /10
Perfect
94 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Facilities
8.8/10
Free WiFi
8.5/10
Location
9.1/10
Staff
9.4/10
Value for money
8.6/10
Guest reviews
based on 472 reviews
9.0/10
based on 651 reviews
8.8/10
Nick from Australia
Single
standard twin room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 10, 2026
7/10
large ensuite clean room cramped room noisy bar
the room was very clean, and it had a large ensuite. i loved the shower (it had great water pressure!). the food at the restaurant tasted amazing.
my room felt a little cramped, it was hard moving around with my suitcase. the bar was located right under my room so it was noisy at night.
0 Helpful
Terry from United Kingdom
Family with children
Family Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 19, 2025
9/10
free parking tasty breakfast
The staff was helpful at all times. The breakfast was plentiful and tasty. My room was super clean with good facilities. I used the free parking, a great service.
The music from the bar was audible in my room. It was located just beneath us.
0 Helpful
Leo from United Kingdom
Single
Standard Single Room Shower
3 nights in September 2025
|
Reviewed: November 11, 2025
9/10

great north coast stay

quality food cute bar convenient location
i chose this hotel for a stop during my north coast 500 trip. the restaurant had good quality food and a cute bar area. breakfast was also very good! the location is convenient for ferry users and those on the nc500.
the single room i stayed in was quite small. there was no bedside table or light, so i had to get out of bed to switch off the main lights. this was somewhat inconvenient after a long day of travel.
Rooms
8/10
The standard single room had a shower and basic amenities. The size was compact. space to move around the room with luggage was limited. The bed was comfortable. lighting was provided by bright ceiling lights.
0 Helpful
|
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FAQs
About Northern Sands Hotel
What time can I check in and check out at Northern Sands Hotel?
Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
How far is Northern Sands Hotel from Wick John O'Groats Airport?
The hotel is 23 km from Wick John O'Groats Airport.
Are there any nearby attractions to Northern Sands Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Dunnet Beach (approximately 2 km), John o'Groats (16 km), and Castle Gardens of Mey (approximately 8 km).
What facilities are available at Northern Sands Hotel?
Facilities include free Wi-Fi, private parking, a bar/lounge area, and an on-site restaurant.
What types of dishes are served at the restaurant in Northern Sands Hotel?
The restaurant offers a variety of menus using local produce, including British cuisine for both lunch and dinner.
Is there a bar available at Northern Sands Hotel?
Yes, there are three bars on-site where guests can relax and enjoy live sports on Sky TV.
What amenities do the rooms at Northern Sands Hotel provide?
Rooms come equipped with HD Smart TVs, private bathrooms with showers or baths, complimentary Scottish toiletries, and coffee makers.
What outdoor activities can guests enjoy near Northern Sands Hotel?
Guests can partake in walking, running, surfing, wind surfing, horse riding, and kite buggying.
What are the on-site leisure activities available at Northern Sands Hotel?
On-site activities include darts, a game room, live music performances, and themed dinner nights.
Is free parking available at Northern Sands Hotel?
Yes, free private parking is available on-site for guests.

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