A coastal town with a harbor, boats, and a stone pier.

Helmsdale Hotels

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Tomorrow
14 Oct - 15 Oct
This weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct
Next weekend
23 Oct - 25 Oct

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Our top choices for Helmsdale hotels

1. The Bridge Guest House

The Bridge Guest House
Helmsdale
United States
Jalisa
€140
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
The Bridge Guest House

2. Bannockburn Inn

Bannockburn Inn
Helmsdale
United Kingdom
Neville
€101
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Bannockburn Inn

3. Belgrave Arms Hotel

Belgrave Arms Hotel
Helmsdale
United Kingdom
Brent
€131
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Belgrave Arms Hotel

4. Fisherman s Rest in Helmsdale

Fisherman s Rest in Helmsdale
Helmsdale
€228
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Fisherman s Rest in Helmsdale

5. Helmsdale Lodge

Helmsdale Lodge
Helmsdale
United Kingdom
William
Helmsdale Lodge

6. Royal Marine Hotel

Royal Marine Hotel
Brora
United States
Michael
€129
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Royal Marine Hotel

7. North Coast 500 Pods

North Coast 500 Pods
Brora
United States
Kim
€121
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
North Coast 500 Pods

8. Golspie Inn

Golspie Inn
Golspie
United Kingdom
Rebecca
€131
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Golspie Inn

9. North Star Glamping

North Star Glamping
Lybster
United Kingdom
Michael
€128
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
North Star Glamping

10. Marine & Lawn Dornoch

Marine & Lawn Dornoch
Dornoch
United Kingdom
Andrew
€153
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
Marine & Lawn Dornoch

11. Golspie, Firthview, A Cosy Seafront Escape

Golspie, Firthview, A Cosy Seafront Escape
Golspie
€135
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Golspie, Firthview, A Cosy Seafront Escape

12. Woodlands Bed & Breakfast

Woodlands Bed & Breakfast
Dornoch
United States
F David
€160
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Woodlands Bed & Breakfast

13. Royal Golf Hotel

Royal Golf Hotel
Dornoch
Canada
Barbara
€127
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Royal Golf Hotel

14. Garvault House

Garvault House
Kinbrace
United Kingdom
Kevin
€121
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Garvault House

15. Links House at Royal Dornoch

Links House at Royal Dornoch
Dornoch
United States
Joseph
€365
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Links House at Royal Dornoch

16. Altnaharra Hotel

Altnaharra Hotel
Altnaharra
United Kingdom
Andrew
€120
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Altnaharra Hotel

17. The Eagle Hotel

The Eagle Hotel
Dornoch
United Kingdom
Graeme
€131
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
The Eagle Hotel

18. Dornoch Pods

Dornoch Pods
Dornoch
€342
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Dornoch Pods

19. Rose Cottage

Rose Cottage
Lybster
United States
Axel
€464
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
Rose Cottage

20. The Cabin

The Cabin
Lybster
€419
includes taxes & fees
24 Oct - 25 Oct
The Cabin
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Stay near popular Helmsdale attractions

Emigrants Monument

8.8/10 (11 reviews)
You can learn about the history of Helmsdale with a visit to Emigrants Monument. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the shops while you're in the area.
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Timespan Heritage Centre

8.4/10 (5 reviews)
You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Timespan Heritage Centre during your travels in Helmsdale. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the spas while you're in the area.
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Learn more about Helmsdale

The Timespan Museum reveals Helmsdale's gold rush history through interactive exhibits and local artefacts. Anglers can catch salmon in the River Helmsdale while hikers explore nearby coastal paths with stunning North Sea views.

See all hotels in Helmsdale
A coastal village with houses, a beach, and rolling hills.

Top Helmsdale Hotel Reviews

Dornoch Station

Dornoch Station

10/10 Excellent
"We LOVED our room & stay here….wish we had booked another couple days. Staff were very nice, accommodating and kind. We were blessed with sun & blue sky…..walk across the road to the golf course and an easy walk to a beautiful beach. The grounds are lovely. They had a wedding party and could not accommodate our having dinner at the hotel BUT the receptionist made a recommendation and booked a nearby dinner for us which was very good 🙂 If we get back over the pond we would stay here again & for longer"
John 1-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Dornoch Station
Royal Golf Hotel

Royal Golf Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The staff were extremely attentive and welcoming. They really cared about our stay and that we have a great experience."
Barbara 1-night trip
Posted 16 hours ago
Royal Golf Hotel
Royal Marine Hotel

Royal Marine Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Our room was great and the staff was the most friendly. Would be back for the staff alone!"
John 2-night trip
Posted 22 hours ago
Royal Marine Hotel
Altnaharra Hotel

Altnaharra Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Hidden gem! Wonderful room and friendly staff and the food was amazing! Definitely recommend"
Andrew 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Altnaharra Hotel
Golspie Inn

Golspie Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Always super efgiciebt"
William 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Golspie Inn
The Bridge Guest House

The Bridge Guest House

8/10 Good
"This is quite a "quirky" hotel. I love it because it is "old-fashioned". Huge rooms, with a huge bath, and huge bed. Just very comfortable. Don't stay here if you want some kind of "cookie-cutter", modern plastic thing."
David 1-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
The Bridge Guest House
2-Bed Country Cottage, Sleeps 5 & Pet Friendly

2-Bed Country Cottage, Sleeps 5 & Pet Friendly

10/10 Excellent
"The croft was fantastic. It is very cosy but also spacious and had everything we needed. It's in a excellent location for exploring the the whole east coast. It also has lots of quiet roads and paths to walk the dogs. You are a few minutes from he A9 but you would think you were miles from it due to the location of the house, with fantastic views of the sea from it's elevated position. We will be back!."
Steven M. 7-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
2-Bed Country Cottage, Sleeps 5 & Pet Friendly
Belgrave Arms Hotel

Belgrave Arms Hotel

8/10 Good
"Good value for money and great location."
gilbert 2-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Belgrave Arms Hotel
Bannockburn Inn

Bannockburn Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful place run by helpful, friendly people. For example, they don't mind if you call them with a question, no matter how obvious the answer is. They have a lovely restaurant there with fun and friendly staff. Also, be sure to tour the area - the Northern Highlands are stunningly beautiful. We had a great time."
Karen 4-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Bannockburn Inn

More cheap stays in Helmsdale

North Star Glamping

North Star Glamping

Barra, Norland Road Lybster Scotland
€128
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (73 reviews)
North Star Glamping
Helmsdale Lodge

Helmsdale Lodge

1 stafford street Helmsdale Scotland
Get rates
10/10 Exceptional! (13 reviews)
Helmsdale Lodge
The Ben Bhraggie Inn

The Ben Bhraggie Inn

1886 Old Bank Rd Golspie Scotland
Get rates
7.6/10 Good! (37 reviews)
The Ben Bhraggie Inn
Otago Cottage Brora

Otago Cottage Brora

Brora Scotland
Get rates
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
Otago Cottage Brora
No 8 The Links Apartment Brora

No 8 The Links Apartment Brora

Brora Scotland
Get rates
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
No 8 The Links Apartment Brora
UHI Dornoch - Campus Accommodation

UHI Dornoch - Campus Accommodation

Struie House, The Meadows Dornoch Scotland
Get ratesUHI Dornoch - Campus Accommodation

Find out more about Helmsdale

Top reasons to visit Helmsdale

  • Breathtaking Scenery: Helmsdale is surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
  • Charming Fishing Village: Experience the quaint atmosphere of this historic fishing village with friendly locals and unique architecture.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the picturesque River Helmsdale.
  • Cultural Experiences: Discover local history through museums and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from cosy bed and breakfasts to guest houses, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Helmsdale

Experience the charm of Helmsdale with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller. From cosy bed and breakfasts to welcoming hotels and guest houses, you'll find the perfect base for your adventure. Many lodgings offer pet-friendly facilities, making it easy for families and furry companions alike to enjoy their stay. Discover the diverse choices available in Helmsdale and make your visit truly memorable.

  • Royal Marine Hotel: Nestled a mere 16.1km from Helmsdale, the 4-star Royal Marine Hotel offers a delightful seaside retreat for those seeking a relaxing holiday. With a commendable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for beach lovers and business travellers alike. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, allowing for leisurely strolls along the shore. The hotel’s amenities cater to both relaxation and productivity, making it a suitable choice for various needs during your stay.
  • The Antlers: Located 30.6km from Helmsdale, The Antlers is a charming 3-star Bed and Breakfast with a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This welcoming establishment is perfect for those who appreciate a homely atmosphere and hearty meals. Guests can indulge in complimentary local breakfast options daily, ensuring a delightful start to each day. The Antlers also features entertainment amenities, including a flatscreen TV, providing a comfortable space to unwind after exploring the surrounding area.
  • Sutherland Inn: Situated just 16.1km from Helmsdale, the Sutherland Inn is a 3-star inn that boasts a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This pet-friendly establishment caters to travellers with furry companions, offering a welcoming environment for guests accompanied by pets. The Sutherland Inn has specific pet policies in place, allowing dogs and service animals, making it a great choice for those who prefer to travel with their pets. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while exploring the local sights.

Where to stay in and around Helmsdale

Helmsdale, Scotland, is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking adventure amid stunning scenery. Explore the sparkling River Helmsdale, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the local culture and history. This delightful town offers a relaxing atmosphere with friendly locals, making it an ideal getaway. Venture beyond Helmsdale to uncover nearby treasures, ensuring an enjoyable visit filled with memorable experiences.

  • Brora: Situated approximately 16.1km from Helmsdale, Brora is a charming coastal town that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors flock here mainly from June to August, drawn by activities such as golfing and skiing at nearby facilities. The town's highlights include its beautiful beach, significant architecture, and the nearby castle, making it an attractive destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration amidst picturesque landscapes.
  • Portgower: Nestled in the vicinity of Helmsdale, Portgower is a quaint village perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat. With a moderate seasonal influx of visitors, particularly from July to September, it is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Guests can enjoy wildlife watching, spa experiences, and ferry rides. The nearby national parks and beach provide ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation, making Portgower a delightful stop for nature enthusiasts.
  • Golspie: Located around 24.1km from Helmsdale, Golspie is a vibrant town that combines culture with outdoor enjoyment. With peak visitor numbers in April and during the summer months, Golspie attracts those interested in romantic getaways and cultural experiences. Popular activities include golfing and accessing scenic trails. The town is also home to a striking castle and beautiful beaches, offering a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and cultural exploration.

Things to do in Helmsdale

Shopping

In Helmsdale, you can find charming local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect for taking a piece of Scotland home. If you're up for a drive, visit the Dornoch Retail Park, located 24.1km away, where you'll discover a variety of shops and local products.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil surroundings at the Helmsdale Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in relaxing treatments and mindfulness sessions. For outdoor enthusiasts, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Helmsdale River, offering scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching amidst the serene Scottish landscape.

Adventure

Explore the rugged beauty of the Helmsdale River with kayaking and canoeing adventures, offering a unique way to experience the stunning landscape. For those keen on hiking, the nearby Strath of Kildonan provides scenic trails with chances to spot local wildlife.

Nightlife

Visit the Helmsdale Hotel for a warm atmosphere and a selection of local ales. For a lively night out, check out the local pub scene, where you can enjoy traditional Scottish music and friendly banter with the locals, making for an authentic experience.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Helmsdale

To save on your visit to Helmsdale, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and November when prices are lower. Book your accommodation at least a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly options and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Lastly, explore the area on foot to enjoy free activities and minimise transport costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Helmsdale are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Helmsdale is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Helmsdale is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Helmsdale is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type – for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Helmsdale hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Helmsdale

Helmsdale, Scotland, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking stunning scenery. Visitors can explore local attractions such as history museums, the picturesque beach, and tranquil lakes. Key points of interest include the River Helmsdale, making it an ideal spot for cultural experiences and breathtaking views. Whether you're wandering through the charming village or enjoying the natural beauty, Helmsdale offers a delightful getaway immersed in adventure and history.

  • Timespan Heritage Centre: Nestled within Helmsdale, this history museum invites you to explore the local culture and heritage through engaging exhibits and displays. Experience the rich history of the area while enjoying the warm atmosphere that reflects the community's spirit.
  • Brora Beach: Located 14.5km from Helmsdale, Brora Beach offers a tranquil seaside escape. With its soft sands and gentle waves, it's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing day by the sea, embodying the quintessential coastal charm of Scotland.
  • Loch Brora: Situated 19.3km away, Loch Brora captivates visitors with its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. The picturesque setting makes it a romantic getaway, perfect for picnics or simply soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds the lake.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Helmsdale

Flying into Helmsdale, Scotland, is convenient with several nearby airports. Aberdeen Airport (ABZ), located 133.6km away, offers excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Trump® International Scotland, just 12.9km from the airport, and the 4-star Hilton Aberdeen TECA, situated 1.6km away. Inverness Airport (INV) is closer at 69.2km, with notable accommodations like the 5-star Factor's House, 14.5km from the airport, and the 4-star Golf View Hotel & Spa, 11.3km away. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is 103.0km distant, featuring hotels such as the 4-star Hildeval B&B, located 4.8km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport options to Helmsdale.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to stay in Helmsdale?
The Bridge Guest House is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data. This guest house offers free breakfast and free parking. Other good choices for your visit include Belgrave Arms Hotel and Bannockburn Inn. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Helmsdale.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Helmsdale has to offer?
A 2-bedroom cottage overlooking the Helmsdale harbour.: This highly rated holiday home rental in Helmsdale is located in a rural location, and has a patio, a garden and laundry facilities to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a dishwasher, a fridge and an oven. Make the most of games in this rental home to help you unwind. Another good choice for your trip to Helmsdale is 2-Bed Country Cottage, Sleeps 5 & Pet Friendly. See all vacation rentals in Helmsdale.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Helmsdale, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel bookings are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your arrival date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and be given a refund within 24 hours of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Helmsdale.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Helmsdale?
Based on our traveller reviews, Helmsdale Lodge is a top choice for a less expensive stay. View all budget hotels in Helmsdale.
What is the top LGBTQ-friendly place to stay in Helmsdale?
Bannockburn Inn is a top LGBTQ-friendly inn that features a golf course and free Wi-Fi. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Helmsdale.
What's the best dog-friendly hotel in Helmsdale?
Belgrave Arms Hotel is a top dog-friendly hotel, and offers a restaurant and a bar/lounge for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Helmsdale.
How is it staying in Helmsdale?
Visitors can enjoy all that Helmsdale has to offer, including the cafés, riverfront and art. Tourists can also enjoy the city's shopping, restaurants and museums. In Helmsdale, there are 23 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Helmsdale.
What are the top places to visit in Helmsdale?
Favourite places to visit include Moray Firth, Emigrants Monument and Timespan Heritage Centre. You'll also find Brora Beach and Sutherland Monument in the area. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Helmsdale guide.
How can I get around Helmsdale?
To explore the surrounding area, ride one of the trains from Helmsdale Station or Kildonan Station. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Helmsdale for your journey.
What's the seasonal weather in Helmsdale?
The hottest months are usually July and August, with an average temperature of 13°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 5°C. Average annual precipitation for Helmsdale is 776 mm.

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