Thurso Hotels

Top reasons to visit Thurso

• Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the beautiful Thurso Beach and picturesque Thurso Bay, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
• Historic Sites: Explore the fascinating Thurso Castle and immerse yourself in the area's rich history.
• Outdoor Adventures: Experience scenic hiking trails, challenging golf courses, and excellent bird watching opportunities.
• Welcoming Community: Stroll through the bustling town centre, where friendly locals enhance your visit.
• Access to the Highlands: Use Thurso as a base to discover the breathtaking Scottish Highlands and surrounding attractions.

Find great hotels in Thurso

Discover a charming array of hotel accommodations in Thurso, Scotland, perfect for every traveller. Whether you prefer a cosy guesthouse or a welcoming bed and breakfast, you'll find suitable options that cater to families, pet owners, and adventure seekers alike. With an emphasis on comfort and local hospitality, Thurso hotels provide an ideal base for exploring the stunning Highlands and nearby attractions. Enjoy your stay and make lasting memories in this picturesque coastal town.

• Bettyhill Hotel: The Bettyhill Hotel, a charming 3.5-star establishment, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for those seeking a pet-friendly getaway. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.4, this hotel is well-suited for travellers who wish to bring their furry companions along. Located in the picturesque village of Bettyhill, it provides essential amenities, including a pet policy that permits dogs on-site, making it a perfect choice for animal lovers. Guests can expect comfortable lodging while enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
• Northern Sands Hotel: Rated at 3 stars with an impressive guest rating of 9.6, the Northern Sands Hotel is a delightful retreat for beach enthusiasts and business travellers alike. Situated directly on the beach, it boasts stunning coastal views and easy access to the sandy shores. The hotel's relaxed yet professional atmosphere makes it ideal for both leisure and business stays. Visitors can unwind by the sea while enjoying the hotel's well-appointed accommodations and attentive service, making it a popular choice for those looking to blend work and relaxation.
• Manor House: The Manor House offers a budget-friendly option with a cosy ambience, earning a guest rating of 8.6. This hotel features a variety of dining options, including a bar and lounge, as well as a coffee shop, catering to guests' culinary needs. Visitors can indulge in a hearty breakfast or enjoy an evening meal during their stay. With smart televisions in the rooms and proximity to beautiful bays and sounds, the Manor House provides a comfortable base for exploring Thurso while keeping costs in check.

Where to stay in Thurso

Thurso, a charming city in Scotland, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences. Stroll along the scenic River Thurso or explore the bustling centre, where friendly locals welcome you. Ideal for family getaways, Thurso provides access to the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, perfect for short breaks. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover nearby attractions that cater to all budgets, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with excursions and leisurely exploration.

• Dunnet: Nestled on the northern coast, Dunnet is a charming village that offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure. With its peak visitor season occurring from June to August, it attracts outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. The village is a gateway to stunning natural landscapes, including scenic hiking trails and a picturesque beach, making it ideal for those who love the great outdoors. Additionally, visitors can enjoy significant architecture and a local park, enhancing the cultural experience. The nearby ferry services add an extra layer of adventure, allowing for exploration of the surrounding islands and coastal areas.
• Kirtomy: This quaint village, located just a short distance from Thurso, is known for its rich cultural heritage and romantic atmosphere. Kirtomy experiences a seasonal influx of travellers, particularly peaking from May and during August to September. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local history by exploring the history museum and marvel at the impressive architecture of the area, including a nearby castle that adds to its allure. The village provides a serene escape, ideal for couples seeking a peaceful getaway while indulging in the local culture.
• Murkle: Positioned close to Thurso, Murkle is a delightful village that offers a unique outdoor experience, especially during the peak months of July to September. The nearby dock port and marina create a vibrant atmosphere for those interested in water activities and beach outings. The sandy shores and scenic views make it an attractive destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With a moderate seasonal visitor pattern, Murkle is perfect for those looking to enjoy a quieter retreat while still having access to delightful coastal experiences.

Things to do in Thurso

Shopping

In Thurso, visit local shops along the High Street for unique gifts and souvenirs, including handmade crafts and local produce. If you're up for a drive, check out the Thurso Retail Park, located around 3.2km away, featuring larger retail chains and more shopping options.

Recreation

In Thurso, enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the Thurso Wellness Centre, where holistic therapies and massage await in a calming environment. Explore the nearby Dunnet Head, offering scenic walks along dramatic cliffs and tranquil beaches, ideal for connecting with nature and reflecting on your journey.

Adventure

In Thurso, explore the striking landscapes of the North Coast 500 by cycling along scenic routes. Try your hand at surfing at Thurso East, renowned for its impressive waves. For a unique experience, venture to the nearby Orkney Islands on a ferry, rich in history and breathtaking views.

Nightlife

Thurso offers a laid-back nightlife scene with venues like The Commercial Hotel, featuring local ales and a warm atmosphere. The Thurso Cinema showcases films in a charming setting, while The Anderson offers live music and a friendly vibe, perfect for a relaxed evening out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Thurso

To save on your trip to Thurso, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and November, when hotel prices are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, ideally for a Monday stay, as Fridays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Look for eco-certified hotels to support sustainability while saving costs. Don't forget to check for last-minute deals for spontaneous savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Thurso are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Thurso about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Thurso is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Thurso is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Thurso hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Thurso

Thurso, Scotland, is perfect for family vacations with a focus on outdoor activities and culture. Key attractions include the stunning Thurso Beach, scenic Thurso Bay, and the historic Thurso Castle, which offer a delightful blend of beach and outdoor experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the area's rich history while enjoying spectacular coastal scenery, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

• Dunnet Bay Beach: Experience the stunning sandy shores and tranquil atmosphere of Dunnet Bay Beach. Ideal for a leisurely stroll, this beach offers picturesque views of the coastline and opportunities for birdwatching, making it a serene spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
• Dunnet Head Lighthouse: Visit the historic Dunnet Head Lighthouse, perched on the northernmost point of mainland Britain. Immerse yourself in the local maritime culture while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the North Sea and the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
• Castle of Mey: Explore the enchanting Castle of Mey, once the summer residence of the Queen Mother. This charming castle showcases exquisite architecture and beautifully maintained gardens, offering a romantic atmosphere steeped in history that invites you to step back in time.

Best time to go to Thurso

The best time to visit Thurso can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Thurso falls in July and August. August has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in Thurso falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	41.7°F (5.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Thurso

Flying into Thurso, Scotland, you have a few major airports to choose from. Inverness Airport (INV) is situated 120.7km away, with nearby hotels such as The Factor's House, a 5-star B&B 14.5km from the airport, and the 4-star Golf View Hotel & Spa, located 11.3km away. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is closer at 53.1km, offering options like Hildeval B&B and The Ayre Hotel, both 4.8km away. For those considering Stornoway Airport (SYY), located 169.0km from Thurso, The Cabarfeidh Hotel and Stornoway Bed and Breakfast are excellent 4-star accommodations just 3.2km from the airport.