Things To Do in Dornoch
This beloved Highland town located on the unspoilt Sutherland coast may be small, but it’s big on character. With its golf heritage, legendary courses, golden swathes of sandy coastline and historic town, Dornoch will delight and deliver, whatever you fancy doing.
Dornoch Beach
The award-winning Dornoch Beach and its golden strands are just a short walk from our hotel.
Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Known as one of the top golf courses in the world, Royal Dornoch is a must. Find its links steps from Dornoch Station.
Kilncroft Gallery
Situated opposite Royal Dornoch’s second tee, this exhibition space is home to prints, ceramics and paintings, which make perfect Highland souvenirs.
Pro Shop – Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Visit the club’s Pro Shop for a mix of traditional and modern merchandise, including Royal Dornoch tartan and Royal Dornoch tweed.
The Dornoch Bookshop
Browse a wide selection of books, then enjoy your new reads al fresco with refreshments from Coffee Piaggio.
Mara Restaurant at Links House
A luxury dining experience, with open fires and intimate spaces. Discover local flavours with Mara’s ever-changing seasonal menus.
Milk & Honey
A charming destination for breakfast, lunch or just coffee and cake.
Aspen Spa at Carnegie Courthouse
Indulge in some ‘me’ time at nearby Aspen Spa. With bespoke massages, hydrating facials, saunas and more, it’s the perfect escape.
Dornoch Cathedral
In use since 1239, Dornoch Cathedral is a can’t-miss landmark at the centre of town.
Dornoch Bike Hire
Explore both Dornoch and areas further afield at your own pace with a family ride.
Campbells of Beauly
A Highland gem, this retail emporium (est. 1858) stocks the brand’s famous clothing and unique home goods.
Greens at the Courthouse Restaurant
Located in the old Courthouse, this cosy corner restaurant is the perfect place to unwind with family and friends.
Jail Dornoch
Shop clothing and accessories for ladies and gents at this boutique gift shop.
The Carnegie Whisky Cellars
Explore more than 450 whiskies, 60 gins and other spirits at this local specialist shop. They also host great tasting events.
Luigi
A local favourite, this buzzing café is open year-round for both lunch and dinner.
Cocoa Mountain
Sip Dornoch’s “best hot chocolate” at Cocoa Mountain. They also sell freshly made chocolates and truffles.
Dornoch Stores
Part grocer, part hardware store, the family-run Dornoch Stores stocks an extensive range of food, wine, homewares, gifts and more.
Historylinks Museum & Trail
Explore Dornoch’s ancient origins and the area’s rich golf history at the Historylinks Museum, home to impressive exhibits and an interactive Children’s Room.
The Highland Larder
Located steps from Dornoch Beach, The Highland Larder serves fresh local seafood. A perfect stop-off while you’re out and about.
North Coast 500
Famously Scotland’s ultimate road trip. Dornoch is one of the most popular stop-off points on this 500-mile route.
Connell Outdoor Pursuits
Enjoy a range of activities, including archery, fishing and wildlife tours. See All Available Outdoor Pursuits Packages
Achavandra Horse Riding
Explore Dornoch on horseback with Achavandra. They offer a range of rides, for kids, beginners and seasoned riders. Their scenic beach trek is a favourite.
Glenmorangie Distillery
Sip an iconic dram at Glenmorangie Distillery. The world-famous whisky maker offers immersive tours, tastings and more.
Balblair Distillery
The oldest distillery in the area, existing in the same location since 1790. Discover the traditional processes used in crafting Balblair whisky.
Dunrobin Castle
Like something out of a fairy tale, the beautiful Dunrobin Castle is a Highland landmark. Tour the castle’s impressive interior and catch one of the exciting daily falconry shows.
Bonar-Bridge & Ardgay Golf Club
Considered one of the most beautiful golf courses in the Highlands, this easy-walking course provides unforgettable views of Loch Migdale and the surrounding hills.
TroutQuest
Based in Ardgay, TroutQuest offers guided fly-fishing trips for both salmon and brown trout, as well as guided excursions throughout the Highlands.
Clynelish Distillery
One of the Four Corners of Johnnie Walker, Clynelish produces a unique whisky with north Highland and maritime flavours.
Falls of Shin
Famous for being one of the best places in Scotland to view salmon in their natural habitat. Stand on the viewing platform to watch fish leap up the thundering falls.
The Pier
Slightly further inland from Dornoch but worth the trip, The Pier boasts an impressive panoramic view over Loch Shin.
Tarbat Ness Lighthouse
Located at the northwest tip of Tarbat Ness peninsula, an area rich in history and geological significance.
Invergordon Golf Club
Set in the stunning scenery of Easter Ross, this course offers views of Cromarty Firth and the Black Isle as well as the surrounding hills and mountains.
Highland Shooting Centre
This family-run business specialises in all things shooting. Test your skills at clay target shooting or venture out into the Highlands for deer stalking.
Go Wild Highlands
Take things off the beaten track with Go Wild Highlands. Their relaxing canoe trips provide a real sense of adventure in largely unseen corners of the Highlands.
Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Links
This fantastic links course sits on a peninsula out in the Moray Firth and is the 15th oldest recorded club in the world.
