Links House at Royal Dornoch: A Quintessential Highland Luxury Retreat
Luxury boutique hotel at Royal Dornoch with exquisite dining, spa, and world-class golf just steps from the legendary links course.
Links House at Royal Dornoch is a 5-star boutique hotel nestled in the Scottish Highlands, offering 15 individually designed rooms named after Scotland’s great salmon rivers. Located just steps from the legendary Royal Dornoch Golf Club, it combines historic charm with modern luxury, featuring a 2AA Rosette fine dining restaurant, MARA, a full-service spa, and curated local experiences, making it an exceptional destination for golf enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.
A brief summary to Links House at Royal Dornoch
- Golf Rd, Dornoch, Dornoch, IV25 3LW, GB
- +441862810279
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Luxury
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book a room in the Main House for stunning views of the Dornoch Firth and the first tee at Royal Dornoch Golf Club.
- Reserve a table at MARA restaurant in advance to experience their seasonal, locally sourced fine dining.
- Take advantage of the curated Highland adventures offered exclusively to guests for a unique local experience.
- Request the accessible ground-floor room if mobility is a concern, ensuring ease of movement and comfort.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Links House at Royal Dornoch location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Links House at Royal Dornoch
A Storied Highland Heritage with Contemporary Elegance
Originally built in 1843 as a Free Church of Scotland Manse House, Links House at Royal Dornoch has evolved into one of Scotland’s most distinguished boutique hotels. The property retains its traditional architectural charm, with interiors that blend tartan flourishes, antiques, and notable artwork, creating a cosy yet refined atmosphere. Each of the 15 guest rooms is uniquely decorated and named after Scotland’s iconic salmon fishing rivers, offering a personal and immersive Highland experience. Guests enjoy luxurious touches such as Hypnos mattresses, Frette Italian linens, and Arran Sense of Scotland toiletries, underscoring the hotel’s commitment to comfort and quality.Exquisite Dining at MARA
The hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, MARA, holds 2AA Rosette awards, reflecting its status as a culinary highlight in the North of Scotland. The menu is seasonally inspired, showcasing hyper-local produce sourced from the surrounding waters, fields, forests, and skies. Dishes are crafted with care, including freshly baked sourdough bread and ingredients from the hotel’s own kitchen garden. MARA offers an intimate fine dining experience that elevates traditional Scottish flavors with contemporary techniques, making it a destination in its own right for food lovers.Unmatched Proximity to Royal Dornoch Golf Club
Situated less than 100 yards from the first tee of the world-renowned Royal Dornoch Golf Club, Links House is a premier choice for golf aficionados. The legendary course is famed for its natural beauty and challenging links layout, attracting players worldwide. The hotel’s location allows guests to seamlessly combine luxurious accommodation with access to one of Scotland’s finest golfing experiences. Beyond golf, the hotel offers curated Highland adventures and bespoke itineraries, including private tours and outdoor activities, enhancing the appeal for guests seeking both relaxation and exploration.Exceptional Amenities and Services
Links House offers a range of high-end amenities including a full-service spa, a well-stocked library, a garden terrace, and a cozy lobby fireplace. Complimentary continental breakfast and a daily manager’s reception add to the welcoming atmosphere. Business travelers benefit from coworking spaces and meeting rooms, while accessibility is thoughtfully addressed with ground-floor accessible rooms and wheelchair-friendly facilities. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi, parking, and 24-hour concierge services, ensuring convenience alongside luxury.A Place of Tranquility and Natural Beauty
The setting of Links House is quintessentially Highland, overlooking the Dornoch Firth and the first tee at Royal Dornoch. The tranquil gardens and outdoor terrace invite guests to unwind amid scenic views, while the hotel’s designation as a ‘Thin Place’ evokes a spiritual connection where earth and heaven meet. This serene environment, combined with the hotel’s refined hospitality, creates a memorable retreat for couples, solo travelers, and families alike.Local Culture and Exclusive Experiences
Links House actively celebrates local heritage and culture, offering guests exclusive access to experiences such as hawk walks at Dunrobin Castle, distillery tours, and other bespoke Highland adventures. The staff’s deep knowledge and personalized service help craft unique itineraries that showcase the best of the region’s natural and cultural riches. This dedication to authentic, high-quality experiences complements the hotel’s luxury accommodations and fine dining, positioning Links House as a gateway to the Scottish Highlands’ most treasured offerings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
11.4 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
12.1 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
19.9 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
Craig Castle
30.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Craig Castle, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the scenic Cromarty Firth on Scotland’s historic Black Isle.
Sueno's Stone
38.7 km
Scotland's tallest Pictish monument—a 6.5-metre enigma carved with battle scenes and royal ceremony.
Walkhighlands
41.9 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
St. Peter's Kirk & Parish Cross
42.8 km
Medieval kirk and rare surviving mercat cross spanning eight centuries of Scottish history.
Asliesk Castle (remains)
42.8 km
Explore the ivy-clad ruins of Asliesk Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house steeped in history and legend near Elgin, Moray.
Crook of Alves (historical placename)
43.1 km
Discover the Crook of Alves, a cultural landmark in Elgin, where history meets stunning natural beauty in Scotland's captivating landscapes.
Culloden House Hotel
43.7 km
Elegant Georgian mansion with historic charm, fine dining, and tranquil gardens near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.
Eagle Stone Path
44.1 km
Explore the enchanting Eagle Stone Path in Strathpeffer - a historical landmark that combines natural beauty with rich Scottish heritage.
Clach an Tiompain
44.2 km
Explore Clach an Tiompain, a historic stone landmark in Strathpeffer, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Scotland's ancient past amidst stunning landscapes.
Cumberland Stone
44.5 km
A glacial giant where legend places a duke watching history unfold across a blood-soaked moor.
Dolphin Spirit Inverness
44.6 km
Experience the thrill of dolphin watching amidst the stunning landscapes of Inverness, Scotland, with Dolphin Spirit Inverness.
Duffus Castle
44.7 km
Explore Duffus Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in Elgin, Scotland, rich in history and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dornoch Cathedral
0.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and deep history of Dornoch Cathedral, the northernmost medieval sanctuary on mainland Britain.
Co-op Food - Dornoch - St Gilbert Street
0.4 km
Conveniently located in Dornoch’s Cathedral Square, Co-op Food offers fresh essentials, delivery, and accessibility daily from 7am to 10pm.
Dornoch Beach
0.7 km
Expansive golden sands and serene coastal views await at Dornoch Beach, a tranquil escape on Scotland’s scenic east coast.
The Sutherland Show
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant agricultural heritage and community spirit of the Scottish Highlands at The Sutherland Show in Dornoch.
Skelbo Castle
5.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Skelbo Castle, a 14th-century Highland fortress with commanding views over Loch Fleet and a rich Scottish heritage.
The Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle
6.4 km
Experience timeless Edwardian luxury and world-class golf at Scotland’s most exclusive private members’ club nestled in the breathtaking Highlands.
The Glenmorangie Distillery Co
6.6 km
Explore Scotland’s tallest copper stills and innovative whisky craftsmanship at Glenmorangie Distillery by the serene Dornoch Firth.
Tesco Superstore
7.5 km
A modern, accessible supermarket in Tain offering fresh produce, everyday essentials, and community-focused services from 8 AM to 10 PM daily.
Tain Museum
7.7 km
Discover the rich heritage of Easter Ross and Clan Ross at Tain Museum, a charming volunteer-run gem in the Scottish Highlands.
Balblair Distillery
10.2 km
Historic Highland whisky distillery since 1790, offering vintage single malts and warm, intimate tours in scenic Edderton.
Dunrobin Castle & Gardens
12.3 km
Explore Dunrobin Castle’s fairy-tale turrets, historic interiors, stunning gardens, and captivating falconry displays in Scotland’s Northern Highlands.
Tarbat Discovery Centre
12.7 km
Explore the rich Pictish heritage and medieval mysteries of the Tarbat Peninsula at this unique museum set within an ancient Highland church.
Fearn Abbey [Church Of Scotland]
12.8 km
Discover Fearn Abbey, the northernmost Premonstratensian church in Scotland, blending medieval heritage with serene rural beauty near Tain.
Carn Liath
13.7 km
Explore Carn Liath Broch, a remarkably preserved Iron Age stone tower overlooking the Moray Firth, showcasing ancient Scottish ingenuity and coastal beauty.
Hilton Of Cadboll Stone
14.6 km
Discover the Hilton of Cadboll Stone, a stunning 8th-century Pictish cross-slab blending intricate art, rare female imagery, and early Christian symbolism.
Essential places to dine
Links House at Royal Dornoch
0.0 km
Luxury boutique hotel at Royal Dornoch with exquisite dining, spa, and world-class golf just steps from the legendary links course.
Sutherland House (Dornoch) Ltd
0.1 km
Refined Scottish dining in the heart of historic Dornoch, where local flavours meet modern style in a warm, welcoming setting.
Coach House Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar and restaurant in Dornoch serving fresh, locally sourced Scottish dishes with warm Highland hospitality.
Dornoch Castle Hotel - Whisky Bar & Dining. Takeaway Pizza!
0.3 km
Historic Scottish castle hotel in Dornoch offering luxury stays, fine dining, and an acclaimed whisky bar with private tastings.
Highland Larder
0.4 km
Fresh Scottish seafood served with coastal charm beside Dornoch’s scenic Links Beach car park.
Luigi
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian and seafood cuisine in the heart of historic Dornoch, where warm hospitality meets coastal flavors.
Meikle Ferry Station
7.3 km
Historic railway charm meets traditional Scottish fare and cozy lodging near Tain, a welcoming stop on the scenic NC500 route.
Dalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant
24.6 km
A charming Highland farm destination blending fresh local produce, home-cooked meals, and stunning views over the Cromarty Firth.
The Pier
27.8 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Crofters
32.6 km
Coastal café in Rosemarkie offering fresh seafood, vegan options, and stunning sea views in a cozy, community atmosphere.
Strathnairn Beach Cafe
33.5 km
Family-run seaside cafe in Nairn offering fresh local seafood, stunning beach views, and a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Sun Dancer, Bar and Restaurant
33.5 km
Charming Scottish seafood dining with stunning Moray Firth views in the heart of Nairn’s waterfront.
Spelding's Lounge Bar
33.5 km
Cozy coastal bar and restaurant with fresh seafood, live entertainment, and stunning marina views at Lochloy Holiday Park, Nairn.
The Bandstand Hotel
33.7 km
Cozy seaside hotel in Nairn offering local cuisine, sea views, and warm Scottish hospitality on the scenic Highlands coast.
Havelock House Hotel
33.8 km
A charming Victorian seaside hotel in Nairn offering cozy rooms, fresh Scottish cuisine, and a lively local bar just steps from the beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jail Dornoch
0.3 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and country clothing in a historic 19th-century jail transformed into a charming contemporary shop in Dornoch.
Simply The Best Fair Trade Gifts
0.4 km
Discover ethically crafted fair trade gifts supporting global artisans in the heart of Dornoch Retail Park.
Co-op Food - Brora - Gower Street
17.7 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Brora, the perfect stop for all your travel essentials and local products.
McRaes of Scotland
22.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and cashmere treasures at McRaes of Scotland, Invergordon’s premier gift shop on High Street.
Tanstar Gifts
22.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique souvenirs at Tanstar Gifts, a charming boutique in the heart of Invergordon’s High Street.
The Storehouse
32.8 km
Explore The Storehouse for exquisite gifts, local delicacies, and a charming café experience by the Foulis Ferry.
Nisa Local
33.6 km
Explore the charm of Nairn with Nisa Local, your go-to spot for unique gifts, local treats, and everyday essentials.
Grace Lily Lingerie
33.6 km
Discover elegant, comfortable lingerie with expert fittings at Grace Lily Lingerie, Nairn’s charming boutique for intimate apparel.
On The Upside
33.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted Scottish furniture blending traditional charm with contemporary style in Nairn’s welcoming boutique store.
In Stitches
33.7 km
Expert dressmaking and alteration services in Nairn, delivering impeccable fit and craftsmanship for every occasion.
Caora Air Mara
33.7 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and handmade treasures at Caora Air Mara, Nairn’s beloved artisan shop.
Preloved Designer Fashion Boutique
33.9 km
Explore unique, sustainable designer fashion treasures in Nairn’s charming boutique, where style meets eco-consciousness.
Crafty Wee Birdie
33.9 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts in the welcoming charm of Nairn’s Crafty Wee Birdie boutique.
The Nairn Bookshop
33.9 km
A long‑standing independent bookshop on Nairn’s High Street, with a wide, thoughtful selection of fiction, non‑fiction, children’s books, and local interest titles.
Co-op Food - Nairn - King Street
34.0 km
Experience the convenience of Co-op Food in Nairn, where you can find fresh groceries, local products, and tasty snacks to fuel your adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Platform 1864
7.4 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
The Inver Inn
9.3 km
Cozy, dog-friendly pub in Tain’s Inver village serving fresh Scottish fare with warm hospitality and scenic Highland charm.
The Fishertown Inn
22.1 km
A cozy Georgian pub in Cromarty offering exceptional food, local ales, and a warm Highland welcome on historic Church Street.
The Ship Inn
23.1 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and home-cooked meals at The Ship Inn, your cozy retreat in Invergordon by the Cromarty Firth.
The Clubhouse B&B
33.6 km
Boutique coastal B&B in Nairn offering modern comfort, friendly service, and easy beach access for a peaceful Highland getaway.
The Union Tavern
33.7 km
A cozy Fortrose pub offering local ales, live traditional music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Black Isle.
Brackla Hotel
33.8 km
A friendly and lively bar with comfortable hotel rooms, perfect for relaxing and socializing in the heart of Nairn.
The Albert Inn
34.0 km
Cozy Scottish pub and hotel in Nairn offering exceptional steaks, warm hospitality, and a charming Highland atmosphere.
The Play House
34.0 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant nightlife at The Play House, a lively nightclub and bar known for energetic music, dancing, and social fun.
Aido's bar
34.1 km
Aido's Bar offers a cozy, friendly pub experience in Nairn with local ales, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Thistle Bar
38.6 km
Cozy and friendly bar on Forres High Street, offering affordable drinks and a warm local atmosphere every day from 11am to 10pm.
Sloe & Steady
38.6 km
Discover Forres’ cozy cocktail haven where creative drinks and a warm atmosphere blend for an unforgettable night out.
Legends
38.6 km
Lively pub with hearty fare, live weekend music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Forres.
Braemou Inn
39.8 km
A cozy, welcoming pub and inn in Hopeman offering hearty homemade food, comfortable rooms, and a true taste of Scottish coastal hospitality.
The Snow Goose
45.1 km
Cozy up by the fire at The Snow Goose, Inverness’s charming pub serving hearty Highland classics in a warm, welcoming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Seaforth Club
33.9 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Xplosive Discos
34.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
The Ross Shire Club
39.7 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Private Eyes Inverness
46.0 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
Johnny Foxes
46.3 km
Experience the heart of Inverness nightlife at Johnny Foxes - a delightful pub with cocktails, local flavors, and live music.
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
46.8 km
Experience the enchanting blend of live piano music and exquisite whisky at The Piano and Whisky Bar in Inverness, a perfect night out.
Moray Jazz Club
48.8 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Shmelgin
49.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Joannas Nightclub
49.1 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Diceys
49.1 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local brews at Diceys, Elgin's favorite pub for relaxation and entertainment.
Zed Bar
49.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Elgin Club
49.4 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Elgin Club, a local bar where visitors can unwind and connect in the heart of Elgin.
The Muckle Cross - JD Wetherspoon
49.4 km
Experience Scottish hospitality at The Muckle Cross, a cozy pub in Elgin offering hearty meals and a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ionic Bar
49.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ionic Bar in Elgin, where local flavors and friendly faces create unforgettable experiences.
Purple Nightclub
66.8 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly