Dornoch is best discovered on foot, so park up and enjoy a meander around St Gilbert Street, little changed since medieval times, catching glimpses of Dornoch Cathedral as you head to the Square, passing the Dornoch Castle Hotel, once the bishop’s palace. At every corner you’ll find something to catch your interest and beguile you!
Dornoch Cathedral’s first service was held in 1239 and it continues today as a parish church. Originally Roman Catholic rites were observed but since the Reformation it has been part of the Church of Scotland. The Cathedral has many interesting features, not least the gargoyles on the exterior.
Dornoch’s safe, Blue Flag beach, is ideal for families with its gentle shallows, sheltering dunes and miles of golden sands. Perfect for paddling and swimming on warm summer days. Throughout the year it is popular for walkers taking a gentle stroll or carrying on north to Embo.
Historylinks 5* Museum and Trail
Historylinks is one of the very few 5 star museums in Scotland. Dedicated to the history of Dornoch parish, current displays include a golf professional’s workshop where Donald Ross honed his skills, Carnegie at home at Skibo, the shameful burning of Scotland’s last condemned witch and the impact of the Picts and the Vikings.
Dornoch is home to the Championship Course which is ranked 5th best in the world as well as the Struie Course which is the 50th best links course in the UK. Both courses welcome visiting golfers 7 days a week, as does their clubhouse which provides high quality cuisine and refreshments. Why not enrich your visit and play our neighbouring courses whilst you are here? All of these friendly courses welcome players of all standards: Golspie, Tain and Bonar Bridge.
Lovers of single malts or those keen to learn about Scotland’s national drink can visit 4 famous distilleries within just a few miles of Dornoch. Clynelish, Balblair, Glenmorangie and Dalmore are all close by so there is every opportunity to raise a glass to your holiday in Scotland.
Ospreys, red deer, sea birds, seals, dolphins and ducks are all to be found in and around the Dornoch Firth. Our natural landscape is rich in habitats and provides safe havens for many resident and migratory species.
Download the Discover Dornoch App: www.visitdornoch.com/apps/
Check out the What's On page for all the events.
Browse our shops before you visit - Dornoch has over 20 independent shops with tartan, tweeds, arts &crafts, books & whisky to name but a few!
Enjoy local food and drink at its best.
So, time to book your accommodation?