About Us

Located just 50 yards from the first tee at the legendary Royal Dornoch Golf Club, the Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch is golfing heaven! Sitting proudly next to one of the most revered links golf courses in the world, as well as many other legendary clubs nearby, we welcome guests from around the world to join us for the ultimate golfing experience.  

More than just golf, we’re passionate about bringing our guests authentic Highland experiences. Discover us just off the NC500, where you will find yourself surrounded by gorgeous coastal scenery, earthy moors and mountainous landscapes. Explore Dornoch and east Sutherland beyond, play by the sea and discover what makes the Highlands so special. 

Hotel History

The Royal Golf Hotel dates back to 1885, when it was first built as a family home for Robert Thomas Hamilton-Bruce who was a successful Scottish baker, flour merchant and art enthusiast. It is also believed that he used his house to display his extensive art collection.

The house was designed by Inverness born architect James Robert Rhind, a successful architect who was known for his liberal use of columns, domes and sculpted features.

The home stayed with the family until WWII when it was requisitioned by the war office to house Norwegian troops. Once the war had passed, the building was handed back to Mr Hamilton who decided to sell it, which is when the Royal Golf Hotel first began. 

Highland Coast Hotels

Fast forward to today and the Royal Golf Hotel Dornoch is now a proud member of the Highland Coast Hotels Collection. We are a growing collection of independent-spirited hotels that can be found along the North Coast 500.

Bringing you a true Highland experience 

Aiming to bring a unique and authentic Highland experience at each Highland Coast Hotel, the Royal Golf Hotel brings the golfing experience of a lifetime to our guests and celebrates Scotland’s golfing heritage.

As with all our hotels, the Royal Golf Hotel Dornoch will give you an authentic Highland experience. A proud part of the Dornoch and wider Highland community beyond, we partner with a variety of local golf clubs, partners and suppliers to bring you an experience that looks, feels and tastes local. 

Most of all, you can always count on our team to give you a warm Highland welcome. 

Protecting our environment 

As with all our hotels, the Royal Golf is found in a place that truly inspires. Nestled on the east coast of Sutherland, Dornoch is bordered by clear blue seas and golden sands on one side and vibrant woodlands on the other. Local wildlife such as seals, dolphins, deer and golden eagles thrive in this area and its part of what makes our home so special. 

We’re committed to protecting these lands and the animals within it and consider our environmental impact wherever possible. We encourage all our guests to do the same so that you can continue to visit and enjoy a round of golf on the rolling greens with beautiful coastal views for years to come.