Dornoch is a fantastic place to head to for a day trip. Come and shop, relax, wander along the beach or even treat yourself to a massage, round of golf or day pass at our new gym! Dornoch has an historic town centre which is situated around it’s exquisite 13th century cathedral.
- The old castle is now the incredible Dornoch Castle Hotel, which houses the world famous Dornoch Whisky Bar (Currently No1 Whisky Hotel of the year on www.whiskybase.com!)
- The old jail is now JAIL Dornoch, a shop selling a wide range of gifts and clothes.
- The old courthouse is now home to 4 wonderful businesses. The Carnegie Whisky Cellars stock a wide range of whisky, gin, rum and other spirits as well as a unusual gifts and host tastings during the Autumn and Winter months. (Tax-free shopping available for qualifying overseas visitors.) At Aspen Spa at Carnegie Courthouse you can treat yourself to a massage or beauty treatment and The Courtroom is a wonderful wine bar and brasserie. (Please note, The Courtroom is currently closed for day-to-day operations due to staffing constraints. Both the Courtroom and the Courtyard remain available for private hire. For enquiries please email [email protected]. 20/6/22 )
So why not come to Dornoch for a DayCation? Here a few suggestions of some things to do on your day in Dornoch;
Head straight to Historylinks, our very own 5 star museum. There is something for all ages! The museum is open 7 days a week from 10.30am to 4pm and this Summer they have two fantastic new displays for you to explore. 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. Take a look at the listing of events on their website.
No holiday in Scotland would be complete without a walk to enjoy our scenery and wildlife. You can do it all from Dornoch – woodland walks, hill walking or a stroll along our beautiful beaches each one building lasting memories you’ll treasure.
Experience more with your time in Dornoch. Try different things, from archery and cycling to massages and Afternoon Tea and create special memories from unique experiences, tailored just for you.
Golf and other sports in Dornoch
It isn’t just golf that Dornoch has to offer in the way of sports. You can also enjoy tennis, squash, archery, fishing, horse back riding and bowls and even exploring the highland waterways by canoe. Don’t forget, Dornoch beach is a fantastic spot for a bit of wild swimming!
Come and view the magnificent scenery that the Highlands has to offer from the saddle of a horse! Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through ancient pine forests, a wander up majestic Glens or a gallop along sandy beaches, your day trip will surely be filled with treasured memories.
Silverback Gym is a strength gym with an interesting side focus on functional fitness at our Dornoch site with a bespoke Rigg that’s excellent in pushing your fitness levels. You can bench, you can squat and you can deadlift here….or you can have some fun on our cardio equipment.
The ever popular Community Market takes place on the Cathedral green throughout the summer months. Browse up to 30 stalls with homegrown produce, plants, arts & crafts, baking, artisan bread, specialist chocolates, cheese, handmade cosmetics, jewellery, gifts & clothing. In 2022 the dates are: 11th and 25th May, 8th and 22nd June, 13th and 27th July, 10th and 24th August, 14th & 28th September.
It is worth coming to Dornoch for the day for it’s food and drink! You will be spoiled for choice and there is something for every budget. Come for lunch or afternoon tea in our cafes, hotels and restaurants.
We hope you enjoy your #DayCation in Dornoch and come again to explore more aspects of our beautiful town.
