A seaside resort and town that lies in the former royal burgh in the county of Sutherland, Dornoch is a popular small town that’s situated on the north shore of the Dornoch Firth, near where it opens into the Moray Firth.
The small historic town of Dornoch is particularly popular for its sunny climate that it offers due to its sheltered geographical position and has miles of gorgeous, golden sandy beaches.
Whether you’re visiting for a game of golf, to spot nature, or to just enjoy this tranquil town, Dornoch is well worth a visit and has plenty of things for tourists and Highland travellers.
Here’s our pick for the best of the bunch for things to do in Dornoch:
Dornoch Cathedral
Founded in 1224, Dornoch Cathedral is an impressive piece of architecture and is the town’s central and most famous landmark. Featuring a mix of Gothic and Normal influences, the cathedral has been restored numerous times in its long history and Scotland’s renowned philanthropist Andrew Carnegie commissioned its stunning stained glass windows.
Speaking of famous, Dornoch Cathedral was the site of Madonna and Guy Richies’ son’s christening back in 2000!
Head here to admire the fine architectural detail and its peaceful setting.
Dornoch Beach
On the tranquil Dornoch Firth, Dornoch Beach is a gorgeous stretch of long golden sands perfect for enjoying the area’s unusually sunny climate.
Head further up the stretch of coastline and you’ll encounter two other award-winning beaches at Golspie and Brora.
Adjacent to the beach is a nature reserve which is a bird-spotting paradise.
Royal Dornoch Golf Club
The Scottish Highlands continues to be one of the best golfing destinations on the planet and Royal Dornoch Golf Club is the epitome of the fine golfing heritage of this region.
Established in 1616, Royal Dornoch Golf Club is considered one of the world’s finest and oldest golf courses and draws in players every year.
The challenging links layout offers two courses (the Championship Course and the Struie Course) which combine beautifully with captivating coastal views.
In high season, green fees start at £280 for a round on the Championship course and £90 for the Struie.
Members of a Scottish golf club benefit from a 25% discount on both courses and visitors may want to consider the Highland Golf Links deals where they can benefit from three nights lodge and multiple rounds at Dornoch and its sister golf clubs on the scheme.
Dornoch Historylinks Museum
To gain a deep historical understanding of Dornoch and the surrounding area, the Historylinks Museum makes for an interesting day out.
Dornoch Historylinks Museum takes visitors on a journey through time covering all of the eras that shaped these lands from the Picts, to the Vikings.
The museum contains a large collection of artefacts, exhibits and photographs that bring much of these periods into the present day.
Skelbo Castle
Another Highland town, another castle. Though much of Skelbo Castle comprises mostly ruins, it’s well worth a journey should you find yourself visiting or staying in Dornoch.
Near Loch Fleet, the castle dates back to the 14th century and offers stunning views of the countryside that surrounds the area. It’s a great spot to take a walk, snap a picture, and admire the doubtless nature around the ruins.
The Witches Stone
In 1727, poor Janet Horne was convicted of being a witch and was burned at the stake. Janet would be the last person to be executed due to witch accusations and the Witches Stone in Dornoch marks that very spot where the ill-fated event occurred.
The stone is in the garden of a cottage and can be viewed from a short distance on the way to the lovely Dornoch beach.
What are some of your favourite places to go and things to do in Dornoch and why?
Let us know in the comments below!
