Situated overlooking the Pentland Firth with panoramic views of the Orkney Islands, this busy hotel is located in two acres of its own grounds, situated on the outskirts of Thurso, at the junction of the A9 to Scrabster harbour and the main road to the west coast of the Highlands, within two minutes of the Orkney car ferry. Across the Firth, lies the Orkney Island of Hoy with the much-famed Old Man of Hoy clearly visible at its western extremity. The main bar is "Ashes", although there are two other bars used for functions etc. There is an enclosed outdoor children's play area.