Welcome to the Bridge Hotel

The Bridge Hotel lies on the banks of the famous Helmsdale River. Seals and otters can be seen bobbing around the fishing boats in the harbour, and nearby, below a Strath hundreds of deer gently roam the wild outdoors. Built circa 1816 as a traveller’s inn and situated in the heart of the village of Helmsdale, the building is steeped in history and tradition, positioned at the head of the old Helmsdale River Bridge. Served by two airports – Inverness and Wick – it is situated on the main axis between Inverness, Thurso and John o’Groats, offering a an excellent base for exploring the wonders of the Highlands. The 200 year old building has been transformed by its present owner, conservationist Christian Gross, into a warm and vibrant 21st century country hotel which was referred to as a ‘delight’ by the Sunday Times travel journalist Chris Haslam.

The Hotel has undergone extensive renovation and upgrading, yet there are no televisions in the rooms. Instead, the hotel has invested in the natural history and art of the Highlands, in an effort to keep alive what this region represents. With the help of the National Museum of Scotland, the National Museum of Ireland, as well as local game keepers, stalkers, gillies and fishermen, it has accumulated one of the most unique and unusual collections of local fauna. The art collection consists of over 300 nature paintings Including oils, watercolours and prints.

The hotel, whilst completely modernised, with 18 en-suite bedrooms decorated to a high standard, retains much of its original charm including the woodwork and paneling which glow with the warmth of open log fires.

During the summer months the restaurant pays homage to Scotland’s best produce, specialising in game and seafood sourced straight from the hills and the sea. The cooking is healthy, as game and wild fish are naturally organic, helping to keep the environmental footprint of the food to an absolute minimum.

Traditional Scottish soups are served in addition to Achiltibuie  smoked salmon ,haggis ,Sutherland venison, sirloin of highland beef and poached Helmsdale lobster.

The lounge bar is home to over 100 single malt and blended whiskies.

“Fortunate as we are to be situated in the heart of “Europe’s Larder” we would like to acquaint our guests with some of the best foods and drinks harvested from the most outstanding local produce. Wrapped in our unique style we represent what the Highlands stand for providing our guests with a real and memorable experience.”

We look forward to welcoming you at the Bridge Hotel