The Thistle Stranraer Exterior photoThe Thistle Stranraer Exterior photoThe Thistle Stranraer Food photo

THE THISTLE, Stranraer

Book directly with us
— up to 10% cheaper
than on Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From$87 /night
Check-in
26May
Check-out
27May
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

47 Dalrymple Street, Stranraer, DG97EY
-
Near Stranraer Harbour
Great
8.1
7.9
/10
3.0
4.5
/5

Rooms

The Thistle offers a selection of well-equipped rooms and en suite chalets with private entrances, catering to a variety of guest needs. Each room includes essential amenities such as a television, en suite shower, and complimentary toiletries. The ground floor layout supports easy access, benefiting guests seeking convenience.

Location

Strategically situated in the center of Stranraer, the inn is within walking distance of attractions, shopping, and dining options. Adjacent to ferry services running daily to Belfast and Larne, it provides convenient access for travelers. Guests can easily explore nearby destinations, including Logan Botanical Gardens and the Mull of Galloway.

Dining

The Thistle offers room-only accommodation, allowing guests the freedom to explore dining options in Stranraer. Local restaurants are easily accessible for those who want to experience regional cuisine. This arrangement caters to various preferences, promoting a relaxed dining experience.

Parking

Off-road parking is available for guests, accommodating cars and small to medium vans. This service ensures convenience and peace of mind for those traveling with vehicles. The property's location offers simplicity for transporting belongings while exploring the area.

Family-Friendly Amenities

The family ensuite room at The Thistle can accommodate two adults and one child, with cots available upon request. The inn's layout includes several ground floor options, providing accessibility for families. This friendly atmosphere welcomes returning guests and supports a homely environment for all.

Highlights

Location: Within walking distance of attractions

Rooms: En suite chalets with private entrances

Parking: Off-road parking available for guests

Family-Friendly: Family ensuite room with cots

Must-do experiences

  • Savor fresh seafood at The Harbour Bistro, a local favorite.
  • Explore the historic Castle of St John for stunning views and history.
  • Visit the Stranraer Museum to uncover the town's unique heritage.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Stranraer waterfront.
  • Don't miss the hidden gem of Portpatrick-a charming coastal village.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    20 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Family Room Private Bathroom
    2 persons
    20 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Disabled-Friendly En Suite Chalet
    2 persons
    20 m²
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower

View our calendar

Check prices and secure your dates today
May 2026 - May 2027
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
May 2026
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
June 2026
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
July 2026
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
August 2026
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
September 2026
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
October 2026
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
November 2026
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
December 2026
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
January 2027
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
February 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
March 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
April 2027
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
Choose dates to see prices
Check-in/ Check-out

Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping

Children

  • Cots

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

The Thistle Location

47 Dalrymple Street, Stranraer, DG97EY
Explore Stranraer
Local Highlights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Stranraer Harbour
9 minutes' walk
Stranraer Harbour features picturesque views and is a great spot for leisurely strolls. Ideal for boat watching and photography.
Agnew Park
14 minutes' walk
Agnew Park offers beautiful gardens and picnic areas. A perfect location for families with children's play facilities and walking paths.
RSPB Mull of Galloway
11 minutes' walk
RSPB Mull of Galloway provides stunning coastal views and excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Great for nature enthusiasts.
Castle Kennedy Gardens
12 minutes' drive
Castle Kennedy Gardens showcases beautiful landscapes and historic features. Ideal for a leisurely afternoon among nature.
Coastal Walks
11 minutes' walk
Coastal walks along picturesque routes. No bookings required; enjoy well-marked paths, perfect for all fitness levels and views.
Birdwatching
11 minutes' walk
Birdwatching at RSPB Mull of Galloway provides thrilling encounters with diverse species. Best enjoyed with binoculars and patience.
Picnicking in Agnew Park
14 minutes' walk
Picnicking in Agnew Park offers relaxing green spaces. Accessible for families; remember to pack a snack and enjoy the sun.
The Ivy Leaf Chicken Bar
3 minutes' walk
The Ivy Leaf Chicken Bar is known for its casual atmosphere and delicious chicken dishes. Great for takeaway or a quick bite.
Star Fish
6 minutes' walk
Star Fish serves fresh seafood in a cozy setting. Ideal for fish lovers; daily specials and vegetarian options available.
The Central Cafe
6 minutes' walk
The Central Cafe offers a casual dining experience with hearty local dishes. Great for breakfast and lunch, vegetarian choices included.
Stranraer Museum
7 minutes' walk
Stranraer Museum showcases local history and exhibits. Entry is generally free, making it a perfect educational stop for families.
Castle Of St John
5 minutes' walk
Castle Of St John offers historical insights with its impressive architecture. Ideal for photography and a glimpse into local history.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Stranraer 3 min  ·  200 m
  • Airports
    Glasgow Prestwick (PIK) 135 min  ·  89.6 km
    Belfast International (BFS) 163 min  ·  108.4 km
  • Train
    Stranraer Railway Station 11 min  ·  900 m
Want to unlock exclusive early deals?
Access members-only prices today
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 06:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
8

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Thistle from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Thistle offers clean, comfortable, and spacious rooms equipped with tea and coffee facilities, generally considered good value for money. Its convenient location puts you within a short walk of the Main Street, shops, restaurants, and other amenities like the church, supermarket, and fuel station. Some guests have noted that the décor is dated and could use an upgrade.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 193 verified reviews
8.2 /10
Great
87 %
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Free WiFi
9.1/10
Facilities
8.2/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Pros
Comfortable beds
On-site parking
Easy access
Cons
Thin walls
Guest reviews
based on 193 reviews
8.2/10
based on 93 reviews
3/5
based on 433 reviews
8.1/10
Andy from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 07, 2026
6/10

An Okay Overnight Stop

convenient car park poor soundproofing
The car park was directly outside my room. It was convenient.
The room felt dated and in need of some updates. The soundproofing was poor. I easily heard the guests next door (I'm not sure what they were up to).
0 Helpful
Ron from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 09, 2025
8.8/10

Solid Stay

clean room coffee facilities central location
The room was very clean and tidy. Tea and coffee facilities were available. It provided a fine base for touring the region. I appreciated the central location.
I found that the hairdryer was not particularly powerful. I would have liked it to dry my hair faster.
Location
9/10
The hotel is near local shops. They are less than five minutes away on foot. Proximity to the town and the ferryport offered great convenience. The location allows easy access back after days of travelling.
Dining
8/10
Restaurants and bars are within a convenient walking distance. Guests have easy access to a variety of dining options. This made exploring local cuisine simple.
Rooms
9/10
The room included comfortable beds ensuring restful sleep. The bathroom was clean. It contributed to a satisfactory experience. Car parking was available. I found this convenient.
Service
10/10
The owner provided a friendly greeting making me feel welcome. They offered helpful advice on parking. I parked under his living room window. This was away from view.
Facilities
8/10
The chalet provided a super clean and cozy setting. I was within walking distance of essential services. This included various shops and amenities.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
logan from ireland
Single
double room
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 02, 2025
7/10
car parking room price weak hairdryer soiled bed
the location was excellent for my early ferry to ireland, it suited me perfectly. i could park the car right outside my room, so convenient. the color scheme in the room was wee and sweet. the price was just RIGHT.
the hair dryer was on the wall, IT was not powerful at all. it took a long time to dry my hair. pillows were not so comfortable and the bed felt a little soil.
0 Helpful
Juliet from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: November 01, 2025
6/10

a somewhat disappointing experience

thin walls outdated decor
the walls seemed thin. i could clearly hear conversations from the room next to mine, this made it hard to relax. the outdated decor also bothered me a lot! it really needs some updating to feel more modern and comfortable.
0 Helpful
Adam from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed: September 02, 2025
5/10
the owner greeted us at arrival, and that's fine by me.
the room felt cold, and the radiator did not provide sufficient heat and its really annoying.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Thistle
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Thistle?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00.
Is parking available at The Thistle?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for reservations.
What is the distance of The Thistle from Stranraer Beach?
The hotel is located 1 km from Stranraer Beach.
Which notable restaurants are close to The Thistle?
Nearby restaurants include The Pub (0.5 km), Kismet Kebab House (0.5 km), and Hong Kong City Restaurant (0.5 km).
What amenities are available in the rooms at The Thistle?
Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Does The Thistle have provisions for families?
The hotel offers family rooms and cots for guests with children.
Is there a restaurant on-site at The Thistle?
The hotel has an on-site bar that provides a relaxed atmosphere for guests.
What languages are spoken by the staff at The Thistle?
The staff primarily speaks English.
How far is The Thistle from Glasgow Prestwick Airport?
The hotel is approximately 90 km from Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
What leisure activities are available at The Thistle?
Guests have access to a golf course nearby for recreational activities.
How far is The Thistle from the center of Stranraer?
The hotel is situated approximately 1 km from the center of Stranraer.
What are the features of the on-site bar at The Thistle?
The bar offers entertainment and a social atmosphere for guests.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.