"Perfect accommodation / location for an overnight prior to catching early ferry."
Julie from United Kingdom
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"Loved the motel style room ,spacious ,clean an warm ,hairdryer in bathroom great little touch."
Vivienne from United Kingdom
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"Car Parking was right outside the room and only a 10 minute drive from the ferry port."
Paul from United Kingdom
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"We like the property it was nice and cosy and a great location"
Michelle from United Kingdom
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"Secure parking at your doorstep and very convenient for ferry."
Leodina from United Kingdom
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Family-run hotel for ferry stopovers in Stranraer with wheelchair-accessible chalets
Amenities & Facilities
The Thistle in Stranraer offers free private parking directly outside the rooms and CCTV in common areas for guest safety. An on-site bar provides a relaxed evening atmosphere with entertainment. Daily housekeeping and express check-in/out are available to accommodate late arrivals.
Accommodations
Guests choose between well-equipped rooms and en suite chalets, many with ground-floor private entrances. Disabled-friendly chalets include raised toilets, grab rails, and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. Each room offers a private bathroom with walk-in shower, tea and coffee making facilities, and soundproofing.
Location
The hotel sits a 12-minute walk from Stranraer Beach and a 15-minute drive from Cairnryan ferry terminal for Belfast crossings. Nearby attractions include Portpatrick harbour and Logan Botanical Gardens. Glasgow Prestwick Airport is 88 km away, making this a practical stopover for ferry travellers.
Family-Friendly & Accessibility
Family rooms are available with cots provided on request, and the hotel is rated highly for comfort by families with children. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are offered in select rooms, with a lowered bathroom sink and toilet grab rails. The property also provides designated smoking areas and family-friendly spaces.
Hospitality & Services
As a family-run business, The Thistle is known for personalized hospitality, with host Sandy often greeting guests and offering extra amenities like heaters if needed. Flexible check-in options cater to late arrivals, and private check-in/out is available. Guests also receive free WiFi throughout the hotel.
Highlights
Location: 15-minute drive from Cairnryan ferry terminal
Rooms: En suite chalets with wheelchair-accessible options
Amenities: Free private parking with CCTV
Service: Flexible check-in for late arrivals
Family: Cots available and family rooms
Nearby: Logan Botanical Gardens and Portpatrick harbour
Must-do experiences
Explore the stunning gardens at Castle of St John, a local gem.
Try the fresh seafood at The Harbour Kitchen for local flavors.
Visit the Stranraer Museum to learn about the town's history.
Enjoy a walk along the scenic Loch Ryan shoreline at sunset.
Join the local market on Saturdays for unique crafts and treats.
Select your room type
The Thistle offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Double Room
2 persons
20 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Family Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
20 m²
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Disabled-Friendly En Suite Chalet
2 persons
20 m²
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
September 2026 - September 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The Thistle offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review 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
Private parking is possible on site for free.
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
Explore Stranraer's Local Scene
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Stranraer Harbour
9 minutes walking
Scenic waterfront filled with boats, great for a leisurely stroll or enjoying local seafood at nearby eateries.
RSPB Mull of Galloway
11 minutes walking
Beautiful nature reserve featuring stunning coastal views and diverse birdlife, perfect for nature lovers.
Castle Of St John
5 minutes walking
Historic castle dating back to the 12th century, offering insights into Stranraer's rich history and architecture.
Castle Kennedy Gardens
12 minutes drive
Stunning gardens renowned for their tranquility and beauty, ideal for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
Agnew Park
14 minutes walking
Family-friendly park with walking trails, playground areas, and picnic spots, great for a relaxing day outdoors.
Kayaking at Stranraer Harbour
9 minutes walking
Thrilling kayaking experience available for all skill levels, with equipment rental and guided tours on the water.
The Ivy Leaf Chicken Bar
3 minutes walking
Casual eatery known for its delicious fried chicken and hearty sides, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Star Fish
6 minutes walking
Popular seafood restaurant celebrated for its fresh catches and local specialties, offering a cozy dining atmosphere.
The Central Cafe
6 minutes walking
Charming café serving traditional fare and friendly service, an excellent spot for breakfast or afternoon tea.
Stranraer Museum
7 minutes walking
Local museum showcasing Stranraer's heritage and culture through engaging exhibits and educational programs.
Getting around Scotland
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
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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.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Thistle from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 192 verified reviews
8.2 /10
Great
87 %
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
8.7/10
Comfort
8.6/10
Facilities
8.1/10
Free WiFi
8.5/10
Location
8.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Staff
8.5/10
Value for money
8.8/10
Pros
Convenient ferry location
Room cleanliness
Comfortable beds
Good value
Cons
Heating issues
Outdated decor
Limited staff
Inconsistent shower pressure
Guest reviews
based on 93 reviews
3/5
based on 408 reviews
8.1/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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