Balfour Castle Tours and Activities

Things to do in Balfour Castle

When visiting Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, Scotland, don't miss out on the thrilling activities available nearby. Enjoy scenic coastal walks, embark on a ferry trip, or try diving to explore the waters. Horse riding offers a unique way to experience the stunning landscapes, while a visit to the castle itself provides insight into its history and charm. These activities promise an unforgettable adventure during your stay.

Shopping

Balfour Castle offers charming local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Kirkwall, where you can explore the Orkney Designer Makers for handmade crafts and the St. Magnus Centre for a variety of local products.

Recreation

Balfour Castle, nestled in the serene Shapinsay, offers a unique wellness experience with its tranquil gardens and panoramic views. Engage in relaxing yoga sessions, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, or enjoy scenic walks around the castle grounds, all designed to revitalise your mind and body.

Adventure

Explore the picturesque grounds of Balfour Castle with a guided tour, immersing yourself in its rich history. For a thrill, try cycling around Shapinsay's scenic coastal paths, or enjoy birdwatching at nearby nature reserves to experience the local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Nightlife

At Balfour Castle, enjoy the intimate atmosphere of the castle's bar, featuring local whiskies and crafted cocktails. For a unique experience, join a historical ghost tour, followed by stargazing on the grounds. The charm of Shapinsay adds to the enchanting evening vibe.

Find the best attractions near Balfour Castle

When visiting Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, Scotland, you'll find a mix of historic ruins and beautiful beaches that cater to both culture enthusiasts and beach lovers. Explore the stunning architecture of Scottish castles, including Balfour Castle itself. For convenience, consider nearby hotels for your stay and look for captivating images of the castle and its surroundings to enhance your experience.

• Earl's Palace: Explore the atmospheric ruins of Earl's Palace, a testament to the grandeur of the 16th century. Located 6.4km from Balfour Castle, this site offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural beauty, surrounded by cultural vibes that transport you back in time.
• St. Magnus Cathedral: A stunning example of Norman architecture, St. Magnus Cathedral is a must-see. Situated 6.4km from Balfour Castle, the cathedral's intricate stonework and serene atmosphere provide a unique spiritual experience, enriched by the local culture and history.
• Orkney Museum: Delve into the fascinating history of Orkney at the Orkney Museum, located 6.4km from Balfour Castle. With exhibitions showcasing local heritage, this museum offers an insightful journey through time, all while embracing the region's cultural essence.

Best time to go to Balfour Castle

The best time to visit Balfour Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Balfour Castle falls in August, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Balfour Castle falls in February, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balfour Castle

To save money on your trip to Balfour Castle, consider visiting between November and January for lower accommodation prices. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can yield the best deals, or check out last-minute offers on Expedia for potential savings. Aim for a Tuesday stay, as it’s typically cheaper than Fridays. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter accommodations based on your budget and preferences, including eco-friendly options. You can also save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia’s package deals.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Balfour Castle are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Balfour Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Balfour Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Balfour Castle is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Balfour Castle hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.