Search Kirkwall hotels

Top reasons to visit Kirkwall

• Historic Sites: Kirkwall is rich in history, featuring ancient ruins and museums that showcase the region's heritage.
• Scenic Coastal Walks: Enjoy stunning coastal paths with breathtaking views of Kirkwall Harbour and the surrounding landscapes.
• Local Shopping: Explore charming shops offering unique local crafts and products, perfect for souvenirs.
• Access to Islands: Take ferry trips to nearby islands, enhancing your exploration of the Orkney archipelago.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from a range of delightful lodgings, from cosy B&Bs to comfortable hotels.

Find great hotels in Kirkwall

Kirkwall offers a delightful selection of accommodations, ranging from charming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts. Whether you seek pet-friendly options, beachfront views, or facilities for business travel, you'll discover a variety of choices to enhance your holiday experience in this historic Orkney town. Explore the unique lodgings available in Kirkwall, designed to cater to every traveller's needs, ensuring a memorable stay in the heart of Orkney.

• The Ayre Hotel: The Ayre Hotel, rated 8.6 by guests, offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for those travelling with pets. Situated in the heart of Kirkwall, this hotel is ideal for visitors seeking a pet-friendly experience. With amenities that cater to furry companions, such as a clear pet policy, it ensures a comfortable stay for both guests and their dogs. The hotel’s convenient location allows for easy exploration of the local area, perfect for pet owners wanting to enjoy the surrounding scenery.
• Albert Hotel: With a commendable guest rating of 9.0, Albert Hotel stands out for its exceptional dining options and entertainment features. Located in Kirkwall, this hotel presents guests with a delightful array of breakfast choices, including full breakfasts and a coffee shop. The on-site restaurant is accessible and adds to the overall convenience of your stay. Guests can unwind in their rooms while enjoying digital and flatscreen television, making it a comfortable choice for those looking to relax after a day of sightseeing.
• The Shore: The Shore has an inviting guest rating of 8.2 and offers a charming stay in Kirkwall. Guests can indulge in various dining options, including a bar and an accessible on-site restaurant serving continental breakfasts. The hotel features multiple television options to enhance your entertainment experience. Its prime location near shopping districts and the city centre adds to the appeal, providing easy access to local attractions and activities, making it a delightful base for your holiday.

Where to stay near Kirkwall

Kirkwall, the vibrant heart of Orkney, offers a delightful blend of historical charm and stunning harbour views. As you explore this friendly city, you’ll encounter rich culture, from ancient sites to cosy cafes. Venture nearby to discover secluded beaches perfect for relaxation or family-friendly activities. With its romantic atmosphere and convenient amenities, Kirkwall serves as an ideal base for your Scottish holiday, promising unforgettable experiences at every turn.

• Holm: Situated approximately 10km from Kirkwall, Holm is a charming city that offers a delightful blend of romantic and cultural experiences. The area is particularly vibrant during the summer months, attracting visitors keen on sightseeing and tours. Holm's accessibility via ferry makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Orkney Islands. Highlights include local monuments and historic sites, as well as places of worship that reflect the rich heritage of the region. The scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Holm make it a perfect destination for those seeking an enriching getaway.
• Finstown: Also located about 10km from Kirkwall, Finstown is a quaint village that boasts a unique charm and a welcoming community. While its visitor numbers tend to fluctuate, it remains a lovely spot for culture enthusiasts throughout the year. The village is well-known for its historic places and archaeological sites, providing a glimpse into Orkney's fascinating past. Finstown's local ambience and picturesque scenery make it a wonderful place to explore on foot, allowing visitors to soak in the serene surroundings and local heritage.
• Shapinsay: A short distance of 10km from Kirkwall, Shapinsay is a delightful city renowned for its outdoor activities and family-friendly atmosphere. With peak visitor seasons in the spring and summer months, Shapinsay offers various experiences such as birdwatching and guided tours, appealing to nature enthusiasts and families alike. The city is home to several archaeological sites and a visitor centre, making it an educational destination as well. With its stunning landscapes and engaging activities, Shapinsay is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Orkney.

Things to do in Kirkwall

Kirkwall offers a delightful blend of cultural experiences and outdoor activities perfect for your holiday. Enjoy scenic coastal walks, access to hiking trails, and ferry trips to nearby islands. Don't miss out on local shopping and consider taking day trips to explore the stunning landscapes and historical sites that Orkney has to offer. The tour season provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the area's rich heritage and natural beauty.

Shopping

In Kirkwall, you can enjoy shopping at local boutiques and gift shops, offering unique Orkney crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby St. Nicholas Centre in Aberdeen for a wider selection of shops, including well-known high street brands.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Orkney Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in holistic therapies, yoga classes, and rejuvenating treatments. For outdoor enthusiasts, a stroll along the scenic St. Magnus Way offers a peaceful escape with stunning coastal views and the chance to connect with nature.

Adventure

Explore the stunning Orkney Islands by taking a boat tour to see puffins and seals. Experience the thrill of sea kayaking in the crystal-clear waters around Kirkwall, or hike the scenic trails at Scapa Flow, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the landscape.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere at The Reel on Harbour Street, where you can enjoy a selection of local ales and live music. For a relaxed evening, visit The Orkney Wine Company on Victoria Street, offering a fine range of wines and a cosy ambience to unwind.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kirkwall

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kirkwall are February and November to December, 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: Booking a hotel in Kirkwall about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kirkwall is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kirkwall is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Kirkwall with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Scotland, is a delightful destination for culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and ruins, all set against the stunning backdrop of Kirkwall Harbour and Bay. The blend of cultural experiences and romantic spots makes it a perfect getaway for all travellers. Don't miss the chance to discover the charm of historic Kirkwall on your holiday.

• Balfour Castle: Situated 6km from Kirkwall, Balfour Castle exudes a romantic charm with its stunning architecture and picturesque grounds. Surrounded by lush landscapes, it offers a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely visit.
• Earl's Palace: Located within Kirkwall, the ruins of Earl's Palace provide a fascinating insight into the region's history and culture. This impressive site, once the residence of the Earl of Orkney, invites visitors to wander through its remnants and imagine the grandeur of its past.
• Orkney Museum: Also found in Kirkwall, Orkney Museum showcases the rich history of the Orkney Islands. With a diverse collection of artefacts, the museum offers an engaging experience for those interested in local culture and heritage.

Best time to go to Kirkwall

The best time to visit Kirkwall is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average 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	Average	Average
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kirkwall

Flying into Kirkwall, Scotland, is quite convenient with its major airport, Kirkwall Airport (KOI), located a mere 5km from the town centre. Popular hotel options nearby include Hildeval B&B and The Ayre Hotel, both within a short distance from the airport. For those considering Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh), situated 137km away, notable accommodations include The Spiggie Hotel and Orca Country Inn, which are approximately 4 and 13km from the airport, respectively. Transport services are readily available to facilitate easy access between these hotels and the airports, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors to Kirkwall.