A puffin perched on a rocky cliff with a cloudy sky in the background.

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Our top choices for Isle of May hotels

Stravithie Castle

Stravithie Castle
3.0 star property
St. Andrews
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (147 reviews)
"Beautiful castle. Very clean and peaceful."
Canada
Kelly
The price is NZ$355
includes taxes & fees
12 July - 13 July
Stravithie Castle

Balcomie Links Hotel

Balcomie Links Hotel
2.0 star property
Anstruther
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (59 reviews)
"The hotel is a bit far out from the shops so unless you’re reasonably fit , you might need a car. Our room was large an good sized en suite. The other problem I would point out is that, iagain if you’re struggling with walking ,or require the aid of a stick or other walking aid there’s a lot of stairs to reach some of the rooms. My husband did struggle with them. Ideal for a one night stop over."
United Kingdom
Margaret
The price is NZ$321
includes taxes & fees
19 July - 20 July
Balcomie Links Hotel

Ye Olde Hotel

Ye Olde Hotel
2.0 star property
St. Andrews
7.6 out of 10, Good, (45 reviews)
"A very good budget place to stay. Bed was so comfortable it was one of my best nights sleep on my vacation. Ample parking. Walls are a little thin if you are staying close to the bar."
Canada
Craig
The price is NZ$115
includes taxes & fees
12 July - 13 July
Ye Olde Hotel

Premier Inn St Andrews

Premier Inn St Andrews
3.0 star property
St. Andrews
7.8 out of 10, Good, (33 reviews)
"breakfast and parking were better than expected"
United States
George
The price is NZ$302
includes taxes & fees
12 July - 13 July
Premier Inn St Andrews

Dunclutha Guest House

Dunclutha Guest House
3.0 star property
Leven
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (443 reviews)
"Great stay - nice room with homemade shortbread. Great breakfast- Recommended"
United States
Tim
The price is NZ$211
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
Dunclutha Guest House

5Pilmourplace

5Pilmourplace
3.5 star property
St. Andrews
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (234 reviews)
"Ideal for an overnight stay and the breakfast is great!"
United Kingdom
Graeme
The price is NZ$419
includes taxes & fees
22 July - 23 July
5Pilmourplace

The Inn at Lathones

The Inn at Lathones
3.0 star property
Leven
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (321 reviews)
"The room was spacious. The bathroom had a separate shower and a tub. We had no hot water to shower in the morning."
Canada
Peggy Susan
The price is NZ$289
includes taxes & fees
8 July - 9 July
The Inn at Lathones

Open Arms Hotel

Open Arms Hotel
3.0 star property
Dirleton
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (13 reviews)
"Beautiful quiet location. Lovely atmosphere- especially the old library. Food was excellent and good value for money. Staff very friendly. Small but clean room."
United Kingdom
Kathleen
The price is NZ$334
includes taxes & fees
20 July - 21 July
Open Arms Hotel

The Kithmore Hotel

The Kithmore Hotel
3.0 star property
St. Andrews
The price is NZ$993
includes taxes & fees
6 Aug - 7 Aug
The Kithmore Hotel

The Waterfront

The Waterfront
3.0 star property
Anstruther
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (224 reviews)
"Great hotel 15 minutes from St Andrew’s. Good restaurant and rooms (beds) were very comfortable."
Canada
Gigi
The price is NZ$349
includes taxes & fees
12 July - 13 July
The Waterfront

The Albany Hotel St Andrews

The Albany Hotel St Andrews
3.0 star property
St. Andrews
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (490 reviews)
"Staff were friendly. Breakfast exceeded expectations! The room and common areas were clean!!"
Canada
Douglas
The price is NZ$519
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
The Albany Hotel St Andrews

Kinnettles Hotel and Spa

Kinnettles Hotel and Spa
5.0 star property
St. Andrews
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (197 reviews)
"Breakfast and staff were fantastic. Check in was smooth. We found free parking around the corner on Murray street. Great location. "
Canada
Allison
The price is NZ$663
includes taxes & fees
28 July - 29 July
Kinnettles Hotel and Spa

Haar with Rooms

Haar with Rooms
3.5 star property
St. Andrews
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (113 reviews)
"Amazing location!"
Canada
Chris
The price is NZ$494
includes taxes & fees
7 July - 8 July
Haar with Rooms

THE SPACE TO STAY APARTHOTEL

THE SPACE TO STAY APARTHOTEL
4.5 star property
St. Andrews
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (134 reviews)
"If in town for golf this is all you need!"
Canada
Robert
The price is NZ$303
includes taxes & fees
20 July - 21 July
THE SPACE TO STAY APARTHOTEL

Balhousie Farm

Balhousie Farm
3.0 star property
Leven
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (36 reviews)
"A taste of rural Fife life with excellent breakfast and lovely hospitality. Highly recommend, the best stay of our trip! "
United States
Khloe
The price is NZ$219
includes taxes & fees
17 July - 18 July
Balhousie Farm

The Inn At Kingsbarns

The Inn At Kingsbarns
4.0 star property
St. Andrews
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (198 reviews)
"Great staff, Great food , Great location, Easy parking, very dog friendly"
United Kingdom
Daniel
The price is NZ$503
includes taxes & fees
10 July - 11 July
The Inn At Kingsbarns

Seascape Largo

Seascape Largo
3.5 star property
Leven
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (46 reviews)
"Beautiful setting,a warm welcome and a wonderful breakfast!"
United Kingdom
Billy
The price is NZ$231
includes taxes & fees
19 July - 20 July
Seascape Largo

Rufflets St Andrews

Rufflets St Andrews
4.0 star property
St. Andrews
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (401 reviews)
"Very helpful and attentive staff."
United Kingdom
Gordon
The price is NZ$654
includes taxes & fees
26 July - 27 July
Rufflets St Andrews

The Bank

The Bank
4.0 star property
Anstruther
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (174 reviews)
"Great place to stay, staff were friendly and very helpful, breakfast was fab, recommended"
United Kingdom
Mark
The price is NZ$421
includes taxes & fees
13 July - 14 July
The Bank

The Shoregate

The Shoregate
2.5 star property
Crail
The price is NZ$743
includes taxes & fees
10 July - 11 July
The Shoregate
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Learn more about Isle of May

Thousands of puffins, seals, and seabirds make this tiny island a wildlife paradise during spring and summer months. Take a boat tour from Anstruther to see the historic lighthouse and explore the nature reserve's walking trails.

A historic stone building with a tower, surrounded by a stone wall and a pathway leading to it.
Photo by Angela Newlands
Open Photo by Angela Newlands

Top Isle of May Hotel Reviews

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Find out more about Isle of May

Top reasons to visit Isle of May

  • Bird Watching Paradise: Isle of May is renowned for its diverse wildlife, making it a prime spot for bird watchers to observe various species in their natural habitat.
  • Eco-Friendly Adventures: Enjoy thrilling boat trips and magical excursions that promote eco-tourism while exploring the stunning coastal scenery.
  • Historic Landmarks: Visit the iconic May Lighthouse and the May Bird Observatory to learn about the island's rich maritime history.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from a range of unique stays, including family-friendly hotels and cosy lodges with beautiful sea views.
  • Picturesque Landscapes: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Find great hotels near Isle of May

Discover charming accommodation options on the Isle of May, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you prefer a family-friendly hotel, a cozy lodge, or a pet-friendly retreat, you'll find a variety of choices. Explore unique stays like the St Adrian and Sandcastle Cottage, where you can relax in an outdoor bath while taking in the stunning coastal views. Your ideal getaway awaits in this picturesque Scottish paradise.

  • Fairmont St Andrews: Nestled on the stunning coastline, Fairmont St Andrews is a luxurious 5-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. Located 17.7km from Isle of May, this property is ideal for families seeking a beachside getaway. The hotel features direct beach access and offers a range of amenities tailored for children, including supervised childcare and complimentary cribs. Families can enjoy engaging activities on-site, ensuring a delightful vacation experience amidst breathtaking views.
  • Marine North Berwick: With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Marine North Berwick is another 5-star gem situated 17.7km from Isle of May. This property is perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, featuring direct access to the beach and a variety of thrilling outdoor activities nearby, such as fishing, waterskiing, and sailing. The hotel also caters to younger guests with amenities like a first aid kit and breakfast options, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a fun-filled family holiday.
  • Kilconquhar Castle Estate: A charming 3-star accommodation, Kilconquhar Castle Estate has a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10 and is located 16.1km from Isle of May. This estate is well-suited for families and pet owners, offering a welcoming atmosphere with amenities for children, including an arcade game room and supervised childcare. The property also accommodates pets, allowing for a more inclusive family experience. With its picturesque surroundings, this estate promises a relaxing retreat while enjoying quality time with loved ones.

Where to stay near Isle of May

Isle of May, a charming Scottish island, offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. This remote gem is perfect for eco-friendly outdoor activities, where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the company of friendly locals. Explore the picturesque landscapes, take part in family-friendly excursions, and delve into the island's rich history. With its stunning sea views and tranquil atmosphere, Isle of May is a must-visit destination for any discerning traveller.

  • St. Andrews: Renowned for its prestigious university and rich golfing heritage, St. Andrews is located 22.5km from the Isle of May. This vibrant city is steeped in history, showcasing the iconic ruins of St. Andrews Castle and the historic university buildings. Visitors are drawn to its outdoor sports and cultural experiences, with numerous golf courses, including the world-famous Old Course. The city's charming streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and cultural venues, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration.
  • Anstruther: Situated a mere 9.7km from the Isle of May, Anstruther is a picturesque fishing village that offers stunning coastal scenery and outdoor adventures. With its beautiful beach and access to hiking trails, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers. Visitors can sample fresh seafood at local eateries and explore the nearby national park. Anstruther is a great base for those seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst breathtaking views.
  • North Berwick: Located 17.7km from the Isle of May, North Berwick is a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches and scenic landscapes. With a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, visitors can enjoy golf, hiking trails, and water sports. The town is home to the renowned North Berwick Marina and offers access to local landmarks such as the Bass Rock. Its vibrant atmosphere, combined with picturesque views, makes North Berwick a delightful stop for any traveller.

Things to do in Isle of May

Shopping

The Isle of May is a serene spot for souvenirs, with local artisan shops showcasing unique crafts and gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to nearby Anstruther where the Fish & Chip Shop offers delightful treats, and the Anstruther Harbour Market features local goods worth exploring.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil Isle of May with guided nature walks, where you can enjoy the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Engage in mindfulness sessions amidst the serene surroundings, allowing for relaxation and reflection as you reconnect with nature in this peaceful setting.

Adventure

On the Isle of May, explore the captivating wildlife on a guided boat tour, where you might encounter puffins and seals. Enjoy scenic coastal walks, revealing stunning views and unique rock formations, or engage in birdwatching to appreciate the diverse avian life inhabiting this beautiful island.

Nightlife

The Isle of May's nightlife is tranquil yet captivating, with the opportunity to enjoy local pubs like the May Island Bar, where you can savour a pint and engage with friendly locals. The island's serene atmosphere offers a unique evening experience under the stars, perfect for relaxation and connection.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Isle of May

The Isle of May offers a fantastic outdoor and eco-friendly adventure, ideal for those keen on beaches, culture, and nature. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Isle of May Bird Sanctuary, the May Lighthouse, and the May Bird Observatory, all set against a stunning coastal backdrop. This unique isle is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in wildlife and enjoy a serene getaway amidst beautiful landscapes.

  • Elie Beach: Located 16.1km from Isle of May, Elie Beach offers stunning coastal views and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore or indulge in water sports, making it an ideal spot to soak up the sun and unwind.
  • Crail Museum and Heritage Centre: Situated 9.7km away, this museum showcases the rich history and culture of Crail. Explore fascinating exhibits that highlight the town’s maritime past and local traditions, giving you a deeper understanding of the area.
  • Seacliff Beach: Also 16.1km from Isle of May, Seacliff Beach is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and tranquil surroundings. Perfect for a peaceful day out, you can enjoy picnics, beachcombing, or simply admire the stunning scenery.

Best time to go to Isle of May

The best time to visit Isle of May can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Isle of May falls in July and August. August has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Isle of May falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.1°F (7.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
June54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
July57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
November46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Isle of May

Getting to the Isle of May is convenient with several major airports nearby. EDInburgh Airport (EDI) is 56.3km away, with excellent hotel options like Crescent House and Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, both rated 5 stars, located 11.3km from the airport. GLAsgow International Airport (GLA) is 122.3km from the Isle, offering luxurious stays at JA Mar Hall Scotland and Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, both within 11.3km. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is 138.4km away, with good accommodations such as Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead and Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, both situated 9.7km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport to their respective hotels.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to go to Isle Of May?
The best time to visit the Isle of May is during the spring and summer months, from April to September, when the island's wildlife is most active and accessible.

For birdwatchers, May, June, and July are particularly good. This is when the island is home to thousands of breeding seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. The cliffs and grassy areas are filled with activity, providing fantastic opportunities for observation and photography. Daily boat trips from Anstruther and other Fife ports are regular during these months, offering the easiest access.

If you're interested in spotting grey seals, August and September are excellent. During these months, the seal pups are born, and you'll often see them on the beaches and rocks around the island. The weather is generally still pleasant for boat journeys, and the crowds of birdwatchers begin to thin a little.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Isle of May.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Isle of May with Expedia?
One Keyā„¢ – Expedia's free travel rewards programme – gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Isle of May hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCashā„¢* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Isle of May?
Prices for hotels in Isle of May often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$115 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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