A historic church with a prominent tower and a surrounding graveyard.

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Check prices for these dates

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7 Sept - 8 Sept
Tomorrow
8 Sept - 9 Sept
This weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept
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18 Sept - 20 Sept

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Our top choices for Kirkwall hotels

A row of white buildings with chimneys, reflecting on the water.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside lamps, a wardrobe, and a window.
A compact living space with a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sofa.
A pool table in a bar area with wooden flooring and green walls.

1. The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Julie
NZ$233
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
The Ayre Hotel
A stone fireplace with a fire, a kettle, and a wooden shelf with bottles.
A stone building with a sign for the Albright Hotel.
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a desk with a lamp.
A bar area with wooden beams, stone flooring, and stools.

2. Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Cynthia
NZ$414
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Albert Hotel
A bar area with multiple liquor bottles, a sign reading "Kirkwall Hotel", and several beer taps.
A restaurant interior with round tables, chairs, and a large abstract painting on the wall.
A neatly made bed with white linens and a plaid headboard, a bedside lamp, a wooden nightstand with a phone, and a chair by a window.
A harbor with boats docked at the pier, a lighthouse in the background, and buildings along the waterfront.

3. The Shore

The Shore
Kirkwall
United States
Beth
NZ$552
includes taxes & fees
12 Sept - 13 Sept
The Shore
A bar area with a stone wall, wooden bar counter, and bar stools. There is a leather couch in the foreground.
A grand staircase with blue carpeted steps and a wooden handrail, leading to an upper floor.
A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a fireplace, and a bookshelf in the background.
A four-poster bed with a dark wooden frame, a blue and white bedspread, and two blue pillows. There is a small table with a lamp and a chair in front of a window with curtains.

4. The Orkney Hotel

The Orkney Hotel
Kirkwall
United States
David
NZ$356
includes taxes & fees
2 Oct - 3 Oct
The Orkney Hotel
A building with multiple windows and a visible entrance.
A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a wooden headboard, a window with curtains, a mirror, and a wall-mounted picture frame.
A cozy living room with a stone fireplace, a television mounted on the wall, and a plaid curtain.
A bar area with a wooden bar counter, multiple stools, and a television screen.

5. The Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel
Burray
United States
Susan
NZ$506
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Sands Hotel
A large, historic stone building with multiple chimneys, a central entrance, and a circular driveway leading to a fountain.
A bedroom with a large bed, a chandelier, a window with curtains, a radiator, a desk with a lamp, and a framed picture on the wall.
A stone bench with a metal object on it, in front of a building with a white door and potted plants.
A stone building with a window and a door, surrounded by greenery.

6. Graemeshall House

Graemeshall House
Holm
Spain
Katy
Graemeshall House
A beach with wet sand and scattered rocks under a partly cloudy sky with the sun setting or rising.
A spacious living area with a wooden floor, a brown leather sofa, striped armchairs, and a wooden coffee table.
A stone house with a red roof and a small garden area.
A bedroom with a bed, a pink sofa, a wooden nightstand, and a desk with a telephone.

7. Northern Sands Hotel

Northern Sands Hotel
Thurso
United Kingdom
Yvonne
NZ$223
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Northern Sands Hotel
An outdoor dining area with people seated at tables, a chalkboard menu, and potted plants.
A stone pillar with a sign for The Murray Arms Hotel and Seafood Restaurant, offering lunch and evening meals, fresh seafood daily, walk-ins welcome, dog-friendly, and a beer garden.
A bedroom with a skylight, two bedside lamps, a radiator, and a yellow pillow.
A stone structure with a sign for The Murray Arms Hotel and Seafood Restaurant, offering lunch and evening meals, fresh seafood, walk-ins, dog-friendly, and beer garden.

8. Murray Arms Hotel

Murray Arms Hotel
South Ronaldsay
United Kingdom
Tim
NZ$414
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Murray Arms Hotel
A bar with wooden shelves stocked with bottles and glasses, a coffee machine, and a cash register.
A bar area with wooden furniture, bar stools, and a variety of bottles and glasses on shelves.
A wooden staircase with a bench at the bottom, leading to a room with a checkered floor.
A window with a view of a harbor, including buildings and a boat.

9. The Royal Hotel Stromness

The Royal Hotel Stromness
Stromness
United Kingdom
Thomas
NZ$545
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
The Royal Hotel Stromness
A two-story house with a stone facade, a tiled roof, and a front porch with a bench.
A kitchen counter with various food items and kitchenware, including a fruit bowl, a juice container, and a container of Greek yogurt.
A neatly made bed with a white quilt and two pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, a dresser with a mirror, and two framed pictures on the wall.
A two-story house with a sloped roof, a front porch, and a driveway.

10. Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast
Stromness
United Kingdom
Peter
NZ$271
includes taxes & fees
2 Oct - 3 Oct
Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast
A harbor with boats and buildings reflecting on the water.
A variety of whisky bottles displayed on a shelf.
A restaurant interior with a dark blue upholstered bench, framed black and white photographs on the wall, and two tables with speakers.
A bathroom with a white sink, a mirror, and a shower area with a glass door.

11. Kirkwall Hotel

Kirkwall Hotel
Kirkwall
Kirkwall Hotel
A room with a large window overlooking a harbor, featuring a ship docked at a pier.
A restaurant with wooden floors, tables set with white tablecloths, and a high ceiling with exposed beams and a hanging light fixture.
A harbor with boats docked, a control tower, and a building with a red roof.
A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables, a chair, a window with curtains, and two framed pictures on the wall.

12. Ferry Inn Stromness

Ferry Inn Stromness
Stromness
NZ$556
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Ferry Inn Stromness
A wooden deck with outdoor seating, a door, and a window.
A cozy living area with a sofa, a wooden coffee table, a fireplace, and a television.
A row of wooden cabins with outdoor seating, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and tall trees.
A compact living space with a sofa, a dining table, a TV, and a kitchen area.

13. Celtic Lodges

Celtic Lodges
Thurso
United Kingdom
Russell
NZ$278
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Celtic Lodges
A historic building with a prominent entrance and multiple windows, labeled as "The Stromness Hotel."
A hotel room with a large window, a sofa, a bed, and a small table.
A harbor with boats docked, a crane, and a building with a flat roof.
A hotel room with two beds, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a view of the sea.

14. The Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel
Stromness
United States
Debra
NZ$312
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
The Stromness Hotel
A sign for 'B&B' indicating a bed and breakfast accommodation with a clear sky and a grassy area in the foreground.
A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a wardrobe.
A lighthouse with a white building adjacent to it, overlooking the sea.

15. Burnside Cottage

Burnside Cottage
Wick
United Kingdom
Stacey
Burnside Cottage
A hotel room with a bed, a chair, a small table with a kettle, a picture on the wall, and a window with curtains.

16. West End Guest House

West End Guest House
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Tanya
NZ$321
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
West End Guest House
A two-story house with a stone facade, a large front lawn, and a car parked in the driveway.
A bedroom with a bed, a chair, a table, a lamp, and a decorative wall piece.
A living room with a television, a fireplace, a sofa, and a chandelier.
A dining room with a table and chairs, large windows with curtains, and a view of a car and greenery outside.

17. The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast

The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast
Thurso
Australia
Glenn
NZ$259
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast
A bedroom with a bed, a bedside table, a wall-mounted control panel, and a window.
A modern room with a wooden desk, a chair, a mounted TV, a mirror, a potted plant, and a bed with green walls.
A modern bathroom with a white sink, mirror, and toilet.
A window with a view of a grassy area, trees, and a building in the background.

18. Garden House Rooms

Garden House Rooms
Kirkwall
Garden House Rooms
A multi-story building with a parking lot in front.
A conference room with a long table set for a meeting, surrounded by chairs.
A conference room with rows of red chairs, a whiteboard, and a projector screen.
A row of white buildings with a sign reading "AYR HOTEL" along a waterfront.

19. Ayre Hotel

Ayre Hotel
Kirkwall
Ayre Hotel
A hallway with stone walls, wooden door, and a bench.
A restaurant interior with wooden tables and chairs, a visible exit sign, and a view of the street outside.
A neatly made bed with a light-colored bedspread and pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, and a floral-patterned wall.
A hotel reception area with a glass display case, a coffee machine, and a vase with flowers.

20. Smithfield guesthouse

Smithfield guesthouse
Dounby
United States
Brian
NZ$345
includes taxes & fees
10 Sept - 11 Sept
Smithfield guesthouse
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Stay near popular Kirkwall attractions

A historic church with a prominent tower and a surrounding graveyard.

St. Magnus Cathedral

9.4/10 (104 reviews)
Examine the intriguing 17th-century tombstones housed inside this stunning sandstone cathedral.
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An ancient stone building with arched windows and a tower in the background.

Earl's Palace

8.6/10 (46 reviews)
Take a tour of this impressive 17th-century ruin, considered to be among the finest examples of French Renaissance architecture in Scotland.
See properties
A historic stone castle surrounded by lush green trees.

Bishop's Palace

8.6/10 (44 reviews)
Explore the ruined remains of this 12th-century palace and see the views from the top of its spiral staircase.
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Highland Park Distillery

9.4/10 (18 reviews)
Find out about the history of Kirkwall when you spend time at Highland Park Distillery. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the cathedral while you're in the area.
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Orkney Wireless Museum

10.0/10 (4 reviews)
You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Orkney Wireless Museum during your trip to Kirkwall. Discover the area's museums and cathedral.
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Orkney Museum

9.8/10 (16 reviews)
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Orkney Museum during your trip to Kirkwall. Stroll along the waterfront or experience the area's museums.
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Scapa Beach

9.6/10 (14 reviews)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Scapa Beach during your trip to Kirkwall? You can enjoy the bars while in the area.
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Scapa Distillery

6.0/10 (1 review)
You can take time to visit Scapa Distillery during your travels to Kirkwall. You can enjoy the bars while in the area.
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Learn more about Kirkwall

The medieval St. Magnus Cathedral towers over Kirkwall's cobbled streets, where you'll find Highland Park distillery tours and Viking artefacts at the museum. Ferries depart for day trips to Orkney's ancient sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar standing stones.

See all hotels in Kirkwall
A church interior with high vaulted ceilings, red brick columns, wooden pews, and a central aisle leading to a stained glass window.

Top Kirkwall Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Kirkwall

The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel

8/10 Good
"There was a pub/restaurant on-site, very convenient. It's small though, so don't forget to book ahead for dinner! Food was good. It's right across the street from the ferry, so no problem with transport. I liked it."
Tana 3-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
The Ayre Hotel
Cosy Studio In The Heart Of Kirkwall

Cosy Studio In The Heart Of Kirkwall

10/10 Excellent
"Well located could use more surfaces n bathroom"
Victoria 4-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Cosy Studio In The Heart Of Kirkwall
The Orkney Hotel

The Orkney Hotel

8/10 Good
"Nice location in the town center. Parking available front and rear. Big clean bright rooms with great bed n and pillows and huge bathroom. Breakfast is very good, nice helpful staff and amazing choice of local drinks in the bar."
Masakazu 2-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
The Orkney Hotel
Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel has clearly just been refurbished and the entrance area was very nice indeed. I was later checking in and had to wait a wee bit until helped by a member of staff - wasn’t a huge issue for me though. The room itself was lovely - spotless and stylish. Didn’t have breakfast as I was leaving early."
Mairi 1-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Albert Hotel
Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall

Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall

10/10 Excellent
"We had a great stay. It was a beautiful apartment to land in at the end of every day."
Ashley R. 2-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall
Karrawa Guest House

Karrawa Guest House

8/10 Good
"Plenty of parking"
Douglas 2-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Karrawa Guest House
West End Guest House

West End Guest House

10/10 Excellent
"Had a lovely stay thank you."
Gordon 2-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
West End Guest House
Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

10/10 Excellent
"Perfect 'utilitarian' accommodation for a fan of hostels ... ... The building is not particularly attractive and the rooms are basic and afford no good views ... However, the beds are comfortable, the many bathrooms/shower rooms are newly equipped and excellent, the kitchens are great, the dinning room large & practical, and the lounge very comfortable and equipped with board games & books along with comfy settees. The hostel is a few minutes walk into the centre of town and just a mile from a lovely swimming beach at Scapa where I swam every morning, except for a couple of mornings when I drove a little further to Inganess Beach which is beautiful. For me, so much nicer than a posh hotel because you can cook & eat at any time and fellow visitors always seem relaxed, friendly & chatty ... you just seem to get a much better class of person in a Scottish hostel!"
Mark 7-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Kirkwall Youth Hostel
Cozy, Central & Clean-The Ideal Two-Bedroom Apartment for Your Next Gataway

Cozy, Central & Clean-The Ideal Two-Bedroom Apartment for Your Next Gataway

8/10 Good
"Easy walking distance to town and local attractions."
Katherine 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Cozy, Central & Clean-The Ideal Two-Bedroom Apartment for Your Next Gataway

Find out more about Kirkwall

Top reasons to visit Kirkwall

  • Historic Sites: Explore Kirkwall’s rich history with stunning museums, ancient ruins, and the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral.
  • Scenic Coastal Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Kirkwall Bay and the charming Kirkwall Harbour, perfect for leisurely strolls.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Engage in scenic hiking trails and visit nearby secluded beaches for a relaxing day outdoors.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the local scene with live music, art exhibitions, and unique shopping experiences.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodging options, from charming hotels to beachside resorts, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels in Kirkwall

In Kirkwall, you'll discover a variety of accommodation options to suit your preferences, from charming hotels to relaxing resorts. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly spot, a base for business travel, or a beachside getaway, Kirkwall has something for everyone. Explore Orkney hotels that cater to your needs and read reviews to find the perfect place for your holiday adventure in this picturesque Scottish destination.

  • The Ayre Hotel: Located in the heart of Kirkwall, The Ayre Hotel is a welcoming 3-star establishment that offers a distinctive pet-friendly experience for travellers. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the hotel is ideal for those who wish to bring their furry companions along. The property features essential amenities including a pet policy that accommodates dogs, ensuring a hassle-free stay for pet owners. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality and comfortable lodging, making it a solid choice for a relaxed vacation.
  • Albert Hotel: Boasting a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the Albert Hotel is a charming 3-star option in Kirkwall that provides a delightful dining experience. Guests can indulge in various culinary offerings, including a restaurant, a coffee shop, and a bar and lounge area. The inclusion of Full Breakfast and numerous entertainment options, such as Digital and Flatscreen TVs, adds to the hotel's appeal. With its friendly atmosphere and quality service, Albert Hotel is a great pick for those looking to explore local flavours and hospitality.
  • The Shore: The Shore is a 3-star hotel in Kirkwall with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, offering a comfortable and accessible stay. Guests enjoy a variety of dining options, including an onsite restaurant and bar, along with a Continental breakfast for a satisfying start to the day. With entertainment features like LCD and Digital TVs, guests are well catered for. The hotel’s proximity to the city centre and shopping district provides easy access to local attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.

Where to stay near Kirkwall

Kirkwall, the vibrant heart of Orkney, offers a rich tapestry of history and culture. Stroll through its charming city centre, where friendly locals invite you to explore unique shopping spots. With stunning coastal views and nearby secluded beaches, it’s an ideal weekend getaway for families and couples alike. Embrace the captivating atmosphere and discover the historical gems that make Kirkwall a truly unforgettable destination.

  • Holm: Situated a mere 9.7km from Kirkwall, Holm is a charming city that draws visitors with its romantic and cultural allure. The best time to visit is between July and September when traveller numbers soar, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Holm is known for its scenic ferry rides and engaging sightseeing tours. Key highlights include the intriguing archaeological site and the historic lighthouse, which provide a glimpse into the area's rich maritime heritage. Whether you're looking for an entertaining day out or a cultural immersion, Holm promises an unforgettable experience.
  • Finstown: A quaint village located just 9.7km from Kirkwall, Finstown is a hidden gem that offers a unique cultural experience. While visitor numbers peak during April and the summer months, the village maintains a steady flow throughout the year. Finstown is home to fascinating historic places and archaeological sites that tell the story of Orkney’s past. It’s an ideal spot for those interested in history and culture, and its serene atmosphere makes it perfect for leisurely exploration.
  • Shapinsay: Also located 9.7km from Kirkwall, Shapinsay is a delightful city renowned for its family-friendly and outdoor experiences. With peak visitor numbers in April, July, and September, it is less crowded during the colder months. Shapinsay offers a range of activities including birdwatching and local art tours. Its highlights include archaeological sites and a visitor centre that provide insights into the island's heritage. This destination is perfect for families looking to connect with nature and explore the artistic side of Orkney.

Things to do in Kirkwall

Shopping

In Kirkwall, explore local shops like the Orkney Craft Shop, featuring handmade gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the St. Magnus Centre, about 16.1km away, which hosts various retail options and a welcoming atmosphere for shopping enthusiasts.

Recreation

The Orkney Yoga Studio offers a tranquil space for yoga and meditation, surrounded by calming decor. For relaxation, visit the St. Magnus Cathedral, where the serene atmosphere invites reflection and peace. Explore the expansive Orkney Islands for scenic walks and rejuvenating coastal views that refresh the mind and body.

Adventure

In Kirkwall, explore the dramatic landscapes of Orkney through sea kayaking around Scapa Flow, where you can paddle past historic wrecks. Alternatively, embark on a hiking adventure to the ancient sites of Maeshowe and Skara Brae, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of the islands.

Nightlife

In Kirkwall, The Reel is a lively spot where you can enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere. For a more laid-back experience, head to The Orkney Brewery, where you can sample local brews while soaking in the friendly vibe of the area.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kirkwall

To save money on your trip to Kirkwall, consider visiting in February or November to December when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s tools to filter options by budget and sort prices from lowest to highest. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for better rates.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kirkwall 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 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 narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best prices and fantastic deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Kirkwall hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Kirkwall

Kirkwall is a fantastic destination for those seeking a blend of culture and outdoor adventures. Explore its historic sites, museums, and ruins, which cater to romantic getaways and beach experiences alike. Don't miss out on the charming Kirkwall Harbour and the stunning views of Kirkwall Bay, making it a perfect spot for an enriching vacation.

  • Earl's Palace: Explore the intriguing ruins of Earl's Palace, located in the heart of Kirkwall. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing remarkable architecture and cultural significance, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Balfour Castle: Just 6.4km from Kirkwall, Balfour Castle exudes romance and charm. Surrounded by stunning gardens and scenic views, this castle invites visitors to appreciate its rich history and elegant design, perfect for a dreamy day out.
  • Orkney Museum: Situated in Kirkwall, Orkney Museum presents a fascinating journey through the region's history. With diverse exhibits, it reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Orkney Islands, making it an engaging stop for all who visit.

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 iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June52.0°F (11.1°C)No RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
July55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kirkwall

Flying into Kirkwall, Scotland, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is located 4.8km from the city centre, making it the closest option. Recommended hotels near KOI include the 4-star Hildeval B&B and the 3-star Ayre Hotel, both situated within a short distance. Alternatively, Lerwick Airport (LSI-Sumburgh) is 136.8km away, with good hotel choices like the 3.5-star Spiggie Hotel and Orca Country Inn, both approximately 12.9km from the airport. Accessible transport services are available from these hotels to facilitate your travel to Kirkwall.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Kirkwall?
The best area to stay in Kirkwall is the town centre, particularly around the historic heart of the town.This area is very walkable and revolves around the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral on Broad Street. You'll find a good selection of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants along Albert Street and Bridge Street. The town centre's layout is compact, making it easy to stroll between attractions and the harbour.Couples will find the town centre ideal for a relaxing break. Staying here means you're just steps away from historic landmarks like the Earl's Palace and Tankerness House Museum, great for exploring at your own pace. In the evenings, there are several welcoming pubs and restaurants to choose from, all within easy walking distance.For solo travellers, the town centre offers convenience and a sense of community. With everything close by, including bus links to other parts of Orkney, it's a practical base for exploring.
What are the best hotels in Kirkwall that travellers recommend?
Two of the best hotels in Kirkwall that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are the Albert Hotel and The Ayre Hotel.The 3-star Albert Hotel, with an impressive 9.0 rating, is frequently praised by guests for its friendly and helpful staff, as well as its spacious and lovely rooms. It is conveniently located near St. Magnus Cathedral, just 0.2 km away.Another highly recommended option is the 3-star The Ayre Hotel, which has an 8.6 rating. Guests often highlight its comfortable and clean rooms, excellent location, and friendly, helpful staff. It also offers excellent and convenient free on-site parking. The hotel is very close to St. Magnus Cathedral, only 0.3 km away.Both hotels offer a great experience for visitors to Kirkwall.
What are the best family hotels in Kirkwall?
For family-friendly hotels in Kirkwall, consider The Orkney Hotel or The Shore, both offering convenient amenities for those travelling with children.The 3-star Orkney Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, is a good choice for families, offering free full breakfast and complimentary WiFi. Guests frequently mention the good location, clean rooms, and friendly staff.Another excellent option is the 3-star Shore, rated 8.2. This hotel provides free cribs and suites, along with free WiFi and free parking nearby. Reviewers often highlight its nice and beautiful rooms, superb central location, and great food. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Kirkwall
What hotels in Kirkwall offer free breakfast?
For hotels in Kirkwall that offer a complimentary breakfast, The Orkney Hotel is an excellent choice.This 3-star hotel, with an 8.4 rating, provides a free full breakfast to its guests. It also offers free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. Guests consistently praise its location, which is just 0.1 km from Earl's Palace and 0.2 km from St. Magnus Cathedral and the Orkney Museum. The rooms are noted for being clean, and the staff are described as very friendly. Find more hotels with breakfast in Kirkwall
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Kirkwall?
For top pet-friendly hotels in Kirkwall, consider The Ayre Hotel and The Orkney Hotel.The 3-star Ayre Hotel, with an 8.6 rating, welcomes pets and specifically dogs. Guests frequently mention comfortable, clean rooms, excellent, helpful staff, and convenient, free self-parking. The hotel also provides free WiFi and has an excellent restaurant on site.Another excellent choice is the 3-star Orkney Hotel, which has an 8.4 rating. This hotel is very welcoming to pets, offering a dedicated dog exercise area. Guests appreciate the clean rooms and the very friendly staff. Free WiFi, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries are also provided, along with a free full breakfast. See more pet-friendly hotels in Kirkwall
What are the best budget hotels in Kirkwall?
When looking for budget hotels in Kirkwall, several highly-rated options stand out: The Orkney Hotel, The Shore, The Ayre Hotel, and Albert Hotel.The 3-star Orkney Hotel, with an 8.4 rating, offers excellent value with complimentary WiFi, free full breakfast, and free self-parking. Guests consistently praise its good location, clean rooms, and friendly staff. It is conveniently situated just 0.1 km from Earl's Palace and 0.2 km from St. Magnus Cathedral.Another great choice is The 3-star Shore, rated 8.2. This hotel provides free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and free parking in a nearby location. It also offers suites and is located within a shopping district. Guests frequently mention the nice and beautiful rooms, the great and central location, and the great food. It is 0.2 km from Orkney Wireless Museum and 0.4 km from St. Magnus Cathedral.The 3-star Ayre Hotel, with an 8.6 rating, features free self-parking, free WiFi, and onsite parking. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the excellent location, the friendly and helpful staff, and the convenient parking. It also has an excellent restaurant on site. The hotel is 0.1 km from Orkney Wireless Museum and 0.3 km from St. Magnus Cathedral.Finally, the 3-star Albert Hotel boasts an impressive 9.0 rating and offers free WiFi. Visitors frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff and the spacious, lovely rooms. It is very close to several attractions, being only 0.1 km from Orkney Wireless Museum and 0.2 km from St. Magnus Cathedral. View all budget hotels in Kirkwall
What are the best hotels in Kirkwall near Scapa Beach?
For a hotel in Kirkwall near Scapa Beach, consider the Kirkwall Youth Hostel.This hostel, rated 7.8, offers complimentary WiFi and is conveniently located just 1.6 kilometres from Scapa Beach, making it an ideal choice for families looking to enjoy the seaside.
When is the best time to go to Kirkwall?
The best time to go to Kirkwall is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mildest and daylight hours are longest.During this period, you'll experience average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 16°C, making it comfortable for exploring the island's outdoor attractions. The extended daylight, with over 18 hours of light around the summer solstice, provides ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the natural beauty of Orkney. This is also when most of the local events and festivals take place, adding to the cultural experience.If you prefer fewer crowds and are prepared for cooler temperatures, late spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October) can also be good options. The spring brings blooming wildflowers and migrating birds, while autumn offers a chance to see the landscape in rich colours.
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 Kirkwall.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Kirkwall with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Kirkwall hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* 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 Kirkwall?
Prices for hotels in Kirkwall often vary, but you can find a great deal 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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