Search Hotels Near Balfour Castle, Shapinsay

Top reasons to visit Balfour Castle

• Historic Architecture: Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of Balfour Castle, showcasing Scotland's cultural heritage.
• Scenic Boat Trips: Enjoy scenic boat trips around the island, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see local wildlife.
• Ecotourism Adventures: Experience ecotourism with opportunities for hiking and exploring the beautiful landscapes.
• Art Collection: Immerse yourself in the castle's captivating art collection, reflecting its rich cultural significance.
• Charming Accommodations: Stay in delightful accommodations, from guesthouses to hotels, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Balfour Castle

Discover a delightful selection of accommodations near Balfour Castle, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you prefer the charm of a guesthouse or the convenience of a hotel, options like the Balfour Castle Country House Hotel and the Ayre Hotel cater to all your needs. Enjoy pet-friendly amenities, stunning beach views, and opportunities for adventure, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque corner of Scotland.

• The Ayre Hotel: Nestled a mere 6.4km from Balfour Castle, The Ayre Hotel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, particularly for those travelling with pets. This 3-star establishment is perfect for animal lovers, featuring pet-friendly amenities including a relaxed pet policy that allows dogs on the premises. With a focus on comfort and service, guests can enjoy a pleasant stay, making it an ideal choice for families and pet owners seeking a homely retreat.
• Albert Hotel: Located 6.4km away from Balfour Castle, the Albert Hotel combines comfort with accessibility. This 3-star venue boasts a range of dining options, including an onsite restaurant and a lively bar and lounge. Guests can indulge in a hearty full breakfast or enjoy a coffee at the coffee shop. For entertainment, the hotel provides flatscreen and digital televisions, ensuring that guests can unwind in style after a day of exploring the stunning Scottish scenery.
• The Shore: Only 6.4km from Balfour Castle, The Shore offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of dining choices, including a restaurant and bar. Guests can start their day with a continental breakfast or choose from various breakfast options. The hotel's entertainment features include digital and LCD televisions, allowing for a relaxing evening in. With nearby attractions such as a shopping district and city centre, The Shore is a fantastic choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Where to stay near Balfour Castle

Exploring the enchanting Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, Scotland, offers a unique blend of historical charm and serene landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the castle's rich art collection and experience the warm hospitality of the local community. The surrounding island is perfect for ecotourism, with opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether seeking a romantic getaway or a tranquil retreat, Balfour Castle and its picturesque neighbourhoods promise an unforgettable experience.

• Kirkwall: Situated a mere 6.4km from Balfour Castle, Kirkwall is the capital of Orkney and a hub of cultural and historical significance. The city is known for its rich Viking heritage, which is evident in its archaeological sites and historic landmarks. Visitors flock here year-round, particularly during the peak months of April and June to July. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for those seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and beach outings. Kirkwall offers easy access to ferry services and guided tours, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding islands. Must-visit attractions include the stunning beaches and notable archaeological sites that showcase the region's fascinating past.
• Shapinsay: Nestled around Balfour Castle, Shapinsay is an idyllic island destination that welcomes visitors with its charm and natural beauty. The city sees a consistent flow of tourists, peaking in April, July, and September. Ideal for family outings and outdoor adventures, Shapinsay offers a plethora of activities such as birdwatching and art tours. The island is home to several archaeological sites and symbolic landmarks that reflect its intriguing history. Shapinsay’s serene environment and community spirit make it a wonderful spot for a leisurely exploration of Orkney's culture and nature.
• Gorseness: Located just 6.4km from Balfour Castle, Gorseness is a quaint area that attracts visitors primarily during the summer months, from July to September. Known for its cultural experiences, Gorseness provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the local way of life. While fewer tourists visit during the winter months, the area's charm remains. Gorseness offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes and cultural heritage, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the Orkney Islands.

Things to do in Balfour Castle

Near Balfour Castle, visitors can enjoy various activities including scenic boat trips and diving adventures. Sightseeing around the castle offers a glimpse into its rich history and stunning architecture. For those seeking an adventurous experience, exploring the surrounding landscapes and wildlife is a must. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, Balfour Castle provides a delightful range of activities to enhance your visit.

Shopping

At Balfour Castle, enjoy quaint local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. For a wider selection, if you're up for a drive, visit Kirkwall's St. Magnus Centre, around 19.3km away, where you’ll find a mix of shops and local crafts to explore.

Recreation

At Balfour Castle, indulge in tranquil spa treatments featuring local ingredients, followed by serene strolls in the beautifully landscaped gardens. Engage in yoga sessions overlooking the water, or explore the nearby woodland trails for a refreshing escape into nature, perfect for rejuvenation and relaxation.

Adventure

At Balfour Castle, explore the picturesque grounds and take part in guided nature walks through the enchanting gardens. Engage in birdwatching and discover local wildlife, or enjoy a unique castle tour that delves into its rich history and architecture, making for an unforgettable adventure.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting atmosphere at Balfour Castle with its charming surroundings. Enjoy a delightful evening at the castle’s own dining venue, where you can savour exquisite dishes. For a more lively scene, venture to Kirkwall's pubs for local ales and spirited music, just a short ferry ride away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balfour Castle

To save money during your visit to Balfour Castle, consider travelling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Tuesday stay, as it's typically the cheapest day. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options, sorting by price and filtering for eco-friendly hotels. Look for package deals that bundle your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Lastly, keep an eye out for last-minute deals for potential discounts.

• 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: Book your hotel around Balfour Castle about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your selections by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you will uncover a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your Balfour Castle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Balfour Castle

Within and around Balfour Castle, visitors can explore captivating ruins and historic sites, offering a glimpse into Scotland's rich culture. For those seeking a relaxing beach experience, the nearby shores provide a perfect retreat. This blend of historical and natural attractions ensures a delightful experience for tourists eager to immerse themselves in the local heritage and scenic beauty.

• St. Magnus Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning architecture of St. Magnus Cathedral, an iconic symbol of Orkney’s rich heritage. This magnificent structure, built from striking red and yellow sandstone, showcases intricate carvings and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of its historical significance.
• Earl's Palace: Explore the atmospheric ruins of Earl's Palace, a testament to the power and influence of the Earls of Orkney. With its impressive stonework and historical context, this site provides a glimpse into the region's past, inviting visitors to imagine its former grandeur.
• Orkney Museum: Delve into the fascinating history of Orkney at the Orkney Museum. This establishment houses a diverse collection of artefacts that tell the story of the islands from prehistoric times to the modern era, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Balfour Castle

The best time to visit Balfour Castle is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Balfour Castle

To visit Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, the closest major airport is Kirkwall Airport (KOI), situated 8.0km away. Excellent accommodation options near Kirkwall include Graemeshall House, a charming 4-star bed and breakfast located 6.4km from the airport, and Hildeval B&B, also a 4-star establishment just 4.8km away. For a 3-star hotel, the Albert Hotel is conveniently located 4.8km from Kirkwall Airport. Transportation services from these hotels to the airport are readily available, making your journey smooth and hassle-free as you begin your Scottish adventure.