Kirkwall Holidays

Things to do in Kirkwall

Kirkwall offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, making it ideal for an active holiday. Visitors can explore the stunning Orkney Islands through various tours and ferry trips. Engaging in adventure activities and discovering the local activity zone will ensure a memorable experience. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and natural beauty of this charming Scottish town.

Shopping

In Kirkwall, visit the Orkney Crafts Shop for unique handmade gifts and the Kirkwall Market for local produce and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the St. Ola Hotel’s gift shop, offering a range of Orkney-themed products and artisanal goods.

Recreation

The Orkney Wellness Centre offers rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga classes, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. For outdoor enthusiasts, the stunning beaches near Kirkwall provide opportunities for coastal walks and birdwatching, allowing you to connect with nature in a tranquil setting.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Orkney by kayaking around the coastline, where you can discover hidden coves and observe marine wildlife. For thrill-seekers, try a guided mountain biking tour through rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views and an exhilarating ride across the islands' diverse scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the lively atmosphere at The Reel, where you can enjoy a vibrant mix of cocktails and live music. For a more relaxed evening, visit The Orkney Brewery, where you can sample local ales while soaking in the friendly atmosphere.

Find the best attractions in and around Kirkwall

Kirkwall offers a delightful mix of cultural and outdoor experiences, making it an ideal destination for beach vacations. Visitors can explore fascinating archaeological sites, ancient ruins, and majestic castles, all while enjoying a romantic atmosphere. This charming town caters to those seeking enriching cultural experiences and scenic coastal beauty, ensuring a memorable getaway in the heart of Scotland.

• Balfour Castle: Nestled 6.4km from Kirkwall, this enchanting castle exudes romance and rich culture. Surrounded by picturesque gardens, it offers a glimpse into Scotland's regal past, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and photo opportunities.
• St. Magnus Cathedral: Located in the heart of Kirkwall, this magnificent cathedral showcases stunning Romanesque architecture and a serene atmosphere. It's a cultural gem where you can appreciate intricate stained glass and learn about its fascinating history.
• Earl's Palace: These captivating ruins in Kirkwall reveal the grandeur of the 16th century. Explore the remnants of this once-opulent residence and immerse yourself in the rich heritage and stories of the Orkney Isles.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kirkwall

For a budget-friendly trip to Kirkwall, consider visiting in February or November to December for lower accommodation rates. Booking a month in advance usually yields the best prices, and keep an eye out for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the priciest. Utilize Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and sort by price. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to significant savings. Explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without straining your finances.

• 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 refine your choices, including your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, sort 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.