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

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Tomorrow
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Next weekend
18 Sept - 20 Sept
In two weeks
25 Sept - 27 Sept

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Our top choices for Kirkwall hotels

1. Grainbank Mews

Grainbank Mews
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Stephen
Rp2.997.093
Rp3.596.511 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Grainbank Mews

2. Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Cynthia
Rp3.572.706
Rp4.287.247 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Sept - 20 Sept
Albert Hotel

3. The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Julie
Rp1.875.664
Rp2.250.797 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
The Ayre Hotel

4. The Orkney Hotel

The Orkney Hotel
Kirkwall
United States
David
Rp3.076.566
Rp3.691.784 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Oct - 3 Oct
The Orkney Hotel

5. The Royal Hotel Stromness

The Royal Hotel Stromness
Stromness
Canada
Diane
Rp4.803.289
Rp5.763.947 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
The Royal Hotel Stromness

6. Murray Arms Hotel

Murray Arms Hotel
South Ronaldsay
United Kingdom
Tim
Rp2.977.245
Rp3.572.694 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Murray Arms Hotel

7. The Shore

The Shore
Kirkwall
United States
Beth
Rp3.068.421
Rp5.682.814 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
The Shore

8. Ferry Inn Stromness

Ferry Inn Stromness
Stromness
United States
Julie
Rp4.803.289
Rp5.763.947 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Ferry Inn Stromness

9. The Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel
Stromness
United States
Debra
Rp2.540.582
Rp3.048.698 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
The Stromness Hotel

10. 2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden
Kirkwall
Rp4.606.791
Rp5.528.149 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Sept - 21 Sept
2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

11. Royal Oak Guest House

Royal Oak Guest House
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Jeremy
Rp2.947.473
Rp3.536.967 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Royal Oak Guest House

12. Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Kirkwall Youth Hostel
Kirkwall
United States
Shawn
Rp1.577.940
Rp1.893.528 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Kirkwall Youth Hostel

13. The Anchorage

The Anchorage
South Ronaldsay
United States
Neil
Rp1.905.436
Rp2.286.523 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
The Anchorage

14. West End Guest House

West End Guest House
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Tanya
Rp2.798.610
Rp3.358.332 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
West End Guest House

15. Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast
Stromness
United Kingdom
Peter
Rp2.461.189
Rp2.953.427 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Oct - 3 Oct
Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

16. The Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel
Burray
United States
Susan
Rp4.366.547
Rp5.239.951 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Sept - 17 Sept
The Sands Hotel

17. Smithfield guesthouse

Smithfield guesthouse
Dounby
United States
Brian
Rp2.978.833
Rp3.574.600 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Smithfield guesthouse

18. Celtic Lodges

Celtic Lodges
Thurso
United Kingdom
Russell
Rp2.374.770
Rp2.878.306 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Celtic Lodges

19. The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast

The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast
Thurso
Australia
Glenn
Rp2.381.796
Rp2.858.155 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Sept - 18 Sept
The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast

20. Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking

Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking
Orphir
Rp2.747.997
Rp3.297.597 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Sept - 23 Sept
Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking
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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.
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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 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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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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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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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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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

Celtic Lodges

Celtic Lodges

10/10 Excellent
"Highly recommended! If our plans bring us back to the area, we will definitely be staying again."
Jere 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Celtic Lodges
Smithfield guesthouse

Smithfield guesthouse

10/10 Excellent
"Perfect place to stay in the quiet and laid back village of Dounby as it is close to a lot of archeological sites which are about 10 to 20 minutes away in every direction. Very friendly and attentive staff. Great food as well. Spacious parking in the back. There is a gas station and a market across the street so you don’t have to worry about driving too far to refuel and get food. This place will be my go-to the next time I travel to Orkney Islands!"
Patricia 4-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
Smithfield guesthouse
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 12 days ago
Albert Hotel
Karrawa Guest House

Karrawa Guest House

8/10 Good
"Plenty of parking"
Douglas 2-night trip
Posted 13 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 3 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 1 month ago
Kirkwall Youth Hostel
The Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The manager Bryce gave us excellent recommendations for dights to see at the south end of the island and where to park on a weekend in Kirkwall. Such a unique setting and quiet."
Susan 1-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
The Sands Hotel
Grainbank Mews

Grainbank Mews

10/10 Excellent
"A beautiful place to stay when visiting Orkney. Ideal location to get to all the sights. Accommodation was perfect and Albert and Aileen couldn’t have been more friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!"
Lesley 4-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Grainbank Mews
Royal Oak Guest House

Royal Oak Guest House

10/10 Excellent
"Such attentive, friendly staff. Nothing was too much trouble and a great breakfast!"
Duncan 1-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
Royal Oak Guest House

More cheap stays in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Old Scapa Road Kirkwall Scotland
Rp1.577.940
Rp1.893.528 total
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (48 reviews)
Kirkwall Youth Hostel
Celtic Lodges

Celtic Lodges

White Bridge, Scarfskerry Thurso Scotland
Rp2.374.770
Rp2.878.306 total
1 Oct - 2 Oct
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (32 reviews)
Celtic Lodges
The Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel

The Pierhead Stromness Scotland
Rp2.540.582
Rp3.048.698 total
13 Oct - 14 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7/10 Good! (96 reviews)
The Stromness Hotel
West End Guest House

West End Guest House

14 Main Street Kirkwall Scotland
Rp2.798.610
Rp3.358.332 total
1 Oct - 2 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (83 reviews)
West End Guest House
Royal Oak Guest House

Royal Oak Guest House

Holm Road Kirkwall Scotland
Rp2.947.473
Rp3.536.967 total
1 Oct - 2 Oct
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (57 reviews)
Royal Oak Guest House
The Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel

Pier Road Burray Scotland
Rp4.366.547
Rp5.239.951 total
16 Sept - 17 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9.8/10 Exceptional! (62 reviews)
The Sands Hotel

Find out more about Kirkwall

Top reasons to visit Kirkwall

  • Historic Attractions: Explore Kirkwall's rich history through its museums, historic sites, and ruins, including the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral.
  • Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and scenic hiking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Vibrant Local Culture: Experience live music events and the charming city centre filled with unique shops and cafes.
  • Leisurely Harbour Strolls: Relax by Kirkwall Harbour and Bay, ideal for romantic walks and serene afternoons.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of lodgings, from cosy bed and breakfasts to charming hotels.

Find great hotels in and around Kirkwall

Discover a delightful range of accommodations in Kirkwall, from charming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts. Perfectly suited for every traveller, these lodgings offer essential amenities, including pet-friendly options and proximity to beautiful beaches and golf courses. Whether you're seeking an unforgettable Orkney experience or simply looking for Kirkwall hotels with excellent reviews, you'll find the perfect place to unwind during your stay in this picturesque Scottish town.

  • Albert Hotel: A charming 3-star hotel located in the heart of Kirkwall, the Albert Hotel is known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent guest service, reflected in a high rating of 9.0 out of 10. The hotel features an onsite restaurant offering a variety of dining options, including a hearty full breakfast to start your day. Guests can unwind in comfort while enjoying modern entertainment amenities, such as digital and flatscreen televisions in their rooms. With its convenient location, this hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich history and culture of Kirkwall.
  • The Shore: Nestled within Kirkwall, The Shore is another delightful 3-star accommodation boasting a solid guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This hotel features an inviting bar and an onsite restaurant that caters to a range of tastes, serving continental breakfast and other meals. The rooms are equipped with multiple television options, including digital and LCD TVs, ensuring guests are entertained during their stay. With its proximity to the city centre and nearby shopping district, The Shore provides a vibrant setting for those keen to experience local life.
  • The Stromness Hotel: Situated approximately 19km from Kirkwall, The Stromness Hotel is a budget-friendly option catering to pet owners. This establishment allows some pets onsite, making it ideal for travellers seeking a pet-friendly experience. With a pet policy that permits dogs and cats (with an associated fee), this hotel ensures that furry companions are accommodated comfortably. The Stromness Hotel offers a warm and casual atmosphere, perfect for those looking to explore the scenic beauty of the Orkney Islands while enjoying the company of their pets.

Where to stay near Kirkwall

Kirkwall, the vibrant capital of Orkney, offers a delightful blend of culture and history. Explore the charming city centre, where friendly locals welcome you to unique shops and cafes. Venture out to the surrounding areas for stunning coastal views and secluded beaches, perfect for a weekend getaway. With its rich heritage and family-friendly atmosphere, Kirkwall is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in Scotland.

  • Holm: Situated approximately 10km from Kirkwall, Holm is a charming city that attracts visitors with its romantic and cultural offerings. The peak travel season falls between July and September, making it an ideal destination for those seeking entertainment and sightseeing opportunities. Holm is well-connected by ferry services, allowing for easy exploration of nearby attractions. Notable landmarks include an intriguing archaeological site and a historic lighthouse, perfect for leisurely strolls and capturing stunning photographs. The unique blend of culture and scenic beauty makes Holm a delightful stop on your journey.
  • Finstown: Finstown, a quaint village located about 10km from Kirkwall, is a hidden gem worth exploring. While visitor numbers fluctuate throughout the year, the village sees a surge in April and from July to August, making it a vibrant spot during these months. Finstown's cultural experiences are enriched by its proximity to historic places and archaeological sites, allowing travellers to delve into the region's rich heritage. The friendly community and serene surroundings offer a perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture and history.
  • Shapinsay: Also located 10km from Kirkwall, Shapinsay is a picturesque city that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With a steady influx of visitors, especially in April, July, and September, Shapinsay offers a range of experiences, from birdwatching to engaging tours and artistic displays. The local attractions include archaeological sites, a historic place, and a visitor centre, all of which provide insight into the island's heritage. The scenic landscapes and family-friendly activities make Shapinsay a delightful destination, perfect for a memorable day trip or an extended stay.

Things to do in Kirkwall

Shopping

In Kirkwall, visit the Orkney Craft Shop for unique local gifts and souvenirs. The St. Magnus Centre also offers a range of shops and local produce. If you're up for a drive, the 19km to the town of Stromness leads you to more quaint shops and galleries.

Recreation

The Orkney Wellness Centre in Kirkwall offers a serene environment for relaxation with holistic therapies and yoga classes. For a refreshing outdoor experience, explore the picturesque coastal walks that allow you to connect with nature while enjoying the stunning views of the Orkney Islands.

Adventure

Explore the captivating Orkney Islands by taking a boat tour from Kirkwall, where you can witness stunning coastal cliffs, spot seals, and enjoy the tranquil sea. Alternatively, embark on a hiking adventure to the nearby Ring of Brodgar, a prehistoric stone circle surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

In Kirkwall, the Orkney Wine Company offers a cosy atmosphere with a selection of fine wines and local spirits. The Reel is a popular spot for live music and a vibrant pub experience, while The Strynd offers an intimate setting for cocktails and conversation.

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

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.

Find the best attractions in and around Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Scotland, offers a delightful blend of culture and outdoor activities, making it perfect for a beach vacation. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and ruins, immersing themselves in the area's rich history. Key attractions include Kirkwall Harbour and Kirkwall Bay, ideal for romantic strolls or leisurely afternoons by the water. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or scenic views, Kirkwall has something for everyone.

  • Balfour Castle: Nestled 6km from Kirkwall, Balfour Castle exudes a romantic charm with its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings. The castle, surrounded by lush gardens, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past and is often associated with a sense of tranquillity and culture.
  • Earl's Palace: Located within Kirkwall, the ruins of Earl's Palace provide a fascinating insight into the region's history. Once a majestic residence, it now stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the 16th century, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its storied past and cultural significance.
  • Orkney Museum: Situated in Kirkwall, the Orkney Museum showcases a rich tapestry of local history, from prehistoric times to the present. Its diverse collection reflects the unique heritage of the Orkney Islands, making it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

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 is convenient with two major airports nearby. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is located 5km from the city centre, offering easy access to local attractions. Recommended accommodation options include the 4-star Hildeval B&B and the 3-star Albert Hotel, both within 5km of the airport. Alternatively, Lerwick Airport (LSI-Sumburgh) is situated 137km away. Nearby hotels include the 3.5-star Spiggie Hotel, just 6km from the airport, and the Orca Country Inn, 13km away. Transportation services are readily available, ensuring smooth transfers to and from the airports to your accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Kirkwall?
Based on our traveller data, The Ayre Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel offers a restaurant and free parking. Other good choices for your trip include Albert Hotel and The Shore. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Kirkwall.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Kirkwall, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel bookings are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Kirkwall.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in Kirkwall?
Based on our traveller reviews, Kirkwall Youth Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. View all budget hotels in Kirkwall.
What's the best dog-friendly accommodation option in Kirkwall?
The Ayre Hotel is a top dog-friendly hotel, and offers a restaurant along with free WiFi for its human guests. Other good choices to stay with your pet include Kirkwall Youth Hostel and The Orkney Hotel. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Kirkwall.
What is staying in Kirkwall like?
Visitors to Kirkwall will definitely enjoy the bars. Tourists can also enjoy the city's cathedral, monuments and museums. In Kirkwall, there are 37 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Kirkwall.
What should I see while I'm in Kirkwall?
Cultural venues include Orkney Museum and Orkney Wireless Museum. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Highland Park Distillery and Peedie Sea. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Kirkwall guide.
What's the seasonal weather like in Kirkwall?
The hottest months are usually August and July, with an average temperature of 13°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 7°C. Average annual precipitation for Kirkwall is 1080 mm.