Find hotels in Shapinsay from $73

Top reasons to visit Shapinsay

• Balfour Castle: Explore the historic Balfour Castle, a stunning landmark that reflects the island's rich heritage.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy the pristine sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in birdwatching, scenic boat trips, and holiday golf excursions amidst breathtaking landscapes.
• Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in local culture through archaeological sites and charming island tours.
• Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from cozy bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels that cater to every traveler.

Find great hotels in Shapinsay

Discover the charm of Shapinsay with a variety of hotel accommodations to suit every budget and preference. From cozy bed and breakfasts to comfortable 2 to 4-star hotels, you'll find options perfect for family vacations, business trips, and pet-friendly stays. Don't miss the chance to explore local attractions like Balfour Castle while enjoying the hospitality of popular lodgings such as the Ayre Hotel.

• The Ayre Hotel: Nestled 6 miles from Shapinsay, The Ayre Hotel is a charming 3-star accommodation ideal for pet lovers. This hotel embraces a PetTheme vacation, allowing guests to bring their furry friends along for a memorable stay. With a pet-friendly policy that includes waived fees for service animals and permits for dogs, guests can enjoy the comfort of their pets in a welcoming environment. The hotel features cozy lodging options, making it perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing retreat with their pets.
• The Shore: Located 6 miles from Shapinsay, The Shore is a delightful 3-star hotel that offers a blend of dining and entertainment options. Guests can savor delicious meals at the onsite restaurant or unwind at the bar and lounge. The hotel also serves a continental breakfast to start your day off right. For entertainment, enjoy the convenience of digital and LCD TVs in your room. With nearby attractions such as shopping districts and the city center, The Shore is an excellent choice for those looking to explore while enjoying a cozy stay.
• Albert Hotel: Also 6 miles away from Shapinsay, the Albert Hotel is a welcoming 3-star lodging that features an array of dining options for guests to enjoy. With an accessible onsite restaurant, a coffee shop, and a bar and lounge, there’s no shortage of culinary delights. Guests can relax with entertainment options like digital and flatscreen TVs in their rooms. This hotel promises a comfortable stay with convenient facilities, making it a great choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and good food.

Discover the best areas to stay in Shapinsay

Experience the charm of Shapinsay, a picturesque island in the Orkney archipelago, perfect for romance and cultural exploration. Discover its sandy beaches, soak in the history, and enjoy the serene Scottish highlands. Nearby, the Orkney Islands offer a rich tapestry of culture and breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal locale for luxury travel. Embrace the warmth of friendly locals and indulge in the secluded beauty that defines this captivating destination.

• Kirkwall: Located 6 miles from Shapinsay, Kirkwall serves as the capital of Orkney and is a vibrant hub for culture and history. Visitors are drawn here for its rich heritage, romantic settings, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. The city offers easy access to ferries and guided tours, making it a gateway to the surrounding islands. Must-see attractions include the picturesque marina, the Orkney Museum, and ancient archaeological sites that tell the stories of the region's past. With peak visitor numbers in the spring and summer, Kirkwall is perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
• Gorseness: Situated 5 miles from Shapinsay, Gorseness is a charming area that offers a seasonal experience for visitors. The summer months, particularly from July to September, bring an influx of tourists looking to enjoy the serene landscapes and local attractions. Although quieter in the winter, Gorseness provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle. Its scenic surroundings and proximity to nature make it an excellent spot for outdoor lovers.
• Stromness: About 17 miles from Shapinsay, Stromness is a picturesque coastal town known for its historical significance and outdoor experiences. With a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, the town's peaks occur in spring and summer. Travelers flock to Stromness for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and archaeological wonders. The scenic marina is perfect for leisurely strolls, while nearby attractions provide a glimpse into the area's rich past. Whether you're exploring the local culture or enjoying a beach day, Stromness is a must-visit destination.

Things to do in Shapinsay

Shapinsay offers a charming escape perfect for romance and cultural exploration, along with beautiful beach vacations. Enjoy birdwatching and take part in delightful tours, including holiday golf excursions, scenic boat trips, and engaging day tours. This idyllic island invites you to relax and soak in its natural beauty while participating in memorable outdoor activities.

Food and drinks

If you're in Shapinsay, visit Orkney Brewery for local craft beers in a romantic setting. For a unique experience, take a trip to Highland Park Distillery, where you can enjoy a fine selection of spirits. Don't miss Stronsay Fish Mart for fresh seafood, ideal for families and romantic dinners.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shapinsay

To save money on your trip to Shapinsay, consider visiting between November and January when hotel prices are at their lowest. Book your accommodations about a month in advance for the best rates, and check out last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Utilize Expedia's filters to find budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also unlock exclusive discounts and rewards for future stays. Lastly, take advantage of free outdoor activities to enrich your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Shapinsay is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Shapinsay are November to January, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Shapinsay 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.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Shapinsay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions in Shapinsay

Shapinsay, Scotland, offers a charming blend of romance, culture, and beach experiences. Visitors can explore attractions like Balfour Castle and other historic sites, including archaeological wonders. The island of Shapinsay is perfect for those seeking a tranquil getaway, while nearby Stronsay and Scottish castles add to the allure. Whether you’re after cultural insights or simply a relaxing beach vacation, Shapinsay has something special for every traveler.

• Balfour Castle: Nestled in Shapinsay, Balfour Castle exudes romance and cultural charm. Explore its beautiful gardens and grand architecture while soaking in the history and elegance of this private residence.
• St. Magnus Cathedral: Located just 6 miles from Shapinsay, this stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. With its rich history and intricate design, it offers a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection and appreciation of local culture.
• Earl's Palace: Also 6 miles away, the ruins of Earl's Palace showcase the grandeur of the past. As you wander through the remnants, immerse yourself in the historical significance and cultural heritage of Orkney.

Best time to go to Shapinsay

Visitor numbers in Shapinsay is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Shapinsay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Shapinsay falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Shapinsay falls in February, 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	Moderately Low
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	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	Average
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Moderately High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	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	Moderately Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shapinsay

For a vacation visit to Shapinsay, Scotland, the main airport to consider is Kirkwall Airport (KOI), located 7 miles away. Travelers can find several comfortable accommodations nearby, including the 4-star Lynnfield Hotel, situated 2 miles from the airport, and the 4-star Hildeval B&B, which is 3 miles away. Another excellent option is the 4-star Graemeshall House, located 4 miles from Kirkwall Airport. These hotels offer convenient access to transportation services, making it easy to reach Shapinsay and enjoy your stay in this beautiful part of the UK.