Find hotels in Kirkwall from $110

Top reasons to visit Kirkwall

• Historic Sites: Explore ancient landmarks like St. Magnus Cathedral and the Orkney Museum, showcasing Kirkwall's rich cultural heritage.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy scenic hiking trails and picturesque coastline, perfect for nature enthusiasts and outdoor activities.
• Charming Accommodations: Stay at cozy spots like the Royal Oak Guesthouse, offering a welcoming atmosphere and pet-friendly options.
• Ferry Trips: Take ferry trips to nearby islands, enhancing your exploration of the stunning Orkney archipelago.
• Friendly Atmosphere: Experience warm local hospitality and a friendly community that makes your visit memorable.

Find great hotels in Kirkwall

Kirkwall offers a variety of charming accommodations, including the popular Royal Oak Guesthouse, perfect for travelers seeking a cozy and pet-friendly stay. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront retreat or an adventure-filled experience, you'll find guesthouses that cater to your needs in this picturesque Scottish town. Enjoy the warmth of local hospitality while exploring the stunning Orkney Islands.

• The Ayre Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Kirkwall, The Ayre Hotel is a charming 3-star lodging with a guest rating of 8.6. This pet-friendly hotel is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy Scotland with their furry companions. The hotel allows dogs onsite and features a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can appreciate the amenities designed for comfort and convenience, ensuring a pleasant stay while exploring the historic sites of Kirkwall.
• Albert Hotel: Boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.0, the Albert Hotel is a delightful 3-star establishment situated in Kirkwall. This hotel excels in providing a culinary experience, featuring an onsite restaurant and a cozy coffee shop. Guests can indulge in a hearty full breakfast to start their day and enjoy entertainment through flat-screen and digital TVs. With its warm ambiance and excellent service, the Albert Hotel is a superb choice for visitors seeking a memorable stay.
• The Shore: The Shore is a welcoming 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2, located conveniently in Kirkwall. This property offers an inviting bar and a restaurant, making it easy for guests to unwind after a day of exploration. Visitors can enjoy both breakfast and dining options onsite, while the hotel’s entertainment features include LCD and digital TVs. With its proximity to the city center and shopping district, The Shore is an ideal base for those looking to discover the vibrant culture of Kirkwall.

Where to stay near Kirkwall

Kirkwall, nestled in the heart of Orkney, offers a rich blend of culture and history, perfect for your getaway. Explore ancient sites like St. Magnus Cathedral and the Orkney Museum, or enjoy outdoor adventures around the scenic coastline. The friendly atmosphere, along with romantic and family-friendly spots, makes Kirkwall an ideal base for discovering the idyllic Orkney Islands. Don't miss the chance to relax in this charming city and its welcoming neighborhoods.

• Holm: Nestled 6 miles from Kirkwall, Holm is a charming destination perfect for those seeking a romantic escape or cultural experiences. With seasonal peaks in visitor numbers from July to September, Holm offers a lively atmosphere during the summer months. Travelers can enjoy a variety of activities including ferry rides, sightseeing tours, and exploring local historic sites and monuments. The area's rich culture and entertainment options make it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the local heritage.
• Tingwall House: Located 8 miles from Kirkwall, Tingwall House is a picturesque village that attracts tourists seeking cultural and romantic experiences. The village sees an influx of visitors from July to September, making it a vibrant destination during the summer. Here, you can wander among ancient ruins and visit the nearby castle, which showcase the region's historical significance. Tingwall House provides a serene atmosphere for those looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Scottish landscape.
• Orphir: Situated 7 miles from Kirkwall, Orphir is a city that caters to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. With visitor numbers peaking in March to April and July, the city offers a range of activities from shopping to exploring parks and archaeological sites. Orphir's rich history is highlighted by its captivating ruins, making it a fascinating place to delve into the past. The blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences makes Orphir a well-rounded destination for travelers of all ages.

Things to do in Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Scotland, is perfect for culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike, offering activities like hiking trails and ferry trips. Visitors can enjoy scenic day trips and explore the local history at the Royal Infirmary. Whether you're seeking picturesque beaches or cultural experiences, Kirkwall provides a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration for every traveler.

Shopping

In Kirkwall, you can explore local shops like The Orcadian and The Emporium for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the St. Nicholas Shopping Centre in nearby Aberdeen for a wider selection of stores.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at The Orkney Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and yoga classes. For outdoor recreation, explore the nearby St. Magnus Cathedral and enjoy scenic walks along the coastline, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Kirkwall.

Adventure

Explore the majestic Orkney Islands with a thrilling boat tour from Kirkwall. Experience breathtaking coastal cliffs, spot seals, and enjoy the stunning views of the North Sea. For a unique adventure, try kayaking in the calm waters, where you can paddle among the islands and discover hidden coves.

Nightlife

In Kirkwall, the Orkney Brewery offers a cozy atmosphere with local brews, perfect for unwinding. The Reel provides a lively spot for live music and dancing, while The Kirkwall Hotel features a relaxed pub vibe, ideal for enjoying a drink and mingling with locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kirkwall

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kirkwall are February to March and 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, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel that suits you best. To find the most affordable options and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Kirkwall with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Kirkwall

Kirkwall offers a delightful blend of cultural and outdoor experiences, making it perfect for beach vacations and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore fascinating ruins, history museums, and historic sites that showcase the area's rich heritage. Whether you're seeking adventure or a deeper understanding of local culture, Kirkwall's attractions cater to every traveler's interests.

• Earl's Palace: Explore the intriguing ruins of Earl's Palace, a 16th-century architectural marvel that showcases the rich history of the Orkney Islands. The remnants of this once-grand residence invite you to imagine its past grandeur amid picturesque surroundings.
• Orkney Museum: Dive into the fascinating history of Orkney at the Orkney Museum. This treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits offers insights into the island's Viking heritage, local culture, and historical significance, making it a perfect stop for history enthusiasts.
• St. Magnus Cathedral: Admire the stunning architecture of St. Magnus Cathedral, often referred to as the Light of the North. Its striking red and yellow sandstone and intricate designs make it a captivating place to reflect and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Best time to go to Kirkwall

The best time to visit Kirkwall can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Kirkwall falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Kirkwall 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	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	Slightly Low
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	Average
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Kirkwall

Traveling to Kirkwall, Scotland, can be conveniently done via two major airports. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is located 3 miles from the city center, with nearby accommodations like the 4-star Graemeshall House and the 3-star Ayre Hotel, both just a short drive away. Alternatively, Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh) is situated 85 miles from Kirkwall, offering options such as the 3.5-star Spiggie Hotel and the Orca Country Inn, both within 8 miles. Transportation services are readily available from these hotels to both airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience during your visit to this charming Scottish destination.