"A great find, within easy walking distance to the centre of Kirkwall and its shops, restaurants and pubs. Our room, number 10, was very good, just right for two of us for a two night stay. Quiet, clean, nicely decorated. Comfy bed. Very friendly owners and staff, with a bar on site too. Useful lounge with fridge, toaster and microwave, cutlery and plates. They have great plans for the hotel and we look forward to returning to see how the owners get on. We will definitely be back."
"A great find, within easy walking distance to the centre of Kirkwall and its shops, restaurants and pubs. Our room, number 10, was very good, just right for two of us for a two night stay. Quiet, clean, nicely decorated. Comfy bed. Very friendly owners and staff, with a bar on site too. Useful lounge with fridge, toaster and microwave, cutlery and plates. They have great plans for the hotel and we look forward to returning to see how the owners get on. We will definitely be back."
"Murray Arms Hotel is the nicest place I’ve stayed. The family owned hotel is warm & cozy with exceptional hospitality, superb food & chill ambiance by the shore. Great location, peaceful, charming & lovely retreat. Locals enjoy it too."
"Murray Arms Hotel is the nicest place I’ve stayed. The family owned hotel is warm & cozy with exceptional hospitality, superb food & chill ambiance by the shore. Great location, peaceful, charming & lovely retreat. Locals enjoy it too."
"Great little place, in a great little village. Easy access to the Orkneys. Robertson's Pub is a local place with good food an atmosphere, just around the corner."
"Great little place, in a great little village. Easy access to the Orkneys. Robertson's Pub is a local place with good food an atmosphere, just around the corner."
"Staff was very accommodating. The large tub with jets was relaxing. The central location was excellent. Hot breakfast and selection was very good. We plan to come back. Highly recommend."
"Staff was very accommodating. The large tub with jets was relaxing. The central location was excellent. Hot breakfast and selection was very good. We plan to come back. Highly recommend."
"The Ferry Inn is delightful. The place is only bettered by the amazing family that runs it. Home away from home… excellent food, well appointed rooms and sparkling clean … we will be back!"
"The Ferry Inn is delightful. The place is only bettered by the amazing family that runs it. Home away from home… excellent food, well appointed rooms and sparkling clean … we will be back!"
"Very well centered for all the sites on the west side of Orkney and a quick drive to Kirkwall and the eastern archipelago sites. Staff was fantastic and a store featuring lots of local artisans is within walking distance. Not many dinner restaurants nearby, but a grocery store across the street had plenty of options for my needs."
"Very well centered for all the sites on the west side of Orkney and a quick drive to Kirkwall and the eastern archipelago sites. Staff was fantastic and a store featuring lots of local artisans is within walking distance. Not many dinner restaurants nearby, but a grocery store across the street had plenty of options for my needs."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
We spent 3 nights at Karrawa House in mid April. The room was as described. My bed was super comfy. Our hosts were very friendly and helpful. Breakfast was exceptional.
Would stay there again and would definitely recommend the place.
We spent 3 nights at Karrawa House in mid April. The room was as described. My bed was super comfy. Our hosts were very friendly and helpful. Breakfast was exceptional.
Would stay there again and would definitely recommend the place.
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.
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.
What a lovely stay! Albert and Aileen run a beautiful B&B - spotless, quiet, and so conveniently located. Albert was very helpful, offering to answer any questions even after we checked out. We also got to meet their dog which was very welcome after nearly two weeks away from our own.
I’m not usually a B&B person but I would definitely stay again. And I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone to give it a try.
What a lovely stay! Albert and Aileen run a beautiful B&B - spotless, quiet, and so conveniently located. Albert was very helpful, offering to answer any questions even after we checked out. We also got to meet their dog which was very welcome after nearly two weeks away from our own.
I’m not usually a B&B person but I would definitely stay again. And I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone to give it a try.
Holly
Reviewed November 5, 2026Reviewed November 5, 2026
Lovely room. Breakfast was fantastc. Hostess Debra helpful. Lovely common room with good selection of Orcadian history, bird watching and ancient sites. Mainland Orkney is an amazing place. Too much to see, too little time. Should have spent a week there. Strommness does nothave many food choices..
Lovely room. Breakfast was fantastc. Hostess Debra helpful. Lovely common room with good selection of Orcadian history, bird watching and ancient sites. Mainland Orkney is an amazing place. Too much to see, too little time. Should have spent a week there. Strommness does nothave many food choices..
We loved the tour of the facility and our room. Help with parking was so useful for ease of getting out of the lot. My wife needed medicine kept cold and ice packs frozen and had no issues having this done for us. Because we were leaving before breakfast a to go meal was provided for us.
We loved the tour of the facility and our room. Help with parking was so useful for ease of getting out of the lot. My wife needed medicine kept cold and ice packs frozen and had no issues having this done for us. Because we were leaving before breakfast a to go meal was provided for us.
William
Reviewed September 2, 2026Reviewed September 2, 2026
Wayne was very accommodating. He greeted us on entering the driveway and offered us kickstand pucks to keep us from sinking in the gravel. He was very friendly and suggested places to go.
Thank you.
Wayne was very accommodating. He greeted us on entering the driveway and offered us kickstand pucks to keep us from sinking in the gravel. He was very friendly and suggested places to go.
Thank you.
Kim
Reviewed September 17, 2026Reviewed September 17, 2026
Wonderful place. The staff are incredibly kind and friendly. The room had everything we needed. The restaurant was superb - a great choice for dinner. The only gripe was that it was a little hard to find - Main Street isn't terribly main.
Wonderful place. The staff are incredibly kind and friendly. The room had everything we needed. The restaurant was superb - a great choice for dinner. The only gripe was that it was a little hard to find - Main Street isn't terribly main.
We were very lucky because both times we parked at the hotel, we got one of the 2 slots in front of the hotel, so we didn't have to try and find the additional parking lot, but the staff did give us a map to find it. Keep in mind that there is no lift, so depending on your floor you need to carry your bags up. The 23kg bag was not much fun to take up and then down 2 flights of stairs. The food for breakfast was very good whether the cereal/yogurt/fruit or the from the menu. The staff in the...
We were very lucky because both times we parked at the hotel, we got one of the 2 slots in front of the hotel, so we didn't have to try and find the additional parking lot, but the staff did give us a map to find it. Keep in mind that there is no lift, so depending on your floor you need to carry your bags up. The 23kg bag was not much fun to take up and then down 2 flights of stairs. The food for breakfast was very good whether the cereal/yogurt/fruit or the from the menu. The staff in the...
This place is special. It's like checking into a royal house and getting the royal experience for a couple of days.
The house itself gives you a very warm feeling, and dinner experience was very fancy, following all the rules. They also have a great collection of whiskeys.
All in all, we loved living the dream.
This place is special. It's like checking into a royal house and getting the royal experience for a couple of days.
The house itself gives you a very warm feeling, and dinner experience was very fancy, following all the rules. They also have a great collection of whiskeys.
All in all, we loved living the dream.
Second time staying here in the last 7 months and I think this place is top notch. From the extremely helpful and friendly staff, to the incredible breakfasts included with our room and the excellent dinners we purchased in the evenings, to the superb communication by hotel staff, and the clean and comfortable rooms…I will certainly be back in the future. I’d love to see whoever is running this business teach these principles of professionalism and attention to detail to larger chains because...
Second time staying here in the last 7 months and I think this place is top notch. From the extremely helpful and friendly staff, to the incredible breakfasts included with our room and the excellent dinners we purchased in the evenings, to the superb communication by hotel staff, and the clean and comfortable rooms…I will certainly be back in the future. I’d love to see whoever is running this business teach these principles of professionalism and attention to detail to larger chains because...
The lady at the front desk was extremely nice she gave us great ideas of what to do on our trip she was very sweet and the food at the restaurant was excellent
The lady at the front desk was extremely nice she gave us great ideas of what to do on our trip she was very sweet and the food at the restaurant was excellent
Do not miss the smallest street in the world, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Is part of the restaurant “No. 1” By the Way the restaurant has well elaborated recipes!!! Recommended !!!
Do not miss the smallest street in the world, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Is part of the restaurant “No. 1” By the Way the restaurant has well elaborated recipes!!! Recommended !!!
Rich History: Explore ancient stone circles and fascinating archaeological sites that showcase Orkney's deep historical roots.
Stunning Coastal Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views along the rugged coastline and discover pristine beaches perfect for relaxation.
Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local traditions, friendly communities, and unique cultural events throughout the islands.
Outdoor Adventures: Hike scenic trails and embark on organized tours to experience the natural beauty and wildlife, including puffins.
Diverse Accommodation: Choose from cozy bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels, ensuring a perfect stay for every traveler.
Find great hotels in Orkney Islands
Discover the charm of the Orkney Islands with a variety of accommodation options tailored to every traveler. Whether you prefer a cozy bed and breakfast or a comfortable hotel, you'll find the perfect spot for your getaway. With many pet-friendly options and stunning beachside locations, your ideal stay awaits. Explore the best hotels in Orkney and enjoy a vacation experience that combines natural beauty with warm Scottish hospitality.
The Ayre Hotel: The Ayre Hotel is a welcoming 3-star property with a guest rating of 8.6, ideal for travelers seeking a pet-friendly vacation in the stunning Orkney Islands. This hotel emphasizes comfort and convenience, allowing pets on the premises, which is perfect for those who want to bring their furry friends along. Guests appreciate the well-appointed rooms and the warm atmosphere that makes it feel like a home away from home. With amenities like on-site dining options and friendly service, The Ayre Hotel is a fantastic choice for a cozy stay surrounded by nature.
Albert Hotel: Albert Hotel stands out with its impressive guest rating of 9.0, offering a delightful blend of comfort and accessibility. This 3-star hotel features an on-site restaurant, bar, and coffee shop, making it easy for guests to enjoy meals without venturing far. The hotel also provides modern entertainment options, including flat-screen and digital TVs, ensuring guests can unwind after a day of exploring. With its central location in Orkney Islands, the Albert Hotel is an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
The Shore: The Shore is a charming 3-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 8.2, showcasing its appealing ambiance and convenient amenities. With a variety of dining options available, including a bar and continental breakfast, guests can savor local flavors while enjoying the vibrant surroundings. The hotel’s entertainment features include multiple televisions, providing a cozy space to relax. Positioned near shopping districts and the city center, The Shore is perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the best of the Orkney Islands.
Where to stay in Orkney Islands
Discover the enchanting Orkney Islands, a haven for culture enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Explore Mainland Orkney's rich history, from ancient stone circles to charming coastal towns. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and romantic seclusion while immersing yourself in the captivating local culture. Whether you're hiking scenic trails or relaxing on pristine beaches, Orkney offers an unforgettable holiday experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and historical wonders.
Kirkwall: Kirkwall, the capital city of the Orkney Islands, offers a unique blend of culture and history. Nestled on the northern coast, it serves as a gateway to the islands with easy access to ferry services. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including scenic hikes along the coastal trails. Kirkwall is renowned for its archaeological sites and historic landmarks, such as the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral. The city comes alive in the spring and summer months, attracting travelers with its vibrant cultural events and beautiful beaches.
Stromness: Located a short distance from Kirkwall, Stromness is a charming port town that boasts a rich maritime history. The picturesque streets are lined with quaint shops, galleries, and cafes, making it a delightful place to explore. Stromness is particularly popular for its cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, including beach strolls and nature walks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s history by visiting the local history museum or exploring nearby archaeological sites. The peak travel times align with those of Kirkwall, making it a great addition to your itinerary.
Orkney: The village of Orkney is a serene destination perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Nestled amid stunning landscapes, it offers a peaceful retreat with rich historical significance. Visitors can explore fascinating museums dedicated to archaeology and anthropology, which highlight the region's ancient past. Although the village sees a seasonal influx of tourists during the summer months, its laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. Orkney is a wonderful place to connect with local culture and enjoy family-friendly activities.
Things to do in Orkney Islands
The Orkney Islands offer a perfect blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy organized tours, and take ferries to discover the islands' beauty. Don't miss the chance to experience the Orkney culture, watch puffins, and embark on memorable sightseeing adventures that highlight the area's stunning landscapes and rich history.
Shopping
In Orkney, visit the Kirkwall Shopping Centre for a variety of local shops and cafes. Explore the charming boutiques in St. Margaret's Hope for unique gifts and handcrafted items. Don't miss the Orkney Farmers' Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods on Saturdays.
Recreation
Experience tranquility at the Orkney Yoga Studio, where you can join calming yoga classes with breathtaking views. Explore the scenic landscapes on a leisurely hike through the rugged cliffs and sandy beaches of Hoy, immersing yourself in nature's beauty.
Adventure
In Orkney Islands, explore the rugged coastline while kayaking through pristine waters, encountering seals and seabirds. Hike the dramatic cliffs of Yesnaby for breathtaking views and discover ancient ruins at Skara Brae, immersing yourself in the rich history of this captivating archipelago.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Reel on Victoria Street for fantastic cocktails and a cozy atmosphere. For a lively evening, visit The Old Library on Main Street, where you can enjoy local brews and live music that showcases the island's talent.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Orkney Islands
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Orkney Islands are December to February, 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 in Orkney Islands 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 in Orkney Islands is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Orkney Islands is Friday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices 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 the Orkney Islands with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Orkney Islands
The Orkney Islands offer a perfect blend of culture, outdoor adventures, and beautiful beaches for vacationers. Visitors can explore fascinating archaeological and historic sites, as well as enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. With a variety of attractions catering to those seeking enriching experiences, the Orkney Islands promise a memorable getaway filled with opportunities to connect with nature and history.
Skara Brae: Explore the fascinating prehistoric village of Skara Brae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This remarkably preserved settlement offers a glimpse into Neolithic life, showcasing unique stone structures and artifacts that reflect the culture and daily lives of its ancient inhabitants.
Balfour Castle: Experience the romance of Balfour Castle, a stunning Victorian-era castle surrounded by beautiful gardens. You can enjoy guided tours that reveal its rich history, architecture, and enchanting stories, making it a perfect spot for history lovers and romantics alike.
Ring of Brogdar: Visit the breathtaking Ring of Brogdar, an impressive Neolithic stone circle that stands as a testament to the island's rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, this symbolic landmark invites reflection and appreciation of the ancient mysteries it holds.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Orkney Islands
Traveling to the Orkney Islands is convenient with three major airports nearby. INVerness Airport (INV) is located 107 miles away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Rocpool Reserve and Ness Walk, both 8 miles from the airport. Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh) is 85 miles away, featuring the 3.5-star Spiggie Hotel just 4 miles from its airport. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is the closest, only 3 miles from the islands, with great accommodations such as the 4-star Graemeshall House and Hildeval B&B. These hotels provide various transportation services, ensuring easy access to all airports for a seamless travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do hotels in Orkney Islands cost?
In Orkney Islands, you can find cheap options from $67 in a few different ways. To see the availability, enter your preferred travel dates, then fine-tune your search by budget, amenities and more. Remember that prices can vary according to when you decide to go, so if you have some flexibility, try swapping your dates around until you find the right deal.
How can I find cheap hotels in Orkney Islands?
Find affordable getaways without breaking a sweat by making use of our filters. Choose the "Price per night" box to view low-cost options in Orkney Islands. Another way is to look at our cheap hotels in Orkney Islands page. The lowest price available starts at $67 per night.
What are the best hotels in Orkney Islands for families?
Find some awesome Orkney Islands family hotels by fine-tuning your search results. You can do this by clicking on "Family friendly" under the "Traveler experience" filter heading. Whether you're searching for something economical so you can spoil the kids with more Orkney Islands experiences, or you're preparing to indulge on that long-awaited family adventure, Expedia has the ideal hotel for you and your crew.
Why should I book my Orkney Islands hotel with Expedia?
Reserve your Orkney Islands stay with Expedia for choice, ease and price. Also, our One Key™ rewards program lets you earn OneKeyCash™* on any eligible flights, activities, hotels, car rentals and more. Plus, we offer flexibility in case your plans change, and if you want to ask us anything or require assistance, our online Help Center is always available. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.