Top 10 Best Hotels in Orkney Islands

Where to Stay in Orkney

Choosing the right hotel can shape your entire Orkney experience. Kirkwall, the island capital, offers convenient access to St Magnus Cathedral, shops, restaurants and ferry links to the North Isles. Stromness, with its narrow flagstone streets and picturesque harbour, is perfectly placed for the west mainland's Neolithic sites. Rural hotels offer peaceful settings beside lochs and coastlines, while the outer isles provide total tranquillity.

Orkney's hotels are typically independently owned, offering personal service and menus showcasing local produce such as Orkney beef, lamb, scallops, crab and cheeses. Here are the ten best hotels in the islands.

1. The Kirkwall Hotel

The Kirkwall Hotel is a landmark Victorian building overlooking Kirkwall harbour. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring the town and catching ferries to the North Isles. Many rooms offer views across the harbour, and its restaurant and bar are popular with locals and visitors alike.

2. The Storehouse, Kirkwall

The Storehouse is a stylish restaurant with rooms set in a restored historic building in Kirkwall. Known for contemporary design and a menu that celebrates Orkney produce, it is a top choice for travellers seeking a boutique experience with excellent dining.

3. The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel enjoys a waterfront position in Kirkwall, a short walk from the town centre. With comfortable rooms, a welcoming bar and hearty Scottish cooking, it is a dependable option for leisure and business travellers alike.

4. The Albert Hotel

The Albert Hotel sits in the heart of Kirkwall's old town, close to St Magnus Cathedral. Its lively bar and restaurant are local favourites, and the hotel's central location places visitors within easy reach of shops, museums and the harbour.

5. Lynnfield Hotel

The Lynnfield Hotel, on the edge of Kirkwall near the Highland Park distillery, is known for its elegant rooms, warm hospitality and fine dining. Whisky enthusiasts appreciate its proximity to the distillery and its curated selection of malts.

6. Foveran Hotel

Located just outside Kirkwall with panoramic views over Scapa Flow, the Foveran Hotel is celebrated for its restaurant, which has a strong reputation for showcasing local seafood and meat. Its peaceful setting and spectacular sunsets make it a memorable place to stay.

7. Merkister Hotel

The Merkister Hotel sits on the shores of the Loch of Harray, close to the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. It is popular with anglers, birdwatchers and heritage enthusiasts, offering a relaxed rural retreat in the heart of the west mainland.

8. Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel is an imposing Victorian building overlooking Stromness harbour. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring the town's galleries and cafes, and it is convenient for the NorthLink ferry terminal and the west mainland's archaeological sites.

9. The Orkney Hotel

The Orkney Hotel is a traditional town-centre hotel in Kirkwall housed in a historic building. It offers comfortable rooms, a convenient location and classic hospitality, making it a solid choice for visitors who want to be close to everything.

10. The Sands Hotel, Burray

The Sands Hotel in Burray occupies a converted herring store on the waterfront, across the Churchill Barriers from the mainland. It offers comfortable accommodation and a restaurant with lovely views, and it is well placed for the Italian Chapel and the beaches of the South Isles.

Hospitality Trends in Orkney

Orkney's hotel sector has evolved to meet growing visitor numbers and changing expectations. Food tourism is a major theme, with hotels increasingly highlighting local suppliers and Orkney's acclaimed food and drink producers, including distilleries, breweries and artisan cheese makers.

Sustainability is also becoming a priority. Hotels are adopting renewable energy, reducing waste and encouraging guests to explore responsibly. Cruise tourism has increased daytime demand in Kirkwall, while overnight stays are growing among visitors who want to explore the islands in more depth.

Seasonality remains significant, with peak demand between May and September. However, the shoulder seasons and winter months are attracting more visitors for festivals, aurora watching and the winter solstice at Maeshowe.

Tips for Booking an Orkney Hotel

• Book early in summer: Accommodation fills quickly during peak months and major events.
• Choose your base: Kirkwall suits town explorers and North Isles day trips, while Stromness and the west mainland suit heritage lovers.
• Ask about dining: Many hotels have excellent restaurants, so reserve tables in advance.
• Consider transport: If you are not hiring a car, a central hotel near bus routes is ideal.
• Look for packages: Some hotels offer dinner, bed and breakfast deals.

Conclusion

Orkney's hotels capture the spirit of the islands: welcoming, characterful and deeply connected to their surroundings. Whether you choose a harbour-front landmark in Kirkwall, a boutique stay at The Storehouse, a loch-side retreat at the Merkister or the waterfront charm of the Sands Hotel, you will find warm hospitality and an ideal base for exploring this remarkable archipelago.