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

Kirkwall hotels from HK$923

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Check prices for these dates

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22 Sept - 23 Sept
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23 Sept - 24 Sept
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25 Sept - 27 Sept
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2 Oct - 4 Oct

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Our top choices for Kirkwall hotels

A stone fireplace with a fire, a kettle, and a wooden shelf with bottles.
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a desk with a lamp.
A stone building with a sign for the Albright Hotel.
A bar area with wooden beams, stone flooring, and stools.

1. Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel
Kirkwall
United States
machel
HK$1,423
HK$1,707 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sept - 25 Sept
Albert Hotel

2. West End Guest House

West End Guest House
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Tanya
HK$1,163
HK$1,395 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
West End Guest House
A row of white buildings with chimneys, reflecting on the water.
A bedroom with a bed, bedside lamps, a wardrobe, and a window.
A pool table in a bar area with wooden flooring and green walls.
A compact living space with a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sofa.

3. The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Julie
HK$905
HK$1,086 total
includes taxes & fees
4 Oct - 5 Oct
The Ayre Hotel
A bar area with a stone wall, wooden bar counter, and bar stools. There is a leather couch in the foreground.
A grand staircase with blue carpeted steps and a wooden handrail, leading to an upper floor.
A four-poster bed with a dark wooden frame, a blue and white bedspread, and two blue pillows. There is a small table with a lamp and a chair in front of a window with curtains.
A restaurant with leather seating, wooden paneling, and a flat-screen TV mounted above a blue-lit fireplace.

4. The Orkney Hotel

The Orkney Hotel
Kirkwall
United States
David
HK$1,355
HK$1,626 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
The Orkney Hotel
A building with multiple windows and a visible entrance.
A staircase with wooden railings leading to a landing. A red chair is positioned near a window with a curtain.
A bar area with a wooden bar counter, multiple stools, and a television screen.
A cozy living room with a stone fireplace, a television mounted on the wall, and a plaid curtain.

5. The Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel
Burray
United States
Susan
HK$1,923
HK$2,308 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sept - 25 Sept
The Sands Hotel
A bar area with multiple liquor bottles, a sign reading "Kirkwall Hotel", and several beer taps.
A hotel named "The Shore" with a signboard indicating rooms and amenities like free WiFi, local ales, wines & spirits, teas & coffees.
A harbor with boats docked at the pier, a lighthouse in the background, and buildings along the waterfront.
A restaurant interior with round tables, chairs, and a large abstract painting on the wall.

6. The Shore

The Shore
Kirkwall
United States
Beth
HK$1,037
HK$2,126 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
The Shore
A kitchen with a wooden countertop, a black chair, a wall clock, a refrigerator, and a window with a view of greenery.
A bunk bed with a desk and dresser in a room with floral wallpaper.
A modern kitchen with a central island, bar stools, a microwave, and a wooden door.
A wooden deck with a small lawn area, a red fence, and a building with a window and a door.

7. 2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden
Kirkwall
HK$2,029
HK$2,435 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Sept - 25 Sept
2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden
A room with a large window overlooking a harbor, featuring a ship docked at a pier.
A harbor with boats docked, a control tower, and a building with a red roof.
A restaurant with wooden floors, tables set with white tablecloths, and a high ceiling with exposed beams and a hanging light fixture.
A modern building with large windows and a visible chimney.

8. Ferry Inn Stromness

Ferry Inn Stromness
Stromness
United States
Julie
HK$2,115
HK$2,539 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Ferry Inn Stromness
A bar with wooden shelves stocked with bottles and glasses, a coffee machine, and a cash register.
A bedroom with a large bed, a window with curtains, a radiator, a bedside table with a lamp, and a painting on the wall.
A bar area with wooden furniture, bar stools, and a variety of bottles and glasses on shelves.
A window with a view of a harbor, including buildings and a boat.

9. The Royal Hotel Stromness

The Royal Hotel Stromness
Stromness
Canada
Diane
HK$2,115
HK$2,539 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
The Royal Hotel Stromness
A historic building with a prominent entrance and multiple windows, labeled as "The Stromness Hotel."
A harbor with boats docked, a crane, and a building with a flat roof.
A room with a large window, a green sofa, two green chairs, and a round table.
A hotel room with a large window, a sofa, a bed, and a small table.

10. The Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel
Stromness
United States
Donna
HK$769
HK$923 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
The Stromness Hotel
A stone building with a wooden door and a small porch area.
A bedroom with a bed, a bedside table, a lamp, a plant, and a window with curtains.
A stone building with a wooden door, windows, and a flower box on the ground floor.
A kitchen with a large window, a stainless steel range hood, and two potted plants on the windowsill.

11. The Anchorage

The Anchorage
South Ronaldsay
United States
Neil
HK$839
HK$1,007 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Sept - 1 Oct
The Anchorage
A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, large windows with curtains, and a view of the outside.
A cozy living room with two sofas, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a house through large windows.
A room with a wooden cabinet, a blue chair, a mirror, and a door with glass panels.
A room with two single beds, each with a blue bedspread and white pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, and a window with blinds and a curtain.

12. Royal Oak Guest House

Royal Oak Guest House
Kirkwall
United States
F David
HK$1,298
HK$1,558 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Oct - 2 Oct
Royal Oak Guest House
A spacious dining area with high ceilings and large windows, featuring plaid chairs and a central table.
A sign for Karrawa Guest House, indicating no vacancies, fully ensuited, with WiFi and guest parking, and located at the entrance on Inganness Road.
A house with a covered patio, a garage, and a snow-covered yard.
A bedroom with a wooden bed, a chair, a bedside table, a mirror, and a window with curtains.

13. Karrawa Guest House

Karrawa Guest House
Kirkwall
Canada
Justine
HK$1,154
HK$1,385 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Karrawa Guest House
A dining area with a wooden table, black chairs, and a window with a view of greenery.
A detailed pencil drawing of a brick building with a gabled roof, large windows, and a door.
A beach with the words "GRANBANK NEWS EST 2021" written in the sand.
A stone building with a large arched doorway and a smaller door, both with glass panels.

14. Grainbank Mews

Grainbank Mews
Kirkwall
United Kingdom
Stephen
HK$1,217
HK$1,461 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Grainbank Mews
An outdoor dining area with people seated at tables, a chalkboard menu, and potted plants.
A bedroom with a skylight, two bedside lamps, a radiator, and a yellow pillow.
A kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a pot on the counter, and a person cooking.
A stone pillar with a sign for The Murray Arms Hotel and Seafood Restaurant, offering lunch and evening meals, fresh seafood daily, walk-ins welcome, dog-friendly, and a beer garden.

15. Murray Arms Hotel

Murray Arms Hotel
South Ronaldsay
Netherlands
Jan
HK$874
HK$1,049 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Sept - 26 Sept
Murray Arms Hotel
A two-story house with a stone facade, a tiled roof, and a front porch with a bench.
A neatly made bed with a white quilt and two pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, a dresser with a mirror, and two framed pictures on the wall.
A living room with a blue sofa, a blue armchair, a wooden coffee table, and a television.
A kitchen counter with various food items and kitchenware, including a fruit bowl, a juice container, and a container of Greek yogurt.

16. Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast
Stromness
United Kingdom
Peter
HK$1,084
HK$1,301 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Oct - 3 Oct
Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast
A hallway with stone walls, wooden door, and a bench.
A hotel reception area with a glass display case, a coffee machine, and a vase with flowers.
A restaurant interior with wooden tables and chairs, a visible exit sign, and a view of the street outside.
A neatly made bed with a light-colored bedspread and pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, and a floral-patterned wall.

17. Smithfield guesthouse

Smithfield guesthouse
Dounby
United States
Brian
HK$1,312
HK$1,574 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Smithfield guesthouse
A two-story house with a stone facade, a large front lawn, and a car parked in the driveway.
A bedroom with a bed, a chair, a table, a lamp, and a decorative wall piece.
A dining room with a table and chairs, large windows with curtains, and a view of a car and greenery outside.
A living room with a television, a fireplace, a sofa, and a chandelier.

18. The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast

The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast
Thurso
Australia
Glenn
HK$1,049
HK$1,259 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
The Hawthorns Bed & Breakfast
A door with a keypad lock and a view of a rural landscape with fields and a road.
A small building with a sloped roof, a door, and hanging flower baskets.
A room with a metal-framed bed, two bedside tables with lamps, a stone wall, and a bed with a floral duvet.
A gated area with a dog, a metal staircase, and a building with a sign.

19. Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking

Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking
Orphir
HK$1,210
HK$1,452 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Cottage Sleeps 9 With Sea Views and Parking
A wooden deck with outdoor seating, a door, and a window.
A cozy living area with a sofa, a wooden coffee table, a fireplace, and a television.
A compact living space with a sofa, a dining table, a TV, and a kitchen area.
A sign for Celtic Lodges with a logo of three trees.

20. Celtic Lodges

Celtic Lodges
Thurso
United Kingdom
Russell
HK$1,114
HK$1,350 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Celtic Lodges
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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.
See properties
A stone staircase leading to a partially ruined stone building with a view of a town and greenery 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.
See properties
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.
See properties

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.
See properties

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.
See properties

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 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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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.
See properties

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 cathedral interior with high vaulted ceilings, large stained glass windows, and ornate wooden pews.

Top Kirkwall Hotel Reviews

The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"The suite with living room/kitchen, bedroom and bathroom is a modern addition to this long established hotel. Faultless. The buffet breakfast was good but limited staffing and one morning when busier than usual, the staff were stretched."
William 4-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
The Ayre Hotel
Royal Oak Guest House

Royal Oak Guest House

10/10 Excellent
"The owner was so warm, hospitable, and willing to help with any problems I had. He really went out t of his way to make me feel comfortable and cared for. Breakfast was wonderful---lots of hotels and cold choices in a clean, cozy breakfast room. Parking lot was easy to enter and leave with ample space for all cars."
Carole M 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Royal Oak Guest House
Karrawa Guest House

Karrawa Guest House

10/10 Excellent
"Loved staying here! So quaint, amazing breakfast, Fyona was"
Justine 3-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Karrawa Guest House
The Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel

8/10 Good
"The location and old world charm. The staff member was very nice and went out of his way to help us."
Donna 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Stromness Hotel
The Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel

8/10 Good
"This was expensive for what it was but I guess there are a lot of tourists in Orkney and not a lot of accommodation! Over £200 a night for a small room, double bed (not king). The rate did include breakfast, which was adequate (order from list the night before). The hotel did have a restaurant - food was fine - and a bar and friendly barman. Staff were lovely altogether. I have never been to Orkney before so can’t make any comparisons but I suspect this may be among the better places to stay. Lots of room to park the car. Sea view."
Katie 4-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Sands Hotel
Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel

8/10 Good
"Recently renovated room. Very comfortable and great shower."
machel 2-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Albert Hotel
Castleyards Apartment 1

Castleyards Apartment 1

8/10 Good
"We had difficulty working around the very small double bed that was in a space so small it was against the wall one side and had about 12 to 14 inches gap on the oyher side . Not good for the mature travellor."
Susan 3-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Castleyards Apartment 1
Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall

Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall

10/10 Excellent
"It's a very clean, well presented house in a great location. The living room is cosy and the beds are comfortable. The host was really helpful and great with communication."
Elizabeth B. 2-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall
Cosy Studio In The Heart Of Kirkwall

Cosy Studio In The Heart Of Kirkwall

10/10 Excellent
"Well located could use more surfaces n bathroom"
Victoria 4-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Cosy Studio In The Heart Of Kirkwall

More cheap stays in Kirkwall

The Stromness Hotel

The Stromness Hotel

The Pierhead Stromness Scotland
HK$769
HK$923 total
16 Oct - 17 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7/10 Good! (98 reviews)
The Stromness Hotel
Celtic Lodges

Celtic Lodges

White Bridge, Scarfskerry Thurso Scotland
HK$1,114
HK$1,350 total
6 Oct - 7 Oct
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (34 reviews)
Celtic Lodges
West End Guest House

West End Guest House

14 Main Street Kirkwall Scotland
HK$1,163
HK$1,395 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
HK$1,298
HK$1,558 total
1 Oct - 2 Oct
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (59 reviews)
Royal Oak Guest House
The Sands Hotel

The Sands Hotel

Pier Road Burray Scotland
HK$1,923
HK$2,308 total
24 Sept - 25 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9.8/10 Exceptional! (63 reviews)
The Sands Hotel
Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Old Scapa Road Kirkwall Scotland
Get rates
8/10 Very good! (48 reviews)
Kirkwall Youth Hostel

Find out more about Kirkwall

Top reasons to visit Kirkwall

  • Historic Sites: Kirkwall is home to St. Magnus Cathedral and various museums, offering a rich glimpse into its past.
  • Natural Beauty: Enjoy scenic walking trails and stunning views along Kirkwall Bay and nearby beaches.
  • Vibrant Culture: Experience live music, local exhibitions, and friendly community events throughout the year.
  • Shopping and Dining: Explore charming boutiques and cafés in the town centre for a delightful shopping experience.
  • Varied Accommodation: Kirkwall offers a range of lodging options, from cosy B&Bs to comfortable hotels.

Find great hotels in Kirkwall

Discover charming accommodation options in Kirkwall, where a mix of hotels and bed & breakfasts await to enhance your stay. Whether you seek pet-friendly lodging, a relaxing beach getaway, or facilities tailored for business travel, Kirkwall has something for everyone. Explore the renowned Orkney hotels and delve into reviews to find the perfect base for your Scottish adventure.

  • The Ayre Hotel: The Ayre Hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere that is especially suited for pet lovers, making it a unique choice for travellers wishing to bring their furry friends along. This 3-star hotel features pet-friendly amenities, including designated areas for dogs and a waived fee for service animals. With a solid guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, it is well-regarded for its comfortable accommodations and attentive service. Located in the heart of Kirkwall, guests can enjoy proximity to local attractions while indulging in the hotel's warm hospitality.
  • Albert Hotel: Renowned for its excellent guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the Albert Hotel provides a delightful retreat with a focus on culinary experiences. This 3-star hotel features a restaurant serving a range of meals, alongside a coffee shop for lighter bites. Guests can start their day with a hearty full breakfast or enjoy a leisurely meal throughout the day. The rooms are equipped with modern entertainment options, including flatscreen and digital televisions, ensuring a comfortable stay. Situated in Kirkwall, it is conveniently located for exploring the surrounding area.
  • The Shore: With a charming guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, The Shore is a delightful 3-star hotel that embodies the spirit of Kirkwall. Guests can savour a variety of dining options in the bar and lounge area, as well as a continental breakfast each morning. The hotel's entertainment offerings include multiple television options for relaxation after a day of exploration. Located near the city centre and shopping district, The Shore is ideally placed for those wanting to experience the local culture while enjoying a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Where to stay near Kirkwall

Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, offers a delightful blend of history and culture, perfect for a weekend getaway. Explore the charming streets bustling with friendly locals, and visit historic sites like St. Magnus Cathedral. For a touch of nature, venture to nearby beaches and secluded spots. The city centre is ideal for shopping, with local boutiques and cafés inviting you to unwind. Experience the warmth of this family-friendly destination, steeped in rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

  • Holm: Nestled approximately 10km from Kirkwall, Holm offers a delightful blend of romantic and cultural experiences. This charming city attracts seasonal visitors, particularly from July to September, eager to explore its stunning landscapes and rich history. Highlights include archaeological sites that whisper tales of the past and a historic lighthouse that stands as a beacon of local heritage. Adventurers can take advantage of ferry services for scenic sightseeing tours, making Holm an ideal spot for those seeking entertainment and exploration.
  • Toab: Also situated around 10km from Kirkwall, Toab is a vibrant city that caters to those who cherish outdoor adventures and romantic escapes. The influx of tourists peaks in the summer months, drawing visitors to its picturesque surroundings and historic landmarks. The nearby islands beckon for exploration, while the historic sites provide a window into the area’s fascinating past. Toab offers a delightful atmosphere for couples and families alike, making it a perfect stop for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
  • Rendall: Located 10km from Kirkwall, Rendall is a city rich in culture and history, attracting seasonal visitors eager to immerse themselves in its local charm. With peak tourist numbers from July to September, Rendall is renowned for its history museum, which serves as a treasure trove of artefacts and stories from the region. Though quieter in the colder months, Rendall’s cultural offerings and welcoming community make it a worthy destination for those looking to delve deeper into Scotland's heritage.

Things to do in Kirkwall

Shopping

Kirkcaldy offers quaint shops and local boutiques, ideal for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the St. Nicholas Centre in Aberdeen, where you’ll find a variety of shops, from high street brands to independent retailers, catering to diverse tastes.

Recreation

Explore the Orkney Wellness Centre, offering yoga classes and holistic treatments to rejuvenate your mind and body. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront, soaking in the historic charm of Kirkwall's streets and the beautiful views of Scapa Flow.

Adventure

Explore the stunning Orkney archipelago by taking a thrilling kayaking trip around the rugged coastlines and hidden coves. Alternatively, embark on a scenic hike up to the iconic Ring of Brodgar, where ancient stone circles offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Nightlife

In Kirkwall, enjoy a lively evening at The Reel, where you can catch live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Alternatively, The Orcadian offers a traditional pub experience, perfect for a relaxed drink with friends after a day of exploring the beautiful Orkney Islands.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kirkwall

To save money on your trip to Kirkwall, consider visiting in February or November to December when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Take advantage of Expedia's package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to explore free activities around Kirkwall to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • 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 preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Kirkwall with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Scotland, is perfect for culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Visitors can explore its rich history through various historic sites, museums, and ruins. The scenic Kirkwall Bay and Harbour provide lovely spots for relaxation and romance, making it an ideal destination for beach vacations. With a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, Kirkwall offers something for every traveller seeking a memorable getaway.

  • Earl's Palace: Discover the haunting ruins of Earl's Palace, a 16th-century residence built for the Earl of Orkney. Its impressive architecture and rich history offer a glimpse into the lives of Scotland's noble past, surrounded by the vibrant culture of Kirkwall.
  • Orkney Museum: Delve into the fascinating history of Orkney at the Orkney Museum. With exhibits ranging from ancient artefacts to local art, visitors can gain insights into the island's unique heritage and cultural evolution over the centuries.
  • St. Magnus Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral, an architectural gem known for its striking red and yellow sandstone. This historic site is a testament to Orkney's ecclesiastical history and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.

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, Scotland, is convenient with two major airports nearby. Kirkwall Airport (KOI) is situated approximately 5km from the town centre, making it the closest option. Recommended hotels include the 4-star Graemeshall House and the 3-star Ayre Hotel, both just a short distance away. Alternatively, Lerwick Airport (LSI-Sumburgh) is located 137km from Kirkwall, with good hotel choices such as the 3.5-star Spiggie Hotel and the Orca Country Inn, both about 13km from the airport. Transportation services from these hotels to the airports are readily available, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.

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.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Kirkwall has to offer?
2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden: This highly rated holiday home rental in Kirkwall offers a garden and free WiFi to help you feel comfortable in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a dishwasher, a fridge and an oven. Some other homes for rent in Kirkwall include Cosy House in the heart of Kirkwall and 2-Bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 with Enclosed Garden. See all 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 The Orkney Hotel and Kirkwall Youth Hostel. 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 29 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 Scapa Beach. 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.

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