Sanderlay Guest House Kirkwall Exterior photoSanderlay Guest House Kirkwall Exterior photoSanderlay Guest House Kirkwall Exterior photo

SANDERLAY GUEST HOUSE, Kirkwall

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From$81 /night
Check-in
02Jun
Check-out
03Jun
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

2 Viewfield Drive Kirkwall Orkney, Kirkwall, KW15 1RB
-
Close to The Earl's Palace
Great
8.7
/10
4.3
/5

Rooms

Sanderlay Guest House offers comfortable en-suite bedrooms with kitchenette amenities for added convenience. The property provides a selection of double, twin, and family rooms, with rates starting from £70 for single occupancy and £90 for double occupancy. Each room is equipped for a varied guest experience, ensuring relaxation after a day of exploration.

Location

Located approximately 1 mile from the center of Kirkwall, Sanderlay Guest House serves as a strategic starting point for visitors eager to experience Orkney's rich archaeological and historical sites. Guests can easily access local attractions such as St Magnus Cathedral, while the surrounding area offers diverse landscapes including cliffs and moorlands. Visitors can utilize four ferry services and daily flights to easily connect to other islands and sites.

Exploration Opportunities

The guest house provides an excellent base for activities such as wildlife observation, hiking, and cultural sightseeing. The islands of Orkney are home to various flora and fauna, with opportunities to see seabirds and seals along the coastline. Additionally, guided tours can be arranged for guests who wish to maximize their time in the region.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in a variety of pursuits including sea angling, diving, and rock climbing within Orkney's stunning landscapes. The temperate climate allows for enjoyable year-round recreational activities, with particularly favorable conditions from May to July. This makes Sanderlay an attractive option for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Local Events

Kirkwall hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, offering a taste of local culture and community spirit. Events such as the Orkney International Science Festival in September and the Folk Festival in May attract visitors from around the world. Staying at Sanderlay provides convenient access to these celebrations and activities.

Highlights

Location: 1 mile of the centre of Kirkwall

Rooms: Double, Twin and Family en-suite

Outdoor Activities: Sea angling & rock climbing

Events: Orkney International Science Festival

Must-do experiences

  • Visit St. Magnus Cathedral for stunning architecture and history.
  • Try the local seafood platter at The Shore Restaurant-delicious!
  • Explore the Orkney Museum for fascinating insights into local culture.
  • Take a stroll at Kirkwall Harbour; it's perfect for sunset views.
  • Join a guided tour of the Scapa Flow for unique historical tales.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
  • Single Room
    1 person
    12 m²
    1 Single bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    20 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
  • Double or Twin Room
    3 persons
    20 m²
    1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
    Heating
    Shower
Show all rooms

View our calendar

Check prices and secure your dates today
June 2026 - June 2027
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Check-in/ Check-out

Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Diving
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Sanderlay Guest House Location

2 Viewfield Drive Kirkwall Orkney, Kirkwall, KW15 1RB
Explore Kirkwall
Local Highlights
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Saint Magnus Cathedral
Saint Magnus Cathedral
20 minutes' walk
Stunning medieval architecture, this cathedral is known for its beautiful stained glass and free guided tours.
The Orkney Museum
The Orkney Museum
20 minutes' walk
Rich history and local artifacts offer insights into Orkney's past. Features free admission and engaging exhibits.
Highland Park Distillery
Highland Park Distillery
25 minutes' walk
Famed distillery providing tours and tastings of its renowned single malt whisky. Book in advance for weekend tours.
Wideford Hill Chambered Cairn
15 minutes' walk
Ancient archaeological site with breathtaking views. A short hike leads you to this fascinating landmark.
Hiking Wideford Hill
15 minutes' walk
Thrilling hike with scenic vistas, suitable for all levels. Ideal for nature lovers seeking adventure.
Yoga Classes at Kirkwall
2 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga sessions available at local studios, perfect for stress relief and rejuvenation. Classes generally require booking.
Willows Takeaway
10 minutes' walk
Casual eatery specializing in local street food classics. Great for quick bites with vegetarian options available.
The Brig Larder
The Brig Larder
15 minutes' walk
Charming local restaurant offering farm-to-table dishes. Reservations recommended for dinner, catering to dietary needs.
Orkney Theatre
13 minutes' walk
Welcoming venue showcasing local performances, from plays to music gigs. Features family-friendly events throughout the year.
Aurora Bar
15 minutes' walk
Vibrant bar known for live music and a lively atmosphere. Ideal spot for nightlife enthusiasts looking for entertainment.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Kirkwall 16 min  ·  1.3 km
  • Airports
    Kirkwall (KOI) 10 min  ·  6.1 km
    Eday (EOI) 50 min  ·  33.3 km
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:30-21:00
Check-out
from 07:00-09:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
The hotel Sanderlay Guest House serves a full breakfast for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
8

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about Sanderlay Guest House from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
Sanderlay Guest House is generally considered a welcoming place to stay, with a breakfast that is often mentioned as amazing, including options cooked to order and fresh fruit. The rooms are frequently described as spacious, with some even offering a private kitchen, although a few guests found the decor in some rooms a bit dated. Its location provides convenient access to Kirkwall, either by a moderate walk or a short drive, and is appreciated for being both close to attractions and tranquil.
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Review score
Based on 198 verified reviews
8.9 /10
Great
95 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Location
8.3/10
Free WiFi
8.7/10
Pros
Spacious rooms
Delicious breakfast
Friendly staff
Clean rooms
Comfy beds
Cons
Uphill walk
Unwelcoming owner
No refund
Guest reviews
based on 198 reviews
8.9/10
based on 506 reviews
8.7/10
Jean from France
Single
Double Room
3 nights in October 2025
|
Reviewed: November 08, 2025
9/10
convenient access fresh fruit cooked options
The location provides convenient access. I found parking easily in front of the building. Breakfast included fresh fruit and cooked-to-order options.
The room's decor seemed a bit dated.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Sanderlay Guest House
What is the check-in and check-out policy at Sanderlay Guest House?
Check-in is at 16:30 and check-out is by 09:30.
How far is Sanderlay Guest House from Kirkwall Airport?
The guest house is 5 km from Kirkwall Airport, approximately an 8-minute drive.
What types of breakfast are served at Sanderlay Guest House?
Guests can enjoy a continental, Full English/Irish, or vegetarian breakfast.
What nearby attractions are accessible from Sanderlay Guest House?
Nearby attractions include the Standing Stones of Stenness (19 km), Ring of Brogdar (20 km), and Saint Magnus Cathedral (2 km).
What amenities are available in the rooms at Sanderlay Guest House?
Rooms feature a wardrobe, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, bed linen, towels, and a kettle, with some including a fully equipped kitchenette.
Is parking available at Sanderlay Guest House?
Free private parking is available on-site without the need for prior reservation.
What are the main highlights of Sanderlay Guest House?
Highlights include free Wi-Fi, shared lounge access, and the availability of family rooms.
What is the distance from Sanderlay Guest House to the center of Kirkwall?
The guest house is located approximately 10 km from the city center of Kirkwall.
What notable historical sites are near Sanderlay Guest House?
Notable historical sites include the Ring of Brogdar and the Standing Stones of Stenness, both significant archaeological monuments.
What communal areas are available at Sanderlay Guest House?
Guests can relax in the shared lounge area.
Is there Wi-Fi available at Sanderlay Guest House?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for guests.
Does Sanderlay Guest House provide any kitchen facilities?
Certain rooms feature a fully equipped kitchenette along with a microwave and kitchenware.

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