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Kirkwall
The Kirkwall Hotel
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The Kirkwall Hotel Exterior photoThe Kirkwall Hotel Exterior photoThe Kirkwall Hotel Exterior photo

THE KIRKWALL HOTEL, Kirkwall

Book directly with us
— up to 10% cheaper
than on Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From$119 /night
Check-in
02Jun
Check-out
03Jun
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Harbour Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1LF
-
Overlooking the beautiful harbour
Great
8.6
/10
3.8
4.2
/5

Loved by The Kirkwall Hotel guests

Harbour views
Comfortable room
Friendly staff
Delicious breakfast
Convenient location
"The hotel also has a quiet reading room upstairs with beautiful harbour views and large comfy sofas - a perfect place to kill a few hours."
MalLondon from United Kingdom
read full review
"Their bar boasts over 100 different Highland Park whiskies (yes, you read that right), all distilled just down the road."
Dale from United Kingdom
read full review
"The seafood platter was massive with both hot and cold fish, all local and fresh caught."
Bob M from United Kingdom
read full review

Amenities

The Kirkwall Hotel provides a range of services, including two flexible meeting spaces called The Study and The Writing Room, accommodating up to 18 and 80 people, respectively. The hotel allows families and pets, providing dog-friendly dining in the Highland Park Bar. Afternoon Tea options are available for two to four guests, paired with Prosecco for a special touch.

Rooms

The hotel features 37 restored bedrooms, including King Sea View Rooms, Classic Sea View Rooms, and Double Rooms, each with unique coastal-inspired decor. Exceptional amenities include luxurious goose-down duvets, excellent mattresses, and plush en-suite bathrooms. Guests can enjoy immersing views of Kirkwall Harbour from many guest rooms.

Location

Situated in Kirkwall, the hotel offers easy access to local attractions, including Neolithic sites and coastal walks. Daily ferry services provide transportation to the Outer Isles, expanding exploration opportunities. The hotel's central position makes it convenient for guests to access shops, cafes, and the scenic waterfront.

Dining

The hotel's Harbour View Restaurant serves locally inspired dishes made from Orcadian produce and seafood. Guests can enjoy culinary delights complemented by a compelling wine list and a robust selection of whiskies. The Skippers Bar provides casual dining with a menu of pub favorites and fresh seafood options.

Family-friendly and Pet-friendly Policies

Family rooms are available, accommodating up to four guests with additional space for cots and sofa beds, making it a comfortable option for larger parties. The Kirkwall Hotel welcomes pets, providing dog-friendly amenities throughout the property. Special treats for pets contribute to a tailored experience for families traveling with furry friends.

Highlights

Location: Situated in Kirkwall with access to local attractions

Rooms: 37 restored bedrooms with unique decor

Dining: Harbour View Restaurant and Skippers Bar

Pet-friendly: Dog-friendly dining and special treats

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Skara Brae to explore ancient Orkney history.
  • Try the local specialty, Orkney cheese, at the Orkney Cheese Company.
  • Stroll through the Kirkwall Farmers' Market for fresh local produce.
  • Don't miss St. Magnus Cathedral for stunning architecture.
  • Enjoy a whiskey tasting at the Highland Park Distillery.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
    Double Room
    2 persons
    16 m²
    1 Double bed
    Heating
    Shower
    room details
    Twin Room
    2 persons
    16 m²
    2 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
    room details
    Double Room Sea View
    2 persons
    16 m²
    1 King-size bed
    Heating
    Shower
    room details
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
8.7/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • 24-hour reception
  • Pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

  • Billiard tables
  • Darts

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Live entertainment
  • Leisure/ TV room

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Bathtub
  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • Direct dial telephone
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At The Kirkwall Hotel, dining elevates the appreciation of Orcadian produce with menus crafted from the freshest local ingredients. The Harbour View Restaurant boasts enchanting views of the harbor, while diverse offerings create a delightful culinary adventure from breakfast through dinner.
The Kirkwall Hotel Restaurant photo
The Kirkwall Hotel Restaurant photo
The Kirkwall Hotel Restaurant photo

Harbour View Restaurant

Local Orcadian fare
Ambiance
Serene setting with captivating harbor views.
Key Offerings
Start the day with a freshly cooked breakfast featuring locally sourced sausages, haggis, black pudding, and homemade jams. Delight in vibrant lunch and dinner dishes curated from the finest catches and field fodder, complemented by an extensive wine list.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Kirkwall Hotel Location

Harbour Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1LF
Explore Kirkwall
Activities Near The Kirkwall Hotel
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Saint Magnus Cathedral
Saint Magnus Cathedral
6 minutes' walk
An iconic landmark, this medieval cathedral features stunning architecture and vibrant stained glass, perfect for history enthusiasts.
The Orkney Museum
The Orkney Museum
6 minutes' walk
Showcases Orkney's rich history, with artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period, providing insight into local culture.
Highland Park Distillery
Highland Park Distillery
25 minutes' walk
Famous for its whisky, this distillery offers tours and tastings, highlighting its unique production process and rich flavors.
Orkney Wireless Museum
Orkney Wireless Museum
2 minutes' walk
Displays an intriguing collection of radio and wireless technology, offering a unique look at communication history.
Scapa Beach
30 minutes' walk
A popular spot for relaxation, Scapa Beach is ideal for sunbathing and picnicking, with breathtaking ocean views nearby.
Biking Around Kirkwall
5-minute drive
Rent a bike and enjoy scenic routes around Kirkwall, perfect for families and solo travelers exploring the coastline.
Walking Tours
5 minutes' walk
Guided walking tours provide insights into Kirkwall's architecture and history, making it enjoyable for couples and history buffs.
Fishing Charters
5-minute drive
Adventure seekers can charter a boat for fishing, experience breathtaking sea views and local wildlife.
St Magnus Cafe
5 minutes' walk
This cozy cafe serves local dishes and delicious pastries, perfect for casual dining or a quick coffee break.
Cafe At No.65
8 minutes' walk
A charming spot known for its homemade meals and warm atmosphere, catering to vegetarian and gluten-free diets.
Bremners
10 minutes' walk
A traditional restaurant featuring fresh seafood and local specialties, offering a delightful dining experience.
Orkney Theatre
5-minute drive
Hosts a range of performances, from plays to live music, creating an inviting atmosphere for all ages.
The Reel
5 minutes' walk
A lively bar featuring local bands and weekly quiz nights, suitable for both couples and festive gatherings.
Live Music at The Taversoe
10 minutes' drive
Features regular live music nights, combining energetic atmosphere and local brews for a fun night out.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Kirkwall 3 min  ·  200 m
  • Airports
    Kirkwall (KOI) 9 min  ·  5.9 km
    Eday (EOI) 49 min  ·  32.2 km
Want to unlock exclusive early deals?
Access members-only prices today
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP17.50 per person per day.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Year renovated:
2006
Number of floors:
4
Number of rooms:
37

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Kirkwall Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Kirkwall Hotel enjoys a superb location right on the harbour, offering easy access to the pedestrian street. Guests appreciate the clean and comfortable rooms, some featuring nice touches like Border biscuits and cafetières, and the luxurious sea kelp shower soaps. The Highland Park Hotel Bar is often mentioned as a highlight, with its stunning ambiance. A few guests have noted noise from the bar can be disruptive, particularly for rooms located directly above it.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 249 verified reviews
8.2 /10
Great
83 %
Recommend
Location
9.4/10
Free WiFi
9.2/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Facilities
8.7/10
Pros
Sea view
Central location
Helpful staff
Cons
Breakfast price
Gluten-free options
Missing hairdryer
Guest reviews
based on 249 reviews
8.2/10
based on 524 reviews
3.5/5
based on 336 reviews
8.6/10
Benjamin from United States
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: February 08, 2026
6/10

adequate but with some drawbacks

loud bar antique elevator
i was disappointed with the noise level. the bar below my room was quite loud. music went on until late, disrupting my sleep.. i also found the elevator to be quite slow and difficult to use. it seemed very old and in need of an update.
0 Helpful
reese from united states
true
double room sea view
4 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed: November 08, 2025
9.3/10

wonderful stay

really good staff convenient location harbor view
the staff was really good, they were friendly and helpful. the location was very convenient with easy access to local shops. the room was very comfy and tidy, i enjoyed the harbor view (i like to watch the sea!).
i found the soundproofing could be improved, as noise from outside was noticeable at times.
Rooms
9/10
the room had lovely hardwood flooring and big windows. the washroom was amazing (i especially liked the shower!). the linens and bed were very comfortable for a restful night.
Facilities
9/10
this looking hotel looked more like a 4-star than a 3-star hotel. the hotel stands directly by the sea, a plus. the location provides convenient access to a variety of amenities.
Service
10/10
the staff are beyond friendly and helpful in every area. one gentleman made an exception for a late lunch with fish and chips. the breakfast was delicious (especially the pancakes!).
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Dominic from Canada
Single
Double Room
5 nights in September 2025
|
Reviewed: September 21, 2025
6/10

serviceable and okay

fantastic view comfortable linen uninspired dinner hot drink
the room had a fantastic view over the harbour. i found the linens and the bed very comfortable. decor was lovely.
the location was good. dinner was acceptable but not inspiring. the vegetarian option was uninspired. hot drinks were not very hot, i only saw tea or coffee available.
0 Helpful
Show more reviews
FAQs
About The Kirkwall Hotel
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Check-in starts at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is The Kirkwall Hotel from Kirkwall city centre?
The hotel is located approximately 1 km from the city centre.
What notable attractions are near The Kirkwall Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Saint Magnus Cathedral (0.5 km), the Orkney Museum (1 km), and Highland Park Distillery (2 km).
Does The Kirkwall Hotel have on-site dining options?
The hotel features the Harbour View Restaurant that offers a menu focusing on local produce and seafood.
Is Wi-Fi available at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and common areas.
What room amenities can guests expect at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Rooms are equipped with en suite bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee facilities, and hairdryers.
Are pets allowed at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Pets are allowed on request, with a fee of £20.00 per night for each pet.
What breakfast options are offered at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Breakfast includes locally sourced sausages, haggis, black pudding, eggs, and baked bread for an additional charge of £19.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Guests can participate in darts, billiards, and live entertainment at the on-site bar.
What is the policy regarding children's accommodations at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Families are welcome, with options for rooms accommodating 2 to 4 guests, including cots.
How can guests enjoy local drinks at The Kirkwall Hotel?
Skippers Bar offers a variety of Orkney ales and whiskies in a relaxed setting.
What nearby dining venues can guests find around The Kirkwall Hotel?
Nearby restaurants include St Ola Hotel, Helgi's, and Harbour Fry, all within 0.5 km.

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Check-in
02Jun
Check-out
03Jun
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
  • Overview
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  • Price calendar
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  • Location
  • Reviews