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

THE ORKNEY HOTEL, Kirkwall

Book directly with us
— up to 10% cheaper
than on Booking.com
Check rooms and rates
From$174 /night
Check-in
26May
Check-out
27May
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1DN
-
Near the Harbour
Very good
7.6
8.6
/10
3.6
4.0
/5

Location

The Orkney Hotel is centrally positioned in Kirkwall, providing quick access to key historical sites. St Magnus Cathedral, Bishop's and Earl's Palaces are just minutes away. The infamous UNESCO World Heritage sites of Skara Brae, Maeshowe, and the Ring of Brodgar can be reached within 25 minutes by car.

Dining

The hotel hosts the Garden View Restaurant, overlooking a private garden and serving dishes created with local ingredients. Visitors can select from an extensive menu that includes fresh seafood, native bred beef, and lamb. The Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar features over 1,000 whiskies and 160 gins, providing a unique sampling experience.

Accommodations

The Orkney Hotel offers 30 en-suite rooms, with options ranging from standard doubles to rooms boasting four-poster king beds. Superior and Deluxe rooms include indulgent features such as Jacuzzi baths. All rooms are designed to provide comfort and include larger-sized duvets.

Meeting Facilities

Two meeting rooms are available at the hotel: the Richan Suite accommodating up to 35 delegates and the Whisky Room for up to 25. These rooms are equipped for comfort and convenience, ensuring meeting requirements are met efficiently. Various services including teas and lunch arrangements can be coordinated within the hotel.

Local Experiences

The surrounding area offers diverse experiences for guests, including rich wildlife and scenic landscapes. Kirkwall is a base for exploring various Pictish and Viking settlements further afield. Visitors can engage with local culture, including the annual Orkney Ba mass ball game.

Highlights

Location: St Magnus Cathedral, Bishop's and Earl's Palaces

Dining: Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar

Accommodations: four-poster King beds, Jacuzzi baths

Meeting Facilities: Richan Suite, Whisky Room

Must-do experiences

  • Visit Skara Brae for a glimpse into Neolithic life.
  • Savor fresh oysters at Orkney Shellfish, a local favorite.
  • Explore the picturesque Italian Chapel crafted by WWII POWs.
  • Stroll through St. Magnus Cathedral for stunning architecture.
  • Discover local art at the Pier Arts Centre in town.

Select your preferred room

Choose from standard rooms, family suites, or deluxe options — with breakfast and flexible rates
  • Double or Twin Room
    2 persons
    17 m²
    2 Single beds
    Heating
  • Single Room
    2 persons
    13 m²
    1 Single bed
    Heating
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    17 m²
    1 Double bed
    Bathtub
    Heating
Show all rooms

View our calendar

Check prices and secure your dates today
May 2026 - May 2027
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
May 2026
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
June 2026
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
July 2026
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
August 2026
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
September 2026
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
October 2026
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
November 2026
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
December 2026
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
January 2027
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
February 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
March 2027
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
April 2027
29
30
31
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
Choose dates to see prices
Check-in/ Check-out

Hotel facilities and services

Each hotel provides modern amenities for a relaxing and pleasant stay
Facilities: Very good
7.2/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Golf course

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • In-room breakfast
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

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

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At The Orkney Hotel, dining options embrace the rich culinary heritage of Orkney, showcased through the Garden View Restaurant. Guests can indulge in traditional British cuisine crafted with fresh, local ingredients while enjoying a warm atmosphere in the heart of Kirkwall.
  • Garden View Restaurant

    British, featuring vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
    Ambiance
    A traditional setting that offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering with family or enjoying a quiet dinner.
    Key Offerings
    Signature dishes include daily harvested seafood and locally sourced meats like Aberdeen Angus beef and Orkney lamb, ensuring a true taste of the region.
    Reservation
    Recommended for dinner to secure preferred seating.
    Open for dinner from 18:00 to 20:30, seven days a week.

The Orkney Hotel Location

40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1DN
Explore Kirkwall
Explore Kirkwall's Treasures
  • Top Attractions
  • Activities
  • Dining
  • Entertainment
Saint Magnus Cathedral
3 minutes' walk
A stunning medieval cathedral known for its unique red and yellow sandstone architecture, featuring beautiful stained glass.
The Orkney Museum
2 minutes' walk
Showcases Orkney's rich history from Viking times to WWII, featuring fascinating exhibits and entry for free.
The Earl's Palace
4 minutes' walk
A well-preserved Renaissance ruin highlighting the power of the Earl of Orkney, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Orkney Wireless Museum
7 minutes' walk
Features a collection of radio and wireless memorabilia, showcasing the evolution of communication technology.
Scapa Beach
25 minutes' walk
A beautiful sandy beach perfect for swimming or picnicking, accessible via a scenic path.
Highland Park Distillery Tour
20 minutes' walk
Experience whisky-making with guided tours and tastings at one of Scotland's oldest distilleries.
Royal Oak Memorial Garden
27 minutes' walk
A serene park ideal for relaxation, featuring beautiful flowers and memorials, great for a quiet stroll.
Kirkwall Marina
10 minutes' walk
Enjoy water sports activities and stunning views of the harbor, perfect for both thrill-seekers and casual visitors.
St Magnus Cafe
3 minutes' walk
A cozy cafe known for its local dishes and homemade cakes; ideal for casual dining and vegetarian options available.
The Happy Haddock
2 minutes' walk
Casual fish and chip shop, praised for its fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere; perfect for families.
Harbour Fry
7 minutes' walk
Specializes in traditional fish and chips, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients and takeout service.
Pomona Cafe
6 minutes' walk
Offers a delightful menu of homemade meals and desserts, with a homelike atmosphere for relaxing dining.
Orkney Theatre
10 minutes' walk
Hosts a variety of performances including plays and musicals; offers family-friendly options and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Reel
5 minutes' walk
A popular bar featuring live music events and special themed nights; ideal for socializing and a lively evening out.
Jolly Roger
10 minutes' walk
A family-friendly venue with games and karaoke nights, perfect for entertaining guests of all ages.
The Brig O'Doon
8 minutes' walk
Offers a relaxed atmosphere with regular trivia and quiz nights, suitable for casual fun with friends or family.
Getting around the city
  • City Centre
    Kirkwall 6 min  ·  500 m
  • Airports
    Kirkwall (KOI) 9 min  ·  5.7 km
    Eday (EOI) 49 min  ·  32.5 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
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel The Orkney guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no extra beds provided in a room.  There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
17

Guest ratings and detailed reviews

Feedback about The Orkney Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Orkney Hotel provides spacious and comfortable rooms, including twin rooms located across from the main building, often noted for comfortable beds and adequate heating. Breakfast, served on the second floor with views of the gardens, starts at 0730, which many found convenient for tour schedules, and while some found the bar food options limited when the restaurant was closed, the central location is a definite plus, making it easy to explore Kirkwall and the nearby port. The hotel's closeness to Kirkwall sights makes it a convenient base.
Show moreShow less
Review score
Based on 120 verified reviews
7.4 /10
Very good
70 %
Recommend
Free WiFi
9.0/10
Location
8.9/10
Value for money
6.5/10
Facilities
7.2/10
Pros
Friendly staff
Clean room
Comfortable bed
Convenient location
Cosy room
Cons
Slow service
Noisy corridor
Guest reviews
based on 120 reviews
7.4/10
based on 159 reviews
7.6/10
Liam from Ireland
Couple
Twin Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 26, 2026
9.5/10

great stay!

spacious room comfortable beds nice shower adequate heating
the twin room assigned to us was on the street level across from the main building. it was spacious with comfortable beds. the shower was nice, and the heating was adequate. breakfast on the second floor of the main building began at 0730, which worked well with our tour schedule, and the view from the breakfast area was of gardens.
The food in the bar had limited options due to the restaurant being closed for the season. I still found it to be good quality, though.
Service
9/10
The staff was friendly and helpful. They offered excellent advice on local restaurants and attractions. breakfast service was efficient and prompt, with staff readily available to assist guests. i'd commend their dedication.
Location
10/10
The hotel's location was very convenient for exploring. it was close to local shops and major attractions. Public transportation was also easily accessible. we loved it.
0 Helpful
|
Show less
jacob from united kingdom
Single
twin room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: January 05, 2026
8.7/10

solid stay

friendly staff garden views clean room helpful suggestions
I stayed in a twin room. the staff were friendly and helpful. They provided useful suggestions for local sights. the breakfast area offered nice views of the gardens behind the building. my room was clean and well-equipped.
parking was a bit cumbersome to access, it was not ideal.
Dining
9/10
Breakfast service was very good. the view from the breakfast area looked over a garden. the bar offered a range of whiskies, gins, and local ales. The quality of the food was good.
Facilities
8/10
The hotel offered parking, though access was a bit difficult. i found the staff helpful with suggestions for places to visit. there was adequate heating in the room. I turned it off when i went to bed.
Location
9/10
the hotel is conveniently located. it is near the information centre. many shops and services are within easy reach. the location made it a good base for exploring the area.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Mason from Canada
Single
Twin Room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: December 06, 2025
9.0/10

Solid Base for Orkney Exploration

comfortable beds helpful staff garden view central location
My twin room had comfortable beds and adequate heating. The staff was friendly and helpful when I asked about local sights. The breakfast area had a nice view of gardens behind the building, a fine way to start the day. The location was central, providing quick access to local attractions.
The food selection in the bar was slightly limited since the main restaurant was closed for the season, this affected the variety of dining options available.
Dining
8/10
The breakfast was served on the second floor starting at 0730. This timing worked well for early tours. I found the food in the bar, despite its limited selection, to be good quality and tasty. Breakfast were nice.
Service
9/10
I noticed the staff provided friendly and professional service. Staff helped with restaurants recommendations.
Location
10/10
The hotel location near shopping areas and the transportation hub provided convenience. Exploring nearby areas became easy with this proximity. The location was very helpful in enjoying the city.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Olivia from United Kingdom
true
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed: November 26, 2025
6/10

some issues at this hotel

small room unprofessional behavior
the staff was helpful with directions.
The room was smaller then expected, and the tv didn't work. breakfast was disappointing. The scrambled eggs tasted weird. the receptionist i saw seemed to always be smoking right outside the entrance, it looked unprofessional.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Orkney Hotel
How far is The Orkney Hotel from Kirkwall Airport?
The hotel is located 4 km from Kirkwall Airport.
What major attractions are near The Orkney Hotel?
Nearby attractions include St Magnus Cathedral (0.5 km), Earl's Palace (0.5 km), and Bishop's Palace (0.5 km).
What dining options are available at The Orkney Hotel?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant and a bar/lounge area.
What amenities can guests expect in their rooms at The Orkney Hotel?
Rooms are equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, coffee/tea making facilities, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Orkney Hotel?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Does The Orkney Hotel have Wi-Fi access?
The hotel offers free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
What breakfast options are available at The Orkney Hotel?
The hotel offers an à la carte or Full English/Irish breakfast for an additional charge of 10 GBP.
Which safety and security features does The Orkney Hotel provide?
The hotel offers 24-hour reception and security services.
What makes The Orkney Hotel unique in its offerings?
The hotel features an extensive selection of over 1000 whiskies and emphasizes local produce in its dining experience.
Does The Orkney Hotel provide business facilities?
The hotel has dedicated meeting rooms designed for business functions.
What type of hotel is The Orkney Hotel?
The hotel combines historical aspects with modern amenities, catering to leisure travelers exploring Orkney.

Next best alternative

Consider them for your next trip.