Merkister Hotel, Harray ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2025

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Key details

About the Hotel

Loch Harray, Harray, United Kingdom

Near the Click Mill

Great

8.8

/10

4.8

Loved by guests

Friendly staff
Spacious rooms
Delicious meals
Fine views
Comfortable beds

"Wonderful position on Loch Harray, central for all the key sights and a bonus if you fish."

Lamdin from United Kingdom

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"The hotel is very well-maintained, and the on-site restaurant is excellent, utilizing local ingredients, including fresh fish from the Loch."

Roger from United States

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"On arrival we were greeted with a free upgrade to a lovely corner room with two different views of the stunning Loch Harray."

Avril D M from United Kingdom

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Rooms & Suites

Merkister Hotel offers Standard and Superior rooms in the main building. Superior rooms feature loch views and more space than Standard rooms. Room types include Saver Compact Double/Twin Rooms, Standard King/Twin Rooms, Loch View Superking/Twin Rooms, and Superior Terraced Emperor Double/Twin Garden Rooms. Compact rooms have a standard double bed and an en-suite shower room, plus tea/coffee facilities and a TV. Other rooms come with either an en-suite or full private bathroom. Certain rooms include a seating area. All rooms provide complimentary Wi-Fi. Garden Superior Suites are ground-level and include a private furnished terrace with loch views, a wet room with Italian ceramics, ivory leather lounge furniture, a wide-screen digital TV, a DVD/CD player, Orkney art and crystal, extra-large bathrobes, and binoculars.

Dining at Merkister

The Merkister Hotel boasts the Skerries Restaurant, which specializes in Orkney cuisine, including Aberdeen Angus Beef sourced from farms within 10 miles, and local seafood like hand-dived scallops and halibut. The restaurant overlooks Harray Loch and the hills of Hoy. The lounge bar is open throughout the day and evening. Guests enjoy a full Scottish breakfast. The restaurant's menu changes daily to accommodate various dining needs.

Leisure & Activities

Guests at the Merkister Hotel can fish on the hotel's pier. The hotel rents boats and provides boat trips and fishing tuition with out-of-season rates from October to April. The hotel is near the Loch of Bosquoy (1.5 km), Skara Brae Prehistoric Village (6.5 km), and Kirbuster Farm Museum (6.5 km).

Location & Transport

The Merkister Hotel is located on the shores of Harray Loch. Kirkwall is 30 km away. The hotel is a 15-minute drive from Kirkwall and Stromness. Wick Airport is 67 km from the property, and John O Groats is 47 km away. The hotel is signposted left at Russland road off the A986, halfway between Kirkwall and Stromness on the A965.

Hotel Services

Merkister Hotel provides free private parking onsite. WiFi is available in public areas. Staff can organize boat trips and fishing tuition. From October to April, the hotel can host weddings for up to 50 guests. Standard Wedding Package includes a glass of bubbly for guests after service, a 3-course meal, a glass of wine with the meal, a choice of drink for a toast, and Bed & Breakfast for the Bride & Groom for £2500. The hotel also has contacts for photographers, cakes, favors, flowers, and room decoration.

“The hotel stands out for its tranquil setting along the shores of a celebrated loch, and it's clear that personalized service is a priority here. From tailored fishing excursions to award-winning dining featuring local fare like seafood and Aberdeen Angus beef, it's designed to engage guests with the best of Orkney. I think that this property offers a blend of natural beauty and attentive hospitality that is particularly compelling.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Single Room

2 persons

130 sq. feet

1 Single bed

Heating

room details

Double or Twin Room Loch View

2 persons

175 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Heating

room details

Double or Twin Room

2 persons

175 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Heating

room details

Luxury Suite

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi
Free parking
No pets allowed

Sports & Fitness

Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Laundry

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Heating
Sitting area
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

CD player

Dining Onsite

At Merkister Hotel, dining becomes a delightful experience, where guests can savor local flavors while enjoying picturesque views. With the restaurant and a welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect setting to unwind after a day of fishing on the hotel's own pier.

Restaurant

Local and seasonal fare

Ambiance

Cozy and inviting with scenic views of the surrounding landscape

Key Offerings

Highlights include fresh fish caught locally and hearty traditional dishes, offering a taste of the region's rich culinary heritage.

Reservation

Not needed.

Hours vary.

Location

Loch Harray, Harray, United Kingdom

Map view

Loch Harray, Harray, United Kingdom

City landmarks

Landmark

Loch of Bosquoy

3700 ft

Museum

Corrigall Farm Museum

1.6 mi

Landmark

Ring of Brodgar

3.6 mi

Landmark

Click Mill

1.1 mi

Landmark

Harray Parish War Memorial

1.2 mi

Landmark

Harray Parish Church

1.2 mi

Landmark

Loch of Harray

1.4 mi

Landmark

The Knowes of Trotty

1.5 mi

Landmark

Maeshowe

4.1 mi

Landmark

Barnhouse Neolithic Settlement

2.9 mi

Landmark

Skara Brae Prehistoric Village

4.1 mi

Landmark

Dounby Click Mill

2.9 mi

Landmark

Ring of Bookan

3.0 mi

Landmark

Knowes of Trotty

2.9 mi

Landmark

Skae Frue, mound 300m SW of Buckan

3.1 mi

Landmark

Skaill House

4.0 mi

Landmark

Orkney Folklore & Storytelling Visitor Centre

3.0 mi

Landmark

Standing Stones of Stenness

4.1 mi

Landmark

Ness of Brodgar

3.9 mi

Museum

Kirbuster Farm Museum

4.0 mi

Landmark

Yellowbird Gallery

4.2 mi

Nearby

Loch of Bosquoy

3700 ft

Explore Harray

Local Highlights

Loch of Bosquoy

15 minutes' walk

A scenic loch perfect for bird watching and peaceful walks, showcasing the beauty of Orkney's natural landscape.

Click Mill

5 minutes' drive

An ancient grain mill offering insights into traditional milling methods, with guided tours available for visitors.

Corrigall Farm Museum

10 minutes' drive

A fascinating museum highlighting Orkney's agricultural history with exhibits on farming tools and practices.

Ring of Brodgar

15 minutes' drive

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an impressive stone circle and stunning views over the surrounding landscape.

Hiking around Loch of Harray

25 minutes' walk

Enjoy scenic hiking trails along the tranquil shores of Loch of Harray, ideal for nature lovers and families.

Watersports at Harray

5 minutes' drive

Engage in kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters of Loch Harray, perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts.

Relaxation at Kirbuster Farm Museum

15 minutes' drive

Explore peaceful gardens and local history exhibits for a relaxing day spent in a beautiful setting.

Harray Inn

5 minutes' drive

A cozy pub serving local seafood and hearty dishes, with warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere.

The Foveran Restaurant

15 minutes' drive

Fine dining with a focus on local ingredients, offering stunning sea views and a menu inspired by Orkney's flavors.

The Storehouse

15 minutes' drive

A casual spot known for its delicious farm-to-table meals, featuring vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Orkney Theatre

15 minutes' drive

Host to performances ranging from drama to live music, offering varied events suitable for all ages.

Royal British Legion Hall

10 minutes' drive

Local venue featuring regular live music nights and community events, fostering a friendly atmosphere for all.

Getting around

City Centre

Harray35 min · 1.8 mi

Airports

Kirkwall Airport (KOI)41 min · 16.8 mi

Eday Airport (EOI)80 min · 32.8 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-21:00

Check-out

from 07:00-10:00

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel Merkister serves a full breakfast 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:

Questions of the users

About Merkister Hotel

Is it possible to check in if arriving late in the evening from Shetland, specifically at 23:00?

10 October 2024

Yes, late check-in is possible if prior notice is given about the arrival time, as long as there is availability.

Are pets, particularly dogs, permitted at the hotel?

15 November 2024

Dogs are allowed, provided they are noted on the booking confirmation. However, large breeds such as Great Danes or St. Bernards are not accepted.

Is there public transportation accessible from the hotel for visitors without a vehicle?

25 March 2025

The nearest bus service runs from the area in the morning and returns in the evening. It is recommended to hire a car for convenient travel to local attractions.

What types of accommodations are available at Merkister Hotel?

05 December 2024

The hotel offers a variety of room types, including Standard, Superior, and Garden Suites, each with their own unique features and views.

What dining options are available on-site?

18 November 2024

Guests can enjoy meals at the award-winning Skerries Restaurant, which offers locally sourced seafood and other specialties, all while overlooking Harray Loch.

Can fishing equipment be rented at the hotel?

20 February 2025

Yes, fishing equipment including boats and rods can be rented, and there are services offered by a resident ghillie for both novice and experienced fishermen.

Is breakfast included with the room reservation?

15 January 2025

All room bookings include breakfast, allowing guests to start their day with a meal overlooking the beautiful loch.

What is the best way to reach the hotel from Kirkwall or Stromness?

30 January 2025

The hotel is conveniently located halfway between Kirkwall and Stromness. Guests can take the A965 and follow signs toward Harray Loch.

Is the hotel suitable for hosting small wedding ceremonies?

22 April 2025

Yes, the hotel can host weddings from October to April, accommodating up to 50 guests for a sit-down meal with a full wedding package available.

Is Wi-Fi available in all areas of the hotel?

11 August 2024

Yes, free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the hotel for all guests.