The Sands Hotel, Burray Village ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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The Sands Hotel Burray Village Exterior photo

The Sands Hotel Burray Village Nature photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Burray, Burray Village, United Kingdom, KW17 2SS

Near the Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre

Perfect

9.3

/10

4.6

4.7

Loved by The Sands Hotel guests

Friendly staff
Comfortable bed
Delicious meals
Spotlessly clean
Spacious rooms
Nice view

"The rooms have great sea views and are spacious, clean and very comfortable."

Ross from United Kingdom

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"The food was amazing! The room was comfortable and very clean."

Paul from United Kingdom

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"The food in the restaurant is superb and my hand dived scallops is one of the best meals that I have ever had."

Caroline W from United Kingdom

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4-star seaside hotel in Burray Village

Rooms

The Sands Hotel offers six en-suite bedrooms and two luxury suites, all featuring sea views. Each room is designed with excellent facilities to provide a comfortable experience. Guests can enjoy direct access to the scenic seaside, enjoying views from their accommodation.

Dining

The Watersound Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a menu highlighting home-cooked meals made from fresh local produce. The restaurant is open daily and welcomes guests, locals, and tourists for bar meals and à la carte options. Dining is a central part of the experience at The Sands Hotel.

Activities

The hotel is located near attractions like the Orkney Museum and St Magnus Cathedral, among other historical sites. Guests can explore nearby activities suitable for both adults and children. The hotel's location facilitates easy access to cultural landmarks, enhancing the overall experience.

Location

The Sands Hotel is situated in Burray Village, providing a peaceful seaside setting. This location allows guests to enjoy the natural beauty and explore local attractions with ease. Key destinations, including the Italian Chapel and the Churchill Barriers, are within close proximity.

Family-friendly Options

The hotel caters to families with various local attractions that engage both children and adults. Nearby sites include the Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Bishop's Palace, providing educational experiences. The setup of the hotel encourages exploration and family bonding.

Highlights

Rooms: six en-suite bedrooms and two luxury suites with sea views

Dining: Watersound Restaurant serving home-cooked meals

Activities: access to Orkney Museum and St Magnus Cathedral

Location: Burray Village, near Churchill Barriers

“The Sands Hotel, Orkney, captures the charm of Burray Village with its views over Scapa Flow. I found its emphasis on fresh, local seafood particularly appealing. It's a relaxing base from which to discover Orkney's culture and coastline.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningTop-Quality Meals

The restaurant offered delicious fresh food. The Cullen Skink was a highlight. Freshly cooked dishes and a reasonably priced wine list were a bonus.

Alistair from United Kingdom

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Guest ParkingPlentiful Parking

There's plenty of free parking available behind the building, so you don't have to worry about where to leave the car.

Roger from United States

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Room FeaturesComfortable Stay

The rooms are tastefully decorated, creating a cozy retreat. The bed and pillows ensure a restful sleep. The view of the sea is mesmerizing.

Joanne from United States

Review on

BathroomRefreshing Shower

The bathroom was clean, with plentiful hot water and good water pressure in the shower, unlike many places that barely trickle.

Linda from United Kingdom

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Select your room type

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

Double Room Private Bathroom

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Heating

room details

Deluxe Triple Room Sea View

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Superior Suite Sea View

4 persons

165 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Heating

Fireplace

room details

Standard Double Room

2 persons

1 Double bed

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The Sands Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
No pets allowed
Allergy-free rooms

Sports & Fitness

Billiard tables
Darts

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Housekeeping
Laundry
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Sands Hotel, dining becomes a vibrant celebration of taste and community, with each meal inviting guests to indulge in thoughtfully crafted offerings. From hearty breakfasts to delightful dinners, guests can enjoy meals accompanied by stunning sea views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that caters to diverse dietary preferences.

Garden Room

Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free options available

Ambiance

Family-friendly setting with stunning views of the sea

Key Offerings

Bountiful breakfasts and delightful lunches served with fresh a la carte choices, perfect for families and groups seeking a cozy gathering spot.

Reservation

Not needed

Breakfast and lunch served daily; dinner details not specified.

Restaurant

A la carte dining featuring a blend of local and international flavors

Ambiance

A bustling atmosphere with panoramic views of the coastline, ideal for an engaging dining experience

Key Offerings

A la carte dinner menu with a variety of dishes catering to different dietary needs, encouraging guests to explore new tastes.

Reservation

Recommended

Dinner served daily; breakfast details are not specified.

Onsite Bar

Casual bar with a selection of beverages

Ambiance

Inviting and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration

Key Offerings

Wide range of local and international drinks, providing a laid-back option for guests looking to enjoy a nightcap or socialize with fellow travelers.

Reservation

Not needed

Hours vary, generally serving during the evenings

The Sands Hotel Location

Burray, Burray Village, United Kingdom, KW17 2SS

Map view

Burray, Burray Village, United Kingdom, KW17 2SS

City landmarks

Museum

Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre

1.3 mi

Island

Burray

4500 ft

Landmark

Echna Loch

4800 ft

Landmark

The Smiddy Museum

2.1 mi

Church

The Italian Chapel

3.2 mi

Island

Glimps Holm

2.2 mi

Landmark

Gospel Hall

2.0 mi

Landmark

St Margaret's Church

2.1 mi

Landmark

Tomb of the Eagles

2.1 mi

Landmark

W. Hourston Blacksmith's Museum

2.2 mi

Landmark

South Ronaldsay War Memorial

2.2 mi

Island

Hunda

2.4 mi

Landmark

The Wart

2.8 mi

Landmark

Lamb Holm

3.0 mi

Gallery

Hoxa Tapestry Gallery

3.4 mi

Landmark

W Hourston Blacksmiths Museum

3.5 mi

Nearby

Museum

Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre

0 ft

Restaurants

The Sands Hotel

200 ft

Sands Motel Pier Road John & Evelyn Gunn

Explore Burray Village

Activities and Dining

Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre

25 minutes' walk

Fossil exhibits and local history. Features guided tours that delve into the rich geological history of Orkney.

Burray

17 minutes' walk

Picturesque village with beautiful coastal views, perfect for walking and local exploration along the waterfront.

The Smiddy Museum

10-minute drive

Insights into local craftsmanship and blacksmithing. Offers historical context and engaging exhibits for visitors.

Tomb of the Eagles

10-minute drive

Neolithic burial site with guided tours. A unique chance to learn about ancient Orkney's burial practices.

Outdoor Walks at Hunda

10-minute drive

Scenic walking trails along sandy beaches. Great for families and nature lovers, no booking required.

Kayaking at Burray

5-minute drive

Exciting water sports experience, with rental services available nearby. Perfect for thrill-seekers and water lovers.

Yoga Retreats

8-minute drive

Relaxing yoga sessions offered locally. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and rejuvenation during their stay.

The Sands Hotel

1 minute' walk

Casual atmosphere serving local seafood and hearty dishes. Reservations recommended for dinner.

The Italian Chapel

15-minute drive

Italian cuisine in a unique setting. Known for homemade pasta and a warm, family-friendly environment.

Local Pub Events

5-minute drive

Lively atmosphere with weekly live music and quiz nights. Perfect for socializing in a friendly local setting.

Orkney Theatre

10-minute drive

Community performances including plays and concerts. Offers a great way to enjoy local talent in an intimate setting.

Getting around

City Centre

Burray Village9 min · 2300 ft

Airports

Kirkwall (KOI)28 min · 11.3 mi

Eday (EOI)76 min · 31.4 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-22:00

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

The hotel The Sands provides visitors with a free full breakfast.

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:

Former name

Sands Motel

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Sands Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Sands Hotel is often praised for its modern and very clean rooms, with some guests highlighting the spacious Scapa room, featuring a living room, kitchenette, and an upper level for the beds, making it ideal for families. Guests particularly enjoy the views from the conservatory overlooking the sea, and the restaurant is popular, offering a very good dinner and personalized breakfasts. Though the price point was a concern for some, many appreciate the hotel's convenient location, close to the ferry and within easy reach of Kirkwall.

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Review score

Based on 153 verified reviews

9.3/10

Perfect

98%

Recommend

Comfort

9.7/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.6/10

Value for money

9.0/10

Pros

Quiet area

Good pub food

Tastefully decorated rooms

Friendly staff

Cons

Limited location

No lounge

Joseph from United Kingdom

Couple

Superior Suite Sea View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 21, 2026

9/10

excellent stay

tasty breakfastfine conservatory

i enjoyed my room. it was a superior suite sea view. the conservatory had great views of the bay. breakfast was tasty too. supper was also perfect.

0 Helpful

Sophia from Greece

Family with children

Double Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 01, 2026

9/10

spacious roomkitchen areaexcellent breakfast

i stayed in the scapa room and it was very spacious. there was a living room and kitchen area which was great. the beds are on the upper level, good for families. breakfasts were really excellent there.

the room was slightly small, not much space for luggage.

0 Helpful

Georgia from Georgia

Family with children

Double Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 30, 2025

9/10

private bathroomtea facilitiesbreakfast service

i stayed in a double room with a private bathroom for three nights. the room included a television and tea and coffee making facilities. breakfast was prompt (i chose my options the evening before).

the room had slightly limited space.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About The Sands Hotel

Is the Sands Hotel in Orkney open for late check-in if my ferry arrives after midnight?

1 January 2025

Yes, late check-ins can be accommodated with prior notice to ensure staff is available to greet guests.

Do I need to make a reservation for dining at the hotel's restaurant?

15 February 2025

Making a reservation is highly recommended as the restaurant often reaches full capacity.

Are there specific ferry services that I should consider when planning my trip to the Sands Hotel?

3 March 2025

Pentland Ferries operates three sailings daily, arriving just 5 minutes from the hotel, making it the most convenient option.

How far is the Sands Hotel from the nearest ferry terminal in Kirkwall?

22 April 2025

The hotel is located approximately 20 kilometers from the Kirkwall ferry terminal.

Are pets allowed at the Sands Hotel, especially in the dining areas?

10 May 2025

Pets are not permitted in hotel rooms or the restaurant, but they are welcome in the bar area for meals.

Can I request an early check-out and a packed breakfast if I have a ferry to catch?

27 June 2025

Yes, early check-out is possible if notified the night before, and a packed breakfast can be arranged.

What is the frequency of ferry services to and from the mainland near Resort?

7 July 2025

There are two ferry services providing three sailings daily, ensuring flexible travel options.

Are grounds accessible for guests with mobility challenges at the Sands Hotel?

21 August 2025

The hotel has accessible dining and bar areas, but there are no ground floor rooms or lift access to accommodations.

What dining options are available at the Sands Hotel for breakfast, lunch, and dinner?

5 September 2025

The Watersound Restaurant offers a varied menu, including home-cooked meals with locally sourced ingredients, open daily for all dining services.

What nearby attractions can visitors explore while staying at the Sands Hotel?

12 October 2025

Guests can visit various attractions, including the Orkney Museum, St Magnus Cathedral, and Scapa Flow Visitor Centre, all within easy reach from the hotel.