The Kirkwall Hotel, Kirkwall | Historic Harbour Stay from $119

Name: The Kirkwall Hotel, Kirkwall
Address: Harbour Street, Kirkwall, Highlands, KW15 1LF
Price range: US$119+
Rating: 8.3

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Key details

About the Hotel

Harbour Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1LF

Overlooking the beautiful harbour

Great

8.3

/10

3.8

4.2

Loved by The Kirkwall Hotel guests

Refurbished rooms

Delicious breakfast

Friendly staff

Dog-friendly hotel

"Their bar boasts over 100 different Highland Park whiskies (yes, you read that right), all distilled just down the road."

Dale from United Kingdom

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"We stayed in 204 overlooking the harbour, which was a beautifully decorated room."

KateN85 from United Kingdom

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"The Kirkwall hotel is an old historic hotel that has been renovated - at least our room looked renovated."

Kobuck1369 from United States

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4-star hotel with stunning harbour views in Kirkwall

Accommodation

The Kirkwall Hotel offers 37 beautifully restored rooms, ranging from Classic Sea View Rooms to spacious Junior Suites. These rooms include luxurious goose-down duvets and excellent mattresses for restful nights. Many rooms provide spectacular views of Kirkwall Harbour, allowing guests to watch the bustling daily activity below.

Dining

The hotel's Harbour View Restaurant serves dishes created with Orcadian produce, highlighting the region's finest seafood. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea options, including traditional and Prosecco afternoon teas served in scenic settings. Skippers Bar features a snack menu and an impressive selection of over 100 whiskies.

Location

Located in Kirkwall, the Kirkwall Hotel is close to many local attractions, including historic sites and independent shops. The hotel serves as a gateway to discover Orkney's natural beauty and cultural heritage, with easy access to ferries for the Outer Isles. Guests can explore notable landmarks such as Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Families can choose from spacious Junior Suites and Family Rooms, accommodating up to four guests. The hotel provides complimentary cots and bedding for younger children and offers a children's dinner menu. Family-focused amenities make it a convenient choice for those traveling with kids.

Pet-Friendly Policies

The Kirkwall Hotel welcomes dogs in designated areas, making it easy for guests to bring along their four-legged companions. A cozy dog-friendly atmosphere includes dog treats and a special Hound Bag filled with amenities for canine guests. Pet-friendly dining is available in the Highland Park Bar.

Highlights

Accommodation: 37 beautifully restored bedrooms

Dining: Harbour View Restaurant & Skippers Bar

Location: Easy access to historic sites

Family-Friendly: Accommodations for up to four guests

Pet-Friendly: Dog treats and Hound Bag provided

“The Kirkwall Hotel stands out for its dedication to Orcadian culture, most notably through its dining. As a privately owned hotel, it emphasizes personalized service, which makes it a strong choice for exploring local attractions like St. Magnus Cathedral. Whisky enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Highland Park Distillery.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningFantastic Food

The restaurant served generous portions of delicious, fresh food, including fantastic haddock. Excellent value for the price!

George from England

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Room FeaturesVery Spacious

Our room was surprisingly spacious and comfortable. The bed was very large, ensuring a great night's sleep.

Maria from Spain

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BathroomSpotless Cleanliness

The bathroom was spotless and well-maintained. The shower was powerful and always had plenty of hot water.

Hans from Netherlands

Review on

BedroomRestful Sleep

The bedroom was quiet and dark, creating the perfect environment for a restful and undisturbed night's sleep.

Pierre from France

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Select your room type

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

Double Room
2 persons
16 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Twin Room
2 persons
16 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room Sea View
2 persons
16 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details

Show all rooms

Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

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

Facilities: Great

8.5/10Review 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

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Kirkwall Hotel, guests can indulge in a delightful dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Orcadian produce, fresh catches from the sea, and the welcoming atmosphere of the Harbour View Restaurant. With stunning views of the harbour and a menu brimming with local specialties, every meal is a true taste of the region.

Harbour View Restaurant
Local Orkney fare
Ambiance
Warm and inviting with panoramic views of the harbour
Key Offerings
Freshly cooked breakfasts featuring local butchers' sausages, haggis, black pudding, and free-range eggs, alongside a selection of vibrant dishes showcasing Orcadian produce, plus specially crafted Afternoon Teas. An extensive selection of over 100 Highland Park whiskies available for pairing with tasty nibbles, such as smoked cheese and dark chocolate.
Reservation
Reservations recommended
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Kirkwall Hotel Location

Harbour Street, Kirkwall, KW15 1LF

Explore Kirkwall

Local Highlights

Saint Magnus Cathedral

6 minutes' walk

This stunning medieval cathedral showcases intricate stonework and offers guided tours, making it a historical centerpiece.

The Orkney Museum

6 minutes' walk

Engaging exhibits detail Orkney's rich history, from ancient artifacts to local art, with free admission most days.

Highland Park Distillery

25 minutes' walk

A renowned whisky distillery offering guided tours and tastings, highlighting the island's distilling heritage.

Orkney Witchcraft Memorial

8 minutes' walk

A poignant memorial commemorating the victims of witch trials, situated in a serene park setting, perfect for reflection.

Peedie Sea Walk

11 minutes' walk

A peaceful walking trail around a scenic loch, ideal for leisure strolls or bird watching in a tranquil environment.

Scapa Beach Hiking

30 minutes' walk

For thrill-seekers, hiking at Scapa Beach offers stunning coastal views and opportunities for beach activities, accessible all year.

Bremners

10 minutes' walk

A cozy bistro known for its hearty seafood dishes and local specialties, perfect for casual dining. Reservations recommended.

St Magnus Cafe

5 minutes' walk

Casual café offering fresh, locally sourced meals with stunning views of the harbor, great for breakfast or lunch.

Orkney Wireless Museum

2 minutes' walk

An intriguing museum dedicated to the history of wireless communication, offering interactive exhibits for family-friendly fun.

The Earl's Palace

7 minutes' walk

Historic ruins hosting evening events and guided tours, often featuring live performances in a picturesque setting.

Getting around

City Centre
Kirkwall 3 min · 700 ft
Airports
Kirkwall (KOI) 9 min · 3.7 mi
Eday (EOI) 49 min · 20.0 mi

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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 GBP 19.5 per person.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Year renovated:

2006

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

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

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Kirkwall Hotel, appearing more like a 4-star than a 3-star, is appreciated for its nice, new-ish rooms and bathrooms. Conveniently located across from the harbor, it provides easy access to the pedestrian street and Kirkwall's attractions, including the Magnus Cathedral. The breakfast is generally good, including Scottish specialties, although some guests have found the yogurts and fruit selection could be improved. A peaceful lounge on the second floor offers grand harbor views.

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Review score

Based on 252 verified reviews

8.2 /10

Great

83 %

Recommend

Location

9.5/10

Comfort

9.0/10

Value for money

7.4/10

Facilities

8.5/10

Pros

Modern design

Seafront location

Tasty breakfast

Helpful staff

On-site restaurant

Cons

Noisy nightclub

Small bathroom

Poor lighting

based on 524 reviews

3.5/5

Christopher from United Kingdom

Business traveller

twin room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 29, 2025

6/10

mixed feelings about the stay

convenient location transport links late noise smoking outside

the location was convenient as it was close to shops and transport links.

My room was above a bar. People made noise and smoked until late. This was not great after a long drive.

0 Helpful

taylor from united kingdom

double room sea view

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 24, 2025

8.8/10

amazing harbour stay!

great location cute staff

the location is great near everything. the staff was cute and helpful throughout my visit! they really were very good.

The elevator was a bit slow. It reminded me of a blast from the past. also, the breakfast buffet ran out of eggs early! it was a minor bummer because i love starting my day with some scrambled eggs.

Location

10/10

the hotel sits right on the harbour front, offering easy access to shops and transport. st magnus cathedral is only a short walk away! you're basically in the heart of it all.

Rooms

9/10

my room provided a fine sea view and the bedding was super comfortable. the bathroom looked recently updated and featured high-quality fixtures! i found everything spotlessly clean.

Service

9/10

the reception staff checked me in efficiently and were very polite. alan was especially friendly and helpful with my early arrival! the team seemed genuinely committed to guest satisfaction.

Dining

8/10

breakfast offered a good selection, including scottish specialities like haggis. everything was self-service and regularly checked for freshness! kippers came highly recommended, so tasty.

Facilities

8/10

the hotel includes a lounge area with a grand view of the harbour! the elevator seems original to the building adding a unique touch. wheelchair access is available too.

0 Helpful

Hudson from Canada

Business traveller

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 22, 2025

9/10

totally awesome stay!

ground coffee comfy bed big shower friendly staff

the room was super comfy with a cafetière and ground coffee, not those instant sachets. the bed was like sleeping on a cloud, and the linen felt amazing.

The instructions for the shower were a little confusing. I got a blast of cold water when i first tried to turn it on. you has to stand right under the showerhead.

Service

10/10

The staff was really good. They offered comfortable spot for me when my schedule changed. they also shared great advice on local spots to visit and were super helpful and went beyond expectations. the team is friendly and professional.

0 Helpful

Stuart from United Kingdom

Business traveller

Twin Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 18, 2025

6/10

loud music late noise

My room was adjacent to the skippers bar. the music played very loudly. this went on until after 1am.

0 Helpful

Jean from France

Business traveller

Double Room Sea View

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 08, 2025

9.0/10

Wonderful stay!

friendly staff sea view clean room

The staff showed friendliness and professionalism. I secured a room looking over the harbour, a definite plus. The room felt clean and updated, something I value greatly. I found the bed surprisingly comfortable. I slept soundly.

The absence of air conditioning in the room did pose a minor challenge. I depended on opening the window for cooling. I think a fan would have enhanced my comfort during warmer periods.

Location

9/10

Its location near the ferry terminal proved useful. Access to local shops and transport become very easy from here. The central position benefits visitors.

Rooms

9/10

The room presented large, including spacious bathroom amenities. Bedding felt of the highest quality. I rested very well. A recent refurbishment to the bathroom was evident. Facilities feel fresh.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About The Kirkwall Hotel

Are dogs welcome in the dining areas, and if so, are there any specific rules I should know about?

12 November 2024

Dogs are allowed in the bar area of the restaurant, where meals are served just like in other dining sections, provided they are kept on a lead.

Is there an elevator available to access all hotel floors?

25 December 2024

There is a lift in the main building that provides access to all floors, but the annex (The Shore Hotel) does not have an elevator. However, accessible rooms are available on the ground floor.

What is the process for cancelling a booking if circumstances change?

3 January 2025

To cancel a booking, you will need to provide the name under which the booking was made for verification purposes.

Are whale watching or wildlife expedition tours available for booking through the hotel?

17 January 2025

Yes, it is possible to arrange whale watching and other wildlife tours from the local harbour. For more information, feel free to explore available options online or upon arrival.

Can laundry services be requested during the stay?

29 February 2025

Laundry services are usually available, though they might be limited due to ongoing health guidelines. It's advisable to check directly with the hotel for the latest information.

What parking facilities are available for guests arriving by car?

8 March 2025

The hotel does not have its own private parking, but there are several public parking options nearby, including free and paid spaces.

Is breakfast included in the room rate, or is it available at an additional cost?

15 March 2025

The standard room rate does not include breakfast; however, it can be added at check-in for £12.50 per person, with the option for a full Scottish breakfast or continental choices.

What accommodations are available for families visiting the hotel?

21 March 2025

Families are welcome, and there are spacious rooms available, including Junior Suites with options for sofa beds or cots, along with a special children's menu.

Can guests with pets expect any added services or facilities?

10 April 2025

Pets are welcome, and there is a flat rate charge of £20 per pet for the duration of the stay. However, it is essential to inform the hotel in advance to ensure proper arrangements.

Are late check-in options available for guests arriving late?

5 May 2025

The hotel provides a Night Porter service for late check-ins, making it possible for guests arriving late to access their rooms easily.