Situated on the northeastern coast of Scotland, the Orkney Islands are a magical and idyllic holiday destination. Best known for their walking routes, sandy beaches, stunning views, archaeological sites, and the opportunity to explore. The Orkney Islands have heaps of adventure on offer.

If you are planning a trip to this enchanted location, there is an abundance of Orkney islands accommodation to meet your needs including; camping, self-catering, Bed & Breakfast, and a selection of luxury Orkney hotels. Travellers looking for the best hotel in Kirkwall or secluded camping on the islands can trust our list of the most exciting accommodation Orkney has to offer.



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Orkney Self-Catering

 Orkney Self-Catering

Self-catering can be a cozy way to spend your stay in the Orkney islands, offering a home-like experience instead of just a bed for the night. Choosing self-catering accommodation also allows flexibility to eat what you like, when you like without spending a fortune. This type of stay can be ideal for large groups and family stays as well as being friendly to your budget in comparison with hotel stays. There is a wide selection of self-catering accommodation to choose from on the Orkney Islands. Here are a few of our favorites:

Brecks Barn Self Catering

Brecks Barn Self-Catering

Breck’s barn is one of the top-rated Orkney luxury self-catering options with a 4-star accreditation from Visit Scotland. Located in the popular South Ronaldsay, there are two eco-friendly buildings available. The barn has room for up to 6 people and the Byre sleeps 2. Each accommodation offers a telephone line and reliable free wifi throughout the property. Behaved pets are welcome with a £25 fee added for additional cleaning.

Lillys’ Lodges Orkney

Lillys' Lodges Orkney

Located in Finstown, a village on the mainland of Orkney, Lilly’s Lodges Orkney boasts a personal balcony and sea views. The lodges are a lot smaller than the ‘rent a home’ style of self-catering accommodation options and bring you closer to nature and the camping experience without the discomfort or hassle of a tent. Situated around 5 miles away from Maeshowe, the property offers a garden, free private parking, seating area, a kitchenette with a microwave, and a flat-screen TV. The lodges sleep a maximum of 4 people.

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St Olafs Wynd

St Olafs Wynd

St Olaf’s Wynd (the ancient heart of Kirkwall) is a modern two-bedroom apartment in Kirkwall, Orkney. Situated right beside the Orkney Sourdough Company, previous guests have been thrilled to smell freshly baked bread throughout the course of their stay. The apartment comes with a kitchen with a microwave and fridge, 2 bathrooms with a shower, a hairdryer, and a washing machine. Free wifi is included and it’s within close walking distance of Highland Park Distillery which is very handy and if you’re planning to visit.

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Clancy’s Kirkwall

Clancy's Kirkwall

This accommodation is an entire townhouse situation on a quiet road in the heart of Kirkwall which proves very popular with tourists in the Orkney Islands. This bright and modernly decorated accommodation offers two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a downstairs toilet as well as its own parking space. It’s a great self-catering Orkney option if you also plan to eat out as it’s very close to a number of restaurants and cafes. Free wifi is included.

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Castleyards Apartment 12

Castleyards Apartment 12

Take in the views of Kirkwall, Orkney in Castleyards Apartment 12. If you are looking for a smaller self-catering accommodation option in the main town, then this Orkney accommodation does the trick. This property is perfect for couples and offers 1 bedroom, living room and a fully equipped kitchen with a dining area. Free wifi is inlcuded.

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Hotels in Orkney

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Just because you’re visiting the Orkney Islands, doesn’t mean you have to rough it. For those of you who are looking for a relaxing luxury experience in the Orkney Islands then hotel accommodation might be right for you. The hotels in Orkney can give you a comfortable base to come back to after a long day of exploring the Orkney Islands. Here are our top picks:

The Storehouse

The Storehouse

The storehouse ‘Restaurant with Rooms’, is one of the best Kirkwall hotels. If you’re looking for a little city-style luxury in Orkney then this accommodation would be perfect for your visit as it’s one of the liveliest hotels Kirkwall has to offer. The storehouse has a comfortable, modern vibe in it’s on-site bar and restaurant while retaining its traditional features and a little piece of Orkney history. The traditional barn renovation originated around  1880 the original internal timbers are intact, some of which were salvaged from shipwrecked tall ships. There are 8 luxury rooms to choose from with Egyptian cotton sheets, luxury bathrooms, heated towel rails, underfloor heating, and free wifi in each of them. It’s one of the top-rated hotels Orkney has to offer, you won’t be disappointed.

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The Kirkwall Hotel

The Kirkwall Hotel

If you are looking for hotels in Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, then the Kirkwall Hotel is another great contender. This impressive Vicorian building has a perfect view across the harbor of the Orkney Islands’ largest town, looking out to the north. The family-run accommodation boasts 37 en-suite rooms and a high-quality restaurant. It is only a stone’s throw from the town’s main shopping area. There are two bars to wind back in; Skipper’s bar which is a traditional pub and the Highland park Whiskey bar. Breakfast and complimentary toiletries are included with all bookings.

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The Merkister hotel

The Merkister hotel

Take in the scenic views at The Merkister hotel which is situated on the shores of Harray Loch, Orkney . Standing tall within its own grounds you can take in the views of the loch and its wonderful surroundings from the comfort of your own room. Booking this hotel accommodation would allow you to be close to the towns of Stromness and Kirkwall but offers more of the outdoor experience that the islands have to offer. All of the room options come with a TV, direct-dial telephone and wifi. If you opt for one of their Emporer rooms you will have your own private terrace overlooking the loch.

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Camping Orkney

Camping Orkney

If you are venturing to the Orkney Islands then chances are you are a fan of nature and the great outdoors. Camping in Orkney will allow you to immerse yourself in all the idyllic Scottish setting. With its coves, cliffs, and beaches you will not be disappointed with the camping ‘hot spots’ that Orkney has to offer.

Wheems Organic Farm Orkney Bothies & Camping

Wheems Organic Farm Orkney Bothies & Camping

Located in south Ronaldsay, Wheems Organic Farms website describes their land on Orkney as ‘an ecological and organic 6-hectare horticulture and animal smallholding, producing organic food for a local market. ‘ There are three types of accommodation on offer; camping & campervan spots, bell tents, and camping pods for the ‘glamping experience.

Camping & Campervan Facilities

Camping & Campervan Facilities

The campsite looks south and east towards the sea; beaches and cliffs of Orkney. There is a shared kitchen and dining area for all of your self-catering needs. Shared bathrooms and utilities such and a washing machine are also available for you to use.

Bell Tents

Bell Tents

The bell tents are teepee style tents that are pre-erected and ready for your arrival. This cozy accommodation comes with pre-chopped wood and a log fire as well as buttons to sleep on blankets, lamps, and pillows.

Yurts

Yurts

Kyrgyzstani style yurts are built for comfort with the Scottish weather in mind. These Yurts feature comfortable double bed and wooden flooring and an easy to light fire. Guests can enjoy a sea view from this luxury camping experience. Shower and kitchen facilities are shared with the rest of the site.

Birsay Outdoor Centre Campsite

Birsay Outdoor Centre Campsite

Situated in the West Mainland of Orkney, This option is a popular campsite beside Birsay Outdoor Centre. It is a traditional and basic campsite where you will find the shared facilities such and wash and laundry rooms. The campsite is one of the largest Orkney has to offer with 28 pitches, 13 power hook-ups, and a hostel on site. Tent pitching prices start from as little as £8.80 per night.

Eviedale Campsite

Eviedale Campsite

Also situated on the west mainland, this camping field overlooks a number of attractions including; Eynhallow Sound, Rousay, Evie beach, and Evie bay. Occasionally, lucky visitors catch a glimpse of seals and whales in the neighboring sea. This is an intimate camping spot with limited spaces available.

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Ayres Rock Campsite

Ayres Rock Campsite

This site is based on the Noust of Ayre, which is one of the Orkney Islands seal spotting hotspots with a hostel included. There are only 9 tent pitches and 2 camper van hookups available.

Burnmouth Bothy

Burnmouth Bothy

If you are heading to the southern islands of Orkney then the Burnmouth Bothy is an ideal rural setting. It sits beside Rackwick Beach which is famous for its giant boulders.

B&B Orkney

B&B Orkney

Bead & Breakfast stays are a great alternative to hotels as each one offers a truly unique experience at a fraction of the cost. They offer relaxation and convenience as well as a highly personal experience. Take a look at some of our favorite B&B’s in Orkney.

Burnside Bed & Breakfast

Burnside Bed & Breakfast

This Bed & Breakfast is situated within a dairy farm a short walk away from Stromness. It has been accredited as a 4-star accommodation by the Scottish Tourist Board. This family-run business is extremely popular with return visitors and breakfast is their specialty. It offers luxury and seclusion as well as astonishing views of Stromness, Hoy, and over Scapa Flow. Only a 20-minute drive away from Kirkwall, Orkney this 1940’s house has all the usual amenities such as; TV, free wifi, hot showers, tea & coffee making facilities, and a garden for your use. Dogs are welcome and prices start from as little as £50 per night.

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Eastward Guest House

Eastward Guest House

This guesthouse accommodation option is the top-rated and reviewed bed & breakfast in St Margaret’s Hope a small settlement in the north end of South Ronaldsay. Famous for their restaurant, The Missing Bell, a 3-course gourmet breakfast is included as standard as well as a bedtime hot chocolate is thrown in. The location is perfect if you would like to be close to the sea, secluded beaches and cliff top walks. Free parking, free wifi, a resident’s garden, laundry facilities, and a guest lounge are available.

Aviedale Bed & Breakfast

Aviedale Bed & Breakfast

The Aviedale B&B is a two-bedroom guest house run by hospitable couple Dave and Katie. Visitors can find Aviedale accommodation in the west of the Island. This B&B has fantastic views out to sea. There plenty of historic sites within reach. There is a large south-facing garden with patio area and picnic bench. Free on-site parking available. You will have a choice of a hot breakfast or continental Buffet. Upon arrival, guests will find toiletries, a hairdryer, and hot drink making facilities in the room.

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Other Accommodation Options in Scottish Isles