Balfour Castle

Things to do in Balfour Castle

When visiting Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, Scotland, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities including scenic ferry rides, diving adventures, and sightseeing tours. Additionally, horse riding is a popular option for those looking to explore the beautiful surroundings. Don't forget to check out the local maps for detailed information on the best activities and experiences available at the castle and its vicinity.

Shopping

At Balfour Castle, you can explore charming local shops for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Kirkwall, about 7.5km away, where you'll find the Orkney Artisan Market and St. Magnus Centre for a wider selection of gifts and crafts.

Recreation

Balfour Castle offers a tranquil retreat with stunning coastal views and lush gardens, perfect for relaxation. Enjoy guided nature walks, yoga sessions in picturesque settings, and rejuvenating spa treatments that harness local ingredients, ensuring a holistic wellness experience amidst the beauty of Shapinsay.

Adventure

Balfour Castle, nestled on Shapinsay, offers guided tours showcasing its rich history and stunning architecture. Explore the surrounding gardens, enjoy birdwatching, or partake in kayaking around the island’s picturesque coastline for an adventurous experience that immerses you in Scotland’s natural beauty.

Nightlife

At Balfour Castle, enjoy a serene evening with intimate gatherings in the castle's elegant lounge, where local whiskies flow and the atmosphere is rich with history. Nearby, the charming tavern offers live folk music, creating a delightful blend of relaxation and entertainment for a memorable night.

Find the best attractions near Balfour Castle

Visitors to Balfour Castle can immerse themselves in the rich history of this magnificent site while exploring local attractions such as historic ruins and beautiful beaches. Discover the captivating story of Balfour Castle and capture stunning images of its architecture. For a more in-depth experience, consider exploring nearby points of interest that showcase the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Shapinsay.

• Earl's Palace: Explore the atmospheric ruins of Earl's Palace, a 16th-century residence showcasing Renaissance architecture. The remnants of its grand structure evoke a sense of history and culture, providing a fascinating insight into the lives of the Earls of Orkney.
• St. Magnus Cathedral: Visit the majestic St. Magnus Cathedral, often referred to as the 'Light of the North'. Its striking red and yellow sandstone exterior and intricate stained glass windows create a serene cultural experience steeped in over eight centuries of history.
• Orkney Museum: Delve into the rich heritage of Orkney at the Orkney Museum. This history museum offers engaging exhibits that span from the prehistoric era to modern times, immersing visitors in the unique cultural tapestry of the islands.

Best time to go to Balfour Castle

The best time to visit Balfour Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balfour Castle

To save money on your trip to Balfour Castle, consider visiting between November and January when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Fridays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and eco-certification for sustainable options. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to significant savings through package deals.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Balfour Castle are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Balfour Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Balfour Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Balfour Castle is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Balfour Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.