TOP Historic Hotels in Kirkwall for 2026

A historic church with a prominent tower and a surrounding graveyard.

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Recommended hotels in Kirkwall

Desk, iron/ironing board (on request), free WiFi, bed sheets

1. West End Guest House

Kirkwall

"A very friendly welcome, they were happy to accommodate our very late (11.30pm) arrival after we travelled there on the ferry. The owners have recently taken it over and in the last few weeks completed an overhaul of the bar/restaurant area which looks lovely. We didn't try the evening meals but the breakfasts were phenomenal, a proper Scottish breakfast that really sets you up for the day. Very friendly hosts helped us to work out what to do during the day and suggested good walks and so...

Tanya

£126

includes taxes & fees

4 Oct - 5 Oct

One Bedroom Apartment | Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets

2. The Ayre Hotel

Kirkwall

Julie

£104

includes taxes & fees

2 Oct - 3 Oct

3. Albert Hotel

Kirkwall

Cynthia

£162

includes taxes & fees

24 Sept - 25 Sept

4. The Shore

Kirkwall

"We were very pleasantly surprised to learn our 1 room family suite had 2 separate bedrooms. Beds were very comfortable and the bathroom was nice. Only issues were that we only had 1 key which made it tricky every time we went separate places. Also there was an illuminated exit sign in the king bedroom we had to cover up it was so bright, and when others shut their doors it would thump ours. Loved the skylights, was a bit stuffy but those helped. Loved the breakfast!"

Beth

£211

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

Deluxe Double Room | Desk, iron/ironing board (on request), free WiFi, bed sheets

5. The Orkney Hotel

Kirkwall

David

£155

includes taxes & fees

2 Oct - 3 Oct

Deluxe Triple Room | Desk, laptop workspace, free WiFi, bed sheets

6. The Stromness Hotel

Stromness

Debra

£84

includes taxes & fees

19 Oct - 20 Oct

Fridge, oven, dishwasher, electric kettle

7. 2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

Kirkwall

£221

includes taxes & fees

20 Sept - 21 Sept

Classic Suite, Ensuite, Sea View (First & Second Floor ) | Room amenity

8. The Sands Hotel

Burray

Susan

£220

includes taxes & fees

20 Sept - 21 Sept

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Top Kirkwall Hotel Reviews

Albert Hotel

8/10 Good

"Recently renovated room. Very comfortable and great shower."

Frequently asked questions

What should a history enthusiast expect from a trip to Kirkwall?

People visiting Kirkwall may want to book a tour of the historical sites. Why not absorb the local colour with a visit to the bars?

How many historical hotels are located in Kirkwall?

In Kirkwall, you'll find 29 hotels and other lodging options bookable on Expedia but not many designated as historic hotels.

What are the top historical sites and other places in Kirkwall?

Favourite places to visit include Highland Park Distillery, Orkney Museum and Orkney Wireless Museum. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Scapa Beach and The Orkney Library & Archive.

What is a historic hotel like in Kirkwall?

By booking a historic hotel, guests can stay someplace that has an official historic designation. A palace, castle, stately home or even a lodge, pub or skyscraper can be identified as a historic hotel provided that it's of special interest. Traditional architecture and period features are typically found within the guestrooms or public spaces of historic hotels in Kirkwall, giving a historical feel.

What is the difference between a historic hotel and a heritage hotel?

"Heritage hotel" is a term often used in Asia and Europe, wheareas the term "historic hotel" is more commonly used in the U.S. though overall the terms are quite similar. The architecture and building of historic hotels are generally the most significant aspect. For a heritage hotel, mainly, it's cultural value as well as how it shaped the community.

Do historic hotels in Kirkwall have modern facilities?

Hotel interiors feature the modern conveniences and safety features you've come to expect, though efforts have been made to preserve treasured traditions and historic facades. Private rooms with updated bathroom facilities, free WiFi and the amenities found in a hotel will be available in a historic hotel. When you book a historic hotel in Kirkwall, don't worry that you'll find a place that's uncomfortable for guests or simply rundown.

Room 1

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Kirkwall Historic Hotels

Recommended hotels in Kirkwall

1. West End Guest House

2. The Ayre Hotel

3. Albert Hotel

4. The Shore

5. The Orkney Hotel

6. The Stromness Hotel

7. 2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

8. The Sands Hotel

9. Ferry Inn Stromness

10. The Royal Hotel Stromness

Top Kirkwall Hotel Reviews

Albert Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Search Historic Hotels in Kirkwall

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Kirkwall Historic Hotels

Recommended hotels in Kirkwall

1. West End Guest House

2. The Ayre Hotel

3. Albert Hotel

4. The Shore

5. The Orkney Hotel

6. The Stromness Hotel

7. 2-bed Townhouse, Sleeps 4 With Enclosed Garden

8. The Sands Hotel

9. Ferry Inn Stromness

10. The Royal Hotel Stromness

Top Kirkwall Hotel Reviews

Albert Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia