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Our top choices for Sanday hotels

Royal Oak Guest House

Royal Oak Guest House
2.0 star property
Kirkwall
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (52 reviews)
"Wonderful warm family atmosphere, great renovated rooms, excellent breakfast. Good location with a short walk to the center of Kirkwall and convenient parking. "
Canada
james
The price is £99
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
Royal Oak Guest House

The Shore

The Shore
3.0 star property
Kirkwall
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (174 reviews)
"Clean rooms. Friendly staff. Great Location. What more could you want. "
United Kingdom
Lewis
The price is £115
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
The Shore

Albert Hotel

Albert Hotel
3.0 star property
Kirkwall
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (266 reviews)
"Clean room, welcoming staff and good food. Nice location in a beautiful part of Scotland."
Canada
Gered
The price is £114
includes taxes & fees
20 Mar - 21 Mar
Albert Hotel

The Ayre Hotel

The Ayre Hotel
3.0 star property
Kirkwall
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (228 reviews)
"The staff at the Ayre were wonderful: warm, friendly, helpful, attentive. The room was ok, nothing special. Menu in the restaurant/pub was ok, nothing special. We were there over the New Year, stayed for 7 days... Again, the staff were wonderful!"
United States
Bree
The price is £78
includes taxes & fees
5 Mar - 6 Mar
The Ayre Hotel

The Orkney Hotel

The Orkney Hotel
3.0 star property
Kirkwall
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (75 reviews)
"Friendly staff, great food and comfortable room, lovely place"
United Kingdom
Antony
The price is £140
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
The Orkney Hotel

Karrawa Guest House

Karrawa Guest House
3.0 star property
Kirkwall
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (114 reviews)
"Our stay was wonderful; the hosts were so friendly and the B&B was spotless. Breakfast was delicious with great choices, and we would happily return."
United Kingdom
Matthew Simon
The price is £81
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
Karrawa Guest House

Grainbank Mews

Grainbank Mews
3.0 star property
Kirkwall
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (8 reviews)
"Beautiful property located a short walk from the city centre, great rooms, friendly staff. "
Norway
Magnus
The price is £81
includes taxes & fees
27 Feb - 28 Feb
Grainbank Mews
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Stay near popular Sanday attractions

Learn more about Sanday

Love island views, beaches and monuments? Get away to Sanday!

Road alongside Bay of Sandquoy Road runs alongside the eastern shore of the Bay of Sandquoy , only just above the high tide level on the island of Sanday.
Photo by Pauline W
Open Photo by Pauline W

Top Sanday Hotel Reviews

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Hotels in Sanday with star rating

Find out more about Sanday

Top reasons to visit Sanday

  • Stunning Sandy Beaches: Sanday boasts some of the most picturesque sandy beaches in Scotland, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
  • Rich Historical Heritage: Visitors can discover fascinating archaeological sites and historic lighthouses that tell the island's rich story.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching amidst breathtaking landscapes.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through engaging tours and community events.
  • Diverse Accommodation: A range of lodging options, from charming guesthouses to unique hostels, caters to all travellers.

Find great hotels near Sanday

Discover a delightful stay in Sanday, Scotland, where a variety of accommodation options await you. From charming guesthouses to the unique Rock Hostel, visitors can enjoy self-catering facilities and pet-friendly options. Immerse yourself in the stunning beachside setting while experiencing the warm hospitality of local establishments like Backaskaill Farmhouse, perfect for a relaxing getaway in this picturesque island destination.

  • Albert Hotel: Nestled 14.3km from Sanday, the Albert Hotel is a charming 3-star accommodation that offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. With an inviting restaurant and bar and a welcoming coffee shop, guests can indulge in hearty breakfasts and relaxing dinners. The hotel features modern entertainment options, including digital and flatscreen TVs, ensuring you stay connected and entertained during your visit. Ideal for travellers seeking a homely atmosphere, the Albert Hotel is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
  • The Shore: The Shore, also located 14.3km from Sanday, is a 3-star haven that caters to both relaxation and adventure. This hotel impresses with its varied dining options, including wrapped meals for breakfast and dinner, along with a bar and lounge area for unwinding in the evening. Guests can enjoy entertainment on LCD and digital TVs while being just a stone's throw away from bustling shopping districts and the vibrant city centre. The Shore is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying a comfortable stay.
  • St Ola Hotel: Situated 14.3km from Sanday, the St Ola Hotel offers a warm guesthouse experience with a focus on comfort and local charm. This 3-star lodging features a delightful restaurant and bar, with various breakfast options available on weekdays and weekends. Guests can unwind with entertainment amenities like flatscreen TVs and an iPod docking station. Nearby, the historical district and ocean views provide perfect opportunities for exploration and relaxation. St Ola Hotel is ideal for those seeking a friendly atmosphere along with easy access to the beauty of the area.

Where to stay near Sanday

Sanday, a captivating island in Orkney, is the perfect destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning sandy beaches and rich historical sites, visitors can immerse themselves in the island's unique culture. Whether you're seeking family adventures, romantic getaways, or simply a peaceful retreat, Sanday offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveller's desires. Explore the beauty of this sandy isle and enjoy a memorable trip to Sanday.

  • Stronsay: Situated 5.6km from Sanday, Stronsay is a charming island city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and romantic seaside experiences. The area is particularly popular among visitors looking to enjoy its scenic beaches and tranquil marina. With a steady flow of tourists, especially peaking in January and the summer months from June to July, Stronsay boasts highlights such as its picturesque dock port and impressive monuments. It's a perfect spot for those wanting to indulge in nature and soak up the local culture.
  • North Ronaldsay: Located 6.2km from Sanday, North Ronaldsay is a delightful destination known for its seasonal influx of tourists, particularly in late spring and summer. Families and adventure seekers flock here to explore its stunning landscapes and partake in various outdoor activities. The island features a planetarium observatory, providing a unique vantage point for stargazing. Notable landmarks include a historic lighthouse and a visitor centre, making North Ronaldsay an educational and exciting place to visit for all ages.
  • Eday: A close neighbour at 5.6km from Sanday, Eday is an inviting city that offers a moderately seasonal experience for visitors, with peak arrivals from July to September. The island is known for its serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. While Eday is quieter during the off-peak months, it provides a peaceful retreat with opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The local community’s warm hospitality ensures an enjoyable and memorable stay.

Things to do near Sanday

Sanday, Scotland, is ideal for a beach, outdoor, and cultural holiday. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including a fascinating planetarium observatory and engaging archaeology tours. A day trip around the island allows you to explore its stunning landscapes and rich heritage, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and cultural experiences.

Shopping

In Sanday, you can explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs, including the charming Sanday Craft Shop. If you're up for a drive, head to Kirkwall, about 9.3km away, where you’ll find larger stores and a variety of local crafts at the Orkney Market.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at Sanday's holistic wellness centre, where you can indulge in yoga sessions and rejuvenating massages. Explore the island's stunning beaches and scenic walks, immersing yourself in nature while enjoying the fresh coastal air and captivating views.

Adventure

Explore the rugged beauty of Sanday by cycling along scenic coastal paths, where you can encounter stunning sea cliffs and wildlife. For an exhilarating experience, try kayaking in the crystal-clear waters, offering a unique perspective of the island's natural wonders.

Nightlife

While Sanday offers a serene atmosphere, for a lively experience, travel 5.6km to the North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory. Enjoy stargazing at the planetarium and immerse yourself in family-friendly entertainment vibes, perfect for a fun night out with loved ones.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sanday

To save money on your trip to Sanday, consider visiting in February or November to December for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and preferred amenities, and consider eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can lead to further savings. Look out for discounted rates indicated by a green banner on Expedia.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sanday are February and November to December, 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 in Sanday is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sanday is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Sanday is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you envision. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To discover the most competitive prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your Sanday hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Sanday

Sanday is perfect for a beach, outdoor, and culture-themed getaway. Visitors can explore historic lighthouses and buildings, as well as enjoy the stunning beaches that the island has to offer. Whether you're keen on immersing yourself in local culture or simply relaxing by the shore, Sanday provides a delightful experience for all types of travellers.

  • Quoyness Chambered Tomb: This ancient burial site offers a captivating glimpse into Scotland's prehistoric past. The tomb is steeped in cultural significance and provides a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflective exploration.
  • Tofts Ness: An intriguing archaeological site, Tofts Ness invites visitors to uncover the rich history of Sanday. With its impressive ruins and cultural vibes, it's a fantastic spot for history enthusiasts and curious wanderers alike.
  • Cata Sand: just 1.6km from Sanday, Cata Sand boasts stunning sandy beaches and picturesque views. With its inviting shoreline, it’s an ideal location for a relaxing day by the sea or a leisurely stroll along the coast.

Best time to go to Sanday

The best time to visit Sanday can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sanday falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Sanday falls in February, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
March43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
June52.0°F (11.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October51.6°F (10.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Sanday

Flying into Sanday, Scotland, is convenient via Kirkwall Airport (KOI), situated 14.9km away. This airport serves several airlines, making it accessible for travellers. For accommodation near Kirkwall, consider the Lynnfield Hotel, a 4-star option only 1.2km from the airport. Alternatively, Hildeval B&B, also rated 4 stars, is located 1.9km away, while Graemeshall House, another 4-star B&B, is 2.5km from the airport. These hotels offer comfortable stays and easy access to transportation services, ensuring a smooth journey to Sanday for your vacation.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Sanday?
The best area to stay in Sanday is typically near the main village of Lady, as it offers the most convenient access to amenities and local points of interest.

Lady is the heart of Sanday, located centrally on the island. It's where you'll find the island's main shop, the local pub, and the Sanday Heritage Centre. The area is quite spread out, with many accommodations being self-catering cottages dotted around the village and surrounding countryside, providing a truly rural experience. It's also well-situated for exploring the island's various beaches, such as the expansive white sands of Ayre of Lambi.

Couples looking for a tranquil escape will find Lady and its surrounding areas ideal. The quiet lanes and stunning coastal paths offer plenty of opportunities for peaceful walks and enjoying the island's natural beauty. Many accommodations here provide privacy and stunning views, superb for a relaxing getaway.

For those interested in exploring the island's history and natural environment, staying near Lady provides easy access to archaeological sites like the Cata Sand and the Sanday Lighthouse at Start Point.
When is the best time to go to Sanday?
The best time to go to Sanday is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is at its mildest and the days are longest.

During this period, you'll experience comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from 12°C to 16°C, making it ideal for exploring the island's coastline and archaeological sites. The extended daylight hours, often stretching until late in the evening, provide ample opportunity for outdoor activities like birdwatching, walking, and visiting the numerous sandy beaches. This time of year also sees the most frequent ferry services, offering convenience for travellers.

Couples looking for a relaxing escape will find the summer particularly appealing. The long, bright evenings are superb for enjoying quiet strolls along the beaches, such as the expansive sands of Whitemill Bay, or simply taking in the peaceful island scenery. Many local craft shops and cafes are also fully operational during these months, adding to the visitor experience.

For solo travellers interested in nature and history, the summer offers the best conditions for exploring Sanday's rich birdlife and ancient sites like the Quoyness Chambered Cairn.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Sanday.
How can I save on a Sanday hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best Sanday hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Sanday hotel?
Prices for hotels in Sanday often vary, but you can find a great deal from £78 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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