A large stone building with a central entrance and two wings, surrounded by a grassy hill.

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Tomorrow
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Next weekend
4 Sept - 6 Sept
In two weeks
11 Sept - 13 Sept

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Our top choices for Symbister hotels

1. Brae Hotel

Brae Hotel
Brae
United States
Cindy
£108
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Brae Hotel

2. Busta House Hotel

Busta House Hotel
Busta
United Kingdom
Marc
£174
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Busta House Hotel

3. Shetland Hotel

Shetland Hotel
Lerwick
United States
Michael
£209
includes taxes & fees
30 Sept - 1 Oct
Shetland Hotel

4. The Westings

The Westings
Whiteness
United Kingdom
Findlay
£146
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
The Westings

5. Varis House

Varis House
Lerwick
United States
Gillian
£112
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Varis House

6. Eddlewood Guest House

Eddlewood Guest House
Lerwick
Australia
Alan
£173
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Eddlewood Guest House

7. Scalloway Hotel

Scalloway Hotel
Scalloway
United Kingdom
John
£159
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Scalloway Hotel

8. St Magnus Bay Hotel

St Magnus Bay Hotel
Hillswick
United Kingdom
Pauric
£178
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
St Magnus Bay Hotel

9. Lerwick Hotel

Lerwick Hotel
Lerwick
United States
Denise
£215
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Lerwick Hotel

10. The Queen's Hotel

The Queen's Hotel
Lerwick
United States
Wendy
£144
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
The Queen's Hotel
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Stay near popular Symbister attractions

Whalsay Leisure Centre

Enjoy an outing to Whalsay Leisure Centre during your stay in Symbister.
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Learn more about Symbister

Check out the local area in Symbister as you venture to sights like Whalsay Leisure Centre.

See all hotels in Symbister
A rural landscape with rolling hills, scattered houses, and a clear sky.
Photo by Des Blenkinsopp

Top Symbister Hotel Reviews

Busta House Hotel

Busta House Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"★★★★★ Busta House was one of the absolute highlights of our time in Shetland. We stayed in the Noss Room, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like we had landed somewhere genuinely special. The house itself is beautiful—historic, full of character and atmosphere, and exactly the sort of place you hope to find when travelling somewhere like Shetland. It doesn’t feel manufactured or overly polished; it feels authentic, warm and wonderfully connected to the place and its history. The grounds are beautiful as well. We loved having the freedom to simply step outside and wander, stroll around the property and explore. There is something pretty wonderful about being able to start or end your day with a walk around the grounds, taking in the landscape and the quiet of Shetland without having to go anywhere at all. And the location was absolutely perfect for us. We wanted to experience every aspect of Shetland, rather than stay in one area, and Busta House gave us an ideal base from which to do exactly that. We explored coastlines, beaches and cliffs, went searching for wildlife, travelled through tiny communities and headed as far north as Yell and Unst. We covered an extraordinary amount of Shetland during our stay, and Busta always felt perfectly positioned in the middle of our adventures. After long days of windswept coastlines, wildlife, tiny roads and Shetland adventures, coming back to Busta felt like coming home. We loved settling in, having a drink, talking about eve"
Jodie 4-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Busta House Hotel
Scalloway Hotel

Scalloway Hotel

8/10 Good
"Great staff and food… great location to sightsee…. Rooms smallish but comfortable….quiet….."
John 5-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Scalloway Hotel
Shetland Hotel

Shetland Hotel

8/10 Good
"Across the street from the ferry terminal is exceptionally convenient!"
Michael 2-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Shetland Hotel
St Magnus Bay Hotel

St Magnus Bay Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Comfortable hotel and friendly helpful staff."
Helen 2-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
St Magnus Bay Hotel
Fort Charlotte Guesthouse

Fort Charlotte Guesthouse

10/10 Excellent
"I had a lovely stay here, it is well located and the room I was in was well kept. I will say watch out for the step into the bathroom as the door is misleading! Also if you're more than a size 12 you will struggle to wash yourself in the shower without banging your elbows on something! The in room tea and coffee making facilities, along with the small fridge were appreciated. I had an issue with the toilet flush which was dealt with in an expedient manner. I would stay here again :)"
Zoe 2-night trip
Posted 8 days ago
Fort Charlotte Guesthouse
Varis House

Varis House

10/10 Excellent
"Great self service breakfast anytime in the morning. Friendly staff , good location . Comfy bed."
Gillian 1-night trip
Posted 13 days ago
Varis House
Eddlewood Guest House

Eddlewood Guest House

10/10 Excellent
"Best place to stay when visiting Shetland. Perfect location within Shetland and within Lerwick. Walkable to everything in Lerwick. The owner Peter is great. The breakfast was very nice and the room was cozy. Very quiet and clean property. We loved it there."
Joseph 7-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Eddlewood Guest House
NEW to VRBO: Spacious House w/ Coastal Views & Private Garden

NEW to VRBO: Spacious House w/ Coastal Views & Private Garden

8/10 Good
"Lovely house , clean and well equipped. Amazing location with sea views . We would definitely stay again . Shetland Stays the property agency are first class , they couldn’t have been more helpful and professional."
Paul T. 7-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
NEW to VRBO: Spacious House w/ Coastal Views & Private Garden
Easterhoull Chalets

Easterhoull Chalets

8/10 Good
"Sarah the host was lovely and we enjoyed her art/gallery and garden. Chalet was in a good position if you have a car. We didn't know you couldn't drive your car to your chalet - suitcases have to be lugged up and down steps. We would have liked some outdoor seating. Kitchen was small but good and had everything we needed. Lsundry was fine. I thought the chalets were near a beach because of the photos but they weren't."
Joanne 5-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Easterhoull Chalets

More cheap stays in Symbister

Brae Hotel

Brae Hotel

Brae Hotel Brae Scotland
£108
9 Sept - 10 Sept
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (117 reviews)
Brae Hotel
Varis House

Varis House

26 Church Road Lerwick Scotland
£112
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (281 reviews)
Varis House
St Magnus Bay Hotel

St Magnus Bay Hotel

A970 Hillswick Scotland
£178
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (27 reviews)
St Magnus Bay Hotel
Fort Charlotte Guesthouse

Fort Charlotte Guesthouse

1 Charlotte Street Lerwick Scotland
Get rates
10/10 Exceptional! (96 reviews)
Fort Charlotte Guesthouse
Westings Inn

Westings Inn

Wormadale Whiteness Scotland
Get rates
9.4/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
Westings Inn

Hotels in Symbister with star rating

Find out more about Symbister

Top reasons to visit Symbister

  • Stunning Natural Beauty: Experience the breathtaking landscapes and scenic coastal walks around Symbister, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
  • Rich Maritime Heritage: Explore the historic Symbister Old Harbour and learn about the local fishing community's traditions.
  • Wildlife Observation: Enjoy birdwatching and boat trips to witness the diverse marine life in the surrounding waters.
  • Warm Local Hospitality: Experience the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service at local bed and breakfast options.
  • Historical Attractions: Visit the notable Symbister House and other landmarks to delve into the area's rich history.

Find great hotels near Symbister

Discover the charm of Symbister, Whalsay, where a selection of delightful bed and breakfast options and hotels await. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly retreat, a family-friendly experience, or facilities for business travel, you'll find accommodating options nearby. Enjoy the local hospitality with easy access to Symbister House, the picturesque harbour, and the historic estate, all while being supported by helpful staff who are eager to enhance your stay.

  • Brae Hotel: With a commendable guest rating of 9.2, Brae Hotel offers an inviting and budget-friendly environment for travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Located 19.3km from Symbister, this hotel is ideal for business travellers and those travelling with pets, as it allows certain pets on-site. Guests appreciate the thoughtful amenities, including food and water bowls and waived fees for service animals, ensuring a pleasant stay. Its welcoming atmosphere and practical facilities make it a suitable choice for those looking to explore the scenic beauty of Whalsay.
  • Busta House Hotel: Boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.6, Busta House Hotel combines traditional charm with modern amenities. Situated 19.3km from Symbister, this 3-star establishment is perfect for both business and leisure travellers, particularly for those with pets due to its pet-friendly policies. Guests can enjoy complimentary stays for their furry friends while benefiting from the hotel’s excellent service and warm hospitality. With a reputation for quality dining options and a welcoming atmosphere, Busta House Hotel is a fantastic choice for a relaxing getaway.
  • Drumquin Guest House: Rated an impressive 10.0, Drumquin Guest House offers a homely and intimate experience just 19.3km from Symbister. This charming guesthouse provides a delightful selection of dining options, including a bar and restaurant, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Guests can enjoy entertainment amenities such as satellite TV and in-room televisions, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Drumquin’s attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction make it an outstanding option for those seeking a cosy retreat in Whalsay.

Where to stay near Symbister

Symbister, a charming village on Whalsay, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Explore the historic Symbister Old Harbour, where you can soak in the maritime atmosphere, or venture further to uncover the stunning landscapes of Shetland. Whether you're seeking scenic coastal walks, rich local heritage, or simply a serene beach retreat, Symbister serves as an ideal base for discovering the beauty and culture of Scotland's enchanting isles.

  • Shetland: Situated approximately 11.3km from Symbister, Shetland is a vibrant city that attracts seasonal visitors, particularly during the summer months from June to August. This destination is perfect for those seeking a rich cultural experience, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking landscapes. Popular activities include accessing scenic hiking trails that wind through the stunning terrain. Notable local landmarks such as the history museum, monuments, and memorials provide a glimpse into the region’s heritage, making Shetland a must-visit for culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.
  • Vidlin: Just 6.4km from Symbister, Vidlin is a charming city known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Like Shetland, Vidlin experiences a peak in tourist arrivals during the summer months, with fewer visitors in the winter. The area is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature, with access to various trails perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding landscapes. The tranquillity and stunning vistas make Vidlin a delightful stop for anyone seeking an adventure in the great outdoors.
  • Burravoe: Located about 17.7km from Symbister, Burravoe is a quaint city that offers a unique cultural experience for visitors. As with the other nearby locations, its visitor numbers peak during the summer months. Burravoe is home to fascinating local landmarks, including history museums that showcase the area’s rich past. The charming atmosphere and cultural offerings make it an excellent choice for those looking to delve into the heritage and stories of the region while enjoying the scenic beauty that surrounds it.

Things to do in Symbister

In Symbister, Whalsay, visitors can explore the stunning natural beauty and rich maritime heritage of the Shetland Islands. A local tourist guide can provide insights into the area’s history, culture, and wildlife, making for an enriching experience. You may also enjoy scenic walks, birdwatching, and perhaps even a boat trip to observe marine life. The community’s warm hospitality ensures a welcoming atmosphere for all tourists.

Shopping

In Symbister, you can explore local shops for unique gifts and souvenirs, offering a taste of Whalsay culture. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Lerwick shops for a wider variety of options, including artisan crafts and traditional Scottish goods.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at the Whalsay Wellness Retreat, where you can indulge in holistic treatments and yoga sessions overlooking the sea. For outdoor activities, explore the scenic coastal paths or enjoy birdwatching, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Symbister and its surroundings.

Adventure

In Symbister, explore the breathtaking coastal paths for scenic hikes, or try your hand at fishing with local charters. Experience the rich marine life by kayaking around the islands, and don’t miss the chance to visit the fascinating local heritage centre to learn about Whalsay's history.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of Symbister by visiting the local tavern for a warm atmosphere and hearty ales. Enjoy a relaxed evening at the community hall, where you might catch a folk music night or a quiz, immersing yourself in the friendly spirit of Whalsay.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Symbister

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Symbister are April and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Symbister about 3+ months out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Symbister is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Symbister is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can easily arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your selection by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Symbister hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Symbister

Symbister, located on Whalsay, offers a delightful mix of attractions, including its bustling fishing harbour, rich history, and scenic beaches. Visitors can explore the historical significance of Symbister House and capture stunning photographs of local landmarks. With its picturesque scenery and cultural experiences, Symbister is a perfect destination for those seeking a taste of Shetland Island's charm.

  • Sullom Voe Oil Terminal: Situated 19.3km from Symbister, this impressive oil terminal showcases the industrial heritage of the Shetland Islands. Visitors can appreciate its significance and the cultural vibrancy of the area, as it plays a pivotal role in the local economy.
  • Ayre of Hamnavoe: Only 9.7km away, this stunning beach offers a tranquil escape with its soft sands and picturesque views. Perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply soaking up the sun, it embodies the serene beauty of Scotland's coastline.
  • Lunna Kirk: Located just 8.0km from Symbister, this historic church is steeped in culture and charm. Its unique architecture and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for reflection and appreciation of local heritage.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Symbister

For your visit to Symbister, Whalsay, you can fly into Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh), situated 53.1km away. A few recommended hotels nearby include The Spiggie Hotel, a charming 3.5-star guesthouse located 6.4km from the airport, and the Orca Country Inn, which offers a comfortable double room and is 12.9km away. Additionally, there's a family room option at a guesthouse, also 12.9km from the airport. Another option is Fair Isle (FIE), located 96.6km from Symbister. Transportation services from these hotels to Lerwick (LSI-Sumburgh) ensure a smooth journey to your destination.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Symbister?
The best area to stay in Symbister is the village centre itself, particularly around the harbour.This area is the heart of Symbister, offering convenient access to local amenities and the picturesque waterfront. You'll find the main shop, the local pub, and the ferry terminal all within a short walk. The harbour is a working port, so there's always some activity to observe, and the surrounding scenery with the hills and sea is quite striking.For couples looking for a peaceful getaway, staying in the village centre provides a chance to experience the local pace of life. You can enjoy strolls along the harbour, dine at the local eatery, and easily access walks around the headland for stunning coastal views.For those interested in exploring the wider island of Whalsay, the village centre's proximity to the ferry terminal makes it an ideal base.
When is the best time to go to Symbister?
The best time to visit Symbister is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is at its mildest and daylight hours are longest.During this period, you can expect average temperatures around 12-15°C, which is comfortable for exploring the island. The extended daylight means you have more time for outdoor activities, such as coastal walks around the harbour or discovering the smaller, more remote parts of the island. It's also the best time for wildlife spotting, including seabirds and marine life.Travellers who prefer a quieter experience and don't mind cooler temperatures might consider late spring (May) or early autumn (September). While the weather can be a bit more unpredictable, these months often offer pleasant days, fewer crowds, and the chance to see the landscape transform with spring blooms or autumn colours.
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 Symbister.
How much is the nightly rate at a Symbister hotel?
Prices for hotels in Symbister often vary, but you can find a great deal from £108 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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