orkney accommodation guide

www.visitorkney.com

Orkney Islands

Where to Stay & What to See & Do 2012

For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com

Welcome to...

OrkneyJust off the north coast of Scotland, an archipelago of around 70 islands and skerries creates a glittering array of shapes set against clear blue waters. Uninhabited isles offer a world of serenity while the Orkney Mainland houses the majority of the population. Beautiful beaches combine with heritage, culture and wonderful wildlife to make any trip to Orkney distinct and magical.

Disclaimer VisitScotland has published this guide in good faith to reflect information submitted to it by the proprietors/managers of the premises listed who have paid for their entries to be included. Although VisitScotland has taken reasonable steps to confirm the information

contained in the guide at the time of going to press, it cannot guarantee that the information published is and remains accurate. Accordingly, VisitScotland recommends that all information is checked with the proprietor/manager of the premises prior to booking to ensure that the

accommodation, facilities, its price and all other aspects of the premises are satisfactory. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation contained in the guide and excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the information

contained in the guide. VisitScotland also cannot accept any liability for loss caused by the bankruptcy, or liquidation, or insolvency, or cessation of trade of any company, firm or individual contained in this guide. Quality Assurance awards are correct as of October 2011.

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To find out more about the Orkney Islands go to www.visitorkney.com 01

02 Exploring the Mainland and South Isles

04 Exploring the North Isles

06 A journey through history

08 Inspirational Orkney

10 Get close to nature

12 Get active outdoors

14 Flavours of the isles

16 Fun for all the family

17 The Energy Islands

18 What’s on

20 Travel tips

22 Quality Assurance

24 VisitScotland Information Centres

25 How to read the listings

26 Hotels and Inns

29 Guest Houses and B&Bs

34 Self Catering

51 Camping and Caravan Parks

52 Hostels/Activity Accommodation

57 Great days out – Places to visit

60 Great days out – Leisure activities

61 Great days out – Shopping, arts & crafts

63 Great days out – Food & drink

65 Great days out – Transport

66 Great days out – Tours

76 Shop at VisitOrkney

79 Stromness street map

80 Kirkwall street map

81 Orkney Islands area map

CreditsPhotography: Paul Tomkins/VisitScotland/Scottish Viewpoint, Iain Sarjeant, Daniel J Allen, Chris Jex, John Hinckley, OpenHydro, Aquamarine Power, Kenny Ritch, Orkney Folk Festival, Leonard Bain, Alamy and NorthLink Ferries.

Design: APS Group | www.apsgroup.co.uk, Stand | www.stand-united.co.uk andTHK Design | www.thkdesign.com

This brochure is printed on recycled content paper. VisitScotland is committed to ensuring that our environment, upon which our tourism is so dependent, is safe guarded for future generations to enjoy.

Cover Sands of Mussetter, Eday.01 Clouds over the hills of Hoy, as seen from Mainland Orkney.02 Young musicians busking on Broad Street, Kirkwall.03 Some of the stones that make up the Ring of Brodgar in the Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

Contentswww.visitorkney.com

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02 For information and to book accommodation go to www.visitscotland.com

A voyage of discovery awaits in Orkney where island hopping is a way of life. A short flight or ferry crossing will transport you into a world of tranquility. Even if you only have time to visit one of the isles, make sure you take the opportunity to explore the coastline either on foot or by road to experience history, wildlife andbeautiful scenery.

KirkwallOrkney’s capital is a bustling market town and Royal Burgh, founded by Vikings around 1035. Kirkwall has a sense of magic, having stood for hundreds of years, and today you will discover a wonderful selection of craft shops, restaurants and cafés. The distinctive red sandstone of St Magnus Cathedral provides a focal point in the centre, a welcoming place of worship and serenity. A true reflection of the isles, the stone was quarried here and has weathered over time so that it is now an iconic part of what makes Kirkwall so very special.

West MainlandWith a variety of attractions, wonderful wildlife and some amazing scenery, the West Mainland is difficult to rival. It also boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Heart of Neolithic Orkney – where

you can see the Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe and Skara Brae. Here you will find the parishes of Sandwick, Birsay, Evie, Harray, Rendall, Firth, Stenness and Orphir. Spectacular cliff scenery contrasts with beautiful sandy beaches while the rich farmland and moorland provide habitats for numerous birds, plants and mammals. Visit Orphir, connected by ferry to Lyness and Flotta, and discover the unique Round Kirk which is just one part of the extensive Viking remains.

To the north, the Brough of Birsay is an uninhabited tidal island which you can reach on foot via a largely natural causeway. Explore the remains of both Pictish and Norse settlements and look out for puffins during the summer months. Birsay itself is home to the remains of the Earl’s Palace, constructed around a courtyard in the late 16th century.

East MainlandTo the east and south of Kirkwall lies the East Mainland. Relatively low-lying, this area is characterised by the two peninsulas of Tankerness and Deerness which provide beautiful views towards the North Isles. To the south, the Scottish mainland is easily visible from the parish of Holm on a clear day.

Copinsay is a dramatic isle lying off the coast where a lighthouse looms out of the landscape, perched on sheer cliffs. The north eastern rectangular sea stack is known as the Horse of Copinsay, separated from Copinsay by Horse Sound. Copinsay is also home to a vast seabird colony, including puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes, not to mention migrant birds, seals and rare flowers.

Exploring the Mainlandand South Isles

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South IslesHistory is everywhere in Orkney and the Churchill Barriers are a prime example of this. Concrete block barriers were created with the assistance of Italian prisoners of war after the sinking of the battleship HMS Royal Oak in 1939, today providing a road connecting a series of isles. Look out for the remains of blockships as you drive across these striking barriers.

South Ronaldsay lies just 10 km from John o’ Groats making it the closest of Orkney’s islands to the mainland. Catch a ferry to St Margaret’s Hope, the picturesque town which grew around this sheltered bay, to begin your journey of discovery, or start even further south with a ferry crossing into Burwick.

Head across the fourth Churchill Barrier to reach Burray, a popular spot for watersports including diving in the world-famous Scapa Flow, canoeing, sailing and water skiing. While you are there explore uninhabited Hunda in the west, which is a haven for wildlife and perfect for admiring birds and seals as you take a stroll.

Lamb Holm makes the perfect final stop, boasting a beautiful Italian Chapel, built by the same prisoners of war who built the barriers.

The South Isles afford some of the best panoramic views of Orkney, with vantage points in all directions. Hoy literally translates as ‘High Island’ and it owes its distinctive character to the hilly scenery in the north and west, while the south and east are more low-lying and fertile. Excellent hillwalking is on offer and there is a rich heritage to be uncovered, including the only rock-cut chambered tomb in Britain, known as the Dwarfie Stane. Flotta, from the Norse for ‘Flat Isle’, sits at the gateway to Scapa Flow, and is the only place in Orkney where the towns of Stromness and Kirkwall can be seen at the same time. With a charm all of its own, Graemsay is also worth a visit, a place where wild flowers carpet the

landscape and there is almost no traffic to disturb the tranquility. The peaceful atmosphere continues at Fara and Cava, both uninhabited isles in this beautiful archipelago.

StromnessWinding streets follow the shoreline in Stromness, which stretches out both into the sea along private piers and up into the hillside. Explore the quaint alleyways and absorb the atmosphere in this 18th century settlement, which boasts an array of shops and cafés, as well as Stromness Museum and the acclaimed Pier Arts Centre. The town has been a safe haven for mariners for centuries and still has a strong connection with the sea.

01 Inside the beautiful, ornate Italian Chapel on Lamb Holm.02 Taking in the views around the coastline at Yesnaby, West Mainland.03 Boats moored at the waterfront in Stromness.

Did you know?

The islands of Orkney are situated about 10 km from the north eastern tip of the Scottish mainland.

Stromness grew around a sheltered harbour as the fishing industry developed and trade routes opened with Canada.

Finstown on the West Mainland was named after an Irish soldier called David Phin who came to Orkney after the Napoleonic Wars.

The parish of Holm on the East Mainland is pronounced locally as ‘ham’.

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Exploring the North Isles

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The northern group of islands is the most extensive with each having its own distinctive character and amazing beaches, archaeological treasures, crafts shops and restaurants.

North RonaldsayFurther north than the southern tip of Norway, but with a mild climate, North Ronaldsay is the furthest flung of the Orkney Isles. Old traditions are still very evident here and there is a wealth of flora and fauna to discover. The famous North Ronaldsay sheep, kept off the land by a 21 km stone dyke, graze almost entirely on seaweed giving the meat a distinctive flavour prized by chefs. You can visit two historic lighthouses at Dennis Head with accommodation available in the lighthouse keepers’ cottages. Accommodation is also available at the Bird Observatory on the west of the island.

WestrayIt is easy to get around on Westray and you can explore the whole isle – either by bike, car or organised tour – in just one day, although there is enough to see and do to warrant a longer stay. This was one of the earliest parts of Orkney to be settled by Vikings and the historical highlights include both Neolithic and Norse settlements. Artists have long found inspiration in the landscapes of the isles and craft workers enjoy the natural materials and lengthy summer days. The Westray Development Trust is a group renowned for its initiatives in renewable energy and recycling with plans to make the island entirely self-sufficient in the future.

Papa WestrayGenerations of settlers have been attracted to the peaceful calm of Papa Westray, which may be due to its small size. From the dramatic cliffs to the rolling agricultural land, the scenery is varied. Visit Holland Farm for a fascinating insight into the history of this isle.

Rousay, Egilsay, Wyre and EynhallowRich in archaeological history, these isles have more than 160 sites to explore. Rousay boasts some of the best preserved monuments in Scotland, earning a reputation as the ‘Egypt of the North’. The

distinctive hilly scenery on the isle was carved out when glaciers spread across the land. The smaller neighbouring isles are also intriguing. Egilsay houses a round-towered church in memory of St Magnus, on Wyre you can see a Viking chieftain’s stronghold and Eynhallow was once a holy isle with evidence of a 12th century monastic settlement.

StronsayThree large bays and several sweeping beaches define the character and shape of Stronsay, which almost appears as if it has limbs extending into the sea. Whitehall village was formerly one of the busiest ports in Britain where herring boats landed their catch. Today you can glimpse this history with a visit to the heritage centre based at the old Fish Mart. Another highlight is the Mermaid’s Chair, a rock formation at Mill Bay where if you sit down, it is said that you can see into the future. North of here, Papa Stronsay has long been considered a holy isle while, to the south, Auskerry has a lighthouse which shines out across the Stronsay Firth.

SandayAnother distinctive lighthouse can be discovered on Sanday, dating back over 200 years. This stripey tower was designed and built by Thomas Smith, assisted by Robert Stevenson. The largest of the Northern Isles, Sanday is perfect for wandering the beaches or fishing in the lochs, with an abundance of wildlife to discover as you explore.

ShapinsayJust 25 minutes from Kirkwall by boat, Shapinsay is a fertile and green land which is also home to the most northerly castle hotel in the world. Admire the turrets of this Victorian structure as you take a stroll, or head to the Mill Dam to see little grebes and whooper swans at the RSPB reserve.

EdayEday is a surprisingly hilly isle with beautiful panoramic views and farms and crofts adorning the coastal strip. The Setter Stone is an interesting landmark and Neolithic monument, standing out against the landscape. Points of interest include well-preserved chambered tombs and Iron Age houses.

01 The white sands and crystal clear waters of Whitemill Bay, Sanday.02 One of North Ronaldsay’s iconic seaweed-eating sheep.03 The Stone of Setter, Eday.04 The Westray Wife is the earliest depiction of a face found in the UK.

Did you know?

Legend has it that Thieves Holm, near Shapinsay, was home to banished thieves and witches but it now provides a haven to cormorants, kittiwakes and seals.

Papa Westray lies on almost the same latitude as Stavanger in Norway.

On Eday you can see the ruins of a 17th century saltworks, one of the best surviving examples in the whole of the UK.

Castle o’ Burrian in Westray is considered the best place in Orkney to see puffins and also hundreds of nesting fulmars, while Stanger Head in Flotta is a favourite haunt for the entire range of Orkney’s seabirds.

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Orkney offers the perfect combination of history and modernity, a land which settlers have been drawn to for thousands of years. From Neolithic chambered tombs to Pictish brochs, there are discoveries and archaeological sites around each corner. Imagine how life has changed and adapted as you explore and transport yourself back in time.

The first OrcadiansA single charred hazelnut found at Longhowe, Tankerness, has now been traced to around 6,700 BC, providing a key to unlocking the past in Orkney. This is the surest evidence yet that human tribes were roving these islands during Mesolithic times.

NeolithicThe Heart of Neolithic Orkney can be found on the West Mainland. This is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is important not only

in Scottish history but also globally. Close to the dramatic white beach at the Bay of Skaill, Skara Brae is one of the best preserved groups of prehistoric houses in the whole of Western Europe with furniture on display including stone beds, dressers and seats. Explore the visitor centre where there are interactive touch screen presentations, fun quizzes to keep children entertained and other interesting artefacts. The great stone circle of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness also stand majestically at the centre of this World Heritage Site, while the chambered

tombs of Maeshowe and Unstan are considered among the best examples of their kind in Europe.

Excavations constantly unearth new and important relics from the past and impressive remains can be found on many of the isles. The Great Wall of Brodgar was discovered before the eyes of observers at an archaeological dig and on Westray the figure of a female – the Orkney Venus – was found in 2009. After further exploration, a second figure was revealed at the same site in 2010.

A journeythrough history

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01 Wildflowers in bloom around the Ring of Brodgar, Stenness.02 The 875-year-old St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall.03 Visitors inside the 5000-year-old Tomb of the Eagles, South Ronaldsay.

Did you know?

Skara Brae is a stone-built Neolithic village which was unveiled to the world after a particularly fierce storm washed away a large sand dune back in 1850.

The circular layout at the Ring of Brodgar makes it one of the largest and finest stone circles in the British Isles.

Domenico Chiocchetti, one of the Italian prisoners of war responsible for building the Italian Chapel from salvaged items of scrap, returned to Lamb Holm in 1960 to assist with a restoration project.

Ronald Simison, a local farmer, stumbled across the 5,000-year-old Tomb of the Eagles in 1958 while looking for stone.

PictsThe Picts lived as farmers and fishermen on Orkney, leaving behind a very different legacy. Circular brochs were the focal point of settlements, built to resist attack and display power along the coastline. The symbol of the eagle was an important part of life for the Picts and various examples of this and other carvings can be found at the Orkney Museum in Kirkwall.

Norse ruleBy the end of the 13th century, Orkney was very much a part of Norway having been colonised by Scandinavian warriors, settlers and poets who crossed the seas, bringing with them language and faith which is still evident on the isles today. Although little is known about the Norse arrivals – whether the archipelago was deserted at this time or there was a violent conquest – a heritage was left behind that cannot be ignored. Almost every place name extends back to Viking rule as well as dozens of words used in daily conversation. St Magnus Cathedral was also founded by Earl Rognvald in honour of his uncle St Magnus and still stands as a beautiful reminder of the past.

Almost ScottishTroubled times lay ahead for Orkney when early Scots rulers, most notoriously the Stewart earls, took control. A marriage dowry in 1468 meant that the isles transferred to the Scottish Crown, leading to a period of cruelty for the islanders. Patrick and Robert Stewart were both eventually killed but not before leaving a legacy of magnificent Renaissance architecture, including the Earls’ Palaces in Birsay and Kirkwall.

Modern timesTurmoil continued to play a major role in Orkney’s story throughout the 20th century. During both World Wars, the great natural harbour of Scapa Flow was an important base for British naval fleets and you can see the stark evocative remains of watchtowers and gun emplacements. Lamb Holm boasts a gentler reminder of this conflict, embodied in the fragile beauty of the Italian Chapel which was built by prisoners of war. More recently Orkney has become a leader in developing renewable energy such as wind, tidal and wave technologies, and the isles are recognised as having some of the best resources in Europe.

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Orkney’s beautiful landscapes are constantly changing and evolving with the seasons and centuries. Clear waters sweep the beaches clean with the tide and the long hours of sunlight during the summer months have long attracted artists. From jewellery to pottery, textiles, photography and paintings, discover galleries, studios and workshops where you can share the enthusiasm of others and find your own inspiration.

There is no better time than the Year of Creative Scotland to explore this northern archipelago, whether you are looking for inspiration or simply wish to purchase a little piece of Orkney. You can see the work of both local and visiting artists in small rural studios and larger galleries. Vivid colours are often depicted with paints, oil crayons and inks, while wonderful handwoven tapestries capture Orkney’s landscape, folklore and heritage. Orkney has the largest concentration of craft jewellers in Scotland with beautiful designs ranging from runic rings to necklaces inspired by the ocean waves.

The surrounding presence of the sea provides a defining feature at the magical Pier Arts Centre in Stromness, reopened in 2007 after a major refurbishment and expansion. The centre houses a remarkable collection of 20th century British art as well as showcasing special exhibitions throughout the year, often including local talent. Margaret Gardiner originally founded this gallery and today it boasts the works of famed artists such as Alfred Wallis, Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth and Eduardo Paolozzi.

Follow the Orkney Craft Trail, which was set up by the Orkney Crafts Association (OCA) to support professional artisans and promote their wares. Personal tours really bring the works to life and you will often be able to view both finished goods and those still being developed to gain a greater understanding of the craftsmanship involved. From marine and wildlife jewellery to traditional knitwear, individual prehistoric pottery pieces and runic rings, there is plenty to choose from. You can witness the production of Orkney chairs, a distinctive design unique to the islands. Whether you are in Kirkwall, or somewhere more rural, you are sure to find something to suit and if not you can commission one of the artists.

Did you know?

At one time the original listed buildings and pier at the Pier Arts Centre housed the Hudson’s Bay Company office and stores.

Orkney Crafts Association runs a summer shop close to the harbour in Kirkwall selling a wide range of Orkney crafts - everything from pottery to cards and textiles.

During the summer months, the sun remains just below the horizon, even when it sets, creating a very special light for artists in Orkney.

InspirationalOrkney

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An essential part of any island wedding is the Bride’s Cog, a wooden drinking vessel with either two or three handles containing a warm, spicy and sweet alcoholic punch. Usually the bride and groom carry this cog around the dance floor before offering a drink to the guests and it is one of the few wedding traditions kept alive today. If you are planning a romantic celebration, why not purchase your very own cog to capture this Orkney magic? A highly skilled craft, each maker offers different decorations and finishes and you can even have a cog with your names and chosen dates on the side.

If you are feeling creative, book yourself into a class or join a hands-on session to learn from skilled locals. Or if you are already experienced, take some time out from the everyday routine and let the light and landscapes become your inspiration. There is nothing better than taking home a souvenir made by your very own hands.

For information on the Year of Creative Scotland visit www.visitscotland.com/surprisecreative.

01 Enamelling at Sheila Fleet’s jewellery workshop, Tankerness.02 Fraser Anderson’s Orkney Handcrafted Furniture workshop.03 Celina Rupp’s jewellery, inspired by Orkney’s landscape and heritage.

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Orkney’s renowned natural environment remains unspoilt and attractive where pristine habitats nurture an abundance of plant and animal species. Whether you want to spot rare wildlife or simply soak up nature as you explore, new discoveries are around every corner.

A trip to a nature reserve will satisfy any wildlife enthusiast looking to get out their binoculars. The uninhabited island of Copinsay is a peaceful haven, bought as a memorial to the naturalist James Fisher, under the care of the RSPB. Take a boat trip to see a huge seabird colony, including fulmars, guillemots, kittiwakes, razorbillsand colourful puffins.

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit whenaround 2,000 grey seals come ashore to pup.A distinctive part of Orkney in general, these seals can be found all around the coastline, along with common seals which bob their heads out of the waves. Look out for these fascinating creatures during ferry crossings. Orkney is also one of the best places in the United Kingdom to see humpback, minke and killer whales, common dolphins and porpoise.

Get close to nature

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Children will love the marine life and no island visit would be complete without some exploration of the rockpools along the coast. The whole family can search out tiny crabs, cockles, mussels, sea urchins and starfish amongst the multicoloured seaweed. Make sure you look out for wading birds along the beaches, for example oyster catchers, snipe and red shank, rising up with piping cries if you startle them. Collect a wide variety of shells, such as bright blue mussels, prickly cockles, spiralling spindle shells, periwinkles, sea potatoes and rare and tiny bubble shells, as you scour the pristine beaches.

Wild flowers are another attraction on Orkney, particularly during the spring and summer months when a riot of colour adorns the wetlands and cliff-tops. The Hill of White Hamars in South Walls is a Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve where you can find the purple-pink flowers of the rare primula scotica or Scottish primrose. Attractive coastal cliffs with caves, arches and stacks are adorned by cliff-nesting seabirds.

Dedicated cultivation and farming has resulted in a combination of farmland and rugged wilderness, woven together to form a perfect mix of wildflowers and high quality crops.

Orkney’s landscape is also defined by geological landmarks, dominated mainly by red sandstone which stands out dramatically. The Old Man of Hoy is one such example, a sea stack located close to the island of Hoy, while the Castle of Yesnaby is a rock stack found on the west coast. Both are popular with climbers who have dared to venture to the top.

Mull Head in Deerness is a nature reserve where the sheer cliffs are made of layered rocks, telling a tale which stretches back millions of years. Watch the sea as it crashes into the rocks, eroding the coastline to form caves, stacks, narrow inlets and geos. This is a great area for walking with a variety of paths for different levels of ability, following the coastline and taking in points of interest, including the Covenanters’ Memorial.

01 A puffin at sea near Tresness, Sanday.02 Heather in bloom, Hobbister, Orphir.03 The cliffs and lighthouse at Noup Head, Westray.04 Seals are a common sight on the coastline around Orkney.

Did you know?

The RSPB reserve at Copinsay comprises the isle itself plus three smaller islets of Corn Holm, Ward Holm and Black Holm as well as the Horse of Copinsay.

It is considered good luck in Orkney to find a ‘groatie buckie’, a lovely type of cowrie shell.

St John’s Head, located close to the Old Man of Hoy, is the highest vertical sea cliff in the UK and it offers an extreme adventure for experienced climbers.

The Covenanters’ Memorial in Deerness is around 300 m from the spot where a boat full of Covenanters, who were being sent to America as prisoners, sank during a storm.

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SailingIf you are looking for an expedition, there is no better place than Orkney for voyaging across Scapa Flow in a sailing dinghy or threading through the northern isles. It is ideally placed for connecting with both the east and west coast of Scotland as well as Shetland and Norway. There are well-equipped marinas in Kirkwall, Stromness and Westray and also good facilities on some of the smaller isles. You can find several sailing events taking place throughout the year.

SurfingMany have tried to keep the surfing potential on Orkney a secret but it is becoming an increasingly popular destination with large uncrowded beaches, clear waters and some of the best waves in Europe. From kite surfing to windsurfing, there are plenty of opportunities to get that all important adrenalin rush. The north and west coasts of the mainland are the most popular areas.

CyclingWhether you love the leisurely solitude of cycling alone or prefer to take family and friends along for the ride, Orkney boasts an array of quiet roads and tracks. Flat landscapes lend themselves naturally to easy routes and there are so many points of interest along the way that you might find yourself a little distracted!

DivingTake the plunge and try some diving to truly experience the magic of Orkney’s marine life and the history which lies beneath the waves. See the scuttled WWI German fleet around Scapa Flow, a massive natural harbour between the various isles, or simply enjoy some scenic underwater adventures at sites such as Inganess, the Old Man of Hoy or the North Shoal. Accredited training is available for beginners so there is no excuse not to have a go.

GolfThere is nothing quite like island golf to sweep away those cobwebs. Stromness is an established 18-hole course with stunning views of the Atlantic and the Hoy hills, making the real challenge keeping your eye on the ball. The Orkney Golf Club in Kirkwall also provides a challenging 18-hole course. For those who prefer a shorter round, head to South Ronaldsay, for a fine 9-hole option. Join in the traditional midnight golf at the summer solstice for a unique experience.

Get active outdoorsExplore 800 km of coastline, try a spot of loch fishing or test your swing on beautiful golf courses. Getting out and active couldn’t be easier on Orkney with many providers offering equipment and expert tuition. From sailing to fishing, diving, climbing, walking and cycling, there is a great variety on offer whether you want to keep your feet firmlyon dry land or make a splash.

KayakingCountless empty beaches, hidden caves, towering cliffs and uninhabited isles are perfect for a spot of sea kayaking. Sheltered shorelines, for example close to the Churchill Barriers and around Scapa Flow, are great for beginners. Those looking to tackle something a little more challenging can venture into deeper waters with open water crossings to remote and unspoilt islands like Auskerry and Swona. As well as the chance of seeing a range of marine life, kayaking also offers access to cliffs teeming with seabird colonies.

FishingOrkney is a haven for fishing enthusiasts with many lochs, which are easily accessible both for shore fishing and more conventional boats. No permit is required to fish on the majority of Orkney’s lochs, which are restocked regularly. Find some of the finest brown trout fishing in Britain, or head out on the open waters and catch sea trout in the shallow bays. The waters surrounding Orkney are warmed by the North Atlantic Drift providing ideal conditions.

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RidingYou will see fields full of horses and ponies around the isles, although these are no longer working animals. Some are shaggy-maned Shetlands bred for showing, while others are available for both beginners and more experienced riders. On the outskirts of Kirkwall, a new indoor arena is available for public use while trekking is also available outside.

Walking and climbingPop into a VisitScotland Information Centre for suggested walks around the isles. Whether you are looking for a leisurely coastal stroll or a more strenuous hike, there is something to suit all ability levels. Experienced rock climbers will enjoy miles of challenging cliffs and sea stacks, most of which provide fantastic views and the opportunity to experience Orkney’s nature close up.

Did you know?

When diving in Orkney waters the visibility is usually 10 m but it can be as good as 15 - 20 m.

In July each year, the popular Orkney Challenge Yacht Race from Lossiemouth to Kirkwall takes place, bringing a friendly throng to the harbours.

Orkney’s golf courses operate a turn up and play policy meaning you don’t have to worry about booking in advance.

If you’re after big fish, huge common skates hunt the depths of Scapa Flow while porbeagle sharks can be found in the Pentland Firth. These are endangered species so once caught they are tagged and released back into the wild.

01 Kayaking in one of Orkney’s coastal caves.02 Sailing Regatta in Westray.03 Bikes parked near the footpath to the Taversoe Tuick cairn, Rousay.

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Farming is part of the very fabric of Orkney where livestock have long roamed the land and crops have flourished in the fields. It is no surprise that here you will find the very best in local produce, from home-grown vegetables to tender meat. Wonderful seafood is caught in the surrounding seas and hauled ashore by fishermen who brave sometimes stormy waters in search of the best quality lobster, crab and fish.

Flavours of the isles

There is no better introduction to Orkney’s produce than by visiting the farmers’ market in Kirkwall. Here you will find a collection of regular stallholders who sell top quality organic vegetables, local fish and beef, as well as soaps, shampoos and wool on a monthly basis. Held in the Masonic Hall, soak up the real atmosphere of these isles as you purchase fine produce to take home for dinner.

Cattle graze on the lush green fields in Orkney adding to the tenderness of the succulent beef which is exported to some of the finest restaurants across the UK, as well as being a local delicacy prized by chefs. North Ronaldsay lamb is a slightly more unusual dish not to be missed. Sheep are kept off the island’s scarce pasture by a stone dyke and this ancient breed has now become accustomed to a diet of seaweed. It is not often that you will discover sheep grazing in rockpools, yet this is one of the charms of Orkney.

Seasonality is certainly important in Orkney and the islanders know exactly when to sample the best farm cheeses when the dairy herds have been out in the meadows during the summer months. Most ingredients can be found at local butchers or

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01 Local smoked salmon at the West End Hotel, Kirkwall.

02 Dressed local crab at the Lynnfield Hotel, Kirkwall.

03 Biscuits from the Birsay Bay Tearooms, Birsay.


referred to affectionately as the ‘Angel’s Share’. Scapa is another island distillery which produces perfectly balanced flavours with hints of ginger and sweet baked apples.

Another great attraction can be found at the Orkney Brewery which is housed in a former schoolhouse. From cask ales to specialist tipples, you will find plenty to tempt your tastebuds. In the spring of 2012, a brand new visitor centre will open where you can enjoy a guided tour and understand more about the intricate range of flavours on offer. Expect also a café showcasing the best of island produce and a gift shop for souvenirs. Swannay

Brewery near Evie also offers world-class ales from golden, sparkling pale ales to darker, chocolate brown options.

Indulge yourself with fine dining in some quality restaurants, many of which have stunning views, or cook up a feast using fresh produce from across the islands. Whether you simply wish to pack a picnic lunch to take out on a walk or prefer to enjoy a culinary tour of the isles, Orkney will not disappoint when it comes to food and drink. Keep an eye out for some rare fish dishes such as megrim – a type of flatfish – or just pop into a café for afternoon tea with bannocks and rhubarb jam.

Did you know?

Highland Park Distillery uses Spanish oak and American oak casks for maturing the whisky and each of these imparts specific flavours to the spirit.

You can find unique ingredients on the menu at enterprising restaurants such as witch, a type of sole, or spoots, a type of razorfish.

Swannay is an award-winning brewery and in 2011 they won a presitigous title for their Orkney IPA – Champion Cask Conditioned Ale – at the Brewing Industry International Awards.

Grimbister Farm Cheese is a business which produces traditional Orkney farmhouse cheese to a recipe passed through generations. The taste is moist and slightly fruity.

fishmongers and chefs work wonders transforming these into all manner of delicious Orkney dishes.

It is not only the food but also the drink that attracts visitors to the isles. World-famous whisky has been distilled at the Highland Park Distillery for more than 200 years. A careful balance of traditional and modern methods are used to create this rich, complex and peaty drink. Head to the visitor centre for a fascinating tour or book one of the specialist tastings. The malt is still turned by hand and the whisky harmonised in casks before bottling. Two percent of this fine drink is lost from each sherry oak cask through evaporation and is

0302


Fun for all the family

Orkney is great for families whether you are looking for an afternoon at an historic attraction or simply want to while away the hours building sandcastles or kite flying on the beach. Make sure you explore fully to find some amazing places which both big and little adventurers can enjoy.

Run along white sands stretching for miles on Sanday, step back in time at the Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre and dare to cross the causeway to the Brough of Birsay at low tide. Whether you are enjoying interactive exhibits at a museum or exploring an Iron Age broch, let your imagination run wild as you step back in time.

Wildlife abounds on these isles so why not spend a morning on a walk through nature to see what you can spot? Binscarth Woods in Finstown is great for catching a glimpse of a variety of species as you enjoy a stroll.

For the energetic, North Ronaldsay boasts the largest land-based lighthouse in Britain. Clamber to great heights in search of boats far out to sea

and enjoy some magnificent views across the surrounding landscapes.

For something a little closer to solid ground, crawl into a chambered cairn on South Ronaldsay at the Tomb of the Eagles and come face to face with 5,000 years of history.

You may not have a Viking longship but you can join a chartered boat tour to explore secret caves and cliffs and look out for passing whales and dolphins. Curious seals will greet you in the waters as you head out to sea and you might even catch a glimpse of silky white pups in the autumn.

If you want to remain on dry land there are plenty of RSPB reserves, including those on the mainland and on islands such as Hoy, Rousay, Shapinsay and Westray where you can watch feeding and breeding birds in their natural habitats.

A selection of indoor activities is available at the Pickaqouy Centre where younger children can explore Jungle World and the New Phoenix Cinema shows weekend matinees for the whole family.

Take the family on a journey of discovery around Orkney, or simply enjoy a short break. There is so much on offer that your children won’t know where to look first!

01

02

01 Exploring the rock pools, Brough of Birsay.02 The Pickaquoy Centre, Kirkwall.


The Energy Islands

The harnessing of Orkney’s wind, waves and tides is a continuing example of Orcadians making best use of the resources on their doorstep. Renewable energy is a vibrant part of the modern Orkney economy, but it’s plain to see that islanders have turned nature’s forces to their advantage for hundreds of years.

Dating from around 1825, when it replaced an older example, Dounby’s Click Mill is the last of the horizontal watermills of Orkney still in use. At Birsay’s Barony Mills, Birsay Heritage Trust grinds bere into beremeal in a mill built in 1873, next to the remains of previous mills.

While these renewable developments were linked to food production, the first large-scale attempt at generating renewable electricity in Orkney came with the erection of a 100 kW turbine at Costa Head in Evie in 1950. This was dwarfed in 1987 when what was then the world’s largest wind turbine began turning on nearby Burgar Hill, an experiment that ended in November 2000.

The past decade has seen more efficient wind turbines erected in Evie and elsewhere around the islands, always with sensitivity to the landscape. Among them is the UK’s first ever community wind turbine in Burray, and these help ensure that Orkney regularly produces more electricity from its existing renewables than there is demand for. More information can be found on the Orkney Renewable Energy Forum’s website at www.oref.co.uk.

All this is being achieved with careful regard for the heritage and beauty of the islands. The prospect of future development, specifically in marine renewables, is leading to the renovation and revitalisation of historic areas such as the former

naval base at Lyness in Hoy, which will once again be of active service to the Orkney economy.

Orkney is home to the world-leading European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) where early prototypes of the machines that will eventually capture the energy from our seas are already creating world firsts in this fledgling industry. All of these developments promise an exciting future for Orkney – the Energy Islands.

01 03

02

01 Installation of the OpenHydro tidal turbine at the EMEC test site at the Fall of Warness, Eday.02 Wind turbines at Burgar Hill, Evie.03 Oyster wave energy converter at the EMEC test site at Billia Croo near Stromness.


January2The Ba’Kirkwallwww.bagame.com F9

February26 - 31 OctSea Trout SeasonVarious locations

March15 - 6 OctBrown Trout SeasonVarious locations

April1 - 1 SepStromness Museum Summer ExhibitionThe Stromness Museum, Stromness B9

www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/stromnessmuseum

13 - 15Orkney Ceilidh WeekendPickaquoy Centre and St Magnus Centre, Kirkwall F9

www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/otda

13 - 15Orkney Jazz FestivalStromness Hotel, Stromness B9

16St Magnus Day ServiceSt Magnus Church, Birsay B6

MayThroughout May and JuneCathedral ConcertsSt Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall F9

www.otmp.co.uk

1 - 29 SepOrkney Museum Summer ExhibitionThe Orkney Museum, Kirkwall F9

www.orkney.gov.uk/Service-Directory/S/orkney-museum.htm

4 - 6The Sanday SoulkaVarious venues on Sanday J4

www.sandaysoulka.org

What’s on

01

KeyMap Reference (See map on page 81) C3

Family

Food & Drink

Great Outdoors

Highland Games

Local Shows & Galas

Music, Arts & Culture

Sports

From folk music to sporting events, Orkney boasts an array of festivals throughout the year. Join the locals at a ceilidh, run an island half-marathon or discover your ancestry on the isles – there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.Kick the year off in unusual style by watching a game of traditional street football. The Ba’ takes place at Christmas and New Year each year and is played by the Uppies and the Doonies, who battle it out using a locally made leather ba’ (ball).

If you fancy something more gentle, great emphasis has recently been placed upon resurrecting Orkney’s traditional music – you can appreciate this with concerts at St Magnus Cathedral during the summer months or the Orkney Folk Festival where local acts perform alongside visiting artists every year. Why not find inspiration in the Year of Creative Scotland and get involved at local art and craft studios?

The fishing season opens in March and you can fish for free with a choice of lochs to suit most tastes.

Make the most of the fine summer weather and watch the Riding the Marches event in August where horses and riders parade via Scapa Beach to celebrate the granting of Kirkwall’s Charter as a Royal Burgh.

Annual agricultural shows are popular and give a great insight into life on the isles where farmers exhibit, compete and socialise with stock showing, judging, show jumping, a variety of stands, stalls and much more.

Use our helpful guide to get some ideas before dropping into our VisitScotland Information Centres in Kirkwall or Stromness for more details about what is happening during your stay.


5Orkney Aggregates Rugby Sevens TournamentOrkney Rugby Football Club, Pickaquoy, Kirkwall F9

www.orkneyrfc.co.uk

17Norway’s Constitution Day CelebrationsKirkwall F9

www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/onfa

31 - 3 JunOrkney Folk FestivalVarious venues throughout Stromness and Orkney B9

www.orkneyfolkfestival.com

June1 - 31 AugRing of Brodgar Guided WalksRing of Brodgar, Stenness C9

1 - 31 AugStanding Stones & Barnhouse Village Guided WalksStanding Stones of Stenness C9

9 - 16 Orkney Fine Wine FestivalVarious venues throughout Orkney www.thelongship.co.uk/wine-festival.php

17Hoy Half-MarathonHoy D12

22 - 27St Magnus International FestivalVarious venues throughout Orkney www.stmagnusfestival.com

23Stromness Mixed Open Midnight Competition Stromness Golf Club. Enjoy the long summer light. Starts 8pm. Date is provisional. B9

www.stromnessgc.co.uk

26 - 19 Jul Orkney Arts and Crafts Annual Exhibition and SaleKirkwall Town Hall, Kirkwall F9

29 - 1 JulThe Sanday SoulkaVarious venues on Sandaywww.sandaysoulka.org J4

July15Stromness Shopping Week Open (18 holes) Stromness Golf Club B9


15 - 21Stromness Shopping Week Stromness B9

www.stromnessshoppingweek.co.uk

18 - 22 AugNess of Brodgar Archaeological Excavation Ness of Brodgar, Stenness C9

www.orkneyjar.com/archaeology/nessofbrodgar

28Kirkwall Amateur Open 2012Kirkwall F9

www.orkneygolfclub.co.uk

August3Sanday Agricultural ShowSanday J4

3 - 5The Sanday SoulkaVarious venues on Sanday J4

www.sandaysoulka.org

4East Mainland Agricultural ShowSt. Andrew’s Showpark, Toab G10

4Stromness Men’s Amateur Open (36 holes)Stromness Golf Club B9


5Stromness Ladies Open (18 holes)Stromness Golf Club B9


7The Shapinsay Agricultural ShowShapinsay G8

8South Ronaldsay & Burray Agricultural ShowShow Yard, St Margaret’s Hope F12

9West Mainland Agricultural ShowDouby C7

www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/owmas

11Orkney Agricultural ShowBignold Park, Kirkwall F9

www.orkneycountyshow.co.uk

12Orkney Vintage RallyAuction Mart Site, Kirkwall F9

www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/orkneyvintageclub/

01 Orkney band The Chair and friends.

12Riding The MarchesAround Kirkwall F9

www.orkneycommunities.co.uk/ridingclub

18South Ronaldsay Boys’ Ploughing MatchSands of Wright, South Ronaldsay F12

www.tinyurl.com/srbpm

September6 - 12Orkney International Science FestivalVarious venues throughout Orkney www.oisf.org

21 - 23Orkney Blues FestivalVarious venues in Stromness B10

www.orkneyblues.co.uk

TBCDoors Open DayFree access to fascinating buildings around Orkney. Various locations

October25 - 28Orkney Storytelling FestivalVarious venues throughout Orkney www.orkneystorytellingfestival.co.uk

NovemberLate November to early JanuaryMaeshowe Winter SolsticeMaeshowe D9

www.visitorkney.com/maeshowe

Late November to early DecemberChristmas Tree Lighting CeremoniesVarious locations

December25The Ba’Kirkwallwww.bagame.com F9

31New Year’s Eve CelebrationBroad Street, F9 B10

Kirkwall and Stromness Harbour

This list highlights just a selection of events taking place in Orkney in 2012.

The events information contained in this publication is as supplied to VisitScotland and to the

best of VisitScotland’s knowledge was correct at the time of going to press. VisitScotland can

accept no responsibility for any errors. Events can be subject to change, we recommend you

check details with a local VisitScotland Information Centre before travelling (see page 24).


Travel tips

Remote from the turmoil of modern urban life, but easily accessible seven days a week, Orkney is closer than you think.

By airYou can fly to Orkney with Flybe operated by Loganair, from Glasgow (1hr 20 mins), Edinburgh (1hr 20 mins), Aberdeen (50 mins), Inverness (45 mins), and Shetland (35 mins). All of these airports have excellent UK and overseas flight connections to choose from. While on Orkney why not fly the world’s shortest scheduled flight from Westray to Papa Westray? Loganair’s inter-island service allows you to take advantage of some great island hopping. For more information go to www.flybe.com (flights operated by Loganair).

By roadThe main approach connects England’s main motorways to Perth from where the A9 takes you north to Caithness. Perth to Inverness is 183 km through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes. From Inverness to Scrabster is a spectacular 178 km drive. Dual carriageway connects Inverness to Aberdeen and in turn Aberdeen to central Scotland. Within Orkney, you can also take your car on the ferry to several of the isles although you should check whether or not it is possible before travelling. Taxi hire and car rental are both available from local operators.

01

By bus There are connections with Citylink from the main Scottish bus stations to Aberdeen, Thurso and Gill’s Bay that connect with the NorthLink and Pentland Ferries services. From June to September the Orkney Bus provides a direct express travel from Inverness through to Kirkwall, which connects with John o’ Groats Ferries route. While you are on Orkney, it is possible to hire a coach for group day trips and there are a number of companies operating tours around the isles. For more information go to www.citylink.co.uk, www.stagecoachbus.com, and www.jogferry.co.uk/orkexp.htm

By train You can travel from the main Scottish railway stations to Thurso, where a short taxi ride will take you to the ferry at Scrabster, or Aberdeen where the station is near to the harbour. For more information go to www.scotrail.co.uk or www.nationalrail.co.uk

By bike A great way to travel in Orkney - you can either bring your own bike or hire one in advance. Quiet roads make for a relaxing experience and you can cover as much or as little ground as you choose.

By seaThe last leg of your journey northbound will be by sea. NorthLink Ferries www.northlinkferries.co.uk provides a service from Aberdeen to Hatston, Kirkwall (6 hrs) with 3 - 4 sailings per week depending on season, and from Scrabster to Stromness (90 mins) with 3 - 4 sailings per day depending on season. Pentland Ferries provides a service from Gills Bay to St Margaret’s Hope (60 mins) with 3 - 4 sailings per day depending on season. Pentland Ferries www.pentlandferries.co.uk provides a service from Gills Bay to St Margaret’s Hope (60 mins) with 3 - 4 sailings per day depending on season. John o’ Groats Ferries provides a passenger only service (40 mins) from John o’ Groats to Burwick in South Ronaldsay, with 2 - 4 sailings per day from May to end September.

Enjoy an excursion by boat with a number of operators while you visit Orkney or do some independent island hopping to see what you can uncover.

Where to find out moreFind all you want to do in Orkney, in one place. At a VisitScotland Information Centre we’ll tell


01 NorthLink Ferries’ MV Hrossey is just one of the many ways of getting to Orkney.

you everything there is to see and do and help with everything else you’ll need for your visit. Our friendly experts can offer advice and inspiration on all things local as well as sharing their wider knowledge of Scotland.

We can also arrange your accommodation and travel needs, as well as book tickets for events across Scotland. So, to get the most out of your visit, there is only one place to go.

Please refer to the list of VisitScotland Information Centres on page 24. Further travel information can be obtained in advance from www.traveline.org.uk or by calling 0871 200 2233.


Scotland’s Star Quality!- A simple, impartial, consistent approach to quality

VisitScotland, under the Scottish Tourist Board brand, runs the star grading schemes which assess the quality standards of all types of accommodation and visitor attractions from castles and historic houses to garden centres and arts venues. We quality assure over 70 percent of the accommodation in Scotland and 90 percent of the visitor attractions – so wherever you want to stay or visit, we’ve got it covered. Each establishment is reviewed once a year. We do the hard work so you can relax and enjoy your holiday.

How does the system work?

Our advisors visit and assess establishments on up to 50 areas from quality, comfort and cleanliness to welcome, ambience and service. The same star scheme runs in England and Wales, so you can follow the stars wherever you go.

It should be noted that those establishments that fail to meet our minimum standards will not be awarded a star rating.

Graded visitor attractions

Visitor attractions from tourist shops and museums to leisure centres and tours are graded with 1 - 5 stars depending on their level of customer care. The focus is on the standard of hospitality and service as well as presentation, quality of shop or café (if there is one) and toilet facilities.

The promise of the stars: it is clean, tidy and an acceptable,

standard

it is a good, all round standard

it is a very good standard, with attention to detail in every area

it is excellent – furnished using high quality materials, surperb food where provided and friendly, professional service

an exceptional standard where presentation, ambience, food where provided and service are hard to fault

Establishments awarded gold stars have consistently achieved the highest levels of excellence within their star grading.

A consistent standard wherever you stay

We grade all types of accommodation from hostels, through to B&Bs and self catering properties to hotels grand and small. We even grade campus accommodation and parks offering holiday homes and camping. So whether you prefer to spend the night under canvas or the canopy of a four-poster bed, we’ll make sure you know the standard to expect.

Access all areas

The following symbols will help visitors with physical disabilities to decide whether accommodation is suitable:

Unassisted wheelchair access

Assisted wheelchair access

Access for visitors with mobility difficulties

Symbols - Please note you should always check that a particular facility/service is available at the time of booking

Ensuite bath and/or shower for all bedrooms

Ensuite bath and/or shower for some bedrooms

Private bath and/or shower for all bedrooms

Private bath and/or shower for some bedrooms

Washbasins in bedrooms/rooms

Hairdryer in bedrooms

Telephone in bedrooms/self catering unit

Payphone available

Television available

No Television

Ground floor bedrooms available

Bed linen provided on request – free or for hire

Towels provided on request – free or for hire

Laundry facilities on site

Washing machine

Tumble dryer

Eating out facilities within 2 miles or meal service available (Hostel)

Full alcohol drinks licence/Licenced bar

Lounge

TV Lounge

Open hearth fire

Satellite/Cable TV

Broadband

WiFi

iPod docking station

DVD player available

CD player available

Private parking

Limited parking

Disabled parking on site

Garden

Leisure facilities

Outdoor swimming pool

Indoor swimming pool

Regular live entertainment

Games room

Childrens’ play area

Short Breaks Available

Credit/debit cards accepted

Property on working farm/croft

Pets accepted by arrangement

Building of historic/literary/architectural interest

Gaelic language spoken

Additional charge for power/fuel/heating

Not all properties/caravans have all facilities

The entrance to Pittencrieff Park, Dunfermline, Fife Concierge at Prestonfield House Hotel, Edinburgh Grannies’ Heilan’ Hame, Embo, Sutherland


QualityAssurance

We want you to feel welcome

VisitScotland has developed Welcome Schemes to complement the Star Quality Assurance grades. These schemes tell you about establishments who pay particular attention to the specific needs of these visitors. As well as the established Walkers Welcome and Cyclists Welcome schemes, there are similar schemes for:

Anglers Bikers

Classic Cars Golfers

Children Field sports

Groups Ancestral Tourism

This means that a bothy or bod has been inspected

The Thistle symbol recognises a high standard of Holiday Park

This means individual caravan holiday homes have been assessed

New Holiday Parks scheme

This year VisitScotland introduces our new Holiday Parks Quality Assurance scheme. The star awards now better reflect the aspects which impact on your enjoyment of your Scottish park holiday, the things that you told us are important to you. This has resulted in changes to the level of awards given to some parks but you can still be assured of the same high level of customer service and all the facilities you’ve become accustomed to.

Because we care

The Green Tourism Business Scheme has been championing sustainable tourism in the UK, and has become the largest and most successful scheme of its type in the world.

Businesses that work in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way are graded:

Bronze , Silver or Gold .

www.green-business.co.uk

The very best of food and drink

EatScotland is a nationwide food Quality Assurance scheme from VisitScotland.

Only those operators who meet the EatScotland quality standards are accredited to the scheme so look out for the logo to ensure you visit some of Scotland’s best, quality eating establishments.

Those with extra special standards of food are awarded EatScotland Silver or Gold .

We assess the presentation, quality and service of food in every kind of eating establishment in Scotland from fish and chip shops to pubs, takeaways and top class restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a family friendly bar or a romantic restaurant, EatScotland gives a reliable, authoritative and comprehensive guide to eating out in Scotland.

Look out too for the new Scotland’s Best Bars scheme, assuring the quality of the vast range of bars and pubs on offer.

www.eatscotland.com

Further information

For more information on Quality Assurance at VisitScotland, please contact us:

Tel. 01463 244111 Fax. 01463 [email protected]

We welcome your comments on star-awarded properties:

VisitScotland - Customer Liaison TeamCowan House,Inverness Retail & Business Park, Inverness IV2 7GF

Tel. 01463 244111 Fax. 01463 [email protected]

Call into any VisitScotland Information Centre for further information.

www.visitscotland.com/wheretofindus

Serviced accommodation may also provide the following:

Tea/Coffee making facilities in bedrooms

Restaurant

Evening meal available

Room service

Restricted alcohol drinks licence

Smoking rooms available

Laundry service

Porterage

Four-poster beds

Packed lunches by arrangement

Vegetarian diets provided

Special diets provided

Passenger lift

Self Catering may also provide the following:

Ensuite bath and/or shower room(s) in self catering unit

Non-smoking establishment

Microwave

Dishwasher

Freezer

Domestic help

Hostels may also provide the following:

Meal service available

Drying facilities

Family rooms available

Twin/double rooms available

Alpine sleeping platform

Caravan and Camping Parks may also provide the following:

Car parking adjacent to caravans or tents

Chemical toilet disposal facility

Chemical toilet disposal for motor homes

Shop within 2 miles/mobile food shop calls

Shop on site

Drying facilities

Gas cylinders for exchange refill

Café/Restaurant

Take away food available

Cycle hire nearby

Motor homes welcome

Pitches for touring caravans

Tents welcome

Shower available

Bath available

South Whittleburn Farm B&B, near Largs, North Ayrshire The Lochside Restaurant, Craigard House Hotel, Campbeltown, Argyll

Am Bothan Bunk House, Leverburgh, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides

visitscotland.com/wheretofi ndusInformation Centres

Find all you want to do on Orkney in one place

At a VisitScotland Information Centre we’ll tell you about everything you want to see, everything you want to do and everything else you’ll need for your visit. Our friendly experts can offer advice on all things local as well as sharing their wider knowledge of Scotland. Ask and you’ll find all the hidden gems, from cultural to culinary. We don’t just advise either. We can sort out your accommodation and all your travel needs, as well as tickets for events across Scotland. So if you’re looking to get the most from your visit, there really is only one place to go.

Some Centres may not offer all services listedPlotted on the area map on page 81

Open All Year

Open April until October

Kirkwall The Travel Centre, West Castle Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KY15 1GU – 01856 872856

Stromness Ferry Terminal Building, Pier Head, Stromness, Orkney, KW16 1BH – 01856 850716


Now is the time to choose your holiday accommodation

This guide has been split into five accommodation sections:

• Hotels and Inns• Guest Houses and B&Bs• Self Catering• Camping and Caravan Parks• Hostels/Activity Accommodation

Establishments are listed within these sections in alphabetical order by location and then by business name. Each entry has a map reference relating to the map which appears on page 81 of this guide. The map is helpful if you don’t know where a particular town is in relation to the area that interests you. Where establishments are listed as ‘By’ a city, town or village it is wise to check the exact location with the operator before making your journey.

BookingAccepting accommodation by telephone or in writing means you have entered into a legally binding contract with the proprietor of the establishment. If you cancel or fail to take up that accommodation, for whatever reason, the proprietor generally has the right to ask for compensation. You should always check the cancellation terms in advance and, if you must cancel a booking, advise the management immediately.

Insurance & cancellationsShould you have to cancel for any reason, it is reassuring to know that you can be insured against any compensation claim. Please ensure you take out cancellation insurance prior to your trip.

PricingThe prices of accommodation, services and facilities stated in this guide are based on information received from the relevant advertisers. Please note that the prices are per person per night, include VAT where applicable and are for your guidance only (VAT as at October 2011). Please check prices when you book accommodation and confirm exactly what the quoted price includes.

SmokingThe majority of Scotland’s indoor public places, including pubs, restaurants and cafés are smoke-free by law, creating a healthier and fresher environment for residents and visitors to our beautiful country. Hotels, B&Bs and Guest Houses are also smoke-free but can designate bedrooms where guests can smoke, if they wish to do so. To check the availability of such bedrooms, please check with the establishment directly when booking. For further information, visit www.clearingtheairscotland.com

Look out for the Short Breaks symbolOrkney offers a fabulous range of quality assured accommodation as listed on pages 26 - 53. Establishments which display the above symbol offer short breaks. Contact them direct for current special offers or to make a booking.

How to read the listings

Further informationTo book your accommodation either visit www.visitscotland.com (a booking fee may apply) or contact the accommodation provider direct.

F5ANY LOCATION oooo Hotel

Glen Whisper HotelRural hotel with a reputation for excellent cuisine and accommodation.

Old Perth Road, Crieff PH16 8DLT: 01887 820346 F: 01887 [email protected]

Sgl (5) £68.00pppnDbl/twn (5) £53.00pppnFam (1) £53.00pppnEnsuite (10)

33

33

3

1Hm!kxRXrñj8pú#Äu DC

Open: All yearEXAMPLEllent cuisine and accollent cuisine and acc

346 F: 01887 829009346 F: 01887 829009sperhotel.comsperhotel.comperhotelperhote

SglSgl (5)(5)Dbl/twnDbl/tw

Accommodation options and costsNumber in brackets refers to number of rooms/units of that type

Quality AwardFor added assurance of quality and standards,all accommodation establishments display a Quality Assurance Award. The scheme isexplained on pages 22 and 23.

Location‘By’ designates that a property is within 10 miles of this location.

Description

Contact details

Map referenceTo assist you further in locating each establishment, this grid reference relates to the mapon page 81.

Sgl – SingleDbl – DoubleTwn – TwinFam – FamilySte – SuiteDB&B – Dinner, Bed & BreakfastB&B – Bed & Breakfast

pppn – per person per nightprpn – per room per nightpw – per weekpu – per unitps – per suiteso – single occupancyEnsuite/priv facs – please check prior to booking

Facilities and symbolsSee pages 22 and 23 for an explanation, please check at time of booking.

Name of business


Hotels, Small Hotels, Country House Hotels, Inns, Restaurant with Rooms

G12

13Hm∑kxRX{öñp#ÄÉVS ‰

BURRAY oooo Small Hotel

Sands HotelNewly modernised, to a high standard, hotel of considerable character, located in a former 19th-century Herring Station on the shores of Scapa Flow. Fifteen minutes drive from Kirkwall crossing the scenic Churchill Barriers. All rooms enjoying sea views. Two suites now also available. Taste of Orkney award-winner.

Burray, Orkney KW17 2SS T: 01856 731298 F: 01856 731303 [email protected]

Sgl (5) £60-£90 prpn Dbl (3) £85-£115 prpn Tw (1) £85-£115 prpn Fam (1) £95-£165 prpnEnsuite/priv facs (10)

52988

Open: Jan – Dec

C7

24Hm∑kRXa{lp#`VS.

DOUNBY ooo Inn

Smithfield HotelIn the heart of the west mainland in Dounby Village. Central for trout fishing, birdwatching, walking and World Heritage archaeological sites. WiFi in all rooms. Our restaurant offers excellent local produce with a friendly atmosphere. The Smithfield Hotel offers a warm Orcadian welcome.

Dounby, Orkney KW17 2HT T: 01856 771215 [email protected] www.smithfieldhotel.co.uk

Sgl (1) £42-£45 pppn Dbl (2) £42-£45 pppn Tw (2) £42-£45 pppn Fam (1) £42-£45 pppn

91

60

7

Open: Jan – Dec

C8ooo Country House Hotel HARRAY

Open: Jan – Dec

Merkister HotelFantastic lochside location with panoramic views, smack bang in the middle of the West Mainland, wildlife and walks on your doorstep, yet only 15 minutes drive from Kirkwall and Stromness. Family run hotel with residents lounge, conservatory, restaurant, lounge bar and extensive gardens. Free WiFi throughout hotel. Suites available. Special out of season rates from £25 (October – April). (See our advert on page 55)

T: 01856 771366 F: 01856 771515

www.merkister.com

38120

Sgl (3) £50-£75 pppn Tw (7) £50-£89 pppn Dbl (6) £50-£89 pppn

E6

2WHm∑kRXb{p#,GÄVS:

ISLE OF ROUSAY ooo Inn

The TaversoeNon-smoking inn on the Island of Rousay, with a public bar, restaurant, and games room. Two double rooms with sea views and one ensuite twin room are available. Private residents lounge with TV, books and games. On-island transport available to residential guests.

Rousay, 0rkney KW17 2PT T: 01856 821325 [email protected] www.taversoehotel.co.uk

Dbl (2) £32.50-£40 pppn Ensuite/priv facs (1) Tw (1) £32.50-£40 pppn Shared facs (2)

74

86

2

Open: Jan – Dec

E2

2WHm∑kRXab{lp#,GÄVS

ISLE OF WESTRAY ooo Inn

Pierowall HotelEnjoy the friendly atmosphere of a family-run hotel right in the heart of Pierowall. We provide a variety of fresh local produce including Orkney beef, local fish and various homemade dishes. We also cater for special diets. Family friendly.

Westray, Orkney KW17 2BZT: 01857 677472 F: 01857 677707 [email protected]

Sgl (1) £30-£38 pppn Dbl (2) £35-£48 pppn Tw (2) £30-£45 pppn Fam (1) £35-£45 pppnEnsuite/priv facs (4) Shared facs (2)

83

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Open: Jan – Dec

Hotels and Inns

Looking over to Pierowall, Westray.


F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Small Hotel

Albert HotelSituated in the heart of Kirkwall, close to the harbour front, Cathedral and all attractions. Contemporary style hotel with beautiful rooms and amenities. ‘Bothy Bar’ – traditional pub with open fire, Orkney beers and whiskies. Choice of dining options using local produce. (See our advert on page 54)

KW15 1JZ

[email protected] www.alberthotel.co.uk

Sgl (5) £95-£110 prpn Dbl (6) £111-£131 prpn Tw (5) £121-£141 prpn £142-£173 prpnEnsuite (18)

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Hotel

Ayre HotelOwner managed hotel with a popular restaurant and bar. All our rooms have ensuite facilities, tv, tea and coffee facilities. Free WiFi available to all customers in our lounge, reception and some of our bedrooms. Car park at hotel. (See our advert on page 54)

Ayre Road, Orkney KW15 1QX T: 01856 873001 F: 01856 [email protected] www.ayrehotel.co.uk

Sgl (22) £80-£95 prpn Dbl (10) £112.50-£130 prpn Tw (16) £110-£130 prpn Fam (3) £120-£150 prpnEnsuite (51)

13

65

1

Open: Jan – Dec

F10ooo Restaurant with Rooms KIRKWALL & ST OLA

Open: Jan – Dec

The FoveranThis family-run ‘restaurant with rooms’ offers a warm welcome, eight comfortable ensuite rooms and superb local food served with flare by award-winning Chef Paul Doull and his team. The Foveran is an ideal base for exploring the islands, located just a few miles from Kirkwall and the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage sites. Set in open countryside, with stunning views across Scapa Flow, the Foveran is a place to rest and savour the taste of Orkney. Three times winner of Orkney Food Festival – Best Dinner Award. (See our advert on page 55)

St Ola, by Kirkwall KW15 1SF T: 01856 872389 F: 01856 876430 [email protected]

26681

Sgl (3) £75-£78 pppn Dbl (3) £55-£58 pppn Tw (2) £55-£58 pppn DB&B from £80 pppn Ensuite (8)

F9

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ooo Hotel KIRKWALL & ST OLA

Open: Jan – Dec

Kirkwall HotelOne of Orkney’s largest hotels with panoramic views of the harbour and north isles. Sample our fresh local produce and seafood served in the bar and restaurant. Winner of Taste of Orkney Awards – Best Evening Meal 2005. (See our advert on page 54)

[email protected] www.kirkwallhotel.com

Sgl (2) £50-£90 pppn £40-£70 pppn £40-£70 pppn £40-£70 pppn

F9

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oooo Small Hotel KIRKWALL & ST OLA

Open: 9 Jan 2012 – 31 Dec 2012

Lynnfield Hotel & RestaurantFrom the exterior The Lynnfield doesn’t look very exciting – it’s an 18th century manse. Once inside, the antiques, wood panelling and open fires exude warmth and informality. 10 spacious rooms include suites and four-posters (with jacuzzi baths) doubles are over 5’, twins 3’6” and we have a groundfloor room with disabled facilities. All rooms have bath and shower, free WiFi, freeview TV, etc. The restaurant, with its fine view, serves Orkneys best: Westray organic salmon, crab & scallops, Orkney steak and the seaweed-fed North Ronaldsay mutton.

[email protected] www.lynnfieldhotel.com

36663

£85-£95 prpn Dbl (7) £110-£150 prpn Tw (3) £110-£120 prpn

Hotels and Inns


F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Hotel

The Orkney HotelExperience a 17th-century hotel where superb local cuisine meets traditional Orcadian hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall, close to the St Magnus Cathedral. (See our advert on page 56)

40 Victoria Street, Orkney KW15 1DN

[email protected] www.orkneyhotel.co.uk

£55-£85 prpn £79-£109 prpn£79-£109 prpn £89-£129 prpn

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Inn

The Shore – Rooms Restaurant BarStay on Kirkwall’s harbour front, where the warm welcome matches the style of our ensuite rooms, quality restaurant, comfortable lounge and friendly bar. Seafood and steak specialities, wines, ales and whiskies, classy cocktails, coffees and cake make for a perfect touring base or quick stopover stay.

The Shore, Shore Street, Kirkwall,

[email protected] www.theshore.co.uk

£45-£67 prpn £75-£97 prpn£75-£92 prpn £80-£145 prpn

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Small Hotel

West End HotelNewly upgraded to three star, small hotel in quiet location near town centre. Friendly service with informal relaxed atmosphere, providing quality food with excellent local produce in our lounge bar and restaurant. Private car park. (See our advert on page 55)

Main Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1BU

[email protected] www.westendkirkwall.co.uk

£64-£68 pppn £50 pppn £50 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

D10

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ORPHIR ooo Inn

Houton Bay LodgeComfortable and spacious ensuite rooms, restaurant, lounge bar, billiard room, conservatory lounge, free broadband internet. Fantastic rural location overlooking Scapa Flow. Close to main archeological sites and wildlife. Only 15 minutes drive from Kirkwall and Stromness.

[email protected] www.houtonbaylodge.com

Sgl from £65 pppn from £35 pppn from £35 pppn from £25 pppn

31

09

1

Open: Jan – Dec

F12

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SOUTH RONALDSAY oooo Restaurant with Rooms

The Creel Restaurant with RoomsHusband and wife team, are now in their 27th year of serving award winning food at The Creel. With three bedrooms it offers an excellent dine and stay package. (See our advert on page 54)

[email protected] www.thecreel.co.uk

£60-£65 pppn £60-£65 pppn

Open: Apr – Oct

F12SOUTH RONALDSAY ooo Inn

Murray Arms HotelSet in the heart of the village this traditional stone Inn offers you a warm welcome. Our public bar serves local beers and whiskies and food is served daily. We pride ourselves on using local produce wherever possible.

bedrooms

Back Road, St Margaret’s Hope, Orkney KW17 2SP T: 01856 831205 [email protected] www.murrayarmshotel.com

Sgl (2) £35-£45 pppn Dbl (1) £35-£45 pppn Tw (2) £35-£45 pppn £35-£45 pppn

88

14

4

Open: Jan – Dec

B9

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STROMNESS Awaiting Grading

Ferry InnUnder new ownership and restored as a warm and welcoming traditional inn. Smart harbourfront rooms, WiFi connected for business or leisure stays. Our restaurant specialises in fresh local produce, seafood and steaks while the bar serves classy cocktails alongside fine local cask ales.

10 John St, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3AD T: 01856 850280 F: 01856 851332 [email protected] www.ferryinn.com

Sgl (4) £45-£65 prpn Dbl (4) £60-£90 prpn Tw (3) £60-£90 prpn Fam (6) £80-£120 prpn

91

69

8

Open: Jan – Dec

Awaiting Grading

B9

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STROMNESS ooo Hotel

The Stromness HotelTraditional stone built hotel centrally situated and overlooking the harbour and Scapa Flow. Four well appointed bars, excellent bar meals, full a la carte restaurant. Lift to all floors. Children under 16 yrs old free B&B if sharing with parents.

T: 01856 850298 F: 01856 850610 [email protected] www.stromnesshotel.com

Sgl (6) £59-£65 pppn £102-£110 prpn Tw (20) £102-£110 prpn £125-£130 prpn

57

02

1

Open: Mar – Dec

Hotels and Inns


Guest Houses, B&Bs, Farmhouses

B7

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BIRSAY oooo Bed and Breakfast

Choin Bed & BreakfastComfortable stylish accommodation with views over Marwick Bay. Close to wonderful coastal walks, RSPB reserves and World Heritage archaeological sites. Ideal location for sightseeing, walking, birdwatching and fishing. Highly praised breakfasts.

Choin, Birsay, Orkney KW17 2ND T: 01856 721488 [email protected] www.choin.co.uk

Dbl (2) £40 pppnTw (2) £40 pppnEnsuite (4)

67878

Open: Jan – Dec

For more information on Orkney

www.visitorkney.com

B6

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BIRSAY oooo Bed and Breakfast

LinkshouseRelax and unwind in a friendly and comfortable atmosphere overlooking the Bay of Birsay. Many historical and archaeological sites close by, some within walking distance. Wholesome food served for breakfast, whether your choice be meat, fish or vegetarian.

[email protected] www.ewaf.co.uk

£38-£45 pppn£38-£45 pppn

Open: Mar – Oct

H10

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DEERNESS oooo Bed and Breakfast

NorthfieldNorthfield is a bespoke ecological farmhouse hand crafted from green oak. The remote location has spectacular views to the north isles and and is in close proximity to Mullhead nature reserve where you can see some lovely wild life. All rooms ensuite, have WiFi and enjoy sea views.

Northfield, Deerness, Kirkwall, Orkney KW17 2QL T: 01856 741353 [email protected] www.orkneybedandbreakfast.com

Dbl (1) £35 pppn Tw (1) £35 pppn

84

17

7

Open: Jan – Dec

C8

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DOUNBY oooo Bed and Breakfast

AshleighLuxury accommodation in new house, centrally located in rural area. Ideal for fishing, birdwatching and walking. RSPB and World Heritage Sites nearby. Sun lounge with panoramic views over Harray Loch.

T: 01856 771378 M: 0774 733 7335 [email protected] www.ashleigh-orkney.com

Sgl (2) £37-£44 pppn Dbl (1) £35-£40 pppn Tw (1) £35-£40 pppn

71629

Open: Jan – Dec

D6

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EVIE oooo Bed and Breakfast

CastlehillOverlooking magnificent sea & island views, Castlehill offers fine hospitality and high quality food in comfortable homely B&B. Evening meals using quality local produce are provided by arrangement. Rooms have Mp3 & fast WiFi. Our new hot tub and sauna will be available from April 2012.

T: 01856 751228 M: 0785 022 6950 [email protected] www.castlehillorkney.co.uk

£55-£60 prpn Dbl (2) £70-£85 prpn Tw (1) £70-£85 prpn DB&B £60-£80 pppn Ensuite (3)

86

24

4

Open: Jan – Dec

C8

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HARRAY ooooo Bed and Breakfast

Holland HouseFive star luxurious accommodation in beautifully appointed former manse situated near excellent fishing lochs and World Heritage Sites. Rural location ideal for walking, cycling and birdwatching. Spacious residents lounge with open fire and conservatory leading to secluded walled garden. Free wireless broadband available. Private parking.

T: 01856 771400 F: 01856 771400 [email protected] www.hollandhouseorkney.co.uk

Sgl (1) £48 pppn Dbl (1) £48 pppn Tw (1) £48 pppn Ensuite (3)

30

78

1

Open: Jan – Dec

C8

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HARRAY ooo Bed and Breakfast

Kenila B&BA warm Orcadian welcome awaits you at Kenila. Panoramic views over-looking Harray Loch and Hoy Hills. Ideal for fishing and bird watching, centrally located in West Mainland makes it an ideal touring base for many historic sites. Extensive breakfast menu.

Kenila, Harray, Orkney KW17 2LE T: 01856 771431 M: 0776 560 7737 [email protected] www.kenila.com

Sgl (1) £26-£30 pppn Dbl (1) £26-£30 pppn Fam (1) £26-£30 pppn

33

55

8

Open: Jan – Dec

Guest Houses and B&Bs


G11

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HOLM ooo Guest House

Commodore ChaletsSix well appointed self contained bed and breakfast rooms, all ensuite. Centrally situated for all amenities, within walking distance of the famous Italian Chapel and Churchill Barriers. Diving sites, fishing and many beaches are nearby.

Commodore Chalets, St Mary’s, Holm,

[email protected] www.commodorechalets.co.uk

£28-£35 pppn£28-£35 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

K1

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ISLE OF NORTH RONALDSAY ooo Guest House

North Ronaldsay Bird ObservatorySolar and wind powered island accommodation with birdwatching and natural history activities. Additional four bedded dormitory rooms available.

Twingness, North Ronaldsay,

[email protected] www.nrbo.co.uk

£34-£46 pppn £34-£37 pppn £34-£37 pppn £46.50-£59.50 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Bed and Breakfast

Ardconnel B&BThis large comfortable modern home where all bedrooms are ensuite is situated in a quiet country location with beautiful views of Kirkwall Bay, the West Mainland and the Orkney North Isles. It is approx a 20 min walk to Kirkwall town centre. Car parking available.

Craigiefield Road, Kirkwall, St Ola, Orkney KW15 1UJ T: 01856 873885 M: 0772 514 6464

www.ardconnel.co.uk

Dbl (2) £60-£64 prpn Tw (1) £60-£64 prpnEnsuite (3)

75

83

7

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

1Hm!∑klñp#GÄ DC

KIRKWALL & ST OLA oooo Guest House

Avalon HouseAvalon House, a purpose built four star guest house. Home cooking, a warm welcome and home comforts await you. 20 minute walk to Kirkwall harbour, quiet location with views from dining room over Kirkwall bay. Warm welcome and a real home from home.

Avalon House, Carness Road, Orkney KW15 1UE T: 01856 876665 [email protected] www.avalon-house.co.uk

Sgl £45-£55 prpn Dbl (2) £64-£72 prpn Tw (2) £64-£72 prpn £88-£100 prpnEnsuite (5)

76

97

4

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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Bon Accord B&BA warm welcome awaits in our non smoking accommodation. All bedrooms are ensuite, which are fitted with power showers giving an excellent supply of hot water at all times. Price based on two people sharing. Five minutes walk from town centre. Within five miles of airport.

£29-£35 pppn £29-£35 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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Crossford B&BRelax in the privacy of your own sitting/breakfast room. Comfortable, spacious, double ensuite bedroom. Enjoy beautiful panoramic views over North Isles and south to Scapa Flow and Hoy. Quiet, rural location, 1.5 miles from Kirkwall. Private parking. Recommended by Lonely Planet.

Heather Herbertson, Crossford, Heathery

T: 01856 876142 [email protected]

Dbl (1) £35-£42 pppn Ensuite (1)

21

45

6

Open: May – Sep

F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA oooo Bed and Breakfast

Hildeval Bed & BreakfastWelcome to Hildeval Orkney, a beautiful four star bed and breakfast in picturesque Kirkwall, a short walk from Orkney College and town centre. We offer a highly commended service for all visitors to enjoy wonderful local scenery and visit the many and varied historic sites.

facilities

T: 01856 878840 M: 0773 388 4971 [email protected] www.hildeval-orkney.co.uk

£30-£42 pppn Dbl (1) £30-£32 pppn Tw (1) £30-£32 pppn from £75 prpnEnsuite (3)

76

96

1

Open: Jan – Dec

Find all you want to do in Scotland, in one place.

visitscotland.com/wheretofindusInformation Centres

Your local VisitScotland Information Centre has details of everything to see and do in Scotland. What’s more we can book tickets for events, activities and attractions, arrange transport and find accommodation anywhere in the country. So whatever you’re looking for, there’s only one place to go.



F9

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Lerona B&BA warm welcome awaits you at Lerona and we are situated only five minutes walk to nearest restaurant. Very convenient for boats to North Isles.

£28-£33 pppn £28-£33 pppn £28-£33 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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13 Palace RoadSpacious and comfortable 19th-century house beside St Magnus Cathedral, run by local family. Beautifully appointed and all amenities close by.

Dbl (1) £35-£40 pppn£35-£40 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Guest House

Polrudden Guest HousePrivately run guest house, close to sports complex and short walk to centre of historic Kirkwall. Large private car park, ensuite facilities in all rooms, wireless internet access, in-house computer available. Ground floor rooms available.

Orkney KW15 1UHT: 01856 874761 M: 0751 810 4188 [email protected]

£50-£60 pppn Dbl (1) £30-£35 pppnTw (4) £30-£35 pppn £28-£35 pppnEnsuite/priv facs (7)

50

11

1

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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The Royal Oak Guest HouseLiz Bruce welcomes you to a purpose built, friendly, family-run guest house. All rooms ensuite with tea/coffee making facilities and television. Small kitchen and lounge for guests use. Excellent views over Scapa Flow during breakfast. Private car park. Only a 10 minute walk to the town centre.

[email protected] www.royaloakhouse.co.uk

Sgl £35-£45 pppn Dbl (3) £28-£32 pppn Tw (3) £28-£32 pppn Fam (2) £28-£32 pppnEnsuite (8)

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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Sanderlay Guest HouseComfortable family run, non smoking, guest house in quiet residential area on outskirts of Kirkwall. Two self contained family units. Brochure available. Open January to December. Private parking. A guests’ lounge, with TV and basic cooking facilities is available to all residents. Wireless internet available.

2 Viewfield Drive, Kirkwall,

T: 01856 875587 [email protected] www.sanderlay.co.uk

Sgl (3) £36-£42 pppn Dbl (2) £28-£33 pppnTw (1) £28-£33 pppn Fam (2) from £80 prpn Ensuite/priv facs (8)

52953

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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Scapa HouseOrcadian family home with ensuite bedrooms, tea/coffee making facilities and TV. Situated near Scapa Distillery (on A964 Orphir Rd) and Scapa Flow. Quiet rural location, only two miles from Kirkwall town centre and the beautiful St Magnus Cathedral. Open all year.

Orkney KW15 1SE T/F: 01856 874639 M: 0778 640 9753 [email protected]

Sgl £30-£35 pppn Dbl (2) £25-£35 pppn Tw (1) £25-£35 pppn Ensuite (3)

87

57

8

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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St OlaNewly refurbished traditional stone built hotel, offering panoramic views of the harbour and Orkney’s outer isles. Two minute walk from town centre. Outer island ferries depart from harbour in front of hotel. We house two popular bars, offering light snacks and local ales.

[email protected] www.stolahotel.co.uk

Sgl (2) £35-£55 pppn Dbl (3) £30-£40 pppn £25-£35 pppn £23-£29 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

F9

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Walls, BellavistaSituated a mile outside Kirkwall, 20 minutes walk from Kirkwall harbour. Guest lounge with fridge, microwave, plates, etc. Groundfloor bedrooms. Computer with free internet. Free WiFi throughout building. Large private car parking. Secure bicycle shed. Room only rates available.

Carness Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1UE T: 01856 872306 [email protected] www.bellavistaorkney.co.uk

Sgl (3) £38.50 pppn £33-£48.50 pppn Tw (1) £33-£48.50 pppn Fam (1) £48.50-£88 prpn Ensuite/priv facs (8)

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Open: Jan – Dec



D10

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ORPHIR oooo Bed and Breakfast

The Noust Bed and BreakfastComfortable, well equipped rooms just outside Orphir village, with private parking. Freshly cooked breakfasts, using good quality local food – takeaway breakfasts available for early morning departures. Bar and post office on the doorstep, two miles to Hoy ferry, three miles to RSPB bird reserve.

Gyre Road, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RB T: 01856 811348 [email protected] www.thenoust.co.uk

Sgl £40 pppn £35 pppn £35 pppn

59793

Open: Jan – Dec

[email protected]

To speak to one of our travel experts call

visitscotland.com

Accommodation made easy

0845 148 6033

D10

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ORPHIR ooo Bed and Breakfast

Scorralee B&BModern bungalow situated overlooking the famous anchorage of Scapa Flow. Scorralee is still a small working croft with a few sheep. You are assured of a warm Orcadian welcome at Scorralee. Margaret Clouston has been offering B&B accommodation for many years. With many returning year after year.

Scorralee, Scorradale Road, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RF T: 01856 811268 F: 01856 811268 [email protected] www.scorralee.co.uk

Sgl £38-£40 pppn Dbl (2) £28-£38 pppn Tw (1) £28-£38 pppn Ensuite (3)

53

24

0

Open: Jan – Dec

F12

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SOUTH RONALDSAY ooo Bed and Breakfast

St Margarets Cottage B&BSituated in one of the prettiest villages in Orkney, we offer a quieter place than Kirkwall but close enough to all the excellent facilities on offer. Early breakfast can be arranged for guests using Pentland Ferries.

Church Road, St. Margaret’s Hope, Orkney KW17 2SR T: 01856 831637

Dbl (2) £28-£30 pppn Tw (1) £28-£30 pppn Ensuite/priv facs (3)

75

91

5

Open: Mar – Sep

C9

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STENNESS oooo Bed and Breakfast

Mill of EyrlandBeautifully converted water mill with maintained workings creating unique accommodation. Lovely garden and mill burn surroundings. Three miles from Stromness and close to the main archaeological sites. Central Orkney location serves as a perfect base to tour Orkney.

T: 01856 850136 [email protected] www.millofeyrland.com

Sgl (1) £30-£45 pppn Dbl (3) £25-£40 pppn Tw (1) £25-£40 pppn Fam (2) £25-£40 pppnEnsuite/priv facs (6)

38364

Open: Jan – Dec

B9

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Brinkies Guest HouseA warm Orcadian welcome awaits you at Brinkies Guest House. It is within easy walking distance of Stromness and the ferry terminal. All rooms have TV/DVD, iPhone/iPod dock and free WiFi. A stunning location, whether in Orkney for business or pleasure.

Stromness, Orkney KW16 3JN T/F: 01856 851881 M: 0772 939 4828 [email protected] www.brinkiesguesthouse.co.uk

Sgl (1) £40-£60 pppn Dbl (1) £35-£45 pppn Tw £35-£45 pppn Fam (1) £35-£45 pppnDB&B from £50 pppn Ensuite/priv facs (3)

91

24

6

Open: Jan – Dec

Awaiting Grading

B10

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STROMNESS oooo Farmhouse

Burnside B&BRelax in our newly refurbished farmhouse on a working dairy farm. Our stylish comfortable rooms (with ensuite or private facilities) enjoy stunning views of Stromness. Home cooked breakfast a speciality with freshly baked bread and cakes available. Ideally located a short stroll from town centre.

[email protected] www.burnside-farm.com

£30-£50 pppn £30-£50 pppn £30-£50 pppn

Open: Jan – Dec

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B10

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STROMNESS oooo Bed and Breakfast

Ferry Bank B&BFerry Bank is superbly appointed with delightful bedrooms overlooking the marina, Graemsay and Scapa Flow. Centrally situated, close to tourist information centre, bus stops, ferry terminal, galleries and restaurants. We specialise in good value accommodation with an exceptional breakfast menu and many extras. Private parking.

bedroom accommodation

Orkney KW16 3AG T: 01856 851250

Dbl (1) £31 pppnFam (1) £31 pppn

45250

Open: Feb – Nov

B10

1Hm!kXrñöabl,qÄVS

STROMNESS ooo Bed and Breakfast

45 John StreetFriendly, family-run bed and breakfast.Centrally situated on the harbourfront. Ferry terminal, shops and bistros 100 yards. Homemade bread, jams and local kipper fillets are our speciality. Special winter rates. Dinner, bed and breakfast. A warm welcome awaits you all year round.

Jennifer Sinclair, 45 John Street, Stromness

www.45johnstreet.co.uk

from £35 pppn Dbl (1) from £35 pppn Tw from £35 pppn Fam (1) from £35 pppnDB&B £48 pppn Ensuite (2)

Open: Jan – Dec

B10

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STROMNESS oo Guest House

Orca Guest HouseFriendly family-run guesthouse in central location only two minutes walk from the ferry/bus terminal; single, twin, double and family rooms, all ensuite; all breakfasts cooked to your order, from full Scottish to vegetarian as well as continental options. Free use of laundry facilities, WiFi internet access available on request.

76 Victoria Street, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3BS T: 01856 850447 [email protected] www.orcahotel.com

Sgl (2) £28-£44 prpn Dbl (2) £44-£60 prpn Tw (2) £44-£60 prpn Fam (3) £52-£74 prpn

Open: Jan – Dec

G9

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TANKERNESS ooo Bed and Breakfast

Straigona Bed & BreakfastPurpose built B&B with stunning views over Inganess Bay and the island of Shapinsay. Semi rural but just four miles from Kirkwall and close to the airport. Ample parking. All ensuite rooms. Evening meals and picnic lunches by arrangement. Ideal location for touring.

Tankerness, Orkney KW17 2QR T: 01856 861328 [email protected] www.straigona.co.uk

Dbl (1) £32 pppn Tw (1) £32 pppnFam (1) £36 pppn Ensuite (3)

90

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9

Open: Jan – Dec


A lobster fisherman returns to Stromness Harbour.


Self Catering, Individual Holiday Homes

B6

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTnû)w[fñöpúGÉ.

20418

CorkaquinaFully refurbished 19th-century stone cottage retaining original character, scenic location overlooking Marwick Bay. Close to RSPB reserve. Open all year. Short breaks available.

Mrs G Moar, Upper Scapa, St Ola, Orkney KW15 1SD

[email protected] www.orkney-cottages.co.uk

BIRSAY oooo Self Catering

Per week £350-£575 Cottage (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4)

B7

Open: Jan – Dec

0WLTm)w[dfñöp,GY.

12

19

7

CorksSet on hillside with views to sea and across the island; a traditional stonebuilt dwelling restored to a high standard with oak flooring and underfloor heating. The accommodation includes a spacious living room with stove, a double and bunk bedroom.

Edinburgh EH7 5BN

[email protected]


£400-£550

B7

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)wtñöpMJG.

44

79

2

The Loons Self Catering CottageModern cottage on working stock farm, edge of RSPB reserve ‘The Loons’, close to Marwick Head. Ideal for walking, cycling, fishing or just relaxing at this tranquil location. Open all year. Ferry 12 miles, airport 20 miles. Weekend let available. Linen provided.

Phyllis Ballantyne

T: 01856 721386 M: 0795 524 1397 [email protected] www.loonscottage.co.uk

BIRSAY ooo Self Catering

Per week £170-£270 Cottage (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (1-4)

Information Centresvisitscotland.com/wheretofindus

B6

Open: Mar – Oct

HLTm[fpG.)M

38264

Mid Colmoquoy CottageA small and cosy modern detached bungalow in a very rural setting. Close to Marwick Head, Loons and Birsay. It is in an ideal location for fishing and touring and a bird reserve and historic memorial are nearby.

Mrs. G. Watt, Mid Colmoquoy Cottage,

BIRSAY oo Self Catering

Per week £125-£210

B6

Open: Apr – Sep

HLTm!û)wt[fñöpGY.8

00

57

Palace CottageLocated in village of Palace, Birsay, next to the 16th-century Earl’s Palace. Recently renovated with fitted oak kitchen and bathroom with whirlpool bath. Many original features remain, with wood panelling and open hearth fire. Excellent location for the Brough of Birsay and Marwick Head.

Mrs Maureen Norquoy, Kellyan, Birsay,

enquiries@palace-cottage-orkney.co.ukwww.palace-cottage-orkney.co.uk


Per week £250-£400

C6

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmy)wtx[dfñöpúGY.

48

68

6

SkesquoyCottage full of character set in 90 acres of its own land. Idyllic lochside location. Coal fire, perfect peace. Borders RSPB bird reserve, sit back, relax and watch wild life from the sun porch. Skesquoy is the ideal setting to get away from it all.

Boathouse, Finstown, Orkney KW17 2EH

[email protected] www.orkneyself-catering.com

BIRSAY ooo Self Catering

Per week £400-£500

B6

HLm)gw[púMGY.

73

93

9

Wattle HousePanoramic views over Brough of Birsay, Earl’s Palace, Kitchener’s Memorial. Ideal base for walking, bird watching, fishing. Spacious, comfortable accommodation.

[email protected]


Per week £300-£450

Self Catering


C7

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmwtx[dfñöpúJ,GY. &∫

15126

HannabreckTraditional, detached Orkney cottage. Situated on a hill with panoramic views over the countryside. Features flagstone floors, box beds, open fireplace and modern ground source heating. Centrally located for the many archeological sites and free loch fishing. Internet access available. Children and pets welcome.

[email protected] www.hannabreck.co.uk

DOUNBY oooo Self Catering

£190-£400

C7

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmwt[fñöpúJ,. &

15

12

6

Lochland ChaletsModern, spacious, fully equipped chalets. Centrally located for the many archeological sites and free local trout fishing. Features it’s own bird hide. Only one and a half miles to local amenities. Children and pets welcome.

DOUNBY ooo Self Catering

£100-£280

C7

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑û)wt[dfñöpúG.

74

63

8

MerrengleeMerrenglee is a modern spacious bungalow offering guests a warm welcome. Built with ease and comfort in mind, Merrenglee is fully equipped quality accommodation in a peaceful village location. Ideally situated for sightseeing, walking/cycling along roads/trails, wildlife, diving, fishing, and renowned archaeological sites.

local activities

[email protected] www.orkneybreaks.co.uk


Per week £300-£500

C7

Open: Jan – Dec

0HL.Tw[m)tñödfpúJG %

77

65

6

Norton CottageNewly built traditional style cottage complete with modern furnishings. Finished to a very high standard and suitable for disabled. Ideal location for fishing, birdwatching and sightseeing. Welcome pack provided. Open all year.

[email protected] www.norton-cottage.co.uk


Per week £250-£450

C7

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm∑)wt[dñöpG.A

47208

The Peedie HooseRenovated to a very high standard in the heart of the west mainland. One mile from Dounby village. Ideally situated for sightseeing, fishing and birdwatching. Welcome pack provided. Families welcome.

Mrs W Kirkness, New Vola, Dounby, Orkney KW17 2JQ T: 01856 841724 M: 0795 839 9410 [email protected]


Per week £300-£420 Cottages (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (6)

C6

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!)w[dföp,G.7

77

69

BrekkanDetached, spacious well appointed cottage with panoramic views over farmland and sea. Close to fishing lochs and bird reserves. Many places of interest nearby and close to the villages of Dounby and Palace and The Brough of Birsay. Ideal location for sightseeing. Open all year.

[email protected]

EVIE ooo Self Catering

£320-£375

D6

Open: Jan – Dec

Lm!)wt[dfñöpG.A

21

08

3

CraigviewComfortable well equipped house beautifully situated with large patio window affording views down over the sea to the cliffs and islands of Eynhallow and Rousay. Peaceful location, ideal for fishing, walking, archeology, bird and seal watching. Sandy beach nearby.

Nottingham NG2 5AA

[email protected]


Per week £320-£350

D7

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!∑)wt[fñöpúJG.A

25

31

4

Eviedale CottagesOur two cottages and two flats are based on an old farm steading and are furnished to a high standard in country style with solid fuel stoves.


£250-£350

Self Catering


D7

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmû)w[fñöpJ,G.

70922

Upper QuoysUpper Quoys is a lovely homely farm cottage with great sea views and a very private garden. Close to a playpark and Aikerness beach excellent for families.

T: 01856 751298 M: 0790 040 0097 [email protected] www.holidayorkney.com


£400

To find your ideal place to stay

use the map reference and

refer to the map on page 81

E7

0LTm!)wt[dfñöpGÉ.#I

oooo Self CateringEVIE

Open: Jan – Dec

Woodwick MillWoodwick Mill has been renovated to provide superior self-catering accommodation in a beautiful burnside setting. The environment is quiet and serene with ducks, trout, grey wagtails and the relaxing sound of Woodwick Burn babbling over the flagstone bedrock. The accommodation is finished to an excellent and well-equipped standard. The eco-friendly building is highly insulated and warmed by heat pump with solar panels providing hot water. Each apartment has a spa bath, separate shower, fridge, freezer, cooker, microwave and Jamie Oliver tableware. There are superb views over the surrounding countryside and neighbouring islands. All double beds are king sized. The Mill is 14 miles from Kirkwall and Stromness.

M T Austin, Rognvalsey, 4 Dundas Crescent, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1JQ T: 01856 874150 M: 0776 809 0354 F: 01856 873060 [email protected] www.woodwickmill.co.uk

71026

£425-£675 Flat (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (1-3) Apartment (3) Bedrooms (2-3) Sleeps (1-6)

www.visitscotland.com/surpriseoffersDownload some great money saving offers

| Accommodation | | |

E9

HLTm∑y)gwt[fñöpG.#ú

oooo Self CateringFINSTOWN

Open: Jan – Dec

Atlantis LodgesFamily run, self contained waterside apartments. One or two bedroom. All with panoramic view across the Bay of Firth and the inner North Isles. Very central location, midway between the two main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness. Available all year round for one night or longer, beginning any day of the week.

Boat House, Finstown, Orkney KW17 2EH T: 01856 761581 F: 01856 761397 M: 0776 075 7856 [email protected] www.atlantislodges.com

13337

£258-£400 Apartment (4) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4) Apartment (8) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (2)

D9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm

71

70

7

Auld Kirk ApartmentsBeautiful stone-built church building newly converted to exceptional standard. The three apts. have their own entrance, well proportioned rooms with a generous living area on the top floor. A stunning mix of traditional building, with the latest modern design, situated in the picturesque village of Finstown. (See our advert on page 54)

T: 01856 875438 M: 0788 444 6086 F: 01856 877014 [email protected] www.auldkirk-apt.co.uk

FINSTOWN oooo Self Catering

Per week £450-£600

For a list of events throughout Orkney see pages 18 -19

Key Events

Self Catering


D8/9

HLTm∑y)gwt[dfñöpúG.I

oooo Self CateringFINSTOWN

Open: Jan – Dec

Orkney Self CateringSelf contained two bedroom bungalows, sleeping four (six possible) and a novel Upturned Boathouse sleeping six. Situated on a private seashore site. Panoramic views across the Bay of Firth and inner North Isles. Private parking. Central location midway between the two main towns of Stromness and Kirkwall. Open all year round.

Boat House, Finstown, Orkney KW17 2EH T: 01856 761581 F: 01856 761397 M: 0776 075 7856 [email protected] www.orkneyself-catering.com

48686

Per week £400-£550 Bungalow (3) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4) Boathouse (1) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (6)

D9

Open: Jan – Nov

HLTm)w[dfñöpúG.A

81

32

6

Rowan CottageRowan Cottage is a timber chalet, situated on the hillside with stunning views overlooking the village of Finstown and Firth Bay. Situated seven miles between Stromness and Kirkwall.

c/o Rowandale, Finstown,

[email protected]

FINSTOWN oooo Self Catering

Per week £250-£450 Cottages (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (2-4 + cot)

E8

Open: Jan – Dec

0LTm)wt[dfñöpJG.

16

91

1

Buan HouseThis spacious, luxurious house with its central location is the perfect place to enjoy Orkney’s magic. Relax in the conservatory and enjoy the stunning location with panoramic views over the Bay of Firth. Where better to spend your evenings after a day spent sightseeing.

GR Stevenson & Co, Burness, Firth, Orkney KW17 2ET T: 01856 761442 M: 0776 866 3922 [email protected] www.orkneyselfcatering.co.uk

FIRTH oooo Self Catering

£650-£990 House (1) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (8)

E9

Open: May – Dec

HLTm)w[dfpJG.

71270

Grimbister Farm CottageModern, newly renovated cottage, set in a beautiful location with outstanding views over the Bay of Firth. Very central, only five minutes from Kirkwall. Ideal base for your stay in Orkney.

Mrs A Seator, Grimbister Farm, By Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1TT T/F: 01856 761318 [email protected]

FIRTH ooo Self Catering


E8

Open: Jan – Dec

0LTmû)wt[dfñöpJG.1

69

11

Peedie HoosePeedie Hoose enjoys unrivalled panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and across the sea towards Kirkwall from its triple aspect first floor lounge. Cattle graze the fields around the house and as they are friendly they will probably come to have a look at you.

Orkney KW17 2ET T: 01856 761442 M: 0776 866 3922 [email protected] www.orkneyselfcatering.co.uk

FIRTH oooo Self Catering

Per week £390-£690

C8

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)wt[fñöpG.

33

38

7

BreckanSpacious four bedroom house with enclosed garden, over-looking Harray Loch and Hoy Hills. Near the best fishing lochs. Shop and hotel nearby. Open all year with special rates for off-peak season. Ideal family accommodation.

Mr Ballantyne, Karona, Stoneyhill Road, Orkney KW17 2JS T: 01856 771442 M: 0771 611 3247 [email protected]

HARRAY ooo Self Catering

£250-£400 Cottage (1) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (6)

C7

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)w[fñp.

37

22

3

Mallard CottageTraditional stone croft with the recent addition of a sun lounge. Completely modernised inside to the highest standard. Secluded garden with outstanding views and easy access to all local amenities.

5 Dominic Court, Stone, Staffordshire ST15 8EH T: 01785 812290 M: 0779 684 1078

HARRAY oooo Self Catering

£300-£400 Cottages (1) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (2)

Self Catering


C8

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmû)w[ñöpMG.

47138

New BreckanModern, well equipped country cottage suitable for a couple. It is ideally located in the heart of the West Mainland whether visiting the many archaeological sites nearby, trout fishing in the many lochs or just taking in the peace and tranquility of Orkney.

[email protected] www.newbreckan.co.uk

HARRAY ooo Self Catering

Per week £100-£210

D8/9

0HTm!∑)wt[dfñp,G.#x

ooooo Self CateringHARRAY

Open: Jan – Dec

RicklaSecluded luxury for two-four set in the rolling countryside of Orkney’s Neolithic Heartland. Far from traffic and noise yet only 15 minutes from Kirkwall or Stromness. Glorious views from all rooms, bedroom suites with no shared walls. Thistle Award Winner 2006, in VisitScotland’s Top three since 2006. Nothing comes close....

[email protected] www.rickla.com

£390-£730

G11

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)wt[ñM,#

83

69

6

Commodore ChaletsWell appointed fully equipped self catering units, many with a sea view. Close to Italian Chapel, diving, fishing and beaches nearby. A great base for your Orkney holiday.

Commodore Chalets, St Mary’s, Holm

T: 01856 781319 [email protected] www.commodorechalets.co.uk

HOLM ooo Self Catering

£150-£330 Chalets (9) Bedrooms (1-2) Sleeps (2-6)

H11

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm∑)wt[dfñöpJG.

20802

Craebreck HouseSpacious house on a working farm six miles from Kirkwall. Ideal for groups or extended families – accommodates up to 11 people. Wonderful views across Scapa Flow, Hoy Hills and Churchill Barriers. Open all year. Prices vary on number of persons.

nearby

Netherbreck, Holm, Orkney KW17 2RX T: 01856 781231 [email protected] www.orkneyholiday.co.uk

HOLM ooo Self Catering

Per week £300-£700 Farm House (1) Bedrooms (5) Sleeps (11)

G10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)wt[dfñöpG.#7

37

70

CrearhoweOnly seven miles from Kirkwall, Crearhowe with its stunning panoramic views over Scapa Flow and towards the hills of Hoy provides high quality holiday accommodation for up to six people. The detached three bedroom farmhouse is quietly situated and is well equipped – facilities include a modern fitted kitchen.

burning stove

Cupar, Fife KY15 5UF T: 01334 850310 M: 0795 165 6970 [email protected] www.crearhowe.co.uk

HOLM oooo Self Catering

£300-£595

F10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!)wt[dfñöpJGÉ.

43

24

6

Netherbutton CottagesTraditional style luxury cottages with modern interiors and stylish furnishings. Situated in a peaceful country location, surrounded by farmland, three miles from Kirkwall. Superb picturesque views over Scapa Flow, the buoy marking the war grave of the Royal Oak, Hoy Hills and South Isles.

Mrs Shirley Ward, Scarhaven, Holm, Orkney KW17 2RZ T: 01856 781312 M: 0783 583 5126 [email protected] www.netherbutton.co.uk

HOLM oooo Self Catering

£275-£450

H6

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmwtx[dfñöpG.

56

59

4

StiesTraditional croft cottage recently renovated to a high standard in a quiet location near the shore with views over neighbouring islands.

69 Ormond Crescent, Hampton,

T: 020 8941 5291 M: 0777 846 3798 [email protected] www.sties.co.uk

ISLE OF EDAY ooo Self Catering

Per week £300 Cottages (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (5)

Self Catering


B11

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)wt[dfñöpúG.

38021

BurnhouseEnjoy stunning views of Scapa Flow, a 3,925ha RSPB reserve on your doorstep, sea or loch fishing and guided ranger walks. Burnhouse is fully equipped and comfortable, four bicycles are available and a range of baby equipment. This is a perfect location for quality family time together.

Melfea, Cannigall Road, Orkney KW15 1SX T: 01856 870058 M: 0776 268 9225 [email protected] www.burnhouse-selfcatering.co.uk

ISLE OF HOY ooo Self Catering

Per week £350-£500 Cottages (1) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (2-5)

B11

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTw[fp.mû)tdñöGY!I

68

85

1

CliffgateEnjoy a relaxing holiday in a cottage of exceptional quality situated in the Rackwick valley – an area of outstanding beauty. Close to RSPB reserve and beach. Suitable for hillwalkers, birdwatching and fishing holidays. Families welcome.

M: 0790 010 3921 [email protected] www.cliffgate.co.uk

ISLE OF HOY oooo Self Catering

Per week £600 Cottage (1) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (8)

E6

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑û)gwt[dfñöpJ.I

89

52

8

Trumland Farm SteadingContemporary stylish conversion from imposing 19th century farm buildings. Enjoy wonderful seascapes and open spaces typical of the Orkney Isles on our family run organic farm. Farm produce available in season. Relax in our friendly, welcoming island environment.

Trumland Farm, Rousay, Orkney KW17 2PU

[email protected]

ISLE OF ROUSAY ooo Self Catering

Per week £280-£420 Cottage (2) Bedrooms (1-2) Sleeps (2-5)Studio (1) Bedsit Sleeps (1-2)

G8

Open: Jan – Dec

W0LT∑)wt[dfñöpG.m

86

58

9

Iona CottageTraditional cottage offering modern living on the beautiful, unspoilt island of Shapinsay, only a twenty minute ferry trip from Kirkwall. All bedrooms with ensuite facilities. Short walk from ferry, shop, post office, and restaurants. RSPB reserve, local crafters and a heritage centre all nearby. ECO friendly. WiFi.

58 Kirk Brae, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9QQ T: 01224 867184 M: 0780 301 6972 [email protected] www.islandselfcatering.co.uk

ISLE OF SHAPINSAY oooo Self Catering

Per week from £300 Cottage (1) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (6)

E2

Open: Jan – Dec

LTm!y)gwt[púhM,G.d

17265

Daisy CottageNewly upgraded, modern bungalow in Pierowall village. Convenient for shops, swimming pool, healthy living centre, beaches, seals and birdlife. Open all year. Ferry seven mls, airport three miles.

Mrs J Harcus, North Cubbigoe, Westray, Orkney KW17 2DD T: 01857 677398 [email protected]

ISLE OF WESTRAY ooo Self Catering

Per week from £240 Bungalow (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4)

E2

Open: Jan – Dec

LTfp,.A3

55

83

Sand O’GillA lovely cottage beside Pierowall village. Also available on a B&B basis. Car and cycle hire available. Peedie Westray wife found at the Neolithic site on Noltland Farm close to Noltland Castle and can be viewed at our local heritage centre.

ISLE OF WESTRAY ooo Self Catering

£245-£350

E2

Open: Jan – Dec

0LTm!∑)wt[dñöpG.H

73

66

9

SeaquoysSituated approximately two miles from Pierowall village, Seaquoys is a three bedroomed property which enjoys views of Ouse beach to the south and the island of Papa Westray to the east. Seaquoys is surrounded by open countryside with Wheeling Steen Gallery a short walk northward.

Lee & Karen Groat, Cranfield, Canningall Road, St Ola, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1SX T: 01856 871169 [email protected] www.seaquoyswestray.co.uk

ISLE OF WESTRAY oooo Self Catering


F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTmw[fp#!)tdñö &

42

02

9

Apartment 76Modern town centre apartment, very convenient for all local amenities. Private parking space. A local Orkney welcome pack awaits you on your arrival.

Mr & Mrs McEwen, Oaklea Farm,

KIRKWALL & ST OLA oooo Self Catering

Per week £465

Self Catering


F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm∑û)w[fñöp.

88130

Benbradagh FlatRecently renovated one bedroom flat in a modern family house with it’s own entrance. Situated in a quiet residential area and only 15 minutes walk to the centre of town and local amenities. The flat also has private parking.

Mrs Alison Robinson, Benbradagh,

T/F: 01856 874332 [email protected]

KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo Self Catering

£150-£250 Flat (1) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (2)

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HTLm∑!)w[p,Gö

54

06

8

Berstane House, Seaview ApartmentsTwo self-contained flats, one with balcony, both overlooking the sea. Also a two bedroom flat in Berstane House. Just outside Kirkwall in a private woodland with private parking and in a quiet location. Pets by arrangement.

Berstane House, St Ola, Orkney KW15 1SZ T: 01856 876277 [email protected] www.berstane.co.uk


Per week £150-£350 Flat (2) Bedrooms (2-3) Sleeps (2-5)

E10

Open: Jan – Dec

0LTm)wt[dfñöp,G.I

15

46

5

Blinkbonny Holiday HomesFour houses, recently built. Two bedrooms with one ensuite. Three bedrooms with two ensuites. Three miles from Kirkwall, overlooking Scapa Flow. Exceptionally clean. Award-winning restaurant five mins walk. Dogs welcome by arrangement. Ample private parking. Everything included in price. Heating, electricity, bedding, towels, cot, highchair etc.

Blinkbonny, St Ola, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1SF T: 01856 870208 M: 0779 685 8569 [email protected] www.blinkbonny.com

KIRKWALL & ST OLA ooo to oooo Self Catering

£395-£695 Cottage (4) Bedrooms (2-3) Sleeps (1-8)

ooo /oooo

For more information on Orkney

www.visitorkney.com

F9oooo Self CateringKIRKWALL & ST OLA

HLTm∑)wt[dfñöp#

Open: Jan – Dec

Broad Street Gardens Apartments and TownhouseNew purpose built luxury self catering accommodation prominently situated in the centre of historic Kirkwall. Built in a former townhouse garden between the beautiful Tankerness House Gardens and Kirkwall Town Hall, Broad Street Gardens provides the perfect base for exploring Orkney’s main town of Kirkwall and beyond.

www.kirkwallapartments.co.uk

£320-£660

For a list of events throughout Orkney see pages 18 - 19

Key Events

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!∑)w[dfñöpúG

71

03

5

Broadsands Self CateringModern semi-detached house situated in a quiet residential area in the centre of Kirkwall. Private off-road parking. Freeview and wireless internet access. Walking distance from shops, bus, ferries and Kirkwall’s historical sites. No smoking or pets. Open all year. Families very welcome.

Merlldon, St Ola, Orkney KW15 1TW T: 01856 876038 [email protected] www.broadsands-selfcatering.co.uk


Per week £200-£475 House (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4+1)

Self Catering


F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)gw[fñöpúG.

68015

14 Buttquoy ParkModern semi-detached bungalow situated in the beautiful town of Kirkwall, only two minutes walk from the town centre.


£240-£300

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑û)wtx[fñöqÉ.A

40

86

5

12 Clay LoanThis stone built terraced house in the very centre of Kirkwall makes an ideal base for your family holiday in Orkney. With its crow-stepped gables and Caithness slate roof, it dates back to the 1700’s but the interior is now fully modernised!

Briarlea, 10 Dundas Crescent, Orkney KW15 1JQ T: 01856 875556 [email protected] [email protected]


Per week £300-£450 House (1) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (5)

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!∑û)wt[dfñöúhG# DC

20

96

9

Craigiefield ApartmentsDeluxe 4-star Apartments set within a grand Victorian mansion and its grounds, located a short walk along the shore from the centre of Kirkwall. Sea Views, ample parking, Free WiFi, bicycles.

Orkney KW15 1UJ T: 01856 878477


£200-£650 Apartments (3) Bedrooms (1-2) Sleeps (2-4)

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLT!)w[dfñp,G.#

21

13

7

Crantit HouseAn old 1850 circa country mansion house, surrounded by mature walled gardens, providing high quality self-catering accommodation. Situated south of Kirkwall, 0.9 miles from St Magnus Cathedral and 0.6 miles from Scapa beach.

T: 01856 872899 M: 0771 161 0017 [email protected] www.crantit.co.uk


£350-£465 Apartments (2) Bedrooms (1-2) Sleeps (4) ooo/oooo

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑)w[ñöpG.

24217

Eastbank CottagesFour cottages situated in quiet secluded grounds within easy walking distance of town centre and amenities. Spacious comfortable and well equipped (see visitscotland.com for pictures) No additional charges. WiFi available. Garden and safe private parking. No smoking or pets. Open all year.

Firth & Linklater, Bank House, East Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1LX T: 01856 873561 [email protected]


Per week £210-£395 Cottages (4) Bedrooms (1-2) Sleeps (2-4)

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

LTmw[fpG2

87

64

Grain Park ApartmentsSuperior apartments situated in the heart of Kirkwall. Within easy walking distance of shops, bus, sports centre and all Kirkwall’s historical sites. Ideal base to explore Orkney. Ample parking. Courtesy transfer by arrangement.

Junction Road, Orkney KW15 1AX T/F: 01856 874404 M: 0776 272 2122 [email protected]


Per week £180-£395 Apartments (2) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (2)

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm!)w[dfñöpG.I

29

00

2

Greenfield Cottages – The GranaryOur cottages have been renovated and equipped to a high standard. Our objective is to provide guests with a tranquil setting and quality cottages. The Granary is fully equipped for a trouble free break in Orkney, giving guests freedom to explore Orkney’s many must-see sites.

Greenfield, Carness Road, St. Ola, Orkney KW15 1UET: 01856 873235 M: 0785 147 0851enquiries@selfcateringorkney.co.ukwww.selfcateringorkney.co.uk


Per week £250-£480 ooo/oooo

To find your ideal place to stay use the map reference and

refer to the map on page 81

Self Catering


F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑)wt[dfñp,GI

42646

High Park Properties Orkney LtdHigh Park Lodges are ideally situated for exploring Orkney, being no more than a half hour drive from any point on the mainland. Historic Kirkwall town centre is a pleasant 15 minutes walk. The lodges are situated in a quiet picturesque area in Kirkwall.

1 Dundas Crescent, Kirkwall,

T: 01856 873541 M: 0773 426 1823 [email protected] www.highparkorkney.com


Per week £350-£650

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmûy)wt[dfñöpG.A

67

73

4

Inganess LodgeLuxury cottage situated on hillside with stunning views across Inganess Bay. 1.8 miles from town centre, close to all amenities. Next to Inganess beach with its silvery sand and shipwreck. A great area for wildlife, birds, flowers and walking.

[email protected]


Per week £260-£495

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm∑)wt[dfñöpG.# DC

83

50

8

Innisgarth Self CateringInnisgarth provides high quality two bedroomed accommodation on the outskirts of Kirkwall with spectacular views over farmland towards Scapa beach. The property has a garage with automatic door making it ideal for holiday makers who require secure storage for their vehicle or sporting equipment.

Highrig, Orquil Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1SA

[email protected] www.orkneycottage.co.uk


Per week £300-£500

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm!∑û)wt[dfñöq,G

78

82

0

Kingston Self-CateringKingston Self Catering has four properties in the centre of Kirkwall. All properties have been built or modernised to the highest standard so you can relax after a busy day’s sightseeing in perfect peace and luxury beside a woodburning stove or in a jacuzzi bath.

[email protected] www.kingston-orkney.co.uk


Per week £350-£500 Flat (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (6)

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!∑û)wt[dfñöpGY.

78306

KjarstadIdeally located in central location for exploring Orkney, Kjarstad enjoys a quiet residential setting, yet is within 10-15 minutes walk from Kirkwall’s historic town centre, harbour and marina. Spacious home with private garden and on-site parking, furnished to a very high standard, sleeps six people.

Glasgow G3 8GJ T: 0141 222 2098 M: 0782 630 7070 [email protected] www.kjarstad.co.uk


Per week £400-£600

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑wtf[dfñöpú. %7

82

98

Laingbrae CottageRecently converted cottage. Central location only a few minutes walk from St Magnus Cathedral, town centre etc. Set in a quiet residential area. On-site parking.

[email protected] www.laingbraecottage.co.uk


£400-£525

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑)wt[dfñú

86

06

3

Laurel HouseUnique first floor town centre house refurbished to a high standard. Close to harbour, shops, bars, restaurants and Travel Centre. Ideal base to explore Orkney. Shorter breaks negotiable.

17 Warrenfield Crescent, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1QB T: 01856 870285 M: 0782 148 3711

www.laurelselfcatering.co.uk


Per week £400-£500

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑y)wtx[dfñöpúG.

88

68

5

Meadow Park HooseBrand new luxury four bedroom house accommodating up to eight people. Situated in Kirkwall the house is close to restaurants, shops, play parks etc yet benefits from having great views over the Bignold Park towards the St Magnus Cathedral and onwards to Kirkwall Bay.

[email protected] www.meadowparkhoose.co.uk


Per week £600-£900

Self Catering


F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HTmw[fG

26298

Orkney BedsitsSituated in the centre of Kirkwall. These apartments are warm and tastefully decorated to a high standard. The one bedroomed flat and the bedsit are non smoking. Close to shops, restaurants, the sports centre and many other places of interest.

Haughead, Orkney KW15 1TR T: 01856 875265 [email protected]

KIRKWALL & ST OLA oo to ooo Self Catering

Per week £180-£300 Bedsit & flat (3) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (1-2) oo/ooo

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!û)w[dfñöpúGY. %

20

41

8

Overscapa CottageNewly completed traditional cottage of unique character, in scenic rural setting near Scapa Beach on outskirts of Kirkwall. Fully equipped for relaxing break including wood burning stove. Within easy reach of amenities. Open all year. Short breaks available.

Mrs Gwen Moar, Upper Scapa, St. Ola, Orkney KW15 1SD T: 01856 874100 M: 0774 548 7498 [email protected] www.orkney-cottages.co.uk


Per week £450-£950

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTw[f#m!)tdñöq

42

02

9

1 Palace GardensRefurbished modern self catering one bedroom house, very convenient for all local amenities, just seconds away from town centre. Overlooks The Earls Palace. A local Orkney welcome pack awaits you on your arrival.

Mr & Mrs McEwen, Oaklea Farm,

[email protected] www.sebaymill.co.uk


Per week £495

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

LTm)w[dñp

73

13

4

Sunrise ApartmentVery central location, two mins from St Magnus Cathedral. Ideally located for exploring Kirkwall’s visitor attractions. Stone’s throw from ferries to the Isles. Spacious, recently renovated in contemporary style.

renovated

Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1HL T: 01856 873759 M: 0788 155 5033

[email protected] www.orkneysunrise.com


Per week £300-£420

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)wt[dfñöG

63867

8 West Tankerness LaneQuality century-old house with secluded garden in a small unique terrace in original part of Kirkwall, close to town centre. Ideally situated for touring. Near to all Kirkwall’s historical sites, shops, buses, harbour and leisure complex.

Westness, Lynn Park, Orkney KW15 1SL T: 01856 878594 M: 0775 180 1727 [email protected] www.westness-orkney.co.uk



F9

Open: Jan – Dec

LTm)w[fpGñ8

76

96

2 Willow RoadTwo bedroom house, sleeps four, seven minutes walk from Kirkwall town centre. Close to all local amenities. Suitable for adults. No pets. Secluded back garden with patio area. Off-street parking. Open all year. Minimum three nights considered off peak.

Glenarran, St Ola, Kirkwall,



Per week £504 -£616 House (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (1-4)

K1

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)wt[dfpJ,G

90

95

8

Howar Cottage and Nouster CrofthouseThese three and four star properties are only minutes walk from and overlook the very beautiful sandy Nouster Bay with its seals and seaweed eating native sheep.

NORTH RONALDSAY ooo to oooo Self Catering

£250-£340 ooo/oooo

E10

Open: Jan – Dec

LTm)w[pJG.

13

78

5

BachylisSemi detached house overlooking Kirbister Loch and Waulkmill Beach. Situated between Kirkwall and Stromness. Ideal for historical sites, hillwalking, fishing etc.

0RPHIR ooo Self Catering

Per week £180-£320

Self Catering


E10

Open: Jan – Dec

LTm)w[fpúG.

89474

Bethany CottageDetached cottage located in an idyllic setting, three miles from Kirkwall. Panoramic views over Scapa Flow and Kirbister Loch. RSPB reserve and beach nearby. Open all year. No smoking and no pets.

East Norvald, East Hill KW15 1LY T: 01856 877816 M: 0792 161 2416

ORPHIR ooo Self Catering

Per week £250-£450

D10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)w[dfñöpMJG.

57

37

6

The BothyRecently modernised cottage situated on working beef and sheep farm. Views of Scapa Flow and use of own sandy beach. Open all year. Ferry 10 miles. Airport 10 miles.

Swanbister House, Swanbister, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RB T: 01856 811212 M: 0771 052 7794 [email protected] www.orkneyfarmcottage.co.uk



E9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)wt[dfñöpG.

80

50

6

BurnleeBurnlee is an attractive bungalow in a lovely situation. The house is light, airy and comfortable with underfloor heating, solid fuel stove and high standards. Guests can enjoy panoramic views and wildlife. This property has an enclosed lawn and is well situated for exploring Orkney.

Skaill, Orphir, Orkney KW16 3HD T: 01856 811242 [email protected] www.burnlee-orkney.co.uk

0RPHIR oooo Self Catering

Per week £440-£600 Bungalow (1) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (2-7)

D10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm!)wt[dfñöpG.A ª&

63

88

4

Buxa Farm ChaletsNorwegian style semi-detached wooden chalets situated on the A967 between Houton and Stromness in Orphir. Waterfront property on 20 acres of unspoilt land with stunning panoramic views. Newly renovated adjoining croft house sleeps larger families 2-8. No smoking or pets.

Westrow Lodge, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RD T: 01856 811360 [email protected] www.rovingeye.co.uk


£350-£625

D10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm!)w[fñpG.A

21237

Creel Cottage FlatOverlooking the seascapes of Scapa Flow and the Hoy hills, Creel Cottage is only five mins from the Houton South Isles ferry terminal and is equidistant from Kirkwall and Stromness. Ideally centred for exploring Orkney’s archaeology, fishing, diving, crafts, island hopping, walking, birdwatching or unwinding.

T: 01856 811739 M: 0774 290 8975 [email protected] www.creelcottage.com


£180-£260 Flat adjoined to Cottage (1) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (2-4)

D10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLT! &6

91

04

Cullya-QuoySpacious house with three bedrooms (one ensuite), open-plan living room and kitchen. Spectacular Scapa Flow view. Quality furnishings. Garden and patio. Internet access. Access for people with mobility difficulties.

The Bungalow, Orquil, St Ola, Orkney KW15 1SA T/F: 01856 872265 [email protected] www.worldprivilege.com/website/orkney/

ORPHIR oooo Self Catering

£300-£565

D10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmg[fñpúhJ,G.A

51

78

4

Gray’s InnCosy farm cottage set within small working croft. Formerly an old coaching inn. Double glazed and centrally heated throughout by solid fuel rayburn range. Stunning views over Scapa Flow. Very central for ancient sites peaceful tranquil setting up off the main road.

abundance

Roadside Cottage, Smoogro, Orphir,


ORPHIR oo Self Catering

£180-£260

C10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmw[ñöpJG.A

29

39

7

Hall of Clestrain CottageTraditional cottage on working farm. Big views over Scapa Flow and Hoy. Very comfortable holiday home. Central heating incl. Central for exploring Orkney. Short walk to beach. Seals and sea birds. Open all year. DVD player.

Mrs J Craigie, Hall Of Clestrain, Orphir, Orkney KW16 3HB T: 01856 850365 [email protected] www.hallofclestrain.com



Self Catering


D9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!)gwt[fñöphMJ,GÉ

75051

Kebro FarmBeautifully renovated farm cottage in the Dale of Obeck with stunning views of the Orphir hills. Ten minutes drive to Kirkwall and Stromness. Two bedrooms, bathroom, lounge/kitchen & conservatory. Friendly atmosphere.

Dr V B Malhotra, Greystones, Evie,Orkney KW17 2PQ T: 01856 751283/751312 [email protected]


Per week £300-£350

E10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)wtx[fñöp,GY.

34

98

1

LashExtended semi-modernised stone cottage. Secluded position on north shore of Scapa Flow with open views of Hoy Hills and Southern Isles. Seals and seabirds in profusion.

Sharlea, Galaha, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RB T: 01856 811318 [email protected] www.lashselfcatering.co.uk

0RPHIR oo Self Catering

Per week £280-£330

D10

Open: Apr – Oct

0HLT!ywt[dfñöpM,G.

68

82

2

Little BuA distinctive coastal property in a stunning rural location with fine views overlooking Scapa Flow. Sleeping six in a well equipped warm wooden Fjorstadt bungalow set in 1/3 of an acre. Pet friendly and convenient for all the attractions of Orkney.

T: 01604 843275 M: 0788 912 3039 [email protected] www.littlebu.com


Per week £400-£550

D10

0HLTm∑)wt[dfñöp,G.

ORPHIR oooo Self Catering

The NoustNewly renovated one bedroom flat in modern family home. Overlooking the waters of Scapa Flow and the South Islands beyond. All linen provided. Centrally heated, electricity included in price.

[email protected] www.thenoust.co.uk

Per week £220-£320

Open: Jan – Dec

E10

Open: Mar – Oct

0LTm)[ñpM,GY.

42786

Old PointOld Point is a modernised one roomed traditional stone cottage with a wood burning stove. The low original sea facing door opens onto a small lawned area and leads down to the sea with its rocky shore and abundant wildlife. Enjoy spectacular views, seals and seabirds.

[email protected] www.orkneyshorecottage.co.uk


Per week £250

E10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)w[dfñöpú,G. %©DC∂7

62

97

Owlswood LodgePanoramic views over Scapa Flow, farmland and RSPB reserve. Enclosed garden. Easy access to small woodland. Flagstone floors, underfloor heating, wind turbine, multi-fuel stove. Ideal base for exploring Orkney. Kirkwall four miles, Stromness 13 miles, St Margarets Hope 18 miles.

T: 01856 873596 [email protected] www.owlswoodlodge.co.uk


Per week £450-£650 House (1) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (1-7)

D10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)wt[dfñöpúG.∑

74

21

8

Scapa Flow LodgesThree newly-constructed luxury two bedroom lodges built looking down over the magnificent views of Scapa Flow. Considerable thought and planning has gone into the design and build quality of the lodges, providing you with an environment which has all the comfort you could wish for.

Scorralee, Scorradale Road, Orphir, Orkney KW17 2RF T: 01856 811268 F: 01856 811268 [email protected] www.scapaflow-lodges.co.uk


£290-£515 Lodges (3) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4)

D10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!∑)w[ñöpG

82

92

0

SummerdaleSpacious self-contained two bedroom apartment with beautiful views overlooking Kirbister Loch and Waulkmill Bay. Six miles from Kirkwall. Short stay bookings available – £50 per night. Free wireless internet connection.

Mrs Marlyn Hewison, Summerdale, Orphir, Orkney KW16 3HD T: 01856 811285 M: 0752 290 6103 [email protected]


Per week £250-£300 1st floor apartment (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (1-4)

Self Catering


E8

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑û)wx[dñpúJ,G.

91371

Curlew CottageCurlew Cottage is a romantic one bedroom spa cottage set in an idyllic rural location. Built in 2010/2011, the cottage has all conveniences with the addition of a sauna and jacuzzi bath to make your holiday luxuriously relaxing whatever the time of year.

Lovely Orkney Cottages, Lyron, Rendall, Orkney KW17 2NZ T: 01856 761021 M: 0771 213 3190 [email protected] www.lovelyorkneycottages.co.uk

RENDALL oooo Self Catering

Per week £250-£400

E8

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑)wt[dfñöp,G. %©

70

09

1

Widefirth CottagesPicturesquely situated in a quiet coastal countryside location with panoramic views over Widefirth Bay. Master bedroom with four-poster bed and ensuite bathroom. Family size bathroom with luxurious spa bath. Open all year. Pets by arrangement. WiFi access.

Riff, Rendall, Orkney KW17 2PB

[email protected] www.orkney-selfcatering.com

RENDALL oooo Self Catering

Per week £350-£625

B7

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!)w[ñöpúhMJ,G.A

30

65

7

The ChaletsNetherstove Flat: “Cosy Flat” for two situated on a working farm overlooking the Bay of Skaill. Spring and Autumn breaks. Skara Brae self catering: Skara Brae cottages are situated on a working farm overlooking the Bay of Skaill. Spring and autumn breaks. Brochure available. Ferry eight miles, airport 25 miles.

Netherstove, Sandwick, Orkney KW16 3LS T/F: 01856 841625 [email protected]

SANDWICK oo Self Catering

Per week £130-£260 Flat (1) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (2)Chalets (2) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (2-4)

B8

Open: Jan – Dec

0LTm∑ywt[dñpú,GÉY.:I

15

15

6

Langskaill FlatTwo flats within the wing of a 17th-century mansion house overlooking the spectacular sandy bay of Skaill. Skara Brae close by, trout fishing widely available. Open all year. Bus nearby, ferry seven miles. Airport 18 miles.

Sandwick, Orkney KW16 3LR T: 01856 841501 F: 01856 841668 [email protected] www.skaillhouse.co.uk

SANDWICK ooo Self Catering

Per week £360-£500 Flat (2) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (5-6)

C8

Open: Jan – Dec

0LT!∑ûy)wt[dfñpúJ,G: DC∂Ω

71711

Lenahowe LodgesTwo newly built luxury lodges on working farm, in stunning location on edge of Harray Loch. Ideally situated for relaxing, sightseeing, fishing or birdwatching. Families welcome and suitable for disabled. Internet access. Rod room specially equipped for fishermen. Open all year.

[email protected] www.lenahowe.co.uk

SANDWICK oooo Self Catering

Per week £350-£600

G14

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm!)wt[dfñöpú,G.#1

42

15

Banks of OrkneyLocated on the southern coastline with stunning views over the Pentland Firth and mainland Scotland. An abundance of wildlife with many birds and seals. Two stone cottages and a barn available all year. Coastal walks. Licensed restaurant.

T: 01856 831605 M: 0786 043 8452 [email protected] www.banksoforkney.co.uk

SOUTH RONALDSAY ooo to oooo Self Catering

Per week £200-£500 ooo/oooo

G12

Open: Jan – Dec

LTm∑)wx[dfñöpJGY#.

80

04

4

Brecks SelfcateringOpening in 2012, Brecks Barn & Byre have been beautifully renovated to retain their original character. Set in peaceful countryside, surrounded by stunning views out to sea. St Margarets Hope and Pentland ferries are just a five minute drive away. On-going tree planting to help offset carbon footprint.

Susan Wishart, Smiddy, Grimness, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2TH T: 01856 831599 M: 0790 064 1653 [email protected] www.brecks-selfcatering-orkney.co.uk

SOUTH RONALDSAY Awaiting Grading

Per week £350-£650 Barn (1) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (6) Byre (1) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (2)

G12

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTmw[pG. ∫

70

72

7

CauldhameLuxury five bedroom, newly renovated farm steading conversion. High specification and exceptionally equipped. Two bathrooms. Garden room with panoramic sea views. Decking, garden furniture and barbeque. Relaxed rural setting. Beaches and coastal walks close by. Good access to local amenities.

Orkney KW17 2TW

[email protected] www.cauldhame.com

SOUTH RONALDSAY oooo Self Catering

£400-£700

Self Catering


F12

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTmwtx[döpM,G

27298

GarletonDetached cottage peacefully situated on it’s own jetty by rocky shore on edge of picturesque fishing village. Open all year.

SOUTH RONALDSAY ooo Self Catering

£350

G12

Open: Apr – Oct

HLTm)wx[dñöp

68

84

6

Mill O’CaraWe offer a beautiful self-catering Mill in South Ronaldsay in the Orkney Islands. The Mill O’Cara is superbly located. There are shops, restaurants and pubs close by as well as good walks and a lovely sandy beach. An ideal spot for a relaxing holiday away from it all!

Hestakelday, Holm, Orkney KW17 2SB M: 0775 992 0015 [email protected]

SOUTH RONALDSAY oooo Self Catering

£625 Cottage (1) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (6)

F13

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)w[dfñöpJ,GYA

63

73

7

West ShairdOverlooking Sandwick bay, five minute walk away, the views and sunsets can be dramatic during all seasons. Excellent location for bird and seal watching; cliff walking; wild flowers; cycling and just relaxing in the peace and quiet! Within easy access of all attractions and amenities.

Laura Cromarty, Hools, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2RH T: 01856 831265 [email protected] www.westshaird.co.uk

SOUTH RONALDSAY ooo Self Catering

£300-£500

C9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)w[dfñöpG D

75

91

2

Ben EndWell equipped, purpose built wing of new house in quiet, elevated location with garden and parking area. Breathtaking panoramic views to Hoy Sound. Near major prehistoric attractions of Maeshowe and Ring of Brodgar.

Loch an Eilein, Newmachar,

T: 01651 862234 / 01856 851510 [email protected] www.self-cateringorkney.co.uk

STENNESS oooo Self Catering

£250-£400 House (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4)

C9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLT!)wt[fñöp,GY.:AI

48816

HarefieldsUnwind and luxuriate in our superb self-catering cottages or houses, sleeping from two to eight guests. Each lies in its own land with gardens and parking, and each has spectacular surrounding scenery in fabulous sea and loch locations by the World Heritage Site in Stenness.

Outbrecks, Stenness, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3EY T/F: 01856 851223 M: 0774 227 4974 [email protected] www.outbreckscottages-orkney.co.uk


Per week £250-£650 House (2) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (1-8)Cottages (2) Bedrooms (1-3) Sleeps (1-6)

C9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)wt[fñöp,GÉ.8

56

08

NewcottNewcott, a charming old Orkney stone cottage, renovated to a high standard with flagstone roof and coombed ceilings. Set in several acres of own land. Ideally located for superb panoramic views of lochs and archaeological sites.

Mrs A Gray, Vakkerrygg, Stenness,

T: 01856 850072 [email protected] www.orkneyyargcottage.co.uk


Per week £240-£440

C9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑ûy)wt[dfñöhGY. D∂

77

94

2

Odin, StennessSpectacularly situated between Lochs of Harray and Stenness in centre of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Free fishing yards from house. Five bathrooms – wireless broadband – open peat fire. Separate rod room and summer house. Local amenities within one mile. Flexible booking.

Olive Taylor, Odin, Stenness, Orkney KW16 3JZ T: 01224 593029 M: 0780 135 0945 [email protected] www.odinorkney.com


Per week £625-£925

D9

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm∑)wtx[dfñöpG.

48

83

9

OverbiggingLarge farmhouse, wonderfully appointed with stunning views. Central location, six miles from Stromness. Very close proximity to three World Heritage Sites. Sleeps six (twin and double upstairs and a twin downstairs). Linen, fuel and electricity included. Broadband. Enclosed garden. Two reception rooms.

Angela Walter, Sunnydale, Hambledon Road, Denmead, Waterlooville, Hants P07 6LR T: 02392 240161

STENNESS Awaiting Grading

Per week £500-£575

Self Catering


C9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLT!)wt[fñöp,GY.:AI

48816

RaingooseUnwind and luxuriate in our superb self-catering cottages or houses, sleeping from two to eight guests. Each lies in its own land with gardens and parking, and each has spectacular surrounding scenery in fabulous sea and loch locations by the World Heritage Site in Stenness.

Outbrecks, Stenness, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3EY T/F: 01856 851223 M: 0774 227 4974 [email protected] www.outbreckscottages-orkney.co.uk


Per week £250-£650 House (2) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (1-8)Cottages (2) Bedrooms (1-3) Sleeps (1-6)

What to see and doin Scotland?

visitscotland.com


0845 148 6033

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0m!wt[dñpúÉHLTf,G∑)ö

91

64

3

Anderson’s Harbour CottageCharming 1800s historic harbour cottage with its own private peer and steps down to the small pebble beach (in lowtide). Retaining the charm of yesteryear, yet equipped with every modern amenity and tastefully decorated with contemporary stylish furnishings – the best of both worlds. Private parking.

Laura MacKay, 40 Alfred Street, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3DF M: 0785 258 5966 [email protected] www.andersoncottage.co.uk



Awaiting Grading

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!)wt[fñpúhMJ,G

15

99

1

Braehead FarmTastefully decorated, well equipped, semi-detached farmhouse on working croft with panoramic views over Scapa Flow. Situated one and a half miles from town centre. Skara Brae, Standing Stones, Ness of Brodgar, fishing and 18 hole golf course nearby. Bus one mile, ferry one and a half miles and airport 17 miles.

Braehead Farm, Bu Road, Cairston,

T: 01856 851313 M: 0790 032 8645 [email protected]

STROMNESS oooo Self Catering

£180-£340 Semi-detached farm house (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4-5)

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm!∑)wt[ñöpG.A

90910

Burra View Self Catering ApartmentNewly built two bedroom self catering apartment offers luxury and comfort with stunning views over Hoy Sound. Enjoy a rural setting which is only 15 minutes walk from local shops and amenities in Stromness. Ideal base for a couple or a family holiday.

Innertown, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3JW T: 01856 850053 [email protected]


Per week £300-£450 Apartment (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (2-4)

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTmy)[ñöG1

01

42

CamusbeagAttractive property on the hillside above central Stromness. Magnificent views down Scapa Flow and to the islands beyond. Accommodation is on two levels linked by a steep wooden staircase so not suitable for small children or anyone with mobility problems. Bed is a bed-settee.

[email protected] www.beahouse.co.uk

STROMNESS ooo Self Catering

Per week £130-£230

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm!∑)wt[ñöq

42

32

9

52 Dundas StreetA beautiful one bedroom property with exceptional views over the Stromness harbour, Scapa Flow and the islands beyond. Free WiFi available on site.


£190-£270

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑ûwtx[dfñöq,GY

82

55

7

Fisherman’s Cottage & Merchants HouseStylish waterfront properties. Fisherman’s Cottage ideal for couples and the spacious Merchants House sleeps 4-8. Open-plan kitchen/dining/living with underfloor heating and wood burning stove. Sheltered shared courtyard with pier garden and quay. Pier Arts Centre, galleries, ferry, golf course, shops, restaurants, bars nearby.

Schoolhouse, Kirbister, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3HU T: 01856 850345 M: 0783 448 3576 [email protected] www.orkneyescapes.co.uk


Per week £425-£875 House & Cottage (2) Bedrooms (1-4) Sleeps (2-8)

Self Catering


B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)w[föpGÉ.

36645

8 Graham Place & 88 Victoria StreetSelf contained apartment in historic house also waterfront cottage situated in centre of the town with beautiful views overlooking the harbour and south isles. Both properties are near to shops, golf course, museum and art centre and restaurants.

8 Graham Place, Stromness,

STROMNESS oo to ooo Self Catering

Per week £170-£280 oo/ooo

B10

Open: Mar – Oct

0LTm)wt[fñöpG.A

30

16

8

30 Hillside RoadModernised traditional cottage set in own garden with patio in quiet area. Lounge/dining area (7x3.5m) with views towards harbour and Scapa Flow. Quiet location within easy walking distance of shops, swimming pool/fitness suite and bus route. Restaurants and pubs 10 mins walk.

Hestigeo, Hillside Road, Stromness,

[email protected] www.selfcateringstromness.co.uk


£210-£370

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)wt[pM,G.I

31

10

2

Howe Farm CottagesThree semi detached cottages near Stromness. One with sea views. Two on seashore. House formerly used as farmhouse standing in its own ground with walled garden with fine views of Scapa Flow.

available

[email protected]


£150-£300 Cottages (3) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (2-10)

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

HLTm)wt[döqM

31

61

2

Ingasquoy LetsNear the harbour, within walking distance of all local amenities in Stromness, this spacious, well-equipped house is an excellent holiday base at any time of the year.

Mrs Alison Prentice, Cott of Howe, Cairston, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3JU

[email protected] www.stromnessaccommodation.com



B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑û)w[fñöpM.GI

86605

Innertown ApartmentsThree newly built luxury four star modern and spacious, beautifully finished Apartments. Stylish décor, cosy and comfortable. Tucked away in a quiet and peaceful location, but still a very short walk to Stromness town centre, shops, bus and ferry terminal, restaurants, café bars, Pier Arts Centre, museum.

Brownstown House, Innertown, Stromness,

[email protected] www.accommodationorkney.co.uk


Per week £250-£495

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm∑)wt[fñöp,.7

00

89

LindisfarneA self contained flat adjacent to the main house overlooking Stromness town and habour and the Islands Of Gramsey and Hoy, also Scapa Flow.

Lindisfarne, Orkney KW16 3LL T: 01856 850828 [email protected] www.lindisfarnestromness.com


Per week £350 Flat (1) Bedrooms (2) Sleeps (4)

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm!û)wt[dfñöp

42

32

9

Marina House ApartmentsTwo luxury apartments on harbour front with superb views over the Stromness Marina and the greater harbour area. Modern day comfort in a beautiful old town setting. Sleeping four per apartment in one double and one twin bedroom all with ensuites. Private garage. Parking on the premises.

Mrs A Heddle, 54 Dundas Street, Stromness,

www.orkneyaccommodation.com


Per week £295-£450

B9

Open: Jan – Dec

0HLTm)w[fñöpú,G.

88

38

3

Norheim, 49 HamnavoeVery spacious, modern, well equipped bungalow in a quiet location with off street parking. Only 50 yards from the shore yet close to all amenities including a licensed supermarket. Comfortably sleeps up to eight. Open all year. Linen / electricity included. Pets by arrangement.

T: 01856 771935 M: 0788 419 8280 F: 01856 850600 [email protected] www.norheim.org.uk


Per week £350-£700 Bungalow (1) Bedrooms (4) Sleeps (8)

Self Catering


B10

Open: Feb – Oct

0HLTm!)wt[ñö

16903

The Peedie HooseBeautiful modernised hideaway on secluded pier in central Stromness. Livingroom/fitted kitchen on ground floor. Double bedroom/shower room on first floor. Minutes from shops, hotels, ferry terminal, golf course. Heating, linen, towels, welcome pack – everything you need – just bring yourselves.



£250-£265 House (1) Bedrooms (1) Sleeps (1-2)

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

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44

49

4

Pier HousePierhouse is a centrally situated seafront property with private pier and overlooks the harbour and down Scapa Flow. This listed building has been renovated to a four star standard and with its four bedrooms sleeps up to six people comfortably.

34 Dundas Street, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3BZ T: 01856 850415 [email protected] www.selfcateringstromnessorkney.co.uk



B10

Open: Jan – Dec

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58

63

6

Stairwaddie CroftModern, detached cottage on smallholding in a peaceful rural setting within walking distance of Stromness town. Wonderful location for watching birds and other wildlife. Ideal for families. Open all year – warm and cosy in winter.

Stairwaddie Croft, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3HT T: 01856 851032 [email protected] www.stairwaddie.com


£275-£400 Cottage (1) Bedrooms (3) Sleeps (6)

Looking for Quality Gifts & Souvenirs?


Many of our Information Centres have a great range of quality gift items including local crafts, books, jewellery and cloth s. Pop in and let our knowledgeable staff advise on the perfect gift or souvenir.

B8

Open: Mar – Dec

0HLTm!∑û)wt[dfpG.#

91725

Unigar CottagesUnigar Cottages are three new builds completed in October 2011, set in a very quiet location with stunning countryside views. Set within a five mile radius of most of the historic sites, and the famous fishing lochs of Orkney.

Garson, Sandwick, Orkney KW16 3JD

[email protected] www.unigar-cottages.co.uk


Per week £450-£690 Cottages (3) Bedrooms (2-3) Sleeps (2-6) Awaiting Grading

What to see & do in Scotland?To speak to one of our travel experts call

[email protected]

0845 148 6033

G10oooo to ooooo Self CateringTANKERNESS

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Open: Jan - Dec

Sebay Mill Holiday ApartmentsWorld class award-winning luxurious four and five star self-catering apartments. Located six miles from Kirkwall in the beautiful east mainland of Orkney. Each one to two bedroom apartment boasts luxurious modern living spaces. We are a short distance from the spectacular beaches and cliff walks of Deerness. A local Orkney welcome pack awaits you on your arrival. Sebay Mill has undergone a complete restoration to provide you with a very special experience!

[email protected] www.sebaymill.co.uk

£425-£675

ooooooooo

Self Catering


Holiday Caravans, Touring Parks

C6

Open: Apr – Oct

84526

Assessed Holiday CaravanBIRSAY

Belmont CaravanVery spacious, well equipped caravan situated in a peaceful farming community, enjoying panoramic views over Swannay loch. All bedding and towels supplied, private parking. Good location for visiting archeological sites, near main fishing lochs, Earls Palace, Brough of Birsay and coastal walks.

Belmont, Swannay, Orkney KW17 2NR T: 01856 721281 www.belmontcaravan.co.uk

Per week £150-£200Caravan (1) Sleeps (3-4)

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Connect with us...for competitions, insider tips, & more!

F9

Open: Apr – Oct

49764

oooo Touring ParkKIRKWALL & ST OLA

The Pickaquoy Centre Caravan & Camping ParkOrkney’s largest and only four star touring park is located at The Pickaquoy Centre only a short walk from the town centre. The outstanding facilities and customer service will make your holiday in the Orkney Isles truly unforgettable.

The Pickaquoy Centre, Muddisdale Road,

[email protected] www.pickaquoy.co.uk

Per night £7.25-£19.00

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B10

Open: May – Sep

15

21

7

ooo Touring ParkSTROMNESS

Point of Ness Caravan & Camping SiteThe three star Point of Ness campsite is situated in an idyllic, peaceful location one mile west of Stromness pierhead. Conveniently located within walking distance of Stromness, where shops, cafes, swimming pool, bike hire etc can be found.

Orkney Islands Council, Education and

T/F: 01856 850532 [email protected] www.hostelsorkney.co.uk

Per night POATouring pitches (12) Tent Pitches (27)

åÅêèâ,ypMôsgt

VisitScotland introduces our new Holiday Parks Quality Assurance Scheme

You told us you wanted our star

awards to better reflect the aspects

which impact on your enjoyment

of your Scottish park holiday, so

we listened and now focus on

the things that you told us are

important to you.

This has resulted in changes to

the level of awards given to some

parks but you can still be assured

of the same high level of customer

service and all the facilities you’ve

become accustomed to from

Scottish Holiday Parks.

Camping and Caravan Parks

Campers at the Pickaquoy Centre, Kirkwall.


Hostels/Activity Accommodation

Hostels, Backpackers

B6

Open: Apr – Oct

15217

BIRSAY ooo Hostel

Lnyagpú.ÅF ≈

Birsay HostelWithin a 10 minute walk of the local shop and tearooms in the picturesque village, Birsay Bay, with its many historical sites and great rock-pooling beach is an excellent base to explore Orkney’s West Mainland. Fishing and birdwatching opportunities nearby. Beds – 28, pitches – 20.


Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1NY T: 01856 873535 F: 01856 870302 [email protected] www.hostelsorkney.co.uk

Dbl/Twn (1) POA Dorms (2) POAFamily (2) POA

B11

Open: Jan – Dec except Christmas and New Year

15

21

7

ISLE OF HOY oooo Hostel

1Labgpú.ÅF D≈

Hoy HostelNewly refurbished property, offering high quality hostel accommodation, ideal base for exploring Hoy’s magnificent scenery and natural environment. Groups also catered for. Please pre-book. Ensuite facilities.

Orkney Islands Council, Education and Leisure Services, School Place, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1NY T: 01856 873535 F: 01856 870302 [email protected] www.hostelsorkney.co.uk

Family (8) POASleeps (32)Ensuite (8)

B11

Open: Apr – Sep

15217

ISLE OF HOY ooo Hostel

Lgp.ÅF DC

Rackwick HostelRackwick is considered one of the most beautiful places in Orkney. From the hostel there are spectacular views of the fine sandy beach of Rackwick Bay and the impressive cliffs surrounding it. The footpath to the Old Man of Hoy passes the hostel.


T: 01856 873535 F: 01856 870302 [email protected] www.hostelsorkney.co.uk

Dorm (2) POASleeps (8)

K1

Open: Jan – Dec

48

11

7

ISLE OF NORTH RONALDSAY oooo Hostel

LTn∑ybgpú.ôÅF†#

North Ronaldsay Bird ObservatoryConverted barn and byre with ten bunk spaces in three dormitories (4,4,2) with well-equipped kitchen, adjacent to bird observatory which can provide meals and bar facilities.

Twingness, North Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2BE T: 01857 633200 F: 01857 633207 [email protected] www.nrbo.co.uk

Dorm (3) From £14.50Sleeps (10)

E6

Open: Jan – Dec

62

18

0

ISLE OF ROUSAY ooo Hostel

4LTagpÅF

Rousay Hostel & CampsiteLocated close to ferry from Orkney mainland on organic working farm. Ideal for walking, cycling, birdwatching and visiting historic sites. Open all year. Single room available. Campsite. Bikes for hire.

Orkney KW17 1PU

Dorms (2) £12-£15 Sleeps (11)Private (1) £12-£15

E2/3

Open: Jan – Dec

58

15

1

ISLE OF WESTRAY oooo Hostel

24LTabgpú.ÅF†

The BarnCentrally located and overlooking Pierowall Bay, The Barn offers high quality, fully equipped hostel accommodation at a reasonable price. Ideally positioned to explore all that Westray has to offer from breathtaking scenery to unusual and original crafts for sale. A warm welcome awaits.

Chalmersquoy, Westray, Orkney KW17 2BZ T: 01857 677214 [email protected] www.thebarnwestray.co.uk

Adult from £17 pppn Junior from £12.50 pppn

on request

Looking over Warebeth beach to the Isle of Hoy at sunset.


F9

Open: Apr – Oct

67975

KIRKWALL & ST OLA oo Hostel

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Kirkwall Youth HostelLocated in the historic town of Kirkwall, our friendly and welcoming hostel is a superb base for exploring the historic sights and wonderful wildlife of Orkney. Visit historic monuments like Skara Brae, Maes Howe and the Ring of Brodger. Excellent scuba diving, birdwatching and fishing.

and pubs nearby

Old Scapa Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1BB T: 01856 872243 [email protected] www.hostellingscotland.com

Junior From £15 Sleeps (58)Senior From £17

F9

Open: Jan – Dec

86

19

4

KIRKWALL & ST OLA oooo Hostel

1HLTm∑abp.ÅF†# DC

Orcades HostelModern, comfortable and friendly, family run hostel. Excellent base for exploring our beautiful windswept islands. We are situated next to the sports centre and within easy walking distance of all shops, pubs, eateries, historic town centre and transport links. We look forward to welcoming you.

Muddisdale Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1RST: 01856 873745 [email protected] www.orcadeshostel.com

Dbl/Twn (4) from £25pppn Sleeps (32)Dorm (5) £18pppn Ensuite (9)Private (9) from £35pppn

F12

Open: Jan – Dec

68458

SOUTH RONALDSAY ooo Backpackers

LT!abgqÉÅF†

St Margaret’s Hope BackpackersSituated in the centre of St Margaret’s Hope. Twenty metres from the bus stop, shops, pubs and restaurants. Three hundred metres from Pentland Ferries. Double, single and family rooms available.

Back Road, St. Margaret’s Hope,

[email protected]

Dbl/Twn (1) £14 pppn £14 pppn£14 pppn Private (1) £14 pppn

B10

Open: Jan – Dec

16

63

2

STROMNESS ooo to oooo Hostel

WHLTmb.Fg∑†

Brown’s Hostel and HouseNear bus stop and ferry terminals. The ground floor hostel has a cosy kitchen/livingroom and three bedrooms. The House on first and second floors, with own entrance, has a spacious kitchen/dining/sittingroom and five private bedrooms. Each can be let as a whole.

Sylvia Brown, 45/47 Victoria Street, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3BS T: 01856 [email protected] www.brownsorkney.com

Single (2) £16-£20 pppn £16-£20 pppnDbl/Twn (3) £16-£20 pppn Sleeps (18)

ooo/oooo

Hostels/Activity Accommodation


t • 01856 876000f • 01856 875397e • enquiries@alber thotel.co.ukw • www.alber thotel.co.uk The Alber t Hotel, Mounthoolie Lane, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1JZ

• Luxury in the centre of Kirkwall

• Contemporary Orkney style

• Relaxing atmosphere

• Cosy Bothy Bar

• Orkney ales and whiskies

• Variety of dining options

t: 01856 873001 f: 01856 876289 e: [email protected]

www.ayrehotel.co.uk Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1QX

Welcome to

“The view from the hotel, over the lobster boats towards the island of Shapinsay, is quite simply stunning, as is the food served up in the hotel’s restaurant” – Scotland on Sunday

A lively public bar, relaxing lounge bar and extremely popular restaurant serving local produce from a creative

menu makes the Kirkwall Hotel the perfect base for business or pleasure.

www.kirkwallhotel.comt: 01856 872232 e: [email protected] Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1LF


Orkney’s Only Country House Hotel

The Merkister Hotel, Harray, Orkney, KW17 2LFt: 01856 771366 e: [email protected]

www.merkister.com

Situated on the banks of the Harray Loch in the centre of the West Mainland of Orkney, this family run hotel offers the perfect, comfortable location from which to explore the many surrounding attractions.

• Resident’s Lounge • Restaurant • Public Lounge Bar • Conservatory • Free Wi-fi

SSSSSSttttttmmm

O

| Accommodation |

| |

www.visitscotland.com/surpriseoffers

Download some great money saving offers


w e l c o m i n g g u e s t s t o t h e h i s t o r i c h e a r t o f K i r k w a l l

Dating back to 1670, the hotel offers every modern convenience, while retaining its original features and charm.

Ideally situated in the town centre, we are located minutes from the magnificent St. Magnus Cathedral, Earl’s & Bishop’s Palaces.

We offer 30 elegant en-suite rooms, traditionally decorated, and equipped with Freeview TV and Sky Sports 1, 2, & 3.

Superior and Deluxe rooms offer indulgent touchesranging from Jacuzzi bathsto four-poster king beds.

17th Century hotel

where superb local cuisine

meets traditional

Orcadian hospitality

in the heart of the ancient

burgh of Kirkwall

40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall

t: 01856 873477

f: 01856 872767

www.orkneyhotel.co.uk

Savour superb local produce in our Garden View Restaurant

Our Garden View Restaurant offers the perfect setting for a unique dining experience. We use local produce including daily harvested seafood, Aberdeen Angus beef and Orkney lamb. After dinner, relax in the St. Magnus lounge with a wee dram from our extensive whisky menu.

open tonon-residents

Two-timeaward winner


The listings within this guide have been split into the following sections:

• Places to visit• Leisure activities• Shopping, arts & crafts• Food & drink• Transport• Tours• Heading North

Businesses are listed within these sections in alphabetical order by location and then by business name.

Each entry has a map reference relating to the map which appears on page 81 of this guide. The map is helpful if you don’t know where a particular location is in relation to the area that interests you. The majority of entries will have a postcode which can be used to pin point exact location. Where businesses are listed as being ‘By’ a town or village it is wise to check the exact location with the operator before making your journey.

Pricing Where prices have been included in entries, these were provided by the business.

Smoking The majority of Scotland’s indoor public places, including pubs, restaurants and cafès are smoke-free by law creating a healthier and fresher environment for residents and visitors to our beautiful country. For further information, visit www.clearingtheairscotland.com

How to read the listingsANY LOCATION F3

Open: Mar - Jun: Centre open 10am - 5pm. Sep - Dec: Centre open 9.30am - 4pm. Closed Christmas and New Year.

Admission: Adult £3, Concs £2, Child £0.50, Family £6. Car parking £5 all day.

oooo Visitor Attraction ©&‰ƒ

Scott GardensKinross KY22 9QR T: 01599 862655www.scottgardens.co.uk

Beautiful 18th century gardens with café & popular daily events, overlooking one of Scotland’s famous lochs. Plenty to see and do for all the family.

44444

EXAMPLEEXooo

tury gardens with cafétury gardens with café daily events, overlooking onedaily events, overlooking one

Scotland’s famous lochs. PlentyScotland’s famous lochs. Plenand do for all the family.and do for all the family.

EXContact details Facilities and symbols These icons are verified by VisitScotland Quality & Standards Department. See pages 22 - 23 for details.

Map reference To assist you further in locating each business, this grid reference relates to the map on page 81.

Name of business

Quality Award Where a Quality Assurance award has been included on an entry, the business has been graded by VisitScotland and provides assurances on quality and standards. The scheme is explained on pages 22 - 23 of this guide.

Business description

Opening times and admission prices

Location‘By’ designates that a property is within 10 miles of this location.

Historic

BIRSAY B6

Brough of BirsayBirsay KW17 2NHT: 01856 841815www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Remains of early Christian and Norse settlements. This is a tidal island and entry by pedestrian causeway is subject to tides. For tide times telephone Skara Brae on 01856 841815.

65

40

8

Open: Mid Jun – Sep, 9.30am – 5.30pm.Admission: Adult £4.00, Child £2.40, Conc £3.20.

Get Creative in Orkney

www.visitscotland.com/suprisecreative

EVIE E6

Open: Apr – Sep 9.30am – 5.30pm, Oct 9.30am – 4.30pm, Last admission 30 minutes before closing.

Admission: Adult £5.00, Child £3.00, Conc £4.00.

oooo Historic Attraction

Broch of GurnessAikerness, Evie KW17 2NHT: 01856 751414 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Stone broch, site of continuous settlement from approximately first century BC until the Viking Age. Guided tours available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2pm.

65

40

8

www.visitorkney.com

ISLE OF HOY D13

Hackness Martello Tower and Battery

Longhope, Hoy KW16 3PQ T: 01856 701727 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Built on either side on Longhope Bay in 1813 to protect Baltic convoys from the United States Navy and American privateers.

65

40

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KIRKWALL & ST OLA F9



oooo Historic Attraction ©

Bishop’s PalacePalace Road, Kirkwall KW15 1PD T: 01856 871918 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Mid 12th-century Palace for Bishop William the Old. Rebuilt in the late 15th-century and restored by Bishop Robert Reid in the mid 16th-century.

65

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8




oooo Historic Attraction ©

Earl’s PalacePalace Road, Kirkwall KW15 1PD T: 01856 871918 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Built by Scottish Earl Patrick Stewart in 1600. Fine example of French Renaissance architecture.

65

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8


Places to visit

What to see & do


KIRKWALL & ST OLA

St Magnus CathedralBroad Street, Kirkwall KW15 1DHT: 01856 874894 www.stmagnus.org www.orkney.gov.uk/service-directory/s/st-magnus-cathedral_2.htm

Founded in 1137 by Norse Earl Rognvald in memory of his uncle, Magnus. Contains their remains, marvellous medieval grave markers and noted stained glass. Tours of upper floor are available on Tues and Thurs 11am and 2pm to book and pay contact custodian. Please note the Cathedral is a place of worship and visitor access is not always possible.

Open: Jan – Dec: Apr – Sep, Mon – Sat 9am – 6pm, Sun 1pm – 6pm. Oct – Mar, Mon – Sat 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 5pm. Sunday service all year 11.15am.

Admission: Free.

F9

LAMB HOLM G11

Italian Chapel and Churchill BarriersLamb Holm KW17 2SF [email protected] www.visitorkney.com/italianchapel

Built by Italian Prisoners of War during the construction of the Churchill Barriers in WWII. Nissen huts disguise a beautiful and remarkable interior. The Churchill Barriers are now part of the road network connecting South Ronaldsay and Burray to the Mainland. A few remaining blockships are still visible. Mass is celebrated in the Chapel on the 1st Sunday of each month at 3.30pm, April – September.

Open: Jan – Dec dawn to dusk. Admission: Free.

SANDWICK B8

Open: Apr – Sep: Mon – Sun, 9.30am – 5.30pm (last entry 5.15pm), Oct: Mon – Sun, 9.30am – 4.30pm (last entry 4.15pm).

Admission: Joint ticket with Skara Brae.

oooo Visitor Attraction

Skaill HouseBreckness Estate, Sandwick KW16 3LR T: 01856 841501 F: 01856 841668 [email protected] www.skaillhouse.co.uk

Home of the 7th Laird who discovered Skara Brae. Shop with local and Scottish gifts. Accommodation also available.

54

804

SKAILL B8

Open: Apr – Sep open: 9.30am – 5.30pm (last admission 4.45pm). Oct – Mar open: 9.30am – 4.30pm (last admission 3.45pm).

Admission: Adult £5.90 – £6.90, Child £3.50 – £4.10, Conc £4.70 – £5.50.

ooooo Historic Attraction %©

Skara Brae Prehistoric VillageSkaill KW16 3LR T: 01856 841815 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

The best Neolithic village in Europe. Ten one-

roomed Stone Age houses dating from 3,000

BC. Part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney

World Heritage Site. Gift shop and café.

65

40

8

STENNESS C/D9

Open: Apr – Sep open 9.30am – 5pm. Oct – Mar open 9.30am – 4.30pm. Booking in advance is required.

Admission: Adult £5.50, Child £3.30, Concs £4.40.

oooo Historic Attraction ß

Maeshowe Chambered CairnStenness KW15 3HA T: 01856 761606 www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Maeshowe is the finest chambered tomb in north-west Europe and more than 5,000 years old. It is part of the Heart of Neolithic Orkney World Heritage Site.

65

40

8

STENNESS C9

Ring of Brodgar, The Standing Stones of Stenness & Barnhouse Neolithic VillageStenness KW16 3JZ T: 01856 841732 [email protected] www.visitorkney.com/brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar is Scotland’s largest Stone Circle. Close by are the Standing Stones of Stenness and the partially reconstructed Barnhouse Village both sites from the third millennium BC. A bird hide is also on site. Wheelchair accessible.

Open: Jan – Dec.Admission: Free.

68770

Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Sun open 9am – 6pm.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Orkney Archaeology ToursBayview, Birsay, Orkney KW17 2LR T: 01856 721450 [email protected] www.orkneyarchaeologytours.co.uk

Amazing archaeology, expert guides, comfortable hotels, beautiful scenery, relaxing, informative, wonderful holidays: a complete island experience. All-inclusive holidays, short breaks and day tours led by professional archaeologists. Visit our website or phone for brochure.

Museums

BIRSAY C7

Kirbuster MuseumKirbuster, Birsay KW17 2LR T: 01856 771268 [email protected]

Central hearth homestead of European importance, with 16th-century origins; also gardens, picnic area, gift shop, putting green and toilets.

48

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8

Open: Mar – Oct Mon – Sat 10.30am – 1pm & 2pm – 5pm Sun 12noon – 5pm.

Admission: Free.

ooo Museum &

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2

Open: Apr – Sep 10am – 5pm. Check website for details.

BURRAY G11

Orkney Fossil & Heritage CentreViewforth, Burray, Orkney KW17 2SY T: 01856 731255 www.orkneyfossilcentre.co.uk

A welcoming visitor centre with an intriguing and quality collection of fossils from Orkney and around the world. Fascinating local heritage collections. New fossil galleries and “Building the Barriers exhibition” opening in 2012.

www.visitorkney.com

HARRAY D8

Corrigall Farm MuseumCorston Road, Harray KW17 2JR T: 01856 771411 [email protected]

Tells story of Orkney farming from the late 18th – early 20th-centuries. Peat fires, livestock, activities, gift shop and toilets.

48658

Open: Mar – Oct Mon – Sat 10.30am – 1pm & 2pm – 5pm Sun 12noon – 5pm.

Admission: Free.

ooo Museum %

ISLE OF HOY D12

Lyness Naval Base, Naval Cemetery & Scapa Flow Visitor Centre & MuseumHoy KW16 3NU T: 01856 791300 [email protected] www.scapaflow.co.uk

Tells the story of Scapa Flow and its importance as a safe harbour for the British Fleet since Napoleonic times. Located in wartime buildings. Audio visual display, cafe, gift shop and toilets.

48658

Open: Jan – Dec, Mon – Fri 9am – 4.30pm. May – Sep also Sat 9am – 4.30pm. Sun (depending on boat times).

Admission: Free.

ooo Museum





Orkney Wireless MuseumKiln Corner, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1LBT: 01856 [email protected]

A fascinating collection tracing the history of early domestic radio and wartime memorabilia from Scapa Flow. An opportunity to experience a rare and unusual museum.

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Open: Apr – Sep Mon – Sat open 10am – 4.30pm. Sun open 2.30pm – 4.30pm.

Admission: Adult £3, Child £1.

STROMNESS B10

Open: Open daily Apr – Sep, 10am – 5pm. Oct – Mar: Mon – Sat 11am – 3.30pm.

Admission: Adult £3.50, Child £1, Conc £2.50, Fam £7. All tickets valid 1 week.

oo Museum %

Stromness Museum52 Alfred Street, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3DH T: 01856 850025 [email protected] www.orkneyheritage.com

Orkney Maritime and Natural History Museum. Arctic whaling, Hudson’s Bay Company, the German Fleet in Scapa Flow. Orkney birds, eggs, butterflies and moths, fossils and shells.

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TANKERNESS F9

The Orkney Museum and Tankerness House & GardensBroad Street, Kirkwall KW15 1DH T: 01856 873535 (ext 2523) / 873191 [email protected]

Tells story of 5,500 years of human habitation in Orkney, also photo/archive reference room, gift shop and toilets.

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Open: May – Sep Mon – Sat 10.30am – 5pm. Oct – Apr Mon – Sat 10.30am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 5pm.

Admission: Free.

ooo Museum %

Places to visit


Visitor attractions


Open: Apr – Oct Mon – Fri open 10am – 5pm. May – Sep Mon – Sun open 10am –5pm. Oct – Mar Mon – Fri open 1pm – 5pm.Admission: Adult £6, Concs £5.

ooooo Visitor Attraction

Highland Park DistilleryHolm Road, Kirkwall KW15 1SU T: 01856 885632/874619 F: 01856 [email protected]

Established in 1798 on Orkney, Highland Park is the most Northerly Scotch Whisky Distillery in the World. For over 200 years has used traditional methods to achieve a perfectly balanced single malt whisky.

66975


Key Events

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Open: Jan – Dec Jan – Mar 9am – 5pm Mon – Fri.

Apr – Dec 9am – 5pm Mon – Sat.Admission: Free.


oooo Visitor Attraction %

Ortak Jewellery LtdHatston, Kirkwall KW15 1RHT: 01856 872224 F: 01856 [email protected]

Designers and manufacturers of silver and gold jewellery.Retail, visitor centre at Hatston and Albert Street shop.

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Open: Jan – Dec 9am – 5pm.Admission: Free.

KIRKWALL & ST OLA G10

Sheila FleetOrkney Designer Jewellery, Old School House, Tankerness,Orkney KW17 2QT T: 01856 861203 F: 01856 [email protected]

Sheila Fleet designs and creates her jewellery with a team of skilled craftspeople in Orkney. See the jewellery being hand enamelled and finished. There is a jewellery Gallery in Kirkwall as well as at the workshop.

NORTH RONALDSAY K1

Open: Jan – Dec. By arrangement throughout the year by telephone Billy Muir on 0770 311 2224 or 01857 633257. Always open during arrival of Orkney Ferry Excursion trips during the Summer.

Admission: Adult £5, Child £3. Extra £2.00 for both Lighthouse and Mill Tours.

The North Ronaldsay TrustLighthouse, Dennis Ness, North Ronaldsay KW17 2BET: 01857 633257 M: 0770 311 [email protected] www.northronaldsaytrust.co.uk

Book a tour and climb the 176 steps of the tallest land based lighthouse. Listen to the last working foghorn in Scotland. Look around the oldest, intact, lighthouse, in Scotland and tour the working wool mill.

66953

RENDALL E7

Open: Apr – Sep Open 10am – 5pm seven days from Apr – Sep. Sep – Apr 10am – 5pm Fri, Sat and Sun.Admission: Child £4, Conc £3.50.

oo Visitor Attraction

Breck Children’s Farm and TearoomBreck Farm, Rendall, Orkney KW17 2EZ T: 01856 [email protected] www.brecksteading.co.uk

Our children’s farm and tearoom, open to all, is educational, informative, ‘hands on’ and most of all fun. The children ‘get close’ to the animals and play in a relaxed and creative environment. Indoors, great on a wet day. The family place to go in Orkney.

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SOUTH RONALDSAY G14

Open: Apr – Sep open 9.30am – 5.30pm Oct open 9.30am – 1.30pm Nov – Feb by arrangement Mar open 10am – 12pm.

oooo Visitor Attraction

Tomb of the EaglesLiddle, St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2RWT: 01856 831339 [email protected] www.tomboftheeagles.co.uk

Come and discover the extraordinary story of how farmer Ronnie Simison uncovered a Stone Age tomb and Bronze Age site on his land. Our original artefacts provide a unique “hands on” to the past.

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Wildlife and nature

DEERNESS

The Gloup & Mull Head ReserveDeerness www.visitorkney.com/eastmainland

Take a circular walk to The Gloup, a dramatic collapsed sea-cave approx 40 yards and 80 feet deep, then visit the Brough of Deerness, Covenanters’ Memorial and Mull Head reserve.


I9



EDAY H5

Eday Ranger ServiceEday Partnership Office, Pier Road, Orkney KW17 2AAT: 01857 622313 M: 0790 814 8004 [email protected] www.visiteday.com

Visitors join The Island Ranger on regular archaeology and heritage walks and a variety of activities. You can expect an unparalleled experience on a remote Orkney Island with miles of unspoilt coastline a must for nature lovers and bird watchers.

84002

Open: Jan – Dec.

Discover the culture

www.scotlandsislands.com

ISLE OF HOY

Old Man of HoyHoywww.visitorkney.com/hoy

Famous 450 foot sea stack, first climbed in 1967 in a televised assault, is perhaps Orkney’s most famous landmark. New footpath from Rackwick to the stack requires a three hour round trip.


A11

SANDAY

Sanday Tourism and Business GroupAyre’s Rock, Sanday, Orkney KW17 2AYT: 01857 [email protected]

The group promotes the beautiful island of Sanday giving many reasons to visit and places to stay to enjoy the peace and quiet of this wonderful island. We help promote and support new and exciting businesses.

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STROMNESS B10

RSPB Scotland12-14 North End Road, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3AGT: 01856 850176 F: 01856 851311 [email protected] www.rspb.org.uk

We can help you make the most of the magic of Orkney’s natural heritage.

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Admission: Free.

Events & festivals


St Magnus International Festival60 Victoria Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1DN T: 01856 871445 [email protected] www.stmagnusfestival.com

One of the leading festivals in the UK, the prestigious St Magnus International Festival brings international orchestras, recitalists, theatre, dance and literature to the Orkney Islands for six days around midsummer.

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Open: 22 Jun 2012 – 27 Jun 2012.

Great days out - Places to visit


Leisure centres/Swimming pools


Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Sun, times vary – see website.Admission: Adult £3.20, Child £1.70, Concs £1.70, Family £8.05.

Kirkwall Swimming PoolKirkwall, Orkney KW15 1QN T: 01856 872364 [email protected] www.orkney.gov.uk

We have Public Swimming, Lane Swimming, Swim Classes, Aqua-Robics, Childrens’ Sessions and lots more. Relocating to Pickaquoy Centre in June 2012.

34380



Connect with us...for competitions, insider tips, & more! Open: Jan – Dec.


oooo Activity Centre

The Pickaquoy CentreMuddisdale Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1LR T: 01856 879900 F: 01856 879901 [email protected] www.pickaquoy.co.uk

Orkney’s premier leisure facility has something for the whole family; fitness suite, health suite, fitness classes, cinema, children’s adventure play area, cafe, bar, sports arena, athletics track and all weather pitch.

69638

STROMNESS B10

Open: Jan – Dec Mainly evenings and weekends plus extra during the school holidays, contact pool for information.

Admission: Adult £3.20, Child £1.60, Concs £1.60, Family £8.05, £18.25 per month (NB: all 2011 prices).

Stromness Swimming PoolStromness, Orkney KW16 3AJ T: 01856 850552 [email protected]

Modern 25 metre swimming pool, fitness suite, sauna, steam room and spa. Childrens sessions.

15217

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: All year.

Swimming Poolswww.orkney.gov.uk

Swimming pools located in the following towns and islands – Kirkwall (01856 872364), Stromness (01856 850552), Hoy (01856 791311), Sanday (01851 600357), Stronsay (01857 616331), Westray (01857 677430).

Leisure activities

Golfers on Stromness Golf Course with the hills of Hoy in the background.


Art galleries

HOXA F12

Hoxa Tapestry GalleryNeviholm, Hoxa, St Margaret’s Hope, Orkney KW17 2TW T/F: 01856 831395 [email protected] www.hoxatapestrygallery.co.uk

Working studio and Gallery housing large hand woven tapestries reflecting the rhythm of life and the landscape of Orkney. Prints and cards for sale. New at the gallery are hand crafted Orkney rugs designed by Leila and daughter Johan.

31124

Open: Apr – Sep. Mon – Fri open 10am – 5.30pm. Sat and Sun open 2pm – 6pm.

Admission: Free.

HOXA F12

Hoxa Tearooms GalleryThe Bu Hoxa, St Margaret’s Hope, Orkney KW17 2TW T: 01856 [email protected] www.hoxatearooms.co.uk

Hoxa Tearooms Gallery is a new space that displays local art, photographic work and handicrafts.

91746

Open: Jan – Dec. Jan – Mar and Oct – Dec, Wed – Sun 10am – 4pm. Apr – Sep Mon – Sun 10am – 6pm.

ISLE OF WESTRAY F1

Open: Jan – Dec. Summer open 11am – 5pm (closed Sundays). Winter open 12noon – 5pm (closed Sundays).

oooo Tourist Shop

Wheeling Steen GalleryBuckleberry, Westray, Orkney KW17 2DN T: 01857 677292 [email protected] www.wheeling-steen.co.uk

Purpose-built gallery with a stunning interior incorporating the original deck cabin from a 19th-century shipwreck. Large display of high quality and innovative pictures and cards. Tearoom serving freshly brewed coffee, tea and delicious homebakes.

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STROMNESS B10

Open: Jan – Dec, Tues – Sat 10.30am – 5pm (for additional seasonal opening, see website).

Admission: Free.

ooooo Arts Venue $

The Pier Arts CentreVictoria Street, Stromness KW16 3AAT: 01856 850209 F: 01856 [email protected] collection of exemplary Modern Art, including Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson, plus changing exhibitions.

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Crafts

BIRSAY B7Orkneyinga SilversmithsHolland Cottage, Marwick, Birsay, Orkney KW17 2NBT: 01856 [email protected] www.orkneyinga.com

Visit Liz and Kevin Allen’s Gallery showing their Beautiful Designer Craftsman Jewellery handmade in Orkney.

48702

Open: Apr – Sep, Mon – Sat open 10am – 5pm. Oct – Mar, times vary.

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BURRAY

Orkney Craft Association

T: 01856 731521 [email protected] www.orkneydesignercrafts.com

OCA represents professional crafts people who produce items of outstanding quality and originality. See our website for details of all our members; download the Craft Trail brochure for a guide to experiencing crafts in Orkney.

EVIE D6

The WoolshedBenlaw, Costa, Evie, Orkney KW17 2NNT: 01856 751305 [email protected] www.orkneydesignercrafts.com

A craft workshop producing traditional knitwear, knitting wool, sheepskins and handmade felt goods mostly from North Ronaldsay naturally coloured or hand dyed fleece.

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Open: Apr – Oct, 12pm – 6pm. Other times by arrangement.

HARRAY C8

Fursbreck PotteryHarray, Orkney KW17 T/F: 01856 771419 [email protected] www.andrewappleby.co.uk www.applepot.co.uk

Excellent hand thrown pottery from the hands of the Harray Potter. Delightful quality food department too.

26939

Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Sat open 9.48am – 5.51pm. Sun open 1.53pm – 5.39pm. Closed at other times too, if not then we are well and truly open!!!

69618

Open: Jan – Dec. 9am – 1pm, 2pm – 5pm. Other times by appointment.


Orkney Handcrafted Furniture

Dellovo, New Scapa Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1BLT: 01856 872998 M: 0774 242 8727 F: 01856 870523 [email protected] www.orkneyhandcraftedfurniture.co.uk

You are invited to visit my workshop and witness a craft centuries in the making. My award winning range of traditional and modern Orkney chairs are not to be missed.

NORTH RONALDSAY L1North Ronaldsay Gift ShopNorth Ronaldsay Visitor Centre, North Ronaldsay T: 01857 633297 M: 0776 820 [email protected] www.northronaldsay.co.uk

North Ronaldsay woollen clothing and products, lighthouse memorabilia, plus plenty more gifts for all the family.

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Open: Mar – Sep 10am – 5pm. Outside of these dates, varied openings, or by appointment

SANDWICK B7

Pam Farmer – Photographic InsightsPhoto Art Gallery and Tearoom, Lower Appiehouse, Sandwick KW16 3JD T: 01856 841562 [email protected] www.pamfarmer.co.uk

Gallery showing photographs, jewellery and colourful hand-dyed woollen hats, scarves and jumpers. Also Appie’s Tearoom serving simple, healthy, home-cooked food.

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Open: Apr – Oct 11.30am – 4.30pm, closed Sat.

SOUTH RONALDSAY F12

The Workshop & Loft GalleryFront Road, St Margaret’s Hope KW17 2SLT/F: 01856 [email protected]

A craft producers’ co-operative. Arts, crafts, locally produced knitwear. Monthly exhibitions in gallery.

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Open: Feb – Dec Apr – Dec, Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm. Feb and Mar, Mon – Sat open 10am – 1pm.

Great days out - Shopping, arts & crafts


TANKERNESS G9

Sheila Fleet JewelleryOld School House, Tankerness, Orkney KW17 2QT T: 01856 861203 [email protected] www.sheila-fleet.co.uk

Visit the Sheila Fleet Jewellery workshop and studio in Tankerness, see the jewellery being made.

54372

Open: Jan – Dec, 9am – 5pm.

Shops3

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Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Sat 9am – 10pm. Sun 10am – 6pm.


Judith Glue25 Broad Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1DH T: 01856 874225 F: 01856 876263 [email protected] www.judithglue.com

Situated opposite St Magnus Cathedral this is an Aladdins cave of Orkney knitwear, crafts, gifts, accessories and jewellery. Huge selection of local food and drink, produce also used in their Real Food Restaurant Café. Something for everyone.


Jollys of OrkneyScott’s Road, Hatston Industrial Estate, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1GR T: 01856 872417 F: 01856 874960 [email protected] www.jollyfish.co.uk

Stocking fresh fish; shellfish; our own smoked fish. A wide range of Orkney produce, our shop is “like a farmer’s market every day.”

64256

59570

Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Sat open 9.30am – 5.30pm. Jul – Aug, Sun open 1pm – 5pm.


The Longship/Ola Gorie

7-15 Broad Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1DH T: 01856 888790 olagoriejewellery.com www.thelongship.co.uk

Visit us, opposite the cathedral, for a blend of island craftsmanship and international style. Home of Ola Gorie jewellery, Tait & Style textiles, and a wide range of crafts, gifts, clothes, and fine wine.


Key Events

Looking for Quality Gifts & Souvenirs?


Many of our Information Centres have a great range of quality gift items including local crafts, books, jewellery and clothes. Pop in and let our knowledgeable staff advise on the perfect gift or souvenir.

60138

Open: Summer Mon – Sat open 9am – 5pm. Winter Mon – Sat open 10am – 5pm.

STROMNESS B10

The Quernstone

38 & 41 Victoria Street, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3AA T: 01856 852900 F: 01856 851010 [email protected]

The Quernstone has two floors of wonderful things including Orkney jewellery and gifts, childrens toys and ceramics. In the knitwear shop, we sell our own label knitwear plus luxury yarns and accessories.

Discover the culture

www.scotlandsislands.com

Shopping, arts & crafts

An artist works in her studio.


Cafés

BIRSAY B6

Birsay Bay TearoomPalace, Birsay, Orkney KW17 2LX T/F: 01856 [email protected] www.birsaybaytearoom.co.uk

Serving coffees, teas, light lunches, saladbar, homebakes, utilising local produce whenever possible. Panoramic coastal views.

74428

Open: Apr and Oct, Wed – Sun open 11am – 3pm. May and Sep, Wed – Sun open 11am – 5pm. Jun, Jul and Aug, Mon – Sun open 11am – 5pm.

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Open: Jan – Dec. Jan – Mar and Oct – Dec, 10am – 4pm Wed – Sun. Apr – Sep, 10am – 6pm Mon – Sun.

HOXA F12

Hoxa TearoomsThe Bu Hoxa, St Margaret’s Hope, Orkney KW17 2TW T: 01856 831366 [email protected] www.hoxatearooms.co.uk

Hoxa Tearooms welcomes you for a ‘Brew at the Bu’. Enjoy good food, from cooked breakfast to light lunches to cream teas, all served overlooking Hoxa sound with stunning views across Scapa Flow.

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Open: Feb – Oct. Feb – Apr, Wed & Sat afternoons only (12.30pm – 5pm). May – Sep, Tues – Sat 10.30am – 5pm, Sun & Mon 12.30pm – 5pm. Oct, Wed & Sat afternoons. Closed Nov, Dec and Jan.

ISLE OF WESTRAY E2

Haff Yok CaféQuarry Road, Pierowall, Westray KW17 2DH T: 01857 677777 M: 0776 607 3088 F: 01857 677767 [email protected] www.westraak.co.uk

Light lunches, home baking, freshly brewed tea and coffee. Fairly traded produce. Local crafts. Local tourist information point. Friendly staff. Warm Westray welcome.

What to see & do in Scotland?To speak to one of our travel experts call

[email protected]

0845 148 6033

33216

Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Sat 9am to 10pm. Sundays 10am to 6pm.


Judith Glue – Real Food Café/Restaurant25 Broad Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1DH T: 01856 874225 F: 01856 876263 [email protected] www.judithglue.com

Watch us cook local Orkney produce in our open kitchen while you eat. Changing blackboard menu every day using Orkney seafood, meat, local vegetables and salad leaves. Producing light lunches, evening meals, sit down or take away. Licensed premises.

www.visitscotland.com/surprisecreative


NORTH RONALDSAY L1

Lighthouse CaféLighthouse Visitor Centre, North Ronaldsay T: 01857 633297 M: 0776 820 1651 [email protected] www.northronaldsay.co.uk

Fully licensed café, local produce, WiFi, great views, most northerly point of the Orkney Islands.

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Open: Lunchtime, Mar – Sep 10am – 5pm Oct – Feb varied openings. Evening Meals throughout the year – phone or check website for further details.

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Open: Apr – Oct. 11.30am – 4.30pm, closed Saturdays.

SANDWICK B7

Appie’s Tea RoomLower Appiehouse, Sandwick KW16 3JD T: 01856 841562 [email protected] www.pamfarmer.co.uk

We offer a simple, healthy, homecooked menu based around Orkney produce (Gluten-free and Veggie diets catered for). Come and relax, admire the stunning views or stroke the cats(!) and let Orkney’s magic sink in.

Restaurants

38120

Open: Jan – Dec.

HARRAY C8

ooo Country House Hotel

Merkister HotelHarray, Orkney KW17 2LF T: 01856 771366 [email protected] www.merkister.com

Fresh local food, menus changing daily, served overlooking Harray Loch with breathtaking views. Extensive Lunch and Supper menus also served in our Lounge Bar, Menus featuring Orkney Beef and Lamb, hand dived Scallops, Westray Crab etc.

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Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Sun open 4pm – 11pm.


Dil Se7 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1HR T: 01856 875242 www.dilserestaurant.co.uk

Recommended by ‘Which? Good Food Guide 2012’ FIVE years running!! ‘Taste of Orkney Best Take-Away Winner 2007’. Flavours from North India and Bangladesh and all produce sourced locally. Our chef has cooked for celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay!


Foveran Restaurant with RoomsNr Kirkwall, St Ola T: 01856 872389 F: 01856 876430 [email protected] www.foveranhotel.co.uk

Enjoy a relaxed evening in our popular restaurant with breathtaking views over Scapa Flow.

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Dinner is served every night of the week from mid May to mid September. The rest of the year we are open but nights vary so please contact us to check availability.

ooo Restaurant with Rooms



Connect with us...for competitions, insider tips, & more!

Great days out - Food & drink


52470

Open: Jan – Dec. Evening Meals 6pm – 9.30pm.


ooo Hotel ß‰

The Orkney Hotel40 Victoria Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1DN T: 01856 873477 F: 01856 [email protected] www.orkneyhotel.co.uk

Savour a delicious meal in our Garden View Restaurant. Choose from superb local beef, lamb, daily harvested seafood and unique vegetarian dishes. Enjoy a wee dram from over 60 whiskies.

Sign up to VisitScotland’s regular e-newsletter for the latest on what’s going on in Scotland plus some great value deals and prize draws!

Sign up here.

www.visitscotland.com/newsletter


visitscotland.com


0845 148 6033

SOUTH RONALDSAY F12

58710

Open: Apr – Oct. Dinners from 7pm. Restaurant closed Mon and Tues. Rooms open daily.

oooo Restaurant with rooms

The Creel Restaurant & RoomsFront Road, St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2SLT: 01856 [email protected]

An outstanding restaurant with beautiful rooms. ‘’Sticks to what’s good and local’’ Rick Stein.

SOUTH RONALDSAY G14

Skerries BistroBanks of Orkney, Banks, Cleat, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2RW T: 01856 [email protected]

Specialising in fresh local fish/shellfish – cod, pollock, scallops, crab and lobster. Vegetarian dishes available.

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947

Open: 1 Apr – 31 Oct. 11am – 5pm & 6pm – 10pm Mon – Sun. Booking for the evening essential.

91759

Open: Jan – Dec. Oct – May 4pm till late. June – Oct 12am till 12pm.

TANKERNESS G10

Quoyburray InnTankerness, Orkney KW17 2QU T: 01856 861255 [email protected]

The Quoyburray is a family run inn serving food and drink. Wherever possible food is sourced in Orkney firstly in the east mainland so that guests can enjoy the quality of Orkney products. Full disabled and wheelchair access.

www.visitorkney.com

Food & drink

Each business receives an annual visit by an assessor to ensure that they are maintaining high standards. Businesses are assessed on Hospitality and service • Quality and presentation of food and drink • Quality and freshness of ingredients • Housekeeping and hygiene.

So you can be assured of a great eating experience wherever you see the EatScotland logo. EatScotland Silver and Gold awards indicate excellent and outstanding places to dine.

Where to eat and drink in Scotland

EatScotland.com

Discover EatScotland eating establishments throughout the country, as well as information on Scotland’s fantastic produce and events, at EatScotland.com


Bus services

Open: Jan – Dec. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Maynes CoachesSt Margaret’s Hope, Orkney KW17 2TG T: 01856 831333 F: 01542 833572 [email protected]

Luxury coach hire with experienced driver guides. 16-57 seater coaches. – Travel The Mayne Way

37729

Car/bike hire


Open: Jan – Dec. Apr – Sep open 9am – 5.30pm. Oct – Mar open 10am – 5pm.

Cycle OrkneyTankerness Lane, Orkney KW15 1AQ T: 01856 875777 [email protected] www.cycleorkney.com

Ecologically sound and fundamentally friendly hire bikes, sales, repairs and accessories. Also kites, skateboards and Warhammer.

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Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Fri open 8am – 5pm. Sat open 8am – 1pm.

Drive Orkneyc/o Orkney Tool Hire, Hatston Industrial Estate, Orkney KW15 1RE T: 01856 877551 F: 01856 870001 [email protected] www.driveorkney.com

Drive Orkney can offer a variety of modern professionally prepared vehicles for hire to meet all of your transport requirements, free delivery and collection within the Kirkwall area and Kirkwall Airport.Free child safety seats.

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Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Sat 9am – 5pm.Cost: From £32 per day (subject to change).

Orkney Car HireJunction Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1JY T: 01856 872866 F: 01856 875300 [email protected] www.orkneycarhire.co.uk

Value for money car hire. Large vehicle fleet suits most holiday budgets. Free airport transfers. Free child seats. Free additional driver.No mileage charges. No deposit required. Maximum age for drivers, 77 years.

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For a list of events throughout Orkney see pages 18 -19

Key Events


Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Fri 7.30am – 7.30pm, Sat – Sun 9am – 7.30pm.

W R Tullock & Sons LtdCastle Street, Kirkwall KW15 1HD T: 01856 875500/876262 F: 01856 874458 [email protected] www.orkneycarrental.co.uk www.orkneyairportcarhire.co.uk

Orkney’s only airport car hire company. Town centre and airport offices. Agents for Avis, Europcar and National Car Rental. Ferries met by arrangement.

63193

NORTH RONALDSAY L1

Open: Jan – Dec. 9am – 9pm.

North Ronaldsay TrustLighthouse Visitor Centre, North Ronaldsay L1 T: 01857 633297 M: 0776 820 1651 [email protected] www.northronaldsay.co.uk

Adult, childrens, and electric hire. Panniers, helmets, and baby seats available. Daily, weekly, family rates.

66953

STROMNESS B10

Open: Jan – Dec. Mon – Sun open 9am – 6pm. (exc occasional holiday periods, hence booking recommended).

Cost: Day rates range from £9 – £11.

Orkney Cycle Hire54 Dundas Street, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3DA T: 01856 850255 M: 0773 453 8613 [email protected] www.orkneycyclehire.co.uk

Best prices in Orkney. Free Helmets. SPECIAL RATES for weekly hire, Families or Groups. Child seats / Children’s Bikes. Child buggy or Towing Cycle available. Delivery / collection can be arranged at extra cost. Booking recommended.

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Marina berth hire


Open: Kirkwall and Stromness, Jan – Dec Westray, Apr – Sep. Accessible 24 hours. Marina staff attendance twice daily in peak season, otherwise once daily.

Cost: Variable, fee based on length of boat/stay, minimum daily charge applies, long stays and Rover tickets available.

Orkney Marinas LtdShalderha, Holm, Orkney KW17 2SA T: 01856 871313 F: 01856 871313 [email protected] www.orkneymarinas.co.uk

Excellent berthing facilities, three marinas, superb anchorages; perfect for exploring Orkney and the Viking Trail.

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Sea travel

Open: Jan – Dec. Sept – June Mon – Sun 7am – 6.30pm. July – Aug 7am – 7.30pm.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Pentland Ferries LtdPier Road, St Margarets Hope, Orkney KW17 2SW T: 01856 831226 F: 01856 831697 [email protected] www.pentlandferries.co.uk

Travel to Orkney in an hour with the choice of up to four crossings per day.

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NATIONWIDE

Open: Jan – Dec. Our reservation line is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

NorthLink FerriesFerry Terminal, Ferry Road, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3BH T: 0845 6000 449 (reservations) [email protected] www.northlinkferries.co.uk

NorthLink Ferries operate routes to Orkney and Shetland from Aberdeen and Scrabster on a daily basis. Three state-of-the-art passenger vessels provide high standards of safety, comfort, first class dining, en-suite cabins, cinema, restful lounges.

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Taxi

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: Jan – Dec.

Brass’s TaxisFerry Road, Stromness, Orkney KW16 3AA T: 01856 850750 [email protected]

Taxis and M.P.V. available (six and eight seaters). Also tours to sights of interest. Credit and debit cards accepted.

Open daily.

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THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: Jan – Dec.

Kirkwall TaxisHillview, Grimeston Road, Harray, Orkney KW17 2JTT: 01856 876972 M: 0774 895 [email protected]

A friendly service for pre-arranged pickup from Airport and Ferries. Private tours for up to six available, contract work undertaken.

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www.visitscotland.com/surprisecreative


Great days out - Transport


Cruises

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: May – Sep Mon – Sun open 8.30am – 10pm (or sunset)

Dawn Star Boat TripsMorvean, Berstane Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1SZ T: 01856 876743 M: 0775 994 4015 [email protected]

Experience the famous natural harbour of Scapa Flow, hear about its history and observe the seabirds and wildlife. May to September, tides and weather permitting, Dawn Star II departs from the pier in St Marys.

87629

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: Jan – Dec

Groat’s ChartersHousebay Cottage, Shapinsay KW17 2EA T/F: 01856 711254 [email protected]

Seaangling, island trips and fishing holidays including bed and breakfast with optional evening meal can be arranged all year. For your summer break choice of staying in a castle if you wish.

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THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Seafari Marine ServicesStromness Harbour, Stromness, OrkneyT: 01856 [email protected]

Award Winning Wildlife Trips. Wildlife, History, Geology and Folklore.

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Open: Jun – Sep Daily Tours.

Tour guides

Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Sun 8am – 8pm.

Priced per tour, please contact us for details.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Orkney Aspects Private Tour ServicesDaisybank Farm, Deerness, Orkney KW17 2QH T: 01856 741433 M: 0788 165 0207 [email protected] www.orkneyaspects.co.uk

Private driver guided tours with a fully qualified Orkney Tour Guide. All our tours are individually planned to reflect guests interests and the time you have available. Get more from your Orkney visit, contact us.

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THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: All year. Guided walks daily. Storytelling 5 nights a week. Private group bookings available all year.

Orkney AttractionsOrkney Folklore & Storytelling Centre, Sandwick, Orkney KW16 3JF T: 01856 841207 [email protected] www.orkneyattractions.com

STROMNESS HERITAGE WALKS and ORKNEY STORYTELLING. Choose guided town walks or Scapa Flow coastal walks with qualified Orkney guide. Stromness maritime heritage and Orkney’s wartime history. Share an evening of Orkney Island storytelling and music.

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THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Sun open 9am – 6pm.

Orkney Tourist Guides AssociationPlease contact us via our website [email protected] www.otga.co.uk

Exclusive guided tours of our wonderful islands with enthusiastic local accredited guides. Various languages spoken.

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Tourist associations

ISLE OF WESTRAY E2

Westray & Papa Westray Tourist AssociationThe Gallery, Pierowall, Westray, Orkney KW17 2BZT: 01857 600410 [email protected]

WESTRAY & PAPA WESTRAY. Worth going that bit further for, a friendly welcome to Big sky and Endless Sea. Spectacular cliff top walks and beautiful quiet beaches. Heritage, Archaeology, Wildlife and much more, the natural place to be.

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Tours

ISLE OF WESTRAY E2

Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Sun May – July 8am – 11.45pm Aug – Apr 8am – 6pm

Westraak Guided ToursQuarry Road, Pierowall, Westray, Orkney KW17 2DH T: 01857 677777 M: 0776 607 3088 F: 01857 677767 [email protected] www.westraak.co.uk

Guided Tours of Westray – ‘Queen of the Isles’. Historic, scenic and cultural, bird and wildlife watching, with experienced Guide. Learn about Westray’s Renewables programme. Transport, lunch and refreshments included.

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THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Open: Jan – Dec, Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm.

John Leask & SonEsplanade, Lerwick, Shetland ZE1 0LL T: 01595 693162 F: 01595 693171 [email protected] www.leaskstravel.co.uk

Fly drive holidays to Orkney and Shetland from most UK airports. Accommodation and car hire included. Sail drive holidays using Northlink Ferries from Aberdeen. Accommodation included. Car hire included or bring your own car.

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See S co t l a n d d i f fe re n t l y

McKinlay Kidd LtdSuite 240, Baltic Chambers, 50 Wellington Street, Glasgow G2 6HJ T: 0844 804 0020 F: 0141 202 0639 [email protected] www.seescotlanddifferently.co.uk

We design short breaks, celebration trips and tailormade self-drive holidays, throughout Scotland, including to Orkney. You tell us what you are looking for or where you want to go and let us inspire you. ATOL 9481.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

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Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Sun open 9am – 6pm

Orkney Archaeology ToursBayview, Birsay, Orkney KW17 2LR T: 01856 721450 [email protected] www.orkneyarchaeologytours.co.uk

Amazing archaeology, expert guides, comfortable hotels, beautiful scenery, relaxing, informative, wonderful holidays: a complete island experience. All-inclusive holidays, short breaks and day tours led by professional archaeologists. Visit our website or phone for brochure.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

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Open: Apr – Sep.Cost: From £1150 per holiday.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Orkney Island HolidaysFurrowend, Shapinsay KW17 2DY T: 01856 711373 [email protected] www.orkneyislandholidays.com

Quality guided holidays exploring birds, flowers, archaeology and history with island experts Paul and Louise Hollinrake.

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Tours


Open: Jan – Dec. Evening Tours during Summer months 6pm – 9pm.

Orkney UncoveredClaremont, Off Mill Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1NL T: 01856 878822 M: 0784 169 7237 [email protected] www.orkneyuncovered.co.uk

Travel in comfort with Orkney Uncovered’s unique, personal, guided tours. Unearth Orkney’s Wartime Defences and Structures during the 19th and 20th Centuries. Uncover the importance of Orkney during these periods, both historically and socially.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

91748

Open: Jan – Dec

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

SeaorkneyMallard Park, Tankerness, Orkney KW17 2QS T: 01856 861335 M: 0780 881 1819 [email protected] www.seaorkney.co.uk

Admire breathtaking scenery and wildlife with our tours around the beautiful east coast and north isles.

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Open: Jan – Dec Office hours Mon – Thur open 9am – 5pm. Tours and holidays available year round.

Wildabout Orkney4 Gunns Close, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1DU T/F: 01856 877737 [email protected] www.wildaboutorkney.com

Awaken your imagination and sense of adventure with an escape to the enchanting isles. We specialise in unique personal guided tours, holidays and cruise ship shore excursions for groups and individual travellers. Wildabout Orkney since 1990.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

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visitscotland.com


0845 148 6033

.Travel agent


Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Fri 9am – 5.30pm Sat 10am – 3pm.

Scapa Travel

11 Bridge Street, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1HR T: 01856 889040 [email protected] www.scapatravel.co.uk

Experienced local Travel Agent, specialising in travel to Orkney and Shetland.

We tailor-make each itinerary to suit your individual requirements, using our local knowledge to create your perfect holiday. A managed agency of Barrhead Travel.

91609

Weddings

Open: Jan – Dec Mon – Sun – Hours to suit.Cost: Individually priced, average £200.

THROUGHOUT ORKNEY

Orkney Pagan WeddingsHarray, Orkney KW17 2JUT: 01856 761133 [email protected] www.orkneypaganweddings.co.uk

Fully legal Pagan/spiritual weddings/handfastings/vow renewals, performed where, when and how you want!

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Wildlife and nature

BURWICK HARBOUR F14

Open: Apr – Sep Mon – Sun (Time of sailing subject to tidal conditions).

Cost: Adult £30, Child £15.

Pettlandssker Boat TripsBanks, Cleat, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2RW T: 01856 831605 M: 0786 043 8452 [email protected] www.boattrips-orkney.co.uk

Boat trip around the Pentland Skerries to see Puffins, Seals and other wildlife.

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SOUTH RONALDSAY G12

Open: Apr – Oct Tours normally run from Sat until the following Fri. Short-breaks of 2-3 days and day trips may also be available, please enquire for availability.

Orcadian WildlifeGerraquoy, St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay, Orkney KW17 2THT: 01856 831240 M: 0773 000 [email protected] www.orcadianwildlife.co.uk

Orcadian Wildlife offers relaxed, tailor-made wildlife and culture tours for small groups (max four guests only) from our family organic farm base on South Ronaldsay, the southernmost Orkney isle, close to ferries.

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Local services


Open: Jan – Dec, Mon – Thurs 9.15am – 7pm, Fri & Sat 9.15am – 5pm (please check with library).

Admission: Free.

Orkney Library & Archive44 Junction Road, Kirkwall KW15 1AG T: 01856 873166 [email protected] www.orkneylibrary.org.uk

Founded in 1683, the oldest public library in Scotland, now housed in a purpose built new facility. Free internet and WiFi access available.

STROMNESS B10

Open: Jan – Dec, Mon – Thurs 2pm – 7pm, Fri 2pm – 5pm, Sat 11am – 5pm.Admission: Free.

Stromness Library2 Helliehole, Stromness KW16 3DY [email protected] www.orkneylibrary.org.uk

Established in 1905 under a bequest from Mrs Marjory Skea. Free internet and WiFi access.

Great days out - Tours

Exploring rockpools on Birsay.

Open: Apr – Sept Sun – Fri 10am – 5pm Oct – Mar Mon – Fri 11am – 3pm Admission: Modest charge, Children free

oooo Visitor Attraction &

Dunbeath Heritage TrustOld School, Dunbeath, Caithness KW6 6EDT: 01593 731233 F: 01593 731233 [email protected] www.dunbeath-heritage.org.uk

An engaging approach to landscape interpretation. Through art installations, photography and unique floor map. Explore our rich historical, archaeological and literary landscape, including ‘Highland River’ made famous by Dunbeath-born Neil M Gunn.

DUNBEATH 1

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Open: Daily 10.20am – 5pm (last entry 4pm) 1 May to 30 Sept 2012. Closed 28 Jul – 8 Aug inclusive Admission: Adult £9.75, Child £5, Concs £8.75, Fam £25. Gardens and grounds only £5.00

ooooo Castle

Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey TrustThurso, Caithness KW14 8XH T: 01847 851473 F: 01847 851475 [email protected] www.castleofmey.org.uk

The Castle of Mey was The Queen Mother’s holiday home in Caithness. It is 5 miles west of John O’Groats and the castle, gardens and animal centre are open to the public with a shop and tearoom.

THURSO 2

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Heading North

The harbour at Scrabster from which NorthLink Ferries sail to Orkney.


The A9 corridor is an important route for visitors travelling north to Orkney. If you need a pit-stop to recharge your batteries or have an hour or two to spend before catching the ferry, why not use the opportunity to explore the surrounding area?


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Contact us today for a copy of our 2012 Guide

RESERVATIONS: 0845 6000 449WEBSITE: www.northlinkferries.co.uk

Aberdeen – Kirkwall – Lerwick Scrabster – Stromness

DISCOVER A DIFFERENT WORLDBoard our beautiful, purpose-built ships - which offer the highest standard of safety and comfort - and enjoy our first-class service and on-board facilities as you sail north.

47822

TEL FREEFONE 0800

688 8998or BOOK ONLINE

www.pentlandferries.co.uk

PENTLAND FERRIES LTD Pier Road, St Margaret’s Hope, Orkney KW17 2SW St Margaret’s Hope: 01856 831226 Gills Bay: 01955 611773 Fax: 01856 831697

Using the very latest technology and meeting the highest safety standards demanded by today’s modern travellers, Pentland Ferries now has Scotland’s finest catamaran car and passenger ferry crossing the old Viking Highway – the Pentland Firth, a journey time of an hour, and with three return sailings each day.

A comfortable lounge offers excellent views on passage, and for those who prefer fresh air, the top deck has safe, comfortable seating. Light snacks and drinks are available.

The 21st Century crossing to Orkney!Passengers should be at the terminal thirty minutes before sailing time and are advised to book, either via the web or by telephone, to avoid disappointment.

We accept cash on board or credit, debit card at our onshore offices.

St Margaret’s Hope

Kirkwall

John o Groats

Gills Bay

49510

Tours leave from John O’Groats and Inverness

Every Summer Morning.

“A FASCINATING DAY OUT”

DAY TRIPSTO ORKNEYfrom famous John O’Groats

BOOK ONLINEwww.jogferry.co.uk

John O’Groats Ferries, John O’Groats, Scotland, KW1 4YRTel: 01955 611 353, [email protected]

40MINUTEFERRY

CROSSING!

Express Travel To KirkwallDirect From Inverness

on The Orkney Bus

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32671

48540

NEW FOR 2012-OPENING LATE SPRINGVISITOR CENTRE WITH

BREWERY TOURS,

THE ORKNEY BREWERYVisitor Centre opening spring 2012 for opening times and tour

information check our website or call 01667 404 555

The Orkney Brewery, Quoyloo, Stromness KW16 3LTPlease Contact Main Office: Sinclair Breweries Ltd, Cawdor, Nairn IV12 5XP t 01667 404 555 f 01667 404 584e [email protected] www.orkneybrewery.co.uk CAFÉ & EVENTS VENUE



Scottish Registered Charity No SC 014815

Sylvia Wiahsrt Hoy Sound 1987 © The Estate of Sylvia Wishart The Pier Arts Centre Collection

art gallery - museum - shop

The Pier Arts Centre Stromness Orkney Open All Year (Tues – Sat 10:30am – 5:00pm / additional seasonal opening - see website) www.pierartscentre.com telephone: 01856 850 209 Admission free

49780

For a relaxed visit, allow 1 1/2 - 2 hoursOpen: March 10 am -12 noon, Apr - Sep 9.30 am - 5.30 pm, Oct 9.30 am - 1.30 pm & Nov - Feb by arrangement. Admission charge

Stone Age and Bronze Age sites

Wildflower Trail and Coastal Walk

Visitor Centre & Gift Shop

A unique hands on link to the past

Liddle, South Ronaldsay, KW17 2RW 01856 831339 www.tomboftheeagles.co.uk

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www.visitorkney.com

Cyclists on a rocky beach near Easting, North Ronaldsay.

Sign up to VisitScotland’s regular e-newsletter for the latest on what’s going on in Scotland plus some great value deals and prize draws!

Sign up here.

www.visitscotland.com/newsletter


Joint ticket with Skara B rae

Open 9.30am to 5.30pm (last entry 5.15pm)gift shop disabled access wedding venue

Explore the home of the man who unearthed

Skara Brae. Discover tales of Smugglers, Bishops,

Captain Cook

and the bodies

under the stairs.

Experience

a family home

as it was in the

1950s. Enjoy

the items collected by the twelve Lairds of Skaill

and take home a souvenir from our Gift Shop.

Skaill House, Breckness Estate, Sandwick, Orkney KW16 3LRTel: 01856 841501 Fax: 01856 841668

[email protected] www.skaillhouse.co.uk 54804

55932

carrentalOrkney’s only franchised Airport Car Rental Company

Rental Offices: KIRKWALL AIRPORT

AND CASTLE STREET KIRKWALL

Tel: 01856 875500 Fax: 01856 874458

E-mail: [email protected] www.orkneycarrental.co.uk

Orkney’s oldest Garage, Motor Hirer and Franchised Car Dealer ‘Established 1901’

from

£27* per day

*Based on 7 day hire. Rate includes VAT

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The small hilly island of Rousay.


Shop at VisitOrkney

We have a selection of books, maps and gifts which are available to purchase by mail order, online or by calling our VisitOrkney Information Centre on 01856 872856 or [email protected].

Maps

Nicolson:Orkney Tourist Map Scale 1:100,000 £5

Street GuideKirkwall, Finstown, Stromness & St Margaret’s Hope £3.50

Road Map 1North of Scotland, Orkney & Shetland Scale 1:250,000 £6.50

OS Landranger:No 5 Northern Isles Scale 1:50,000 £8 No 6 Orkney Mainland Scale 1:50,000 £8 No 7 Southern Isles Scale 1:50,000 £8

OS Explorer:461 East Mainland, Shapinsay & Kirkwall Scale 1:25,000 £9 462 Hoy, South Walls & Flotta Scale 1:25,000 £9 463 West Mainland Scale 1:25,000 £9 464 Westray, Papa Westray, Rousay, Egilsay & Wyre Scale 1:25,000 £9 465 Sanday, Eday, Stronsay & North Ronaldsay Scale 1:25,000 £9

Footprint Maps:Orkney Heritage WalksA map/guide to eight easy to follow heritage walks £4 Orkney Environment Walks around OrkneyA map/guide to eight easy to follow environment walks £4

Books

Guides:Souvenir Guide to OrkneyThe ideal companion for a trip to the islands. 3rd Edition by Charles Tait. £10

The Orkney Guide BookOne of the most in-depth guides to Orkney by Charles Tait, with detailed information, pictures & maps. 4th Edition due out early 2012. £26

Activities:Walking OrkneyA guide to 40 walks around Orkney with maps & illustrations by Mary Welsh. £9

Walks OrkneyA compact guide to 40 walks throughout Orkney. £4.50

Nature:Islands of BirdsA guide to Orkney birds by Erik Meek from the RSPB. £5

SNH Seals: Naturally ScottishAn informative guide to seals in Scotland. £6.50

OttersA guide to otters by Bobby Tulloch. £8.50

History:Skara BraeThe official Historic Scotland souvenir guide. £5

MaeshoweThe official Historic Scotland souvenir guide. £7

The Brochs of Gurness & MidhoweThe official Historic Scotland souvenir guide. £4.50

The Earl’s & Bishop’s PalacesThe official Historic Scotland souvenir guide. £4

Orkney’s Italian ChapelA guide to the Italian Chapel, available in English, German or Italian. Please specify language. £2

Scapa Flow Visitor GuideAvailable in English, French, German, Italian, Norwegian or Spanish. Please specify language. £2.50

ScapaJames Miller provides an interesting insight into life in a naval base during the two World Wars. £13

Old OrkneyGain a fascinating insight into life in Orkney from the early 1800s through to the 1950s. £16

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Orkney from Old Photos A collection of photographs compiled by Gordon Wright. £16

Other:Islands of OrkneyGuide to Orkney by Liv Kjørsvik Schei with photos by the late Gunnie Moberg. £16.50

Fatal PassageThe true story of the remarkable Orcadian John Rae, the Arctic adventurer who discovered the fate of Franklin. £11

Winter TalesA collection of 18 short stories by George Mackay Brown. £9

Recipes from the Orkney IslandsA collection of both traditional and modern recipes. £8

The Magic of the Scottish IslandsJon Sparks’ stunning photography is accompanied by Terry Marsh’s evocative and in-depth commentary. £15

Children:

Six Lives of Fankle the CatGeorge MacKay Brown’s classic story of Fankle the Cat. £7.50

The Boy with the Bronze AxeA classic story by Kathleen Fidler set in the ancient Stone Age village of Skara Brae. £7.50

Hiccup the Viking who was SeasickFind out what happens when Hiccup goes to sea for the first time. £8

The Utterly OtterleysMairi Hedderwick’s story about a family of otters looking for a new home. £7.50

The Fiddler and the TrowA well known Orkney folk tale rewritten by local storyteller Tom Muir. £6

Nature DetectivesAn educational activity book encouraging children to explore the natural environment and work towards a Nature Detective Award. £3.50

DVD/CDs

Orkney Symphony DVD40 minute DVD highlighting the local culture and traditions of Orkney. Not suitable for USA or Canada. £12

Interactive Orkney CD-ROMThe essential CD-ROM guide to the history, landscape & culture of Orkney. £16

Anthems of a Peedie NationCD from the Kirkwall City Pipe Band. £14

Orkney FolkCD marking the 25th anniversary of the Orkney Folk Festival, featuring local artists. £14

Souvenirs/gifts

Orkney Flag BagCanvas Bag with the Orkney Flag. £4

Orkney BagLarge canvas bag. £13

Orkney Flag Car StickerRectangle car sticker with Orkney Flag. £1.50

Longship MagnetOrkney Viking Longship Magnet. £2.50

Tea TowelsOrkney Blue Map, Orkney Colour Map or Orkney Puffin - please specify which design. £5.50

To order by post please tick the box against the items required, then complete your name, address and total cost of goods.

How to pay

You can pay by credit card over the phone or by sending a cheque payable to VisitScotland to the below address. Minimum order value for credit card transactions is £5. Orders will be held until payment has cleared.

Postage and packaging chargesAll prices include postage and handling charge for UK orders. For orders outside UK: Europe please add 15%. For outside Europe please add 25%. For deliveries within UK/Europe allow 7-14 days delivery. Outside Europe allow 28 days delivery. No responsibility will be taken for lost, misplaced or damaged goods, due to the delivery process or anything else that affects the delivery of the goods.

What to do now

Post the completed coupon to: VisitOrkney, The Travel Centre, West Castle Street, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1GU or email your order to [email protected] or call 01856 872856.

To order

Please print Name and Address in BLOCK CAPITALS

Total (including postage & packaging) £ .

Name:

Address:

Postcode:

Daytime Tel:

Email:

Disclaimer All items are subject to availability. If we are unable to supply a particular item, we will notify you as soon as possible, and endeavour to supply an alternative item if necessary. All prices displayed are in £Sterling and are valid at date of going to print. All prices shown are inclusive of VAT*, applicable at the time of going to print.

*VAT 20% as at October 2011.

01 A busy day in Kirkwall Information Centre.


The key to Orkney’s history is just £17.

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Stromness street map


Kirkwall street map


Key to RSPB reserves

A Marwick Head Sea Cliff

B The Noup Sea Cliff

C Copinsay Sea Cliff

D North Hill Maritime Heath

E Hobbister Moorlands

F Hoy Sea Cliff/Moorlands

G Birsay Loons Wetlands

H Mill Dam Wetlands

K Brodgar Wetlands

M Birsay Moors Moorlands

N Cottascarth & Moorlands

Rendall Moss

P Trumland Moorlands

R Onziebust Farmland

Orkney Islands area map

VISIT OUR NEWLY RENOVATEDVISITOR CENTRE

April & September:Mon-Fri 10am-5pm

Tours on the hour every hour until 4pm

May to August:Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 12pm-5pm

Tours on the hour every hour until 4pm

October to March:1pm-5pm, tours 2pm and 3pm

Closed for the festive holidays

Tours outwith these hours by arrangement.Size of tour is restricted to 12 and

booking is advisable.

Distillery and Visitor Centre,Holm Road, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1SU

Telephone 01856 874619

www.highlandpark.co.ukPlease enjoy our whisky responsibly

THE BEST SPIRIT IN THE WORLDF. Paul Pacult, Spirit Journal, June 2005 and 2009

NB. Highland Park operate a silent season during June,July and August when essential maintenance of the plant

needs to be carried out. Tours are subject to disruption although we strive to keep this to a minimum.

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orkney accommodation guide

Documents