This family-run hotel overlooks Kirkwall harbour and offers traditionally styled rooms with free Wi-Fi. It's well-positioned for visiting Kirkwall and the rest of the island with free parking. The hotel also features a restaurant serving local produce.
Centrally located on the seaside, this atmospheric hotel is within walking distance of ferries, buses, the cathedral, and museums. It features a high-quality restaurant and bar, along with stylish en suite rooms. The location is ideal, near shops and transport links.
Located in the heart of Kirkwall, this 3-star hotel offers room service and features a bar. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the breakfast is good. It is centrally located, making it convenient for exploring the town.
This 3-star hotel offers luggage storage space and family rooms. Guests appreciate the comfortable beds and fresh coffee in the rooms. It is conveniently located and provides very good breakfasts.
The Ferry Inn, situated in the heart of Stromness, is celebrated for its unbeatable location, providing travelers with unmatched convenience and accessibility. It's ideally positioned along the waterfront and opposite the ferry terminal, making it perfect for early morning crossings and easy exploration of Orkney. Guests appreciate its proximity to the bustling port, charming shops, local bars, and vital transportation links, although some mention occasional noise due to the busy area.
The inn's breakfast receives high praise for its hearty and delicious offerings, featuring local delicacies and substantial portions. Freshly cooked to order, the menu includes highlights like the traditional Scottish breakfast. While dietary restrictions are noted by a few, the friendly and helpful staff enhance the morning experience. Dinner at the inn is equally commendable, with delicious, beautifully presented dishes and a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. The restaurant and pub are recognized as fantastic spots for delightful meals, although prior reservations are suggested to avoid limited options.
Accommodation at the Ferry Inn is frequently described as clean, modern, and comfortable. The recently renovated rooms provide a contemporary flair, with spacious bathrooms and comfortable beds enhancing the relaxing atmosphere. Despite some mentioning the rooms' smaller size or lack of charm, they remain well-decorated and soundproof, offering modern amenities that contribute to a cozy stay.
The commitment to cleanliness is evident throughout, with spotless rooms and a tidy environment that guests appreciate. The regular cleaning service and amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi further elevate the guest experience. The staff at Ferry Inn are exceptional, consistently praised for their friendliness, efficiency, and willingness to accommodate guest needs. Their attentiveness and superb service create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, ensuring a delightful stay.
Overall, the Ferry Inn combines an excellent location, high-quality dining, comfortable accommodations, and outstanding service to deliver a memorable lodging experience.
Summary of reviews related to the '3 Star' category
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Orkney, the Murray Arms Hotel and Seafood Restaurant offers an enticing blend of charm and culinary excellence. Guests are continually impressed by the hotel's reputation for superb, fresh seafood, locally sourced, and expertly prepared, making every meal feel like a delightful discovery. Visitors praise the restaurant for being a much-needed gem in an area with limited dining options, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience that surpasses the ordinary expectations of a three-star establishment.
The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service further elevate the experience, where friendly staff go above and beyond to accommodate every guest's needs. The emphasis on excellent hospitality contributes significantly to the overall appeal of the hotel. While the facilities are generally well received and provide good value for money, a small suggestion for improvement includes clearer instructions for using the shower to enhance guest comfort.
Overall, the Murray Arms Hotel stands out as a great place in Orkney that leaves visitors with fond memories of remarkable service and exquisite cuisine, fulfilling its promise as a location with nothing to not love.
Smithfield Guesthouse is highly praised by guests for its strategic and serene location, making it an ideal base for exploring the Orkney mainland's enchanting landscapes and historical sites. Positioned centrally yet peacefully, the guesthouse provides easy access to major attractions, ferry connections, and nearby towns such as Stromness and Kirkwall, further enhanced by proximity to a large grocery store and diverse dining options.
A standout feature is the acclaimed breakfast, which is consistently lauded for its quality, variety, and generous portions. Guests find the full Scottish breakfast, including options like fresh fruit, smoked salmon, and the best poached eggs, an excellent and satisfying start to the day. The attentive and welcoming staff further elevate the breakfast experience, ensuring personal tastes are accommodated.
While the in-house restaurant and bar are no longer operational, guests previously appreciated the locally-prepared cuisine and the seafood in particular. Travelers should plan accordingly to explore local dining alternatives.
Accommodations are modern, clean, and comfortable, with rooms praised for their spaciousness, cleanliness, and tasteful decor. Despite a few mentions of smaller room sizes or occasional noise from the main road or pub, the cozy, well-equipped rooms contribute to a restful stay. The staff's friendliness and warm service leave a lasting impression, enhancing the overall experience and ensuring guests feel well-cared for during their visit.
The beds receive generally positive feedback for their comfort, although some guests note slight inconsistencies in firmness and pillow quality. Nonetheless, the overall impression is one of comfort.
In summary, Smithfield Guesthouse offers a comfort-laden stay with standout breakfasts, a strategic location, and exceptional staff, making it a recommended destination for those seeking a tranquil and convenient base to explore the captivating Orkney mainland.
The Orkney Hotel provides free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a restaurant. It is centrally located, with an exceptional location rating. The hotel offers a bar, luggage storage and a garden.
Castaway Guesthouse, located just outside Kirkwall in a peaceful yet accessible suburban area, is an ideal base for exploring Orkney. It offers guests both tranquility and convenience, with easy access to the city's attractions and close proximity to ferry services. The guesthouse is highly praised for its breakfast, featuring a variety of abundant and well-prepared options. The cozy breakfast room and personalized meals add a welcoming touch, with many guests enjoying the delicious homemade offerings. Stacey, the accommodating hostess, enhances the experience with her friendly and helpful demeanor.
The rooms at Castaway Guesthouse are noted for their modernity and comfort, ensuring an exceptional stay. Guests frequently commend the spotless cleanliness and spacious, well-appointed accommodations. With amenities like large showers and some rooms offering separate dressing areas, the guesthouse maintains a home-like atmosphere. Though a few rooms are smaller, they uphold high standards of cleanliness and comfort. Cleanliness throughout the property receives consistent praise, with spacious bathrooms and immaculate decor contributing to a fresh ambiance.
The staff, particularly Stacey, are a standout feature of the guesthouse. Guests applaud her warmth, helpfulness, and insightful advice, which enhance the overall experience. Her attentive yet non-intrusive approach consistently makes guests feel at home. The guesthouse also offers ample and convenient parking options, with private spaces providing hassle-free access for those traveling by car. Beds at Castaway Guesthouse receive positive feedback for their comfort and maintenance, contributing to a restful stay, despite minor issues like occasional squeakiness.
Overall, Castaway Guesthouse is distinguished by its strategic location, excellent breakfast offerings, immaculate accommodations, and outstanding service, making it a favorite choice among travelers.
Sanderlay Guest House serves as an ideal retreat for travelers seeking peace and comfort in Kirkwall. Its serene location on the outskirts allows guests to enjoy a tranquil environment while remaining conveniently accessible to the town’s attractions, such as the ferry port and airport. The guest house offers the perfect blend of quiet solitude and scenic surroundings, with a pleasant walk leading to downtown Kirkwall.
Guests frequently commend the spacious, clean rooms that maintain high standards of cleanliness and include the added convenience of kitchenettes. Families appreciate the ample space of the family rooms, which offer a cozy yet well-equipped experience, despite some rooms having a slightly dated appearance. The guest house provides all essential amenities, ensuring guests' comfort during their stay.
One of the standout features of Sanderlay Guest House is its remarkable breakfast offerings. The meals are delicious, plentiful, and cater to a range of dietary needs with options such as lactose-free and gluten-free choices. Prepared with care, the breakfast includes traditional Scottish favorites and an excellent buffet, complemented by friendly service from the staff. Guests praise the breakfast for its quality, variety, and reasonable pricing.
Staff and hosts, like Sian and Alan, enhance the guest experience with their warm welcomes and accommodating nature. They are recognized for their kindness, knowledge about local attractions, and ability to enrich guests’ visits. Their attentive service and dedication ensure a hospitable atmosphere, making guests feel valued and cared for.
Parking facilities are generally favorable, with various options available to suit most vehicles. Although parking can be slightly cramped during peak times, it remains adequate, including options for off-street and street parking.
The beds at Sanderlay Guest House consistently receive positive feedback, praised for their comfort and ability to provide a restful night’s sleep. This aspect is complemented by soft pillows and clean rooms, ensuring a relaxing experience for guests.
Overall, Sanderlay Guest House strikes a harmonious balance between comfort, cleanliness, excellent service, and delightful breakfasts. It stands as a charming choice for travelers seeking a peaceful and relaxing stay within the captivating surroundings of Kirkwall.