Kirkwall holiday rentals

Why visit Kirkwall

• Historical landmarks: Discover ancient sites including the stunning cathedral and palace, echoing centuries of heritage.
• Cultural attractions: Immerse in local museums and evocative ruins that tell the tale of Kirkwall’s past.
• Scenic waterfront: Enjoy the calm ambience of the bay and harbour, perfect for romantic strolls.
• Outdoor pursuits: Revel in the blend of nature and history with relaxing beach excursions and day trips.
• Charming streets: Wander through quaint lanes, experiencing the friendly, welcoming vibe of the city.

Popular types of accommodation in Kirkwall

Planning a getaway to Kirkwall, Scotland? This charming city, steeped in history, offers a variety of unique holiday rentals, including cosy cottages, modern apartments, and private holiday homes. Explore iconic landmarks such as St. Magnus Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace, or stroll along the picturesque waterfront. With a range of accommodation options, discover the perfect base for your adventures in this captivating destination.

• Cottages: The most favoured option for a stay in Kirkwall, these cosy, independent dwellings offer a quintessential Scottish retreat.
• Apartments: The second preferred choice, these modern, self-contained units provide a convenient base for exploring Kirkwall.
• Private Holiday Homes: The third popular selection, these individual properties offer a private, homely atmosphere for your Scottish getaway.**

Top attractions in and around Kirkwall

Kirkwall, a city steeped in history, offers a range of culturally enriching and outdoor pursuits. Visitors can explore its historic sites, museums, and evocative ruins, or enjoy the serene ambience of Kirkwall Bay and harbour. With day trips and beach excursions available, this charming locale provides a delightful mix of romance and heritage, ensuring an engaging experience for every traveller seeking to immerse themselves in its storied past.

• Orkney Museum: This fascinating museum offers insights into Orkney's rich history and cultural heritage, featuring artefacts that span thousands of years, from prehistoric times to the present day.
• St. Magnus Cathedral: Known as the ‘Light of the North’, this stunning red sandstone cathedral boasts exquisite architecture and captivating stained glass, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
• Balfour Castle: A charming castle surrounded by beautiful grounds, it exudes romance and history, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and exploration.

Things to do recommended for couples

For a romantic getaway in Kirkwall, explore the charming streets hand in hand, visit the stunning St. Magnus Cathedral, and enjoy a candlelit dinner at a local bistro. Don't miss a scenic boat trip around the Orkney Isles for breathtaking views and unforgettable memories together.

Things to do recommended for families

Families exploring Kirkwall can visit the fascinating Orkney Museum, where kids can discover local history, or enjoy a fun day at the Ness of Brodgar archaeological site, featuring exciting digs and educational activities. Don't miss the beautiful St. Magnus Cathedral for a touch of culture.

Things to do recommended for groups

Groups visiting Kirkwall can explore the impressive St. Magnus Cathedral, enjoy a guided tour of the Highland Park Distillery, and take a boat trip to the nearby Orkney Islands for breathtaking coastal views and rich history.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Kirkwall

Whether you're journeying with a group, a family, your pets or seeking extended stays, ensure you filter using the appropriate criteria. Here are some Stayz booking suggestions for you.

• Traveling to Kirkwall with a group: Consider how many bedrooms you might require, along with facilities such as a fully equipped kitchen or outdoor area for a group get-together. Fortunately, you can apply filters for all these features, and more, on Stayz.
• Traveling to Kirkwall with young kids: Traveling with young children can present its challenges. It is important to prioritise their comfort and safety, along with ensuring access to age-appropriate facilities such as a private swimming pool. Additionally, it is wise to consider being near attractions that are suitable for families.
• Taking your pets with you to Kirkwall: For many, a family holiday wouldn’t be complete without their beloved pet in tow. If this resonates with you, explore Stayz properties that welcome pets. Most pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring everyone feels right at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Kirkwall: If you're seeking holiday lets offering savings for extended stays of a month or more, you've come to the right place. Apply the appropriate filter to effortlessly discover and save on monthly rentals. You might also want to include options such as a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search.

Where to stay near Kirkwall

Discover the charm of Kirkwall, where history meets nature. Explore its ancient landmarks, quaint streets, and family-friendly attractions. Enjoy a cultural holiday with outdoor adventures and romantic moments in this secluded yet welcoming city. Experience the friendly vibe of Kirkwall on your next stay, making it the perfect destination for a memorable trip.

• Holm: Holm is a delightful city located 10km away from Kirkwall. It offers a romantic, entertainment-themed and culture-themed travel experience. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities including ferries, sightseeing and guided tours. The city boasts a rich historical tapestry with local landmarks such as an archaeological site and a historic lighthouse that narrate tales of bygone eras. Holm provides a charming blend of coastal allure and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both scenic beauty and a dash of history.
• Shapinsay: Shapinsay, also situated 10km from Kirkwall, welcomes travellers with a diverse palette of culture-themed, family, and outdoor experiences. This vibrant city invites visitors to engage in birdwatching, guided tours and art explorations. Notable attractions include an archaeological site, a historic place, and a visitor centre that collectively offer insights into the local heritage. Shapinsay’s scenic vistas and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal retreat for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
• Orphir: Orphir is a charming city located 11km from Kirkwall, known for its outdoor, culture-themed and family experiences. The city features a variety of activities such as ferry rides and shopping excursions. Among its attractions, Orphir proudly displays a picturesque bay, a serene park, and an impressive castle. This locale presents a harmonious mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a compelling destination for those eager to explore the rich tapestry of Scottish heritage.

Best time to go to Kirkwall

If you're planning a trip to Kirkwall, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is August. Peak season runs in April and June to July, while off-peak times, like October to December tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

Booking with Stayz is a breeze

If you're hoping to save on your upcoming journey, consider keeping your travel dates flexible, as fares often fluctuate. Additionally, you'll find that booking a longer stay can offer substantial savings. To discover a Stayz property that aligns with your budget, simply utilise our filters to sort by price, location, and type of holiday accommodation.

Stayz Trips: Planning made easy

Stayz's Trip Board provides an excellent platform for you to craft new journeys, refine your existing plans, or manage your reservations with ease. Your saved or booked properties are conveniently categorised into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To discover Trip Boards, please visit: https://www.stayz.com.au/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.