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Hotels in Birsay

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Top 5 hotels in Birsay at a glance

1. The Ayre Hotel — 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Guest rating: 8.6/10 — Excellent.
2. Albert Hotel — 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Guest rating: 9.0/10 — Wonderful.
3. Smithfield guesthouse — 3-star hotel in Dounby. Guest rating: 9.2/10 — Wonderful.
4. The Stromness Hotel — 2-star hotel in Stromness. Guest rating: 7.0/10 — Good.
5. The Orkney Hotel — 3-star hotel in Kirkwall. Guest rating: 8.4/10 — Very good.

Where to stay in Birsay?

Properties are selected based on real traveler reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Birsay on Hotels.com. These Birsay hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveler experience. Last updated on October 1, 2026.

A row of white buildings with chimneys, reflecting on the water.

A pool table in a bar area with wooden flooring and green walls.

A compact living space with a kitchenette, a dining area, and a sofa.

A billiards room with tables, chairs, and a bar area with patrons.

1. The Ayre Hotel

Kirkwall

$82 nightly

$99 total

Nov 1 - Nov 2

Total with taxes and fees

A stone fireplace with a fire, a kettle, and a wooden shelf with bottles.

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a desk with a lamp.

A bar area with wooden beams, stone flooring, and stools.

A rustic interior with exposed wooden beams, a bar area, and seating for patrons.

2. Albert Hotel

Kirkwall

$136 nightly

$163 total

Nov 2 - Nov 3

Total with taxes and fees

A hallway with stone walls, wooden door, and a bench.

A hotel reception area with a glass display case, a coffee machine, and a vase with flowers.

A neatly made bed with a light-colored bedspread and pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, and a floral-patterned wall.

A restaurant interior with wooden tables and chairs, a visible exit sign, and a view of the street outside.

3. Smithfield guesthouse

Dounby

A historic building with a prominent entrance and multiple windows, labeled as "The Stromness Hotel."

A room with a large window, a green sofa, two green chairs, and a round table.

A harbor with boats docked, a crane, and a building with a flat roof.

A hotel room with two beds, a sofa, a chair, a small table, and a view of the sea.

4. The Stromness Hotel

Stromness

$107 nightly

$129 total

Oct 17 - Oct 18

Total with taxes and fees

A bar area with a stone wall, wooden bar counter, and bar stools. There is a leather couch in the foreground.

A dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a fireplace, and a bookshelf in the background.

A four-poster bed with a dark wooden frame, a blue and white bedspread, and two blue pillows. There is a small table with a lamp and a chair in front of a window with curtains.

A grand staircase with blue carpeted steps and a wooden handrail, leading to an upper floor.

5. The Orkney Hotel

Kirkwall

$170 nightly

$205 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A two-story house with a stone facade, a tiled roof, and a front porch with a bench.

A kitchen counter with various food items and kitchenware, including a fruit bowl, a juice container, and a container of Greek yogurt.

A living room with a blue sofa, a blue armchair, a wooden coffee table, and a television.

A neatly made bed with a white quilt and two pillows, a bedside table with a lamp, a dresser with a mirror, and two framed pictures on the wall.

6. Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

Stromness

$127 nightly

$152 total

Oct 29 - Oct 30

Total with taxes and fees

A building with multiple windows and a visible entrance.

A cozy living room with a stone fireplace, a television mounted on the wall, and a plaid curtain.

A hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, a wooden headboard, a window with curtains, a mirror, and a wall-mounted picture frame.

A bar area with a wooden bar counter, multiple stools, and a television screen.

7. The Sands Hotel

Burray

$157 nightly

$189 total

Nov 1 - Nov 2

Total with taxes and fees

A bar area with multiple liquor bottles, a sign reading "Kirkwall Hotel", and several beer taps.

A hotel named "The Shore" with a signboard indicating rooms and amenities like free WiFi, local ales, wines & spirits, teas & coffees.

A neatly made bed with white linens and a plaid headboard, a bedside lamp, a wooden nightstand with a phone, and a chair by a window.

A harbor with boats docked at the pier, a lighthouse in the background, and buildings along the waterfront.

8. The Shore

Kirkwall

$165 nightly

$199 total

Nov 1 - Nov 2

Total with taxes and fees

A hotel room with a bed, a chair, a small table with a kettle, a picture on the wall, and a window with curtains.

9. West End Guest House

Kirkwall

$75 nightly

$90 total

Nov 1 - Nov 2

Total with taxes and fees

A bar with wooden shelves stocked with bottles and glasses, a coffee machine, and a cash register.

A wooden staircase with a bench at the bottom, leading to a room with a checkered floor.

A window with a view of a harbor, including buildings and a boat.

A bar area with wooden furniture, bar stools, and a variety of bottles and glasses on shelves.

10. The Royal Hotel Stromness

Stromness

A room with a large window overlooking a harbor, featuring a ship docked at a pier.

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables, a chair, a window with curtains, and two framed pictures on the wall.

A modern building with large windows and a visible chimney.

A restaurant with wooden floors, tables set with white tablecloths, and a high ceiling with exposed beams and a hanging light fixture.

11. Ferry Inn Stromness

Stromness

$206 nightly

$247 total

Oct 5 - Oct 6

Total with taxes and fees

A large, historic stone building with multiple chimneys, a central entrance, and a circular driveway leading to a fountain.

A bedroom with a large bed, a chandelier, a window with curtains, a radiator, a desk with a lamp, and a framed picture on the wall.

A stone building with a window and a door, surrounded by greenery.

A stone bench with a metal object on it, in front of a building with a white door and potted plants.

12. Graemeshall House

Holm

An outdoor dining area with people seated at tables, a chalkboard menu, and potted plants.

A stone pillar with a sign for The Murray Arms Hotel and Seafood Restaurant, offering lunch and evening meals, fresh seafood daily, walk-ins welcome, dog-friendly, and a beer garden.

A stone structure with a sign for The Murray Arms Hotel and Seafood Restaurant, offering lunch and evening meals, fresh seafood, walk-ins, dog-friendly, and beer garden.

A kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a pot on the counter, and a person cooking.

13. Murray Arms Hotel

South Ronaldsay

$77 nightly

$92 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A harbor with boats and buildings reflecting on the water.

A bar area with a marble table, leather chairs, and a variety of liquor bottles on shelves.

A restaurant interior with a dark blue upholstered bench, framed black and white photographs on the wall, and two tables with speakers.

A bathroom with a white sink, a mirror, and a shower area with a glass door.

14. Kirkwall Hotel

Kirkwall

$301 nightly

$362 total

Oct 15 - Oct 16

Total with taxes and fees

A bedroom with a bed, a bedside table, a wall-mounted control panel, and a window.

A modern room with a wooden desk, a chair, a mounted TV, a mirror, a potted plant, and a bed with green walls.

A modern bathroom with a white sink, mirror, and toilet.

A building with a sign for 'Garden House Rooms' and a website address. There are windows and a small garden area in front.

15. Garden House Rooms

Kirkwall

A hotel room with a large bed, two bedside tables, a nightstand, and a window with curtains.

A hotel room with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a mirror on the wall.

A hotel room with a bed, bedside table, desk, and a computer monitor.

16. Ayre Hotel

Kirkwall

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Top landmarks in Birsay

Brough of Birsay

9.4/10 (20 reviews)

You might want to get your camera out and head to Brough of Birsay— just one of the landmarks located 0.9 mi (1.5 km) from central Birsay.

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Marwick Head RSPB Nature Reserve

Marwick Head RSPB Nature Reserve is 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from central Birsay, why not stop by during your stay.

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Earl's Palace

7.8/10 (7 reviews)

If you're planning a bit of sightseeing during your trip, head to Earl's Palace— just one of the monuments in central Birsay.

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Barony Mills

You might want to get your camera out and head to Barony Mills— just one of the landmarks located 0.6 mi (1 km) from central Birsay.

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Learn more about Birsay

Birsay is well-known for its attractions such as Brough of Birsay and Earl's Palace.

See all hotels in Birsay

Ancient stone ruins with a grassy hillside and the ocean in the background.

Check out reviews of Birsay hotels guests love

Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast

10/10 Excellent

"Friendly, clean and conveniently located. Breakfast was great and the owners were incredibly helpful. Really enjoyed my stay."

The Orkney Hotel

8/10 Good

"Staff really friendly and helpful, nice quiet room as we had our dog. Lovely breakfast."

Ferry Inn Stromness

10/10 Excellent

"Wonderful staff!"

The Ayre Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"Great breakfast, excellent restaurant and even better staff. Everyone from the warm reception (at 11:30 pm!) who stayed late so we could enjoy a night cap after a long travel day. Engaging all around! Would definitely stay again!"

Royal Oak Guest House

10/10 Excellent

"The owner was so warm, hospitable, and willing to help with any problems I had. He really went out t of his way to make me feel comfortable and cared for. Breakfast was wonderful---lots of hotels and cold choices in a clean, cozy breakfast room. Parking lot was easy to enter and leave with ample space for all cars."

The Stromness Hotel

8/10 Good

"The location and old world charm. The staff member was very nice and went out of his way to help us."

The Royal Hotel Stromness

10/10 Excellent

"Come and enjoy proper hospitality in a proper hotel with wonderful people. Just like it used to be before life was overtaken by digital awfulness. If you want room service ordered through your TV then stay away. Sensational breakfast (that can also serve as lunch and beyond). Our second visit since 2022, the hotel holds a special place in our lives."

West End Guest House

10/10 Excellent

"Had a lovely stay thank you."

Kirkwall Youth Hostel

10/10 Excellent

"Perfect 'utilitarian' accommodation for a fan of hostels ... ... The building is not particularly attractive and the rooms are basic and afford no good views ... However, the beds are comfortable, the many bathrooms/shower rooms are newly equipped and excellent, the kitchens are great, the dinning room large & practical, and the lounge very comfortable and equipped with board games & books along with comfy settees. The hostel is a few minutes walk into the centre of town and just a mile from a lovely swimming beach at Scapa where I swam every morning, except for a couple of mornings when I drove a little further to Inganess Beach which is beautiful. For me, so much nicer than a posh hotel because you can cook & eat at any time and fellow visitors always seem relaxed, friendly & chatty ... you just seem to get a much better class of person in a Scottish hostel!"

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Birsay?

You can find top hotels in Birsay from $90 with options to suit your budget and needs. If you're after an affordable hotel in Birsay that meets all of your requirements, set your filters and then sort the results by "Price: low to high".

How can I find deals and earn rewards at Birsay hotels?

Discover great deals on Birsay hotel stays with Hotels.com. It's also a good idea to look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as you're likely to find off-peak deals. If it's a spontaneous trip, check out our last-minute deals on Birsay hotels.

Can I book Birsay hotels with free cancellation?

In order to book a refundable Birsay hotel, simply filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Many hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.

What are some popular hotels in central Birsay?

If you're looking for hotels in central Birsay, check out Smithfield guesthouse. Travelers love Smithfield guesthouse for its location, as well as the restaurant, bar/lounge and free local cuisine breakfast this inn offers.

What accommodations do travelers like in Birsay?

Guests like Smithfield guesthouse.

Can I book a refundable accommodation in Birsay?

If you want the flexibility to change your travel plans to Birsay, most hotels offer refundable* bookable rates. You can find these properties by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow the results down.

What will the weather in Birsay be like during my visit?

The warmest months in Birsay are usually August and July with an average temp of 55°F. February and January are the chilliest months when the average temp is 44°F. The rainiest months are October and November.

Why should I book my Birsay hotel through Hotels.com?

There are plenty of reasons to book your Birsay travel with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels gives you the flexibility you're looking for, and with One Key™, our rewards program, you will be able to earn and use OneKeyCash™* on all eligible bookings such as hotels, car rentals, flights, vacation rentals and more on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.

Find out more about Birsay

Whispers of History and Nature: Unearth the Enchantment of Birsay

Nestled on the rugged Orkney coast, Birsay is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the evocative ruins of the Brough of Birsay, an ancient Norse settlement, and wander the stunning Birsay Bay, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea. The Birsay Outdoor Centre offers thrilling activities for adventurers, while the quaint village offers charming accommodations for a cozy stay. Don’t miss the mesmerizing sunsets along the Birsay coastline, where the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes create an unforgettable escape. Ideal for history buffs and nature lovers alike, Birsay invites you to uncover its hidden treasures.

Discover great hotels in Birsay

Birsay offers a range of accommodations, from cozy inns to comfortable hotels. Guests can find inviting rooms with single beds and plush bedding for a restful stay. For a unique experience, explore charming cottages and hostels that capture the area's local charm while providing essential amenities. Here are some of the best hotels in Birsay that our travelers love:

Smithfield guesthouseOpens in a new window: This charming 3.0-star inn is perfect for leisure travelers seeking a comfortable stay in Birsay. With amenities including free daily breakfast, a bar and lounge, and a restaurant, it offers a delightful culinary experience. The entertainment options, featuring a flatscreen television, add a modern touch to the cozy atmosphere. Travelers appreciate the inviting ambiance and the convenient dining options, which enhance the overall relaxing experience.
Lindisfarne Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.0-star bed and breakfast caters to discerning travelers looking for a unique and personal touch in their accommodations. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and unwind at the bar and lounge. The entertainment offerings, which include a flatscreen television, digital television, and regular television, ensure a comfortable stay. The serene rural location enhances the overall experience, making it a favored choice for those seeking tranquility and charm.
Ferry Inn StromnessOpens in a new window: This sophisticated 3.0-star hotel provides an exceptional experience for leisure travelers who appreciate distinctive features. Offering wrapped food room service, complimentary breakfast, and a reservation-required restaurant for dinner, it ensures an elevated dining experience. With entertainment options like billiards and a pool table, along with LCD and digital televisions, guests enjoy a blend of relaxation and fun. The hotel’s proximity to the sea and waterfront views adds to its allure, making it a standout choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the beautiful surroundings of Birsay.

Top locations to stay in Birsay

When visiting Birsay, Scotland, great areas to stay include Quoyloo, Tingwall House, and Dounby. Quoyloo offers stunning views of the cliffs and easy access to historic sites. Tingwall House provides cozy accommodations with a warm atmosphere, while Dounby features local amenities and charm. For first-time visitors, Tingwall House is the best choice for its welcoming environment.

QuoylooOpens in a new window: Quoyloo is a charming village that serves as a wonderful base for exploring the natural beauty of Orkney. It’s surrounded by stunning landscapes and offers easy access to historical sites like the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae. The area is perfect for those who appreciate tranquility, with scenic walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. Plus, its close-knit community vibe makes it a welcoming place to stay, where you can unwind and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Tingwall HouseOpens in a new window: Tingwall House is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a cozy and comfortable stay. Nestled in the heart of Orkney, it provides a unique blend of traditional charm and modern amenities. From here, you can easily visit the nearby Tingwall Valley, known for its picturesque views and rich history. The local community often hosts cultural events, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Enjoy a peaceful retreat with easy access to both nature and history.
DounbyOpens in a new window: Dounby is a quaint village that offers a glimpse into the local way of life on Orkney. It’s a great spot for those who enjoy exploring local shops and markets, where you can find unique crafts and products made by local artisans. The surrounding countryside is perfect for leisurely strolls, and you can easily reach attractions like the Orkney Brewery and the nearby Maeshowe chambered cairn. Dounby’s welcoming atmosphere and community spirit make it a delightful place to stay.

Things to do in Birsay

Birsay offers a stunning coastal landscape where rugged shorelines meet tranquil bays, perfect for exploring by boat or casting a line for fishing. Nature enthusiasts will love hiking along scenic paths, while the area's rich history invites intriguing tours. With its picturesque beaches and serene islands, Birsay is an unforgettable getaway.

Bay of SkaillOpens in a new window – This beautiful bay offers stunning coastal views and a serene atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll. Take in the natural beauty surrounding you as you explore the rugged shoreline and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
Skara BraeOpens in a new window – Discover one of Europe’s best-preserved prehistoric villages. Wander through the stone houses that date back over 5,000 years, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship of ancient builders. This site provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of our ancestors.
Prehistoric SitesOpens in a new window – Venture into the rich history of the region by visiting various prehistoric sites. Each location tells a unique story of the past, showcasing the remarkable achievements of early civilizations and their connection to the land.
Maes HoweOpens in a new window – Explore this impressive Neolithic chambered cairn, renowned for its intricate carvings and alignment with the winter solstice. As you step inside, imagine the rituals that may have taken place here thousands of years ago.
Corrigall Farm MuseumOpens in a new window – Step back in time at this charming museum, which showcases the traditional rural life of Orkney. Walk through the lovingly preserved buildings, and learn about the farming methods and daily life of past generations.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Birsay

Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Birsay are February, November, and December, when hotel prices may drop. For an affordable getaway, plan to stay for at least 2 to 3 days, which offers great value for experiencing the area's historic landmarks and cultural sites. During your visit, you can explore ancient ruins, enjoy scenic boating trips, fish in the nearby waters, and discover charming islands. Don't miss the chance to tour the local castles, appreciate cultural monuments, and relax on the beach. This trip promises a rich blend of history and nature, all while keeping your expenses in check.
Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Birsay, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and last-minute promotions, which could help you save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you find the best options. By staying updated on availability and price changes, you’re more likely to book a great last-minute getaway.
Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in Birsay. If you're in search of unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below average. If the price is on the higher end, we may suggest more affordable dates, increasing your chances of getting the best deal.
Consider your location: Staying near key attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with higher prices. If you’re looking for more affordable options, think about hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, as they can offer a good balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you want to see. You might also consider independent hotels a bit farther out, which are often more likely to be affordable and can provide a more genuine experience.
Become a Member: Join for free today and start booking your next stay in Birsay! Enjoy exclusive member prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. As a member, you'll have the opportunity to advance through tiers quickly, unlocking fantastic perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these great benefits—sign up now and make your travel experience even better!

Best time to go to Birsay

Birsay experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 43.2°F (6.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 56.1°F (13.4°C). October are typically the wettest months. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Birsay, July to September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

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