Holiday rentals in Orkney Islands

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Top-rated holiday rentals in Orkney Islands

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Top guest favourite
A modern kitchen is equipped with white cabinetry and a sleek countertop. Appliances include a microwave, kettle, and a washing machine. Natural light enters through the window, enhancing the overall brightness of the space, with a decorative backsplash featuring an underwater design.
Guest suite
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 205 reviews

Close to town, restaurants and the bus route.

Situated in a quiet residential area overlooking Kirkwall, the capital city of Orkney and boasting a cathedral view, this wheelchair accessible one bedroom apartment has been recently finished to a high standard. Adjoining the main residence with its own separate entrance the apartment comprises a combined living room kitchen, spacious double bedroom and en-suite shower room with hand basin and toilet. This home from home offers an attractive bright interior and is centrally heated throughout.

Top guest favourite
An open-plan living area features a comfortable seating arrangement with a sofa and armchair, complemented by a white coffee table. A round dining table with chairs is positioned nearby. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to fill the space, offering views of the outdoor area.
Holiday home
5 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviews

Modern purpose built 2-bedroom holiday home

Regional finalist featured on BBC Scotland Home of the Year 2023. Skeir a Lidda (meaning the flat skerries) takes its name from the sea shore immediately below the property. Constructed in 2021 it has been purpose built to the highest modern standards. Conveniently situated, Skeir a Lidda is easy to get to and is a perfect base from which to explore the islands. While the annexe is connected to the host's own house it is self contained and private. Friendly help and advice is right next door!

Top guest favourite
A cozy living area features a brown armchair and a comfortable sofa, with a round table in front. Large windows with yellow curtains provide views of Scapa Flow, while a small plant adds a touch of greenery. A wall-mounted television is positioned nearby.
Loft
5 out of 5 average rating, 150 reviews

Superb views from 2 bedroom loft apartment

STL: OR00349F Small but functional, our 2 bedroom first floor flat has all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Our property boasts superb sea views over Scapa Flow, Hoy and beyond, aswell as field views from the bedrooms. Situated 3 miles from Kirkwall Town centre, with country walks from our doorstep, we offer the ideal spot to explore Orkney. We have free off road parking and an outdoor drying space. Please note: this property is accessed via stairs and no lifts etc are available.

Guest favourite
A hot tub is situated on a wooden deck, surrounded by lush greenery and offering expansive views of the sea. The sky features scattered clouds, reflecting varying shades of blue. Two wooden chairs are positioned nearby, inviting relaxation while enjoying the scenery.
Cottage
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

Secluded cottage by the Sea

A unique home by the sea. A peaceful and private country road leads to this secluded cottage. The hot tub has views down scapa flow. The famous St Magus Way is accessible from this property . There is direct access to the sea for paddle boarding, wind surfing or sailing in the bay. Return to the cottage to an open fire. The extensive grounds also allow for simple walks or yoga. The cottage retains some of it's 19th century charm but has been renovated to be a practical and comfortable home.

Top guest favourite
A serene garden area features a wooden bench set against the backdrop of Stenness Loch. Lush green grass surrounds the bench, and various plants line the shore, offering a view of the tranquil water and distant landscape under a clear blue sky.
Bungalow
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews

Lochside bungalow, spectacular views and wildlife

Lindisfarne is a newly renovated detached rural house with light, relaxing spaces. Living areas enjoy outstanding views over the Stenness Loch. Set in the heart of neolithic Orkney, a short drive to the Ness and Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae and 4 miles from the scenic harbour town of Stromness. Perfect for those with a passion for wildlife, history or who enjoy a spot of fishing or someone looking for a central base for a family holiday with plenty of outdoor space in a large private garden.

Top guest favourite
An open plan living area features a light grey sectional sofa adorned with various colored cushions. A wooden coffee table sits on a textured rug, while the kitchen area showcases wooden cabinets and dark countertops, complemented by modern appliances.
Holiday home
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 134 reviews

Apartment in the Heart of Kirkwall ~ Free Parking

Bright and modern fully-equipped apartment. Cafés, pubs, restaurants and shops just a few minutes walk from your front door. Your free on-street parallel parking space is directly outside the flat. The family-owned property is the perfect base for single travellers or couples wishing to explore the sights that Orkney has to offer. Guests will have the sole use of the flat and all appliances within it. The property is over two floors and therefore unsuitable for disabled travellers.

Top guest favourite
A wooden lodge is shown, featuring a distinctive arched roof and a welcoming front porch. The porch is adorned with a small dining table and chairs, inviting outdoor relaxation. The surrounding green grass complements the natural aesthetics of the lodge against a clear blue sky.
Place to stay
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 122 reviews

*NEW* Lochend Lodge: A Captivating Little Gem

This memorable place is anything but ordinary. Our one of a kind Lodge situated on Stenness Loch boasts spectacular views of the Ring of Brodgar. There is a choice of a super king sized bed or alternatively two single beds. The fully equipped kitchen, spacious wet room and cosy living space offers all you need for a relaxing getaway. The entirety of Lochend Lodge is wheelchair friendly with a wide wooden walkway directly leading from the car park. Our unique little gem awaits you!

Guest favourite
An open-plan living area features a light blue couch with decorative pillows, slate flooring, and a modern kitchen in the background. A dining set is positioned nearby, with bookshelves filled with literature and a large window allowing natural light into the space.
Guest house
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 255 reviews

Toft

On the outskirts of the historic town of Stromness in the West Mainland of Orkney, this single-story barn conversion has one bedroom, an open-plan living/dining/kitchen space, and a bathroom with bath and walk-in shower. All on one level, the property is wheelchair accessible throughout. It has stunning views across Hoy Sound and out to the open Atlantic. Parking is available right outside, but if you visit without a car, regular buses from Stromness go to all areas of Orkney.

Top guest favourite
A bright living area features a light-colored sofa adorned with decorative pillows. A small table is set with dishware by the window, offering views of the garden outside. A colorful rug adds visual interest to the space, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Apartment
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 112 reviews

Lovely 1 bedroom first floor flat in town centre

A stay at this flat gives you easy access on foot to Kirkwall's town centre and all it has to offer. If you are taking a car to explore further afield, there is also on site free parking. I hope that you enjoy your time in Orkney and that the flat has everything you need. The flat is literally just around the corner from the fantastic Rendall's Bakery, the Willow's Chinese Takeaway and chip shop, and the Wellpark Garden Centre and Willows Coffee shop!

Guest favourite
An outdoor patio area is visible, featuring a wooden table and chairs beneath a green umbrella. The traditional stone wall of the apartment provides a rustic backdrop, complemented by nearby greenery. A small potted plant adds a touch of nature to the setting.
Flat
4.88 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews

Apt 2, Victoria Street, Kirkwall

Apt 2 is in a quiet central location in Kirkwall with it's own garden, traditional stone wall feature and wood burning stove. This is a perfect home to come back to after a busy day sight seeing. It has all amenities on it's doorstep, walking distance to all shops, pubs, restaurants and the Cathedral. Parking nearby. Bedroom 1 can be either superking or twin bed and maisonette bedroom upstairs is a king bed.

Top guest favourite
An open-plan living area features two comfortable red sofas with decorative cushions. A wooden coffee table and a TV stand are positioned nearby. Natural light enters through skylights and a wall window, illuminating the space. The kitchen area is visible in the background, equipped with essential appliances.
Cottage
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

Feawell Self Catering Cottage, Stromness, Orkney

Just 1.5miles from Stromness, Feawell is a semi detached cottage sleeping three, in an idyllic location overlooking Orphir Hills and Scapa Flow. We have a large vegetable garden and produce is available to our guests free of charge when in season. Shellfish are also available from our creel boat at a small price. We have a garden and patio area for our guests use and outbuildings suitable for bikes, canoes etc.

Guest favourite
The cottage exterior features a traditional design with a stone roof and light-colored walls. A black front door is set between two windows, and outdoor seating is visible in the foreground. Surrounded by a garden area with simple landscaping, the setting offers a rural ambiance.
Cottage
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

Doehouse Cottage, Sandwick, Orkney

Our place is good for couples, solo adventurers, and business travellers. Set in the parish of Sandwick in rural Orkney surrounded by farmland, approximately 1.5 miles from the sea at Skaill beach and Skara Brae and approximately 4 miles from the ancient Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness and the recently discovered Ness of Brodgar which is currently being excavated.

Popular amenities for Orkney Islands holiday rentals

Your guide to Orkney Islands

Welcome to Orkney

Orkney, an archipelago of 70 islands above Scotland’s North Coast, is one of the most enchanting and otherworldly parts of the country, with gorgeous beaches and incredible history. It can be hard to comprehend that it’s part of the United Kingdom, so distinct is its culture, so far-flung its geography. Closer to Scandinavia than London in distance — and perhaps in spirit too — the islands’ Norse heritage lives on in place names and traditions, and in the magnificence of St Magnus Cathedral. Orkney comprises 15 major islands and regions; the largest, Mainland, is home to the capital, Kirkwall, and Stromness, a focal point for culture. Even before the foundation stones of Ancient Egypt’s pyramids were laid, thriving villages and complex temples existed here, and remain some of the world’s most impressive Neolithic sites.

The past feels always at hand here, yet it doesn’t hold the islands back. Orkney thunders ahead in the realms of food localism, arts, and sustainability. Craft distilleries, smart field-to-fork dining, vintage tearooms, and artisanal producers of cheese and vinegar add to the joy of a visit.


The best time to stay in a holiday rental in Orkney Islands

You might expect Nordic weather in Orkney, but the Gulf Stream keeps the islands relatively temperate, though frequently windy, wet, and foggy. Winters are mild, but with short days and strong gales. Summer is chilly, but days so long the sun never properly sets. In autumn and winter there’s a chance of seeing the Northern Lights, while summer brings the spectacle of nesting seabirds. Standout events include games of Kirkwall Ba’, when two teams (Uppies and Doonies) compete to kick a football to either end of Kirkwall’s main street, every Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Orkney Folk Festival in May features superlative live music, including pub gigs, in Stromness, while the St Magnus International Festival in June is a major cultural event across all the islands, featuring arts, dance, and folk music. Orkney International Science Festival in September has a wide-ranging programme of activities, themed walks, and workshops.


Top things to do in Orkney Islands

Neolithic ruins

Among the extraordinary ruins constituting the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site are the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the incomparable Ness of Brodgar temple complex, Maeshowe’s ancient burial chamber with carved Viking runes, and the evocative megalithic stones of the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness. All are absolute must-sees.

Creative Orkney Trail

Get to know some of the islands’ finest artistic talents by touring the shops, studios, and workshops of local painters, furniture makers, potters, jewellers, and textile designers on the Creative Orkney Trail. These art forms are touchstones of Orcadian, and indeed British, cultural history (the first grooved pottery in Britain was developed here 5,000 years ago). Don’t miss the Pier Arts Centre in Stromness, which houses a highly regarded collection of 20th-century modern art.

Puffins

West Mainland is not only renowned for its ancient sites, but for the incredible bird-watching for migrating seabirds around its sea stacks and beaches. The Brough of Birsay, a tidal island, is one of the best places to see puffins in summer, alongside Pictish settlements and Viking ruins.