Holiday rentals in Orkney Islands

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Top-rated holiday rentals in Orkney Islands

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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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, 169 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
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 135 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 dining table is set with a variety of breakfast items, including bread, fruit, and beverages. Sunlight fills the room, illuminating views of the surrounding landscape through large windows, showcasing the beauty of Orkney's countryside.
Place to stay
5 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

Your suite with breakfast in the heart of Orkney

Welcome to Heima - Norse for 'at home'. Guests have exclusive use of their own entrance, bathroom, relaxing bedroom and own garden. The separate Breakfast Room has panoramic views. From 18.00-22.00, it is available for carry-in meals with the Sitting Room which has a log fire. Heima is a 19th Century cottage with a 21st Century extension. Hilary and Edward have strong family roots in Orkney. You can expect to be hosted generously with a light touch in the quiet beauty of Orkney.

Top guest favourite
A cozy living area features two comfortable sofas adorned with decorative cushions. A wooden cabinet stands against the wall, while a flat-screen TV is mounted above. Natural light is complemented by a standing lamp, creating a welcoming space for relaxation.
Flat
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 141 reviews

Flat 24, Garden Street

Newly renovated, fully equipped ground floor self catering flat located in the heart of Kirkwall, within a few minutes walk of all amenities including the harbour, restaurants, shops & St Magnus Cathedral. The property comprises of 2 bedrooms, one king size with an ensuite bathroom & one double bedroom. It has an open plan Kitchen/dining/ living area & a bathroom with a shower cubicle. Guests will have the sole use of the flat & all appliances within it as well as their own outside space.

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
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 133 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.

Guest favourite
The exterior of the studio apartment displays a light-colored façade with a welcoming blue bench positioned in front. Large windows reflect the surrounding scenery, allowing natural light to enter the space. A leafy area is visible beside the entrance.
Guest suite
4.85 out of 5 average rating, 255 reviews

Self-contained, Small Self catering Studio by Sea

A beautiful small studio apartment awaits you. Accommodation comprises own door from the main house lobby leading to the one-roomed studio with 1 double bed, small sofa, table, chairs & tv. It is a small, well equipped space, 13.3m2 with kitchen and showerroom off, ideally located a few minutes flat walk from Kirkwall town centre and Orkney College with sea views across Kirkwall Bay. Ample FREE parking. Late (even midnight) arrival is fine, just let yourself in. Rigorous cleaning always.

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, 137 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, 267 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 single-story cottage is depicted with a textured exterior and a sloping roof. A small seating area with a table and chairs is visible by the window. Two green bins are positioned beside the entrance, which is flanked by a parking space labeled 'PARKING' on a paved surface.
Cottage
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 200 reviews

1 Lynn Cottage - self catering on edge of Kirkwall

Cosy one bedroom cottage with private parking on outskirts of Kirkwall ideally suited for a couple, with sofa bed in the living area. 2 miles from the airport and 5 minute walk to the famous Highland Park Distillery. 20/25 minute walk to St Magnus Cathedral in the town centre where there are all the usual amenities including shops, bars and restaurants. The cottage is situated in a quiet area with views over farmland. Wi-Fi and heating provided at no additional cost.

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
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 127 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!

Top guest favourite
A charming red cottage with a sloped roof is surrounded by green grass and natural landscaping. A picnic bench is situated in the front yard, while a gravel driveway leads to the entrance. Nearby utility poles and a tree line add to the rural setting.
Cottage
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 212 reviews

Unique charming cottage with Orkney themed rooms

Brymire Cottage is a unique and charming cottage, surrounded by farm land and situated in the parish of Tankerness in the East Mainland of Orkney; approximately 2 miles from Kirkwall Airport and 5 miles from Kirkwall Town Centre. Make sure your booking is adequate length for all you want to see and do; as many guests advise that a guest requires at least a four night stay or longer to appreciate all that Orkney has to offer.

Top guest favourite
Cottage
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 135 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

All about Orkney Islands

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.

What are the 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.