Holiday rentals in Orkney Islands

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Top-rated holiday rentals in Orkney Islands

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Guest favourite
A rustic stone cottage is seen alongside a walled yard featuring a wooden picnic table. The patio area is expansive, with patches of greenery visible among the stones. Blue skies and scattered clouds create a bright atmosphere, enhancing the outdoor space.
Home
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 53 reviews

The Ruah - Clifftop Retreat

A cosy self catering cottage for two in a private cliff top location on Eday. Located on Eday, heart of Orkney's north isles, this renovated croft is on Green Farm with a private sandy beach and copious open space. The Ruah is available all year and is ideal for walking, bird watching, cloud spotting, star gazing, rock pooling, daydreaming - or maybe just relaxing. There’s a walled yard to the front of the cottage with a picnic bench and uninterrupted views of the sea and neighbouring islands.

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, 132 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 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, 139 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.

Top guest favourite
A sunset casts a warm glow over the waterfront, reflected in the large windows of the cottage. The orange and blue hues create a serene atmosphere, with the land gently curving towards the water's edge in the foreground.
Cottage
5 out of 5 average rating, 65 reviews

MIDHOUSE, BIRSAY, ORKNEY

The house in a few words: - Three bedrooms, each with super king sizes beds (the zip and link beds provide options for 6 single beds). Down stairs bedroom has en-suite with shower. - Fully equipped kitchen/ dining room which seats 6 guests - Bathroom with shower and bath. 2 towels for each guest - Living room with an open fire - Ground floor and first floor sun lounges which overlooks the Loch of Boardhouse. - The cottage is equipped with TV’s in both lounges and Broadband Wi-Fife

Top guest favourite
A stone exterior of a converted byre is depicted, featuring a high-pitched slate roof and large windows. The entrance is framed by a small area of grass and colorful flowers. A paved path leads to the front door, set against a backdrop of open sky.
Cottage
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 93 reviews

The Byre, Upper Faulds, Burray

Self-catering accommodation in a converted byre, set in the grounds of our family home. About a 10 minute drive from St Margaret's Hope ferry terminal. A perfect location for viewing local wildlife or visiting archaeological sites such as the"Tomb of the Eagles", or wartime sites such as Hoxa Head and the Italian Chapel. A 20 minutes walk from 3 beaches and the Sands Hotel Bar and Restaurant. A 20 minute drive to Kirkwall, over the Churchill Barriers with their historic shipwrecks.

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, 253 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
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, 111 reviews

Modern purpose built eco friendly 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 next door!

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, 134 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
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.

Guest favourite
The exterior of the cottage features two pale blue doors framed by lush greenery and flowers. Raised wooden garden beds showcase various plants and flowers, creating an inviting entrance. The path is lined with stepping stones, leading to the charming cottage under a cloudy sky.
Cottage
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 92 reviews

The Auld Kitchen

Our beautifully restored self catering cottage is located on the island of Burray linked by road via the Churchill barriers to the mainland of Orkney and is attached to our family home. We have kept and restored some of the old beautiful features like the exposed stone walls and stone floor we have also installed a new multi fuel stove for cosy nights around the fire

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.