Kirkwall Vacations

Things to do in Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Scotland, is perfect for culture enthusiasts and romantic getaways, offering a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy art tours, scenic boat trips, and leisurely breaks while exploring the charming town. With its rich history and stunning landscapes, Kirkwall promises an unforgettable experience filled with unique sights and engaging activities.

Shopping

In Kirkwall, explore the charming local shops along the High Street for unique gifts and Orkney crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby St. Magnus Shopping Centre for a wider selection of stores and amenities to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

The Orkney Wellness Centre offers a peaceful atmosphere with yoga classes, meditation sessions, and holistic therapies. Enjoy rejuvenating treatments and workshops designed to enhance well-being. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Scapa Beach provides a stunning setting for beach walks, relaxation, and invigorating sea air.

Adventure

Explore the Orkney Islands by taking a guided kayak tour, paddling through beautiful waters while spotting wildlife. For a thrilling experience, try rock climbing at the nearby cliffs, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the rugged landscape of Orkney.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Kirkwall is vibrant and cozy. Start your evening at The St. Ola Hotel for a refreshing drink, then enjoy live music at The Reel. For a more relaxed vibe, visit The Orkney Distilling Company for unique spirits and a warm atmosphere.

Find the best attractions in and around Kirkwall

Kirkwall, Scotland, is perfect for culture enthusiasts and couples seeking romance, as well as outdoor adventurers. Visitors can explore fascinating ruins and historic sites, immersing themselves in the area's rich archaeological heritage. Whether you're looking for a cultural experience, a scenic beach stroll, or a romantic getaway, Kirkwall offers a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests, making it an ideal destination for any traveler.

• Balfour Castle: Nestled 6.4km from Kirkwall, Balfour Castle offers a romantic atmosphere with its stunning architecture and lush gardens. The castle embodies rich cultural history, making it a perfect spot for exploring the past while enjoying beautiful landscapes.
• St. Magnus Cathedral: Located in the heart of Kirkwall, St. Magnus Cathedral is a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Its vibrant stained glass and intricate stonework provide a deep cultural experience, showcasing the island's heritage and spirituality.
• Orkney Museum: Also situated in Kirkwall, Orkney Museum invites visitors to delve into the region's fascinating history. Exhibits range from prehistoric artifacts to Viking treasures, offering a comprehensive look at Orkney's rich cultural tapestry.

Best time to go to Kirkwall

The best time to visit Kirkwall is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
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	Slightly High
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
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	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
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	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kirkwall

To save money on your trip to Kirkwall, consider visiting during the cheaper months of February or November to December, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Fridays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find affordable hotel deals, filter by eco-friendly options, or bundle your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Additionally, keep an eye out for last-minute deals to snag discounts on your accommodations.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kirkwall are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kirkwall is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kirkwall is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Kirkwall is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can organize your results by price, starting with the lowest rates to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Kirkwall with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.