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The Ayre Hotel

3.0 star property
Hotel in Kirkwall with a restaurant and a bar

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Ayre Hotel

Exterior
Bar (on property)
One Bedroom Apartment | Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access
Lobby
One Bedroom Apartment | Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

Reviews

8.6 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Bar

Explore the area

View in a map
Ayre Road, Kirkwall, Scotland, KW15 1QX
  • Place, Orkney Museum
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, St. Magnus Cathedral
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Earl's Palace
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Airport, Kirkwall (KOI)
    ‪7 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed

Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(14 reviews)
  • 19 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Panoramic Double or Twin Room, Sea View

Panoramic Double or Twin Room, Sea View | View from room

Panoramic Double or Twin Room, Sea View

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 10 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Standard Double or Twin Room

Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

Standard Double or Twin Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • 13 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Panoramic Double Room, 1 Double Bed, Sea View

Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

Panoramic Double Room, 1 Double Bed, Sea View

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(4 reviews)
  • 10 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Budget Double Room

Budget Double Room | Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

Budget Double Room

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(10 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for One Bedroom Apartment

One Bedroom Apartment | Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

One Bedroom Apartment

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Family Room

Family Room | Soundproofing, free WiFi, bed sheets, wheelchair access

Family Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Apartment, 2 Bedrooms

Apartment, 2 Bedrooms | Living area | TV

Apartment, 2 Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 2 Twin Beds

About the neighborhood

Kirkwall

The Ayre Hotel places you next to Orkney Wireless Museum and within a 10-minute walk of St. Magnus Cathedral. This 51-room, 3-star hotel has a restaurant along with conveniences like free in-room WiFi and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Orkney Wireless Museum - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Orkney Museum - 6 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • St. Magnus Cathedral - 6 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Earl's Palace - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Bishop's Palace - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles

Getting around

  • Kirkwall (KOI) - 6 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Skipper's - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Trenabies Cafe Bistro - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Helgi's - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Ayre Restaurant - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪The Storehouse - ‬5 min walk

About this property

The Ayre Hotel

Hotel in Kirkwall with a restaurant and a bar
Guests of The Ayre Hotel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, coffee in a common area, and laundry facilities. There's free parking if you drive. Front-desk staff can help with luggage storage, and provide local restaurant recommendations. This smoke-free hotel also has a TV in a common area.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and TVs. Coffee makers and phones are also standard.

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9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, 264 reviews
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The price is $160
Feb 5 - Feb 6
Total with taxes and fees
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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Daily buffet breakfast available 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM for a fee: GBP 15 for adults and GBP 15 for children
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Soundproofed rooms

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Elevator
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Private bathroom
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • TV

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Room service

More

  • Heating
  • Phone
  • Soundproofed rooms

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for GBP 25.00 per pet, per stay
  • Dogs only
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately GBP 15 for adults and GBP 15 for children
  • Pet fee: GBP 25.00 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.

National rating

This establishment has received its official star rating from VisitScotland, the National Tourist Board for Scotland.

Property is also known as

Ayre Hotel Kirkwall
Ayre Kirkwall
Ayre Hotel
The Ayre Hotel Hotel
The Ayre Hotel Kirkwall
The Ayre Hotel Hotel Kirkwall

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at The Ayre Hotel?

The Ayre Hotel offers free cancellation on select room rates. To learn more, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at The Ayre Hotel?

As of Jan 24, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Ayre Hotel on Jan 30, 2026 start from $89.49, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What can I see close to The Ayre Hotel?

Located steps from Orkney Wireless Museum, this hotel is in Kirkwall, and within a 10-minute walk of Orkney Museum and Earl's Palace. You'll also find Highland Park Distillery and Scapa Distillery within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at The Ayre Hotel?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hotel.

Does The Ayre Hotel feature a casino on the premises?

No, The Ayre Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The Ayre Hotel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is The Ayre Hotel a good place to stay for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this hotel include a bar and a restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at The Ayre Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does The Ayre Hotel have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, The Ayre Hotel serves buffet breakfast each morning for a surcharge from its restaurant.

Will The Ayre Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, dogs are welcome at The Ayre Hotel for a fee of GBP 25.00 per pet, per stay.

Are there connecting rooms at The Ayre Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from The Ayre Hotel?

The closest major airport to The Ayre Hotel is Kirkwall (KOI), which is 3.7 mi away (6 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at The Ayre Hotel?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at The Ayre Hotel.

The Ayre Hotel Reviews

Reviews

8.6

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 115 out of 226 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 74 out of 226 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 23 out of 226 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 9 out of 226 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 5 out of 226 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Allison

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Nicolas

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, room comfort
Room clean and comfortable. Some minor maintenance issues (hole in bathroom door) and difficult to squeeze into shower past extremely hot towel rack but otherwise good. Location very convenient and plenty of parking.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

John

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Ideal for us with a dog and for one overnight. Staff went out of their way to enable us to get early checking as we were attending a wedding. We did not have breakfast as we were leaving very early to catch the ferry.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeff

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location, a brief walk to town. We had a one bedroom suite with a kitchen. It was very clean and quiet. Would definitely stay here again. Orkney was great, every one was friendly and helpful.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

linda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great service for late check in from the ferry. Really helpful staff. Good room and amenities. Handy to everything
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
really friendly staff at the hotel, had excellent service and would be very happy to stay here again. Breakfast buffet was good and dinner in the restaurant was very enjoyable
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Cindy

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Dirty all around and not enough staff
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Sarah

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Liked the staff and the quietness
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Theresa

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Roger

Lovely staff. We commented on the lack of scallops on the menu as we had enjoyed them on our previous visit so they put them on for us. Lovely sea/ harbour views from our room.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Alexander

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff friendly and efficient.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Lindsay

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leilani

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The was a very comfortable and cozy hotel. I had a great time here. I found it impeccably clean, and the cleaning staff was very friendly and helpful. It's walking distance from the downtown shopping area, but still pretty quiet. There is a lovely lounge and bar area that is very comfortable and welcoming. The shower worked very well too. I would love to stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Michelle

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Dinner was good but not special. Otherwise our stay was lovely.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Diana

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Handy for town centre
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Adam

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Clifford

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our stay only spoiled by our dinner on the final night. While our chips were lovely and hot, the pie was stone cold. And the 250 ml glass of wine came as a 175 ml glass. Only little things but enough to take the shine off our stayh
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

MIKHAIL

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Enjoyable stay, let down by small details

A good hotel overall. We enjoyed our apartment and had two dinners there. However, my spouse disliked their so-called eco-friendly toilet flushing system. They also keep losing restaurant reservations and seem indifferent to online bookings. The location is excellent, especially for those arriving by ferry from Aberdeen.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Pauline

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Outside looks a little tired from front but inside very nice. Lovely welcome. Staff made sure I was ok as I have mobility issues. Lift easy to use and spacious. definitely recommend the jug
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

BAREND

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Brent

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Problems from the start to finish. Arrived an hour before listed checkin time realizing that we may need to wait. No one at registration. Asked wait staff in hotel restaurant about checkin. She said rooms were not ready. We asked about checking our luggage to which she responded that we could just leave the luggage in the lobby. We decided to have lunch in the hotel restaurants we could be there at the start of checkin . We were given a room shortly thereafter. When entered the room, it was clear that a mistake had been made because it was a handicap room. Drain in center of bathroom for shower, handrails everywhere, and sink at wheel chair height. Returned to registration to inform them if the error. The person at registration claimed that it was not a handicap room and they were full so no other room was available. Since we checked in within minutes of the checkin time it was hard to believe this was true. The room we were assigned was on the first floor with a sidewalk running alongside and entrance to the building next to our room. We heard people coming and going and doors slamming all night. The next morning, I got down on my knees so I could use the mirror to shave (only 6 ft tall). When my wife went to use the hair dryer it did not work. Figures. I cannot recommend this hotel given our experience.
Bathroom shower
Toilet and sink. You had to squeeze your legs under sink to sit on toilet and kneel on knees to shave face.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Catherine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great place to stay

A great place to stay. Convenient for harbour and town centre. Delicious food. Friendly and helpful staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Heather

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was nice and central.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Lovely stay on the Harbourfront

Very central hotel overlooking the harbour a close walk to the main street and all the sights in town. The restaurant & bar area were great and rooms were quite comfortable. Staff were very friendly :) The only downside was the unusually hot summer weather made the rooms quite hot and stuffy.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great location

This hotel is convenient for seeing the sights of Kirkwall. Rooms are charming and comfortable. Breakfast has a good variety of choices.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

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