Birsay Hotels

Top reasons to visit Birsay

• Stunning Coastal Scenery: Birsay features breathtaking cliffs and picturesque beaches, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
• Rich Historical Significance: Discover archaeological sites and landmarks, including the historic Brough of Birsay.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities like boating, fishing, bird watching, and diving courses.
• Eco-Friendly Experiences: Birsay is perfect for eco-conscious travellers with numerous nature-based pursuits.
• Welcoming Accommodation: A variety of charming lodgings, from bed and breakfasts to hotels, cater to all preferences.

Find great hotels near Birsay

Birsay offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels. Ideal for those travelling with pets, the area caters to various preferences, ensuring a memorable stay. Whether you're seeking a cosy hostel, a unique vacation rental, or the best hotels in Birsay, you'll find the perfect place to unwind and explore the stunning landscapes of Scotland's Orkney Islands.

• Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast: Nestled in the tranquil countryside, Lindisfarne Bed & Breakfast offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for those seeking relaxation. This charming 3-star B&B is situated 16.1km from Birsay and features a delightful breakfast included in your stay, ensuring you start your day off right. The property boasts a cosy bar and lounge area, where guests can unwind after a day of exploring. Entertainment is at your fingertips with digital TV and a flatscreen television in each room. With picturesque rural views nearby, Lindisfarne is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
• Ferry Inn Stromness: Located a mere 17.7km from Birsay, the Ferry Inn Stromness is a welcoming 3-star hotel that caters to a variety of tastes. With a restaurant offering light fare on select days, guests can enjoy delightful meals paired with a relaxing atmosphere. The bar and lounge provide the perfect setting for socialising. For entertainment, the hotel features billiards and both digital and LCD TVs. Guests can take in the vibrant city centre, scenic waterfront, and nearby historical district, making this hotel an exceptional choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in local culture.
• The Stromness Hotel: The Stromness Hotel is a pet-friendly haven located just 17.7km from Birsay, making it a perfect choice for travellers wishing to bring their furry companions along. This hotel allows pets, with policies in place to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests. The property features amenities to accommodate dogs and cats, so you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about leaving your pets behind. With its friendly atmosphere and convenient location, The Stromness Hotel is an excellent base for exploring the beautiful Orkney Islands.

Where to stay near Birsay

Birsay, Scotland, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences. Nestled in the Orkney Islands, this charming village boasts stunning cliffs and picturesque beaches, perfect for those seeking relaxation and breathtaking views. Explore the historical sites, enjoy the friendly atmosphere, and immerse yourself in the local culture. With its convenient location, Birsay serves as an ideal base for discovering the enchanting landscapes and vibrant heritage of the surrounding region.

• Quoyloo: Nestled a mere 6.4km from Birsay, Quoyloo is a quaint village that offers a delightful escape for those seeking a blend of culture and natural beauty. The village experiences a seasonal influx of tourists, particularly from July to September, when the landscape is at its most inviting. Visitors flock to Quoyloo for its scenic vistas and outdoor activities, with highlights including archaeological sites and a picturesque bay. The rich history of the area is palpable, making it a perfect spot for those interested in exploring Scotland's heritage.
• Dounby: Located 8.0km from Birsay, Dounby is a charming city with a moderately seasonal visitor pattern, peaking in April, June, and August. Known for its romantic atmosphere, Dounby is an excellent destination for couples looking to explore cultural landmarks. The city boasts an array of historic places, archaeological sites, and a majestic castle, providing a perfect backdrop for a day of exploration. With its warm community spirit and inviting local cafés, Dounby promises an enriching travel experience.
• Harray: Situated 12.9km from Birsay, Harray is a vibrant city that attracts seasonal visitors, particularly during the summer months of July to September. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Harray offers a variety of outdoor activities, including sailing and guided tours. The city is home to a fascinating history museum and several historic sites, making it an ideal location for those eager to delve into the local culture. Harray's welcoming environment and array of attractions ensure a memorable visit for all.

Things to do in Birsay

Birsay, a charming destination in Scotland, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and engaging tours. Eco-friendly pursuits like bird watching and diving courses are also popular. Don’t miss the chance to explore the stunning Orkney tours, making Birsay a perfect stop for your bucket list of memorable activities.

Shopping

Birsay offers charming local shops like the Birsay Shop, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Orkney Designer Makers and the Kirkwall Shopping Centre for a wider selection of artisan crafts and local produce.

Recreation

In Birsay, the Birsay Bay Tearoom offers a cosy atmosphere with locally-sourced refreshments, perfect for relaxation. Nearby, the Orkney Wellness Centre provides holistic therapies and yoga sessions, allowing you to rejuvenate your mind and body amidst the serene Orkney landscape.

Adventure

Birsay is perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Explore the stunning Birsay Heritage Trail, where breathtaking coastal views and rich history await. Marvel at the Orkney Sea Kayaking, offering thrilling paddling experiences amidst picturesque islands. Don’t miss the chance to spot seabirds at the Birsay Moors, a haven for wildlife lovers.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Birsay is charming and relaxed, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Enjoy a pint at The Birsay Bay Tearoom, or savour delicious local dishes at The Orkney Brewery, both offering a friendly atmosphere to mingle with locals and fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Birsay

To save money on your trip to Birsay, consider visiting during the cheaper months of February and November to December, avoiding the peak season from May to July. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or looking for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Fridays are the most costly. Use Expedia’s tools to compare room rates, filter by budget, and consider package deals that combine accommodation with flights and activities for further discounts.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Birsay 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 Birsay is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Birsay is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Birsay is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your Birsay hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Birsay

Birsay offers an ideal setting for eco-friendly and culture-themed holidays, with attractions such as the archaeological sites, symbolic landmarks, and the scenic bay. Visitors can explore the stunning Bay of Birsay and the historic Brough of Birsay, perfect for those seeking outdoor experiences and cultural immersion. Whether you're interested in history or simply soaking up the natural beauty, Birsay has something for everyone.

• Brough of Birsay: This enchanting island offers stunning beach views and a chance to explore its rich outdoor environment. The scenic walk to Brough of Birsay presents captivating coastal landscapes and a sense of tranquillity, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
• Skara Brae: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skara Brae is a remarkably preserved Neolithic village. Just a short distance from Birsay, it provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient Scottish culture, with its intriguing stone houses and artefacts.
• Bay of Skaill: Located close to Birsay, this beautiful bay features sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. Ideal for leisurely strolls, it offers breathtaking scenery and a perfect spot to relax while soaking in the natural beauty of the Orkney Islands.

Best time to go to Birsay

The best time to visit Birsay can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Birsay falls in August, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Birsay falls in February, visitor numbers are low 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	Low	Average
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	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	Average	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	Average	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Birsay

Flying into Birsay, Scotland, you can land at Kirkwall Airport (KOI), situated 30.6km away. This airport serves as a convenient gateway to the area. Nearby, you will find several welcoming hotels, such as the Albert Hotel, The Ayre Hotel, and The Shore, all rated 3 stars and located approximately 4.8km from Kirkwall Airport. These hotels offer comfortable accommodations and easy access to transportation services, ensuring a smooth journey from the airport to your stay in Birsay. Whether you prefer to travel by taxi or local bus, reaching your hotel from the airport is straightforward, making your visit enjoyable and hassle-free.