Ferry Inn

The Ferry Inn is a Stromness institution, a white-rendered inn standing right by the waterfront in the heart of the old town. On a sunny day the picnic tables out front fill up, there's often a marquee for events, and the ship's-wheel sign tells you exactly where you are — a proper Orkney pub with rooms, steps from the pier where the boats come in.

Rooms & comfort

The bedroom we saw is smart and restful, with a large bed dressed in white and blue, a timber headboard, framed sailing prints on the walls, a bedside lamp and a leather armchair in the corner. The en-suite shower rooms are clean and modern — one set neatly under the eaves with a sloping ceiling, another with a tiled shower, basin and mirror. Sleeping two, with family options available, it's comfortable and well kept.

The location

You couldn't be more central in Stromness. The ferry terminal, the flagstoned main street, galleries, shops and the Pier Arts Centre are all on the doorstep, and the harbour life is right outside the window — handy whether you're catching the Scrabster ferry or just soaking up one of Orkney's most atmospheric towns.

Good to know

Downstairs the inn is known for its food and its remarkable whisky bar, with a wall of Highland Park and other malts behind the counter. There's Wi-Fi, breakfast, a washing machine and a TV in the room, and the buzz of a working pub below.

Perfect for

Couples and families who want to be in the thick of Stromness — close to the ferry, the bar and the harbour — with a comfortable en-suite room and good food a staircase away.