House in the heart of Kirkwall OR00575F

As the name says, this is a house right in the heart of Kirkwall – a townhouse arranged over more than one floor, just steps from the shops and the cathedral. It's a great choice if you want to leave the car parked and have everything Orkney's main town offers on your doorstep.

Inside

The living room is light and characterful, with a red sofa and matching armchair, shelves of books, a kilim-style rug and warm wood floors, set around a recessed window that draws in the daylight. The kitchen is well equipped with black worktops, an electric cooker and a washing machine, plus a window over the sink – everything you need to cook in and stay self-sufficient. WiFi runs throughout, and the house welcomes pets.

Where you'll sleep

There are two bedrooms sleeping four. One has a black metal-framed double with dotted bedding and a window seat; an upstairs room under the sloping ceiling has a further double plus a futon sofa, an open clothes rail and a full-length mirror. A staircase lit by a skylight links the floors, giving the place a bright, airy feel as you move between them.

The setting

You're as central as it gets in Orkney, with St Magnus Cathedral, the museum, restaurants, pubs and the harbour all within a short walk. It's an ideal base for exploring the islands by day and strolling back into town each evening.

Perfect for

A family or group of four – and their dog – who want a central, pet-friendly town house with the freedom of their own kitchen and laundry.