Kirbister Mill Farm Cottage

Set back behind its own post-and-rail fence with open grass running down to the road, this farm cottage at Orphir keeps things simple and roomy. You arrive to wide views across the fields towards low hills, with a single bare tree by the gable and plenty of space for the dog to stretch its legs. It sleeps six across three bedrooms, so there is room for a family or two couples sharing.

Inside

The sitting room is built around a wood-burning stove set into a slate hearth, with a log basket beside it and a wall clock keeping watch. Two grey sofas and a solid pine coffee table make it an easy place to settle in after a day out, and the curtained window lets in good light. The kitchen-diner sits at the other end of the cottage, with light wood units, a generous run of worktop, a window over the sink and a four-seat table. There is a full-size fridge-freezer, a kettle and the day-to-day bits you need to cook properly.

Where you'll sleep

One bedroom has a double bed dressed in mustard and floral linen, with a wooden bedside table and lamp, and a window looking onto the garden. The cottage runs to three bedrooms in total to cover the six sleeps. There is a practical utility space too, with a washing machine and a Belfast-style sink under the window.

Step outside

The garden is a real feature here, with a low dry-stone wall along the road and uninterrupted views over farmland and the hills beyond. It is the kind of spot where you can watch the light change across the fields.

The setting

Orphir sits on the south side of the Mainland, a short drive from Kirkwall with its shops, harbour and ferry links. You are properly in the countryside here, handy for Scapa Flow and the west Mainland sites.

Perfect for

Families and groups of up to six who want space, a real fire and a pet-friendly base, with parking, wifi and a washer all on hand.