Orcades Hostel

Orcades Hostel is a friendly, well-kept base on the edge of Kirkwall, an easy walk or short drive from the town centre. The building is a solid rendered house with a bench out front for sitting in the sun, and bikes propped by the door, which tells you the kind of guest it suits. It's straightforward, comfortable and good value.

Rooms & comfort

Rooms here are bright and practical, with sturdy pine bunks alongside double and twin options, so it works for solo travellers, couples and families alike. Several rooms have their own en-suite shower rooms, smartly tiled, and most come with a wall-mounted TV, comfy armchairs and a desk or worktop. There are skylight rooms tucked under the eaves, plus mini-fridges and storage. Altogether the hostel sleeps up to 12, and there's a shared kitchen so you can cater for yourselves.

The location

You're on the Muddisdale side of Kirkwall, with the town's shops, harbour and the magnificent St Magnus Cathedral all within reach. The ferry terminal for the northern isles is close, making this a sensible launch pad if you're island-hopping, and there's parking on site if you've brought a car.

Good to know

Free WiFi, a self-catering kitchen, family-friendly rooms and on-site parking. Bring your bike, there's clearly form for cycling out into the Orkney countryside from here.

Perfect for

Walkers, cyclists, families and budget-minded travellers who want a clean, comfortable Kirkwall base with the freedom to cook and come and go.