The Royal Hotel

Right on Victoria Street in the heart of Stromness, the Royal Hotel sits behind a handsome sandstone frontage with its name picked out in gold above the door. You step in off the flagstone street into a hallway of dark wood panelling, a turned staircase and tartan carpet underfoot — the kind of solid old town hotel that has been welcoming travellers off the boats for generations.

Rooms & comfort

The bedrooms are bright and properly comfortable, done in soft greys with crisp white linen and a framed print of the Stromness waterfront above the bed. Expect a generous double, a wardrobe and a writing desk with a mirror, plus a tucked-in chair to sit and plan the day. The en-suite bathrooms are modern and well kept, with a corner shower, a clean white suite and tiled walls. Tea and coffee are on hand, and the rooms are warm even when the wind is up outside.

The location

You could not be more central. The hotel opens straight onto the main street of Stromness, so the ferry terminal, the Pier Arts Centre, the little shops and the harbour are all a short stroll away. It is an easy base for walking the winding stone lanes down to the water or catching the boat across to Hoy.

Good to know

Breakfast is included, there is free Wi-Fi throughout, and a TV in the room. Downstairs you will find a proper wood-panelled bar — a warm spot for a dram and a chat with locals after a day out. The hotel is family-friendly too.

Perfect for

A great fit for two — couples or a pair of friends — who want to be in the thick of Stromness without the bother of self-catering. Ideal for ferry connections, exploring the West Mainland and anyone who likes a traditional hotel with character and a bar on site.