Show prices in

Choose a currency for your trip.

More currencies

More crypto

Find your next stay

The Ayre Hotel

Orkney · United Kingdom

Ayre RoadView location

8.6/10Excellent277 Reviews
Cleanliness9.2/109.2
Service9.0/109.0
Comfort8.8/108.8
Condition8.6/108.6
Amenities8.2/108.2
See all ratings
Check availability Pay with crypto or card

Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About The Ayre Hotel

Enjoy a comfortable stay at The Ayre Hotel in Kirkwall, just steps from the Orkney Wireless Museum and a short walk from St. Magnus Cathedral. This hotel offers 51 guestrooms equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee/tea makers, and private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers.

Start your day with a buffet breakfast (fee applies) at the on-site restaurant, or enjoy a meal from the convenience of room service. Unwind with a drink at the bar/lounge. Additional amenities include free self-parking, luggage storage, laundry facilities, and an elevator.

Explore nearby attractions such as the Orkney Museum and Bishop's Palace, both within easy walking distance. Kirkwall (KOI) is the nearest major airport.

Read more about this hotelShow less

With a stay at The Ayre Hotel in Kirkwall, you'll be just steps from Peedie Sea and Orkney Wireless Museum. This hotel is 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from St. Magnus Cathedral and 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from The Orkney Library & Archive.

Make yourself at home in one of the 51 guestrooms. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms with bathtubs or showers are provided. Conveniences include phones and coffee/tea makers, and housekeeping is provided daily. Featured amenities include luggage storage, laundry facilities, and an elevator.

Free self parking is available onsite.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Entertainment
Non-smoking
Accessible facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 2:00 PM
Check-in until midnight
Check-out until 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

Professional property host/manager Pets allowed Only dogs are allowed Service animals are allowed Service animals are exempt from fees/restrictions

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-in is available Contactless check-out is available Cashless transactions are available
Essential Travel
Essential workers only - NO

Important information

  • You need to know
    • Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms.
    • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.
    • Contactless check-in and contactless check-out are available.
  • Special Instructions
    The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM. This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
    • Cashless transactions are available
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Fee for buffet breakfast: approximately GBP 15 for adults and GBP 15 for children
    • Pet fee: GBP 25.00 per pet, per stay
    • Service animals are exempt from fees

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    English

Nearby attractions

Peedie Sea 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Orkney Wireless Museum 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
The Orkney Library & Archive 0.4 km / 0.2 mi
St. Magnus Cathedral 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Orkney Museum 0.5 km / 0.3 mi
Earl's Palace 0.7 km / 0.4 mi
Bishop's Palace 0.7 km / 0.5 mi
The Pickaquoy Centre 0.9 km / 0.6 mi
Highland Park Distillery 2.6 km / 1.6 mi
Scapa Beach 3.1 km / 2 mi
Scapa Distillery 3.4 km / 2.1 mi
Balfour Castle 7.7 km / 4.8 mi
Mine Howe 9.9 km / 6.1 mi
Orkney Brewery 10.2 km / 6.3 mi
Mill Sand 11.3 km / 7 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 51
  • Single rooms: 19
  • Double rooms: 14
  • hotel
  • Wheelchair-accessible
  • Car park
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wi-fi
  • Laundry service
  • Lift access
  • Luggage room
Show 8 more facilities & services
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Conference room: 1
  • TV lounge
  • Breakfast
  • À la carte lunch
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

RO

Room Only

Accommodation only. Meals are usually not included.

BB

Bed & Breakfast

BED AND BREAKFAST

Breakfast is included with your stay.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • APARTMENT ONE BEDROOMAPARTMENT • ONE BEDROOM • 1 Bedroom • 5 m²APT.B1
    APARTMENT ONE BEDROOMPhoto unavailable11 photos

    The Ayre Hotel

    APARTMENT ONE BEDROOM

    Room photos

    11 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    5 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    APARTMENT
    View / characteristic
    ONE BEDROOM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: APT.B1

    Room amenities

    • Internet access
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Soundproof room
    • Housekeeping
    • Direct dial telephone
    • TV

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE ECONOMYDOUBLE • ECONOMY • 1 Bedroom • 5 m²DBL.EY
    DOUBLE ECONOMYPhoto unavailable1 photo

    The Ayre Hotel

    DOUBLE ECONOMY

    Room photos

    1 photo

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Room size
    5 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    ECONOMY

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.EY

    Room amenities

    • Soundproof room
    • Direct dial telephone
    • TV
    • Internet access
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Housekeeping

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARD • 1 Bedroom • 5 m²DBL.ST-1
    DOUBLE STANDARDPhoto unavailable6 photos

    The Ayre Hotel

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    6 photos

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Room size
    5 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST-1

    Room amenities

    • Direct dial telephone
    • TV
    • Internet access
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Soundproof room
    • Housekeeping

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE SEA VIEWDOUBLE • SEA VIEW • 1 Bedroom • 5 m²DBL.VM-1
    DOUBLE SEA VIEWPhoto unavailable4 photos

    The Ayre Hotel

    DOUBLE SEA VIEW

    Room photos

    4 photos

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Room size
    5 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    SEA VIEW

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.VM-1

    Room amenities

    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Internet access
    • TV
    • Direct dial telephone
    • Housekeeping
    • Soundproof room

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE SEA VIEWDOUBLE • SEA VIEW • 1 Bedroom • 5 m²DBL.VM
    DOUBLE SEA VIEWPhoto unavailable10 photos

    The Ayre Hotel

    DOUBLE SEA VIEW

    Room photos

    10 photos

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Room size
    5 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    SEA VIEW

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.VM

    Room amenities

    • TV
    • Housekeeping
    • Soundproof room
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Internet access
    • Direct dial telephone

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • FAMILY ROOM TWO BEDSFAMILY ROOM • TWO BEDS • 1 Bedroom • 5 m²FAM.2B
    FAMILY ROOM TWO BEDSPhoto unavailable2 photos

    The Ayre Hotel

    FAMILY ROOM TWO BEDS

    Room photos

    2 photos

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Room size
    5 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 2
    Bed setup
    4 × Single bed 80-130 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    FAMILY ROOM
    View / characteristic
    TWO BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: FAM.2B

    Room amenities

    • Desk
    • Housekeeping
    • Soundproof room
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Internet access
    • TV
    • Direct dial telephone

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARD • 1 Bedroom • 5 m²DBL.ST
    DOUBLE STANDARDPhoto unavailable7 photos

    The Ayre Hotel

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    7 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    5 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST

    Room amenities

    • Housekeeping
    • Soundproof room
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Internet access
    • TV
    • Direct dial telephone

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about The Ayre Hotel

8.6
Excellent
277 Reviews
Cleanliness
9.2 /10
Service
9.0 /10
Comfort
8.8 /10
Condition
8.6 /10
Amenities
8.2 /10
100 reviews shown
10/10
Exceptional
22 Jul 2026
Michelle
I fell in love with Orkney and it was completely unexpected. I expected to like it just fine but I truly didn't want to leave. This hotel has comfortable rooms and a delicious restaurant that capped off our days of exploring.
10/10
Exceptional
20 Jul 2026
Alison
There was alot of noise from room above which is down to that guest not the hotel and only got one pack of biscuits on the tea tray for 2 people which was bit stingy but everything was great and staff were lovely. Also food was tasty.
Friends_and_family Family
6/10
Pleasant
16 Jul 2026
Stephen
This place advertises laundry facilities but it's a lie. There aren't any. When we raised it, we got told there was a laundromat in the Kirkwall shops.

They also charged my credit card again despite it being a pre-paid booking. They eventually fixed it after some days but only after I hassled regularly.

We tried to use the lounge bar on one occasion. It was open but nobody was serving - 'we're too busy in the restaurant'. The restaurant was half full at the time.

Apartment room was spacious. Had everything it needed to have. Location really good.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
30 Jun 2026
Scott
Hotel was clean and comfortable. Right next to the main road and across the street from the harbor, but the noise wasn't an issue. Not a great many choices of bars/restaurants in Kirkwall, so having a bar and restaurant in the hotel was helpful. Restaurant is very nice, though you can order in the bar as well. Wifi didn't reach the bar or our room above the bar, but the lounge had good reception. Very walkable to shops, the cathedral, and the palace/castle.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
29 Jun 2026
Sandra
Very clean hotel, modern rooms, good elevator, excellent breakfast buffet.
Wifi could be a bit spotty, but that was all over Orkney at times, so outwith their control to some degree.
Very convenient location, just a short walk to the cathedral and high street.
10/10
Exceptional
28 Jun 2026
Anne
The building looks a little tired on the outside so I was surprised to find it clean, bright and well decorated on the inside. The staff were all very friendly and helpful although they did seem a bit rushed off their feet at a couple of the busy times so perhaps not enough staff on duty. I dined there on the first night and the food was excellent and reasonably priced so I booked in again for my second night which was equally as good. I enjoyed my visit and I would recommend a stay here.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
25 Jun 2026
Robert
Very handy to everything. Nice room
Partner
4/10
Poor
19 Jun 2026
Kevin
bedroom was tiny for £175 per night and walls were marked and scratched. also NO BREAKFAST for that price!!
Self
6/10
Pleasant
18 Jun 2026
Denise
Rooms very hot and no obvious to cool them down - heated towel was on full blast for our stay!!
Extractor fan in bathroom didn’t work
Outside looks grubby but inside downstairs has been nicely refurbished
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
07 Jun 2026
Janine
Bar staff super friendly and helpful with tips on things to see and do, the other staff we dealt with were very friendly and helpful.

We had a budget room which was very spacious, king sized bed, tv and coffee making facilities. The bathroom was very clean and the towels were super soft.

The meals were a good size and very tasty.

Would happily stay here again.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
02 Jun 2026
James
Lovely old hotel great location in Orkney and good food
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 May 2026
Tammy
Friendly staff. Excellent service. Great food. Continently located.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
26 May 2026
Euan
Remember to book dinner. The first night of our stay we had to eat elsewhere because it was fully booked and had to wait quite sometime to get served in the bar due to staff shortages
Friends
6/10
Pleasant
20 May 2026
KATHRYN
The room was clean & comfortable, however it was noisy from car park outside window and from laundry next door.
Draft from window, had to keep blind and curtains closed, to keep warm.
Disappointed that even after discussing with 2 members of staff on 2 separate occasions, requirements for dog friendly room & eating, in advance of our visit, we were made to feel uncomfortable, when request not initially adhered to.
Breakfast was plentiful & tasty first day, second day choice was limited. (little left)
Pet
10/10
Exceptional
18 May 2026
Heather
Had an Apartment at the hotel. It was lovely and modern, immaculately clean and very spacious. Thoroughly enjoyed staying at the hotel.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
08 May 2026
Wendy
Friendly and very helpful staff. Lovely clean rooms. Excellent location for Kirkwall shops.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
28 Apr 2026
Jane
Love this hotel.. highly recommend
Self
6/10
Pleasant
27 Apr 2026
Kathryn
The toilet didn’t flush well and the room smelled of mildew. Otherwise clean and comfortable.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
27 Apr 2026
Roland
Very nice property, with a seemingly recently refurbished reception, lobby, and restaurant area. The staff at the front desk, as well as in the restaurant, were impeccable, courteous, friendly, and highly accommodating.

Payment was, however, a bit complicated, as you could not pay at the table and instead had to walk to the bar or reception. The POS terminal was also experiencing connectivity issues. Luckily, we had some cash on us.

The view of the harbour and the sea is truly beautiful. However, as we were on the first floor, there was some noise and cigarette smoke coming from the restaurant and from people smoking outside. Fortunately, it quietened down after the restaurant and bar closed at around 11:00 pm.

Two additional notes regarding the restaurant: it is advisable to reserve a table in advance, as we were unable to secure one as walk-in guests and only managed to get a table 90 minutes later.

Secondly, I had what was probably the best steak and ale pie of my life here.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
21 Apr 2026
Craig
Professional staff, pleasant and business-like. Straightforward check-in process. Note: keycard for power in the room. Hot water is scalding.
8/10
Excellent
18 Apr 2026
John
Staff at the Ayre are very friendly and very helpful. We ate in the restaurant twice and had breakfast each morning - the food was excellent. If we have critisism it would be a lack of hanging hooks in the bedrooms - somewhere to hang your wet coat (because there weren't many hangers in the wardrobe) and hooks in the bathroom to hang your wet towels.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
17 Apr 2026
Tim
Was a great place to stay good breakfast helpful staff
Self
10/10
Exceptional
10 Apr 2026
David
Great location and
Price
4/10
Poor
04 Apr 2026
Iban
Very thin walls, we could hear everything! Also, a bit of better customer service training would be a good idea….
Partner
8/10
Excellent
27 Mar 2026
Kenneth
Comfortable room
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
17 Mar 2026
Charles
Restaurant was excellent. Had dinner there 4 nights. Staff was helpful and courteous.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
07 Mar 2026
Keith
This was our second stay in a matter of weeks and both were excellent. Friendly, welcoming, professional and efficient staff, a very nice room, and excellent food. I hope we will be back.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
22 Feb 2026
stewart
Staff were excellent - on booking in we were moved to the apartments as there was a coach party in. Very friendly
6/10
Pleasant
08 Jan 2026
Bree
The staff at the Ayre were wonderful: warm, friendly, helpful, attentive. The room was ok, nothing special. Menu in the restaurant/pub was ok, nothing special. We were there over the New Year, stayed for 7 days... Again, the staff were wonderful!
Leisure Partner
6/10
Pleasant
22 Dec 2025
Pauline
Couldn’t get light in bathroom to work ended up having to use the light over the mirror. One of the milk sachets was all lumpy when we put it into a cup of tea in the room. Other than that everything was fine and staff very pleasant .
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 Nov 2025
Duncan
Lovely saff, grear food, comfy room.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
15 Nov 2025
Steven
Staff were very good, happy to help!
10/10
Exceptional
31 Oct 2025
Mike
We stayed for 3 nights as a family of four in one of the apartments. The room was very well presented and had a small kitchen. The food served by the restaurant was delicious. There was an excellent selection of spirits and local beers. The staff very helpful and friendly. Will stay again.
8/10
Excellent
20 Oct 2025
Nicolas
Room clean and comfortable. Some minor maintenance issues (hole in bathroom door) and difficult to squeeze into shower past extremely hot towel rack but otherwise good. Location very convenient and plenty of parking.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
20 Oct 2025
John
Ideal for us with a dog and for one overnight.
Staff went out of their way to enable us to get early checking as we were attending a wedding.
We did not have breakfast as we were leaving very early to catch the ferry.
Leisure Pet
10/10
Exceptional
16 Oct 2025
Jeff
Great location, a brief walk to town. We had a one bedroom suite with a kitchen. It was very clean and quiet. Would definitely stay here again. Orkney was great, every one was friendly and helpful.
8/10
Excellent
10 Oct 2025
linda
Great service for late check in from the ferry. Really helpful staff. Good room and amenities. Handy to everything
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 Oct 2025
Lisa
really friendly staff at the hotel, had excellent service and would be very happy to stay here again. Breakfast buffet was good and dinner in the restaurant was very enjoyable
Self
2/10
Poor
06 Oct 2025
Cindy
Dirty all around and not enough staff
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
30 Sep 2025
Sarah
Liked the staff and the quietness
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
29 Sep 2025
Roger
Lovely staff. We commented on the lack of scallops on the menu as we had enjoyed them on our previous visit so they put them on for us.

Lovely sea/ harbour views from our room.
8/10
Excellent
26 Sep 2025
Alexander
Staff friendly and efficient.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
17 Sep 2025
Leilani
The was a very comfortable and cozy hotel. I had a great time here. I found it impeccably clean, and the cleaning staff was very friendly and helpful. It's walking distance from the downtown shopping area, but still pretty quiet. There is a lovely lounge and bar area that is very comfortable and welcoming. The shower worked very well too. I would love to stay here again!
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
14 Sep 2025
Michelle
Dinner was good but not special. Otherwise our stay was lovely.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
13 Sep 2025
Diana
Handy for town centre
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
08 Sep 2025
Clifford
Our stay only spoiled by our dinner on the final night. While our chips were lovely and hot, the pie was stone cold. And the 250 ml glass of wine came as a 175 ml glass. Only little things but enough to take the shine off our stayh
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
04 Sep 2025
MIKHAIL

Enjoyable stay, let down by small details

A good hotel overall. We enjoyed our apartment and had two dinners there. However, my spouse disliked their so-called eco-friendly toilet flushing system. They also keep losing restaurant reservations and seem indifferent to online bookings. The location is excellent, especially for those arriving by ferry from Aberdeen.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Aug 2025
Pauline
Outside looks a little tired from front but inside very nice. Lovely welcome. Staff made sure I was ok as I have mobility issues. Lift easy to use and spacious. definitely recommend the jug
4/10
Poor
31 Jul 2025
Brent
Problems from the start to finish. Arrived an hour before listed checkin time realizing that we may need to wait. No one at registration. Asked wait staff in hotel restaurant about checkin. She said rooms were not ready. We asked about checking our luggage to which she responded that we could just leave the luggage in the lobby. We decided to have lunch in the hotel restaurants we could be there at the start of checkin . We were given a room shortly thereafter. When entered the room, it was clear that a mistake had been made because it was a handicap room. Drain in center of bathroom for shower, handrails everywhere, and sink at wheel chair height. Returned to registration to inform them if the error. The person at registration claimed that it was not a handicap room and they were full so no other room was available. Since we checked in within minutes of the checkin time it was hard to believe this was true. The room we were assigned was on the first floor with a sidewalk running alongside and entrance to the building next to our room. We heard people coming and going and doors slamming all night. The next morning, I got down on my knees so I could use the mirror to shave (only 6 ft tall). When my wife went to use the hair dryer it did not work. Figures. I cannot recommend this hotel given our experience.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
31 Jul 2025
Catherine

Great place to stay

A great place to stay. Convenient for harbour and town centre. Delicious food. Friendly and helpful staff.
Partner
8/10
Excellent
27 Jul 2025
Heather
It was nice and central.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
23 Jul 2025
Daniel

Lovely stay on the Harbourfront

Very central hotel overlooking the harbour a close walk to the main street and all the sights in town. The restaurant & bar area were great and rooms were quite comfortable. Staff were very friendly :) The only downside was the unusually hot summer weather made the rooms quite hot and stuffy.
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
15 Jul 2025
Robert

Great location

This hotel is convenient for seeing the sights of Kirkwall. Rooms are charming and comfortable. Breakfast has a good variety of choices.
Self
10/10
Exceptional
08 Jul 2025
Keith
Perfectly agreeable for our one-night stop-over.
10/10
Exceptional
07 Jul 2025
Jeremy
We stayed in the apartments which were simply perfect. Ample parking; excellent location which means you can walk to everywhere in Kirkwall and drive anywhere on main island. The apartments had a huge amount of space and a nearby Lidl and Tesco meant that it was easy to self cater with the facilities provided. A lovely bath and comfortable bed.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
18 Jun 2025
Tom
The Ayre is conveniently located and we we very pleased with the accommodations. The staff was friendly and helpful. It is a great place to stay when arriving on the late night ferry.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
14 Jun 2025
Sarankumar
Really pleasant atmosphere and people at hotel. Really the best stay experience that I ever had. Really good team of professionals catering up to your needs. Would definitely recommend them to friends and family for a stay when in Orkney.
Self
8/10
Excellent
13 Jun 2025
Michael
Convenient for the late night ferry arrival. Budget double room clean and comfortable but over-priced. Dinner in the restaurant was excellent.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
10 Jun 2025
Caj
Excellent apartment accommodation
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jun 2025
Deborah
Only stayed one night, but it was dreamy!
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
02 Jun 2025
Mark
Great location, walkable to the town centre and restaurants. Mattress was like sleeping on a box spring. Pillows were terrible. Good breakfast. Nice bar/lounge area.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
31 May 2025
Alison

Expensive but good location

Room was nice with clean bedding and overall hotel was very nice . Doors were noisy as no soft closers . Dining at dinner was very slow and inconsistent and took an hour for us to get our dinner served and it was lukewarm on service . Maybe kitchen is understaffed as dining staff seemed to be plentiful but not particularly organised. We had to ask twice for one of the party’s ice cream dessert and the rest of our group were finished theirs before it arrived. When we arrived receptionist seemed initially to not find our booking! No view for the extortionate price . Maybe we would have got a better view if we had been staying longer
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
31 May 2025
David
The property was very accommodating to our visit to Orkney.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 May 2025
Karen
Location on the harbor was great, although a little noisy at night with traffic.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
24 May 2025
Donald

Well placed to enjoy Kirkwall!

The Ayr Hotel is well placed in Kirkwall, close to the main ferry terminal, the bus station, and the main shopping street. We stayed in a detached block across the street with 12 apartments. Ours had a comfortable bedroom, good bathroom and a large sitting room with comfortable sofas. The kitchenette had a fridge, a hob and a microwave. .
The restaurant was in the main building. Food was always quickly served and delicious.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
22 May 2025
Richard
Very accommodating!
10/10
Exceptional
19 May 2025
Joan
We chose this hotel because it was convenient for us when arriving from Shetland on the Northlink ferry that arrives at 11:30 pm. The shuttle service from the ferry terminal stops right in front of the hotel. The room was spacious with a well-appointed bathroom and a full breakfast was available in the morning.
Leisure Family
6/10
Pleasant
09 May 2025
Janice
Bathroom was cheap and dated. Elevator did not work during our entire stay and my other half has difficulty with stairs. Lovely lounge bar bit no one serving so we had to go to the sports bar which was noisy with TVs etc. staff were really nice and the restaurant seemed popular although we didn’t eat there.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
03 May 2025
Haidee
Only problem is that the toilet in our room was poor at flushing. That was a bit unfortunate.

The lounge area, the staff, the food was absolutely great. Such lovely people.
10/10
Exceptional
22 Apr 2025
Isabella

A perfect gateway to explore Orkneys

It was an amazing experience!
Room super clean, staff delightful and super kind, excellent food, innovatove cocktails...
Simply splendid
I would highly recommend it!
Self
8/10
Excellent
20 Apr 2025
Laura
Good:
Location
Quiet location
Bed
Bar man on Saturday night was friend
Aporeciated the bath

Bad:
Not enough milks
Was not offered to add on breakfast and i really wanted a breakfast as i was playing in a tournament. On the wall outside hotel it only mentioned lunch and dinner. Because the receptionist didnt mention it i assumed they just didnt do breakfasts. When checking out i could smell breakfast items so this was disappointing as id have preferred that to porridge in my room
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
15 Apr 2025
Verified traveler

Great experience

One-night stay before heading to northern isles. Great experience. Staff were friendly. Ample parking. Room was comfortable and clean. Breakfast was nice. Returned for dinner on way south.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 Apr 2025
John
Excellent, friendly staff. Comfortable, relaxing hotel with good restaurant and bar all at reasonable prices. Front of building facing the harbour could do with a coat of paint but that doesn’t take anything away from the comfortable interior. Would happily stay again.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
08 Apr 2025
Brian

Perfect stay

Great welcome, lovely clean room overlooking the harbour, beautiful food at dinner and breakfast and helpful and friendly staff
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
07 Apr 2025
Richard
Excellent Hotel well positioned in Kirkwall.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
24 Mar 2025
James

Short Visit!

The Hotel was in a perfect position for touring the Island and we enjoyed our short visit. It was clean and breakfast on both mornings was very good. We ate in the restaurant on 1 night and the food was very nice….especially the Seafood Salad!
We were disappointed in the bar service…..the member of staff refused to serve us in the lounge and insisted that we go to the public bar. Mt husband has mobility issues so this wasn’t ideal especially as she then told us we could take our drinks back into the lounge after ordering. Surely she could have taken our order and brought it to us instead of having to trail through the restaurant. Lessons in Customer Service required for this staff members however all other staff were very.pleasant as was our stay!
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
22 Feb 2025
Jennifer Anne

Well worth a stay

We had a wonderful stay at The Ayre Hotel, the staff were very friendly and helpful, the food was excellent with a comprehensive menu, something to suit all tastes. Breakfast was free and there was a really good choice of cereals, pastries and all the usual Bacon Eggs etc. The building was nice and room very comfortable. We were overlooking the harbour and it was nice to see all the ferries coming and going. I would highly recommend a stay here, we will be back :D
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
06 Feb 2025
Mary
The staff were very friendly, and the amenities were wonderful! Will definitely recommend to friends, and would definitely stay here again!
Leisure Friends
8/10
Excellent
06 Jan 2025
Iain

Great place to stay

Good location super clean helpful staff
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
04 Dec 2024
jonathan

Nice hotel

Excellent hotel on the waterfront. Excellent restaurant. really nice staff. The waterfront (sea view) rooms are a bit noisy due to the road however not all night.
Business
8/10
Excellent
11 Nov 2024
Ailsa

An excellent base for daily island 'hopping'

This was an excellent base for daily island 'hopping' which was the purpose of my trip. It was quite a bit more expensive than their hotel accomodation, but I needed the flexibility of being able to self cater early breakfasts and (sometimes) late dinners. The catering facilities were relatively basic - and I wouldn't have wanted to have planned to prepare full meals from scratch - but for my purposes (fried egg and beans on a bagel on repeat!), perfectly adequate. I would certainly have benefitted from having an oven glove, a tea towel and a drying rack for dishes however! The location and parking were both excellent, and the building itself very peaceful - although I think the bedroom would benefit from a blackout blind being fitted as I overlooked a floodlit 'industrial' area and my room was never in full darkness. Probably worth taking an eye mask in addition to ear plugs! I think it was a little on the pricy side for what it was - but overall I am pleased to have made the decision to opt to stay here.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
22 Oct 2024
Christopher
Beautiful lobby area and lounge. Paid 133 dollars for our room. Clean but very small, tiny is more accurate— no room for two travel cases to open. Staff usually hard to find both in the restaurant and hotel. One room key for two people was most inconvenient as key controlled the room lights. Walls are paper thin, but the food was excellent!! Young lad bussing the tables was awesome, as was Jason the bartender. Check out time is ridiculously early and zero amenities — no continental breakfast for the entire price. Yikes! I felt stressed and pressured, not relaxed. We also stayed at The Kirkwall Hotel the night before. Although much older, it was a better value for 80 pounds as it came with breakfast and a spacious room.
6/10
Pleasant
16 Oct 2024
Bob
Great location. Could walk to many attractions. Convenient parking. Bed was very uncomfortable. Bad mattresss. Could feel springs. Asked for comforter to put over it. Clerk said they'd bring one ..... never came.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 Oct 2024
Rory
Hotel was right on the waterfront and was only a short walk to High Street whee the shopping was. Food was good, as well.
Leisure Friends
6/10
Pleasant
05 Oct 2024
Tori
Great stay - fantastoc location in the middle of the \"hub\". A few stairs to get to rooms - the bed was not soft but worth the not ideal sleep for a great location
2/10
Poor
14 Sep 2024
Kim

Terrible stay

Hotel was clean and in a good location with decent parking. That’s where the good points ended. Plumbing was a health hazard - only scalding hot water coming out of every tap (including the bath) & the shower. No cold water at all. Water was also pretty instantly scalding. Went down to reception, which wasn’t manned (at 6pm) & given 2 bottles of water from the barman. Room itself was overly hot, radiator showed as off but heat was definitely coming from somewhere. Bed was uncomfortable & squeaked loudly. Next door’/ shower clearly worked as it howled through the pipes to our room. Cleaner tried to enter room before 8am twice, and when met with my husband opening the door, there was no apology just a rude ‘oh someone’s in there’. Wouldn’t recommend a stay & most certainly will not be returning given the price paid.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 Sep 2024
Ed
Lovely hotel in a wonderful city
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
01 Sep 2024
Gary
It’s position on the harbour front.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
31 Aug 2024
April
The property was very nice with wonderful helpful staff. The room had a lovely view. They really need to consider window screens to keep the bugs out though. The restaurant and bar there were very nice too.
Business_and_leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
26 Aug 2024
Benjamin
The rooms were clean and provided the traveler with quiet and lovely accommodations.
The best feature of this hotel is Isla who appeared to be on duty around the clock. She handled everything with professional charm and a sense of humor. The other members of the staff were also polite, professional and punctual. The breakfast and meals were delicious. Highly recommended!
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
25 Aug 2024
Alex
Airy, clean, and comfortable - an absolute delight. I loved staying here.
Friends_and_family Friends
10/10
Exceptional
15 Aug 2024
suzanne

Comfy base for exploring the island

Clean, comfortable room. Bed comfy. Bathroom good, including shelf space for a wash bag and a shelf inside the shower - extra marks for that detail, which many hotels miss. Refurbished just enough without feeling full of pointless random things. Staff friendly, breakfast reasonably good, restaurant nice. We were using this as a base for being out all day and it was a clean, comfortable and well-located place for that purpose. Bar packed a bit of atmosphere but there are other contenders nearby so that wasn't a problem for us.
Partner
2/10
Poor
13 Aug 2024
anthony
Upon arriving into our rooms. We noticed that one room was very spacious (as booked) and the 2nd room
Was a small box room that the beds hardly fitted into.

We are a family travelling around Orkney and when we requested a similar room to the one booked, the manager was rude and disparaging. He said no.

This unfortunately left a very sour taste about the hotel.

The rooms were very basic with uncomfortable beds. I would avoid if possible.

Leisure Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
11 Aug 2024
David
This was an excellent place to stay - very comfortable with good facilities, excellent restaurant and a hearty breakfast. Helpful staff and close by to the shopping area of Kirkwall - Highly recommended
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
14 Jul 2024
Robert
People were nice and property was clean.
8/10
Excellent
05 Jul 2024
Emily
.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jul 2024
Michael
Large room for Scotland, excellent restaurant
10/10
Exceptional
28 Jun 2024
Susan
Lovely stay is spacious accommodation. Very friendly staff and excellent restaurant.
10/10
Exceptional
24 Jun 2024
ruta
Great location, friendly staff, good food
10/10
Exceptional
08 Jun 2024
Robert
Comprehensive service, very pleasant staff-just a very enjoyable few days
Leisure Partner

Location & surroundings

The Ayre Hotel
Ayre Road, Kirkwall, United Kingdom

Hotels Nearby

Compare other stays close to this hotel. Choose travel dates to check availability.

Explore the map
Show 17 more nearby hotels

The Ayre Hotel

88 hotel photos