The Kirkwall Hotel

The hotel is steeped in history and has lots of character, modern and old which was great. The location is right in the heart of Kirkwall harbour. The food, hotel and rooms i thought were very good, my only gripe was some of the staff at the restaurant and bar. Some didn’t seem interested and lacked basic skills (E.G Asking if you would like a drink when seated, smiling and interacting politely, giving out menus, removing used plates, slow service etc). It was if they didn’t want to be there and everything was an effort, they spent a lot of time talking and not serving (not all but some). The manager was very friendly and accommodating and overall my experience was good.

The hotel is perfectly located next to the harbour and close to the town centre but the hotel itself has no parking. There are parking bays close by but these are available generally for all road users so you might be unlucky. Not so good for someone who is disabled. It is fitted and furnished in a classic period style. This was attractive but meant that there were some limiting features for those with a physical disability. It has a period lift so the two doors have to be opened and closed manually. If someone has exited the lift without closing the doors, the up/down control button will not work. Sometimes the lift was not flush with the floor which meant there was a step to negotiate. No problem for me but difficult for my disabled wife. Breakfasts were the most disappointing feature - no fresh fruit. Not even a banana. Premier Inns provide fruit and a better selection of food so I would say that breakfast at a PI is much superior to this hotel. Our room was spacious and very comfortable and had beautiful views of the harbour. The bathroom was huge too but there wasn’t much space available for setting toiletries etc on. Although the shower tray was large, it was slippy despite a small mat being provided. Again, no where to set toiletries on so for someone who is disabled this was an issue. Overall we thoroughly enjoyed our stay but for the price charged it was not value for money, given the disappointing breakfasts. The staff were friendly, helpful and attentive and I would recommend this hotel to other travellers.

This has become my new favourite place for lunches. The restaurant is light and airy and staff are really nice and efficient. Try the St Magnus Wrap for lunch, delicious. There is the restaurant and bar menu as well as light bites. Something for everyone.