The Sands Hotel, Orkney

9.4
Exceptional
(319 reviews)

Burray, Orkney KW17 2SS, United Kingdom

+44 1856 731298

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Hotel Description

The Sands Hotel, Orkney is a charming waterfront hotel located in the picturesque village of Burray, Orkney, United Kingdom. Set in a converted 1860s fish store overlooking the scenic Burray Harbour, this hotel seamlessly combines historic character with modern amenities. Situated just 3.9 miles from the iconic Italian Chapel and 11.8 miles from the bustling town of Kirkwall, the hotel offers a tranquil retreat with easy access to local attractions. Guests will find themselves immersed in the island's rich heritage, surrounded by beautiful seascapes and an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. The hotel's design reflects its coastal location, with neutral tones and nautical accents creating a warm, comfortable ambiance. The Sands Hotel is perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway, offering exceptional service and an unbeatable view of the harbour. The hotel's rooms are a perfect blend of relaxation and style. Each room is individually decorated in neutral tones, providing a soothing environment for guests. Some rooms boast vaulted ceilings, creating a sense of space and openness. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, and hospitality trays, ensuring a comfortable stay. Many rooms also offer stunning sea views, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area from the comfort of their own room. For those looking for even more space, the two split-level suites come with kitchenettes, living areas, and fireplaces with exposed stone surrounds, offering a more luxurious and homely experience. Dining at The Sands Hotel is a true highlight, with the on-site restaurant serving a menu focused on fresh seafood and local produce. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available, each offering a selection of delicious dishes that showcase the best of Orkney's culinary offerings. The relaxed, modern restaurant is highly praised by guests, with many specifically mentioning the quality of the local food. The bar also offers a great selection of drinks, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The hotel is conveniently located for exploring the local area, with easy access to public transport. The nearest bus stop is just a 7-minute walk away, and the St Margarets Hope Ferry Terminal is only a 12-minute taxi ride. The hotel is also well connected to nearby airports, with Kirkwall Airport being just a 20-minute taxi ride away. For those arriving from further afield, Wick John O'Groats Airport is about a 2-hour taxi ride away. Health and safety are top priorities at The Sands Hotel, with enhanced measures in place to ensure the well-being of all guests. The property is smoke-free, and a variety of safety features, including fire safety equipment, are readily available to guarantee a safe and comfortable stay. The hotel is located near several notable attractions, including the historic Italian Chapel, the famous Scapa Flow, and the stunning St Magnus Cathedral. Guests can also visit the Churchill Barriers or explore the island of Burray, known for its Fossil & Heritage Centre. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy activities like sailing, diving, and canoeing, all available in the surrounding area. For dining, The Sands Hotel is surrounded by excellent options. The Sands Bar & Restaurant is just a 1-minute walk away, offering a variety of delicious dishes. Other nearby restaurants include a range of eateries serving fresh local seafood and other traditional British fare, each contributing to the rich food culture of Orkney. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more of Orkney, The Sands Hotel offers a welcoming, comfortable base from which to enjoy all that this stunning area has to offer. Come and experience the perfect blend of relaxation, local cuisine, and scenic beauty at The Sands Hotel, Orkney.

The Most Outstanding Trait

1. 4 min drive to Burray, a charming Orkney island with a Fossil & Heritage Centre.

2. Guests praised the service for its warm hospitality and attentiveness.

3. Modern restaurant with a focus on fresh seafood and local food, highly rated by guests.

4. Complimentary breakfast served daily with many guests praising its quality.

5. Cozy bar offering a variety of drinks, a great spot for relaxation.

6. Rooms feature Wi-Fi, sea views, en-suite bathrooms, and modern amenities.

7. Two split-level suites with kitchenettes, living areas, and fireplaces with stone surrounds.

8. Prime location near major attractions, such as the Italian Chapel and Scapa Flow.

9. Convenient transport links, including proximity to Kirkwall Airport and ferry terminals.

10. A smoke-free property with enhanced health and safety measures for guest security.


6.6 Good

Location rating

Top sights

Italian Chapel
9 min
Scapa Flow
20 min
St Magnus Cathedral
19 min
Churchill Barriers
8 min
Burray
16 min

Nearest locations

The Sands Bar & Restaurant
1 min
See more Interesting locations

Good to know

Check-in14:00
Check-out11:00
Location rating6.6
Nearest airportKirkwall Airport
Travel time to airport20 min

Nightly price (Only for reference price for sample day)

Check-in: Fri, Dec 06
Check-out: Sat, Dec 07
    Official Hotel

    $171

    Vio.com

    $149

    Booking.com

    $158

    goseek.com

    $149

    Agoda

    $171

    LateRooms.com

    $171


Location

Burray, Orkney KW17 2SS, United Kingdom

Airports:

Wick John O'Groats Airport

Taxi: 2 hr 5 min

Transit: 8 hr 23 min

Kirkwall Airport

Taxi: 20 min

Transit: 46 min

Transit:

Shop

Walking: 7 min

Echna Loch Shelter

Walking: 16 min

St Margarets Hope Ferry Terminal

Taxi: 12 min

Walking: 1 hr 34 min


Nearby locations

6.6

Good Location

Set in a converted 1860s fish store on Burray Harbour, this waterfront hotel and restaurant is 3.9 miles from the Italian Chapel and 11.8 miles from Kirkwall.


Amenities and Facilities

Parking & transportation

Parking

Policies & payments

Smoke-free property

Food & drink

Restaurant

Bar

Breakfast

Wellness

No fitness center

No spa

Children

Kid-friendly

Internet

Wi-Fi

Pools

No pools

No hot tub


Reviews

100% reviews from partners and customers booking on Dinogo

9.4

10 reviews

Wonderful
8
Excellent
1
Good
1
Below Average
0
Not Good
0
J

JMH4

5/5
We spent 3 nights in this lovely hotel.||The bedroom was lovely - clean with a good bathroom with bath and shower.|Great view over looking the jetty and water. The bed and pillows were very comfortable. …

JC

Joanne C

5/5
We didn’t stay but stopped off for lunch on our way down the Islands via the causeway. On a very unscientific survey of 2 and based on many plates of fish and chips eaten while on our road trip, theirs was the best! …

Cover Image for Anthony Esang

Anthony Esang

5/5
This hotel has very lovely rooms, all with an amazing view. The dining room has a conservatory with a view! Nicely decorated rooms with a tartan touch, comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, superb power showers and hot water, with good WiFi signal in the room.Food in the restaurant was delicious with lots of variety on the menu and the specials. Staff were all lovely, Warm, friendly, helpful and the service was excellent. Breakfast is pre-ordered the night before so it’s served very promptly at the time of your choosing.If you are stopping anywhere on the Islands, book a room at this hotel, you wont be disappointed.

Cover Image for Z Beech

Z Beech

5/5
Great experience. Well appointed rooms and very helpful staff.We mentioned a problem with the bed and it was fixed that evening with an apology.Food was great - the main problem was choosing what to eat.Right on the beach, had a great walk along it and staff highlighted the local playground to us.Would happily return again.

rg

r g

5/5
We were very pleased with our stay at the Sands Hotel! We stayed in the Scapa room. It is extremely spacious as it has a living room/kitchen area and the beds are on the upper level. It's perfect for a family of four.  …

JC

Jane C

3/5
This is a good 3 star hotel. It’s spotlessly clean. The rooms are built into the room gables so I must have hit my head five times getting in and out of bed. |Food was good pub fare - I had the curry and it was delicious. …

JW

Judy W

5/5
The Sands was a great place to base my week of travels in Orkney Islands. My room was comfy, the meals were excellent, and the staff was so supportive with suggestions for what to do. There is a small beach within walking distance where shells was up with every tide.

NW

Natasha W

5/5
Local family visiting for a large family meal. Staff were very welcoming and accomadating from booking and then when we were at were table. Great banter from the staff also! Food was excellent- especially the pork dish! Highly recommend a visit to Sands Hotel.

Cover Image for Claire Grebbell

Claire Grebbell

5/5
We stayed here in their carpark in our Motorhome. We ate in the bar as we had our 2 dogs. Super friendly staff. Spotlessly clean. Food really lovely, great choice. Bar has real ale on tap too.

Service 5

Location5

Cover Image for Oscar Franklin

Oscar Franklin

4/5
We stayed here for 2 nights on a family holiday. It's a smashing hotel. Rooms are self-contained apartment-style with kitchen, 2 bedrooms, and living area, and would be great for an extended stay. Staff were friendly and kind. The restaurant was busy and booking is recommended. The food is ok, it's fairly middle-of-the-road unchallenging fare but is substantial and generous. The cullen skink is delicious!