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3-star hotel Check-in 14:30 · Check-out 10:30

The Shore

The Shore offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and historic charm. With a rating of 4.2, enjoy friendly service, beautifully refurbished rooms, and proximity to top attractions like St Magnus Cathedral. Experience the best of Kirkwall every time you st

Shore St, Kirkwall KW15 1LG, United Kingdom View on map
8.4/10
Very Good Based on 179 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free breakfast Accessible Laundry service Restaurant
What recent guests emphasize

Comfortable stay with convenient location

Guests frequently mention the hotel's clean, modern rooms and friendly service, while appreciating its proximity to key local attractions and transport links.

Guests often praise

  • Friendly and professional staff providing attentive service
  • Cleanliness and modern decor throughout the hotel and rooms
  • Good quality breakfast with generous portions
  • Quiet rooms despite a lively bar area in the evening
  • Recent refurbishment has enhanced the overall ambiance

Worth knowing

  • No free parking or airport shuttle services available
  • The hotel is smoke-free but does not allow pets
  • No swimming pool or fitness center on-site
  • Bar and restaurant facilities are available but dinner options may be limited
  • Close to the busy Kirkwall Orkney Ferry Terminal, which may influence local noise levels

Best for

  • Visitors seeking convenient access to the ferry terminal and Kirkwall town center
  • Travelers interested in exploring nearby historical sites like St Magnus Cathedral
  • Guests who appreciate modern, freshly refurbished accommodations
  • Those looking for a relaxed hotel atmosphere with on-site dining and bar options
  • Guests valuing a quiet night's sleep after socializing in the bar
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About this property

Welcome to The Shore

The Shore is a remarkable hotel situated in the heart of Kirkwall, Scotland, boasting a commendable rating of 4.2. Nestled on Shore Street, this hotel has rapidly become a favored destination for both leisure and business travelers attracted to the rich history and culture of the Orkney Islands.

Recently renovated to a stunning high standard, The Shore offers a variety of beautifully decorated rooms, each equipped with modern amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. Guests have praised the exceptional cleanliness throughout the hotel, reinforcing its reputation as a well-maintained establishment.

Julian Appleby’s review encapsulates the welcoming atmosphere fostered by the friendly and professional staff. After enjoying a few drinks at the bustling bar, guests rest easy knowing their rooms provide a peaceful retreat from the social buzz. Even during peak hours, the sound didn’t permeate their private spaces, thanks to solid soundproofing.

The Shore is ideally located just a two-minute walk from the Kirkwall Orkney Ferry Terminal and mere steps from the medieval St Magnus Cathedral, making it a perfect base for exploring nearby attractions. The Ring of Brodgar and The Orkney Museum are must-see sites that reflect the rich heritage of the area.

While the hotel does not provide free parking or pet-friendly options, guests can still enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and breakfast, enhancing their experience. The convenient laundry service also caters to those visiting for extended periods.

In summary, The Shore is a hidden gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the charm of Kirkwall. With its modern updates and hospitable service, it promises a memorable stay. Whether you're discovering ancient sites or enjoying the lively local scene, The Shore stands out as both a comfortable and stylish choice.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Free breakfast
Accessible
Laundry service
Restaurant
Bar
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Free parking
Pool
Pet-friendly
Airport shuttle
Fitness center
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

JA
Julian Appleby Jul 17, 2025
10

Stayed for one night, researched hotels in the area and wasn't disappointed with this one. Staff were really friendly and professional. Hotel was very clean throughout including our room. We had a few drinks in the bar, we didn't eat in the restaurant. Later in the evening the bar did become busy but everyone was enjoying themselves, after retiring to our room we didn't hear any noise from the bar below. The breakfast was very good with good size portions. We would definitely stay again.

H
Harbourguides Jul 10, 2025
10

The hotel has been completely refurbished since my last visit and it has been done to a very high standard. They have a variety of rooms and all have modern facilities and beautiful decor. It is a complete transformation from a few years ago.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find The Shore

Kirkwall, United Kingdom

A 2-minute walk from the Kirkwall Orkney Ferry Terminal, this relaxed hotel is also 5 minutes' walk from medieval St Magnus Cathedral.

  • Kirkwall Orkney Ferry Terminal 4 min Walk
  • Kirkwall Shapinsay Ferry Terminal 13 min Walk
  • Travel Centre (Stand 2) 5 min Walk
  • Kirkwall Airport 7 min Car · 12 min Transit
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in United Kingdom. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

St Magnus Cathedral 2,101 reviews

St Magnus Cathedral

Broad St, Kirkwall KW15 1DH, United Kingdom

4.7 · Cathedral
Ring of Brodgar 2,389 reviews

Ring of Brodgar

B9055, Stromness KW16 3JZ, United Kingdom

4.7 · Historical Landmark
The Orkney Museum 205 reviews

The Orkney Museum

Broad St, Kirkwall KW15 1DH, United Kingdom

4.6 · Museum
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