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4-star hotel Check-in 14:00 · Check-out 10:30

The Sands Hotel, Orkney

The Sands Hotel in Burray, Orkney offers a 4.7-rated stay with free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, bar, and local seafood restaurant near the Italian Chapel.

Burray, Orkney KW17 2SS, United Kingdom View on map
9.4/10
Exceptional Based on 345 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free breakfast Free parking Kid-friendly Restaurant
What recent guests emphasize

Highlights from guest reviews at The Sands Hotel, Orkney

Set in a unique historic building, this waterfront hotel offers a well-regarded restaurant and a quiet island atmosphere. Guests appreciate the local seafood and relaxed setting, though some practical limitations are noted.

Guests often praise

  • The charming and unique location in a converted 1860s fish store right on the harbour.
  • Fresh local seafood served at The Sands Bar & Restaurant, repeatedly highlighted for quality and variety.
  • Friendly and welcoming staff creating a warm island atmosphere.
  • Complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi appreciated for convenience during the stay.

Worth knowing

  • No air conditioning inside rooms, which may affect comfort during warmer days.
  • The property is not accessible for guests requiring mobility aids.
  • No pool, fitness center, or airport shuttle services available at the hotel.
  • Some rooms feature kitchen facilities, offering additional flexibility for longer stays.

Best for

  • Visitors seeking a quiet, authentic island experience in Orkney.
  • Lovers of fresh seafood looking to dine in a scenic waterfront setting.
  • Families traveling with children, as the hotel is kid-friendly.
  • Travelers wanting free parking and breakfast included with their stay.
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About this property

Welcome to The Sands Hotel, Orkney

Located on Burray Harbour, The Sands Hotel, Orkney occupies a converted fish store dating back to the 1860s. This waterfront property combines a hotel, bar, and restaurant, offering guests a unique stay steeped in local history. Its mixed menu prominently features local seafood, served in the Sund Bar & Restaurant, which has earned favorable reviews for quality and atmosphere.

The hotel provides practical amenities such as free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and free parking, catering well to families with children and visitors seeking convenience in a smoke-free environment. While not air-conditioned or pet-friendly, some rooms include kitchen facilities, supporting longer stays or self-catering guests. Check-in is from 14:00, with check-out by 10:30.

Rated highly by 343 reviewers with an average score of 4.7, The Sands Hotel is appreciated for its authentic island character and straightforward comforts. Its location places it approximately 3.9 miles from the Italian Chapel and 11.8 miles from Kirkwall, making it a practical base for exploring Orkney’s cultural landmarks.

Nearby accommodation options include similarly rated establishments such as The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant and the VitaVer bed & breakfast. The Sands Hotel suits visitors looking for a relaxed, locally focused stay in a historic setting rather than those seeking extensive luxury or large-scale resort amenities.

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
Free parking
Kid-friendly
Restaurant
Kitchens in some rooms
Bar
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Accessible
Pool
Air-conditioned
Pet-friendly
Airport shuttle
Fitness center
Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find The Sands Hotel, Orkney

Burray, Orkney, UK

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.

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