Highland Park Bar at The Kirkwall Hotel

A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
United Kingdom
Orkney
Highland Park Bar

Located within the Kirkwall Hotel in Orkney, Highland Park Bar offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere to enjoy an extensive selection of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks. This bar is a favored spot for whisky enthusiasts and visitors seeking a taste of Orkney’s rich heritage in a relaxed setting. It complements the hotel’s dining options and welcomes guests with a warm ambiance in the heart of Kirkwall.

A brief summary to Highland Park Bar

Hotel, Kirkwall, KW15 1LE, GB
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Try the signature Highland Park 12-year-old single malt to experience the classic Orkney heathered peat flavor.
Visit during the evening for a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for sampling local beers alongside whisky.
If you’re a whisky enthusiast, ask the staff about limited edition Highland Park bottlings occasionally available.
The bar is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pet along to enjoy the welcoming environment.

Highland Park Bar location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Highland Park Bar

A Historic Whisky Haven in Kirkwall

Highland Park Bar is nestled inside the Kirkwall Hotel, situated on Harbour Street in Kirkwall, Orkney. This bar draws its name and inspiration from the renowned Highland Park Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest whisky producers, located nearby. The bar offers a unique opportunity to sample a wide range of Highland Park whiskies, celebrated for their distinctive smoky-sweet flavor derived from Orkney’s heathered peat and maritime environment. The setting reflects a blend of tradition and comfort, making it a favored retreat for locals and visitors alike.

An Inviting Atmosphere and Local Flavors

The bar exudes a warm and welcoming vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Orkney’s cultural and natural treasures. It serves not only an extensive whisky selection but also local beers and other drinks, providing a genuine taste of Orkney’s nightlife. The ambiance is casual yet refined, suitable for solo visitors, couples, and groups who appreciate quality spirits and a relaxed social environment. Its location within the Kirkwall Hotel means guests can also enjoy light bites and meals nearby, enhancing the overall experience.

Connection to Highland Park Distillery

Highland Park Bar serves as a natural extension of the distillery’s heritage, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the brand’s celebrated whiskies without leaving the town center. The distillery itself, founded in 1798, is a major cultural landmark in Kirkwall, known for its sustainable practices and rich history. The bar reflects this legacy by showcasing the distillery’s core range, including 12-, 18-, and 25-year-old single malt expressions, alongside special editions. This connection enriches the visitor experience by linking local hospitality with Orkney’s whisky craftsmanship.

Welcoming All Visitors with Comfort and Style

The Highland Park Bar accommodates a diverse audience, including whisky aficionados, casual drinkers, and travelers seeking an authentic Orcadian atmosphere. It is pet-friendly, allowing dogs in the bar area, and offers a comfortable setting for all ages, though the focus is on adult enjoyment of fine spirits. The bar’s interior complements the Kirkwall Hotel’s historic charm, combining classic and modern elements to create an inviting social space. Whether sampling a dram or enjoying a quiet drink, guests find the Highland Park Bar a memorable part of their Orkney visit.

Integration with Kirkwall’s Hospitality Scene

As part of the Kirkwall Hotel, Highland Park Bar benefits from the hotel’s reputation for quality service and local cuisine. Nearby dining options, including the Harbour View Restaurant, offer fresh Orcadian produce and a variety of menus catering to different dietary needs. The bar’s central location in Kirkwall makes it accessible and convenient for travelers exploring the town’s historic sites and cultural attractions. It stands as a key social hub within the hotel, blending the warmth of traditional Scottish hospitality with the unique character of Orkney.

A Taste of Orkney’s Spirit and Community

Highland Park Bar is more than just a drinking venue; it embodies the spirit of Orkney through its dedication to local heritage and community ambiance. The bar’s extensive whisky selection invites guests to discover the nuances of Highland Park’s craftsmanship, while the friendly atmosphere encourages conversation and connection. It offers a quintessential Orcadian experience, where history, flavor, and hospitality come together in a relaxed and charming setting, making it a must-visit for those wanting to immerse themselves in Orkney’s cultural fabric.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Spirit of Orkney

0.1 km

Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of the Orkney Islands at the Spirit of Orkney, a captivating historical site in Kirkwall.

The Orkney Museum

0.4 km

Explore the captivating history and culture of Orkney at The Orkney Museum in Kirkwall, where ancient stories come to life through fascinating exhibits.

The Tankerness House

0.4 km

Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of The Tankerness House, a must-visit historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney Islands.

Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces

0.4 km

Explore the captivating history and stunning architecture of Bishop's and Earl's Palaces in Kirkwall, Orkney's remarkable historical landmarks.

Wideford Hill Cairn

4.2 km

Discover the ancient wonders of Wideford Hill Cairn in Orkney, a remarkable Neolithic site offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into history.

Rendall Doocot

9.9 km

Explore the historical charm of Rendall Doocot, a unique pigeon house in Orkney showcasing Scotland's agricultural heritage amidst scenic landscapes.

First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole

10.5 km

A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.

Churchill Barriers

10.8 km

Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.

Mainland

11.0 km

Explore Mainland, the largest island of Orkney, where history and breathtaking landscapes come together for an unforgettable experience.

Italian Chapel

11.3 km

Explore the Italian Chapel in Orkney, a historic gem blending art, faith, and the inspiring legacy of WWII Italian POWs.

Happy Valley

12.3 km

Experience the tranquility of Happy Valley in Stenness, Orkney, a beautiful park and garden perfect for nature lovers and relaxation.

Maeshowe

13.2 km

Explore the ancient marvel of Maeshowe, a Neolithic chambered cairn in Orkney, showcasing stunning stone carvings and rich historical significance.

Roseness Walk

13.3 km

Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene beauty of Roseness Walk in Orkney, a must-visit hiking area for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Orkneyinga Saga Centre

13.3 km

Discover the fascinating Viking history of the Orkney Islands at the Orkneyinga Saga Centre, where legends come to life through engaging exhibits.

Barnhouse Settlement

14.3 km

Explore Barnhouse Settlement, a captivating historical landmark in Stromness, Orkney, where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty.