The Belsair Travel Guide

Free Guide: A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.

A brief summary of The Belsair

A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.

The Belsair is a welcoming gastropub and guesthouse located in Kettletoft Village on Sanday, one of the Orkney Islands. Known for its cozy atmosphere, locally sourced seafood dishes, and comfortable accommodations, it offers visitors a genuine taste of island hospitality. With a public bar, restaurant, and rooms available, The Belsair is a favored spot for travelers seeking authentic Orkney experiences in a relaxed setting.

1–4 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
Indoor & outdoorSetting
3 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.6 Excellent · 25 Google reviews
Address
Sanday, Orkney
Phone

Getting there

Bus

Local bus services connect Kirkwall on Mainland Orkney to Sanday via ferry, with travel times including ferry crossing approximately 3 to 4 hours. Bus services on Sanday are limited and seasonal, so check schedules in advance. Tickets cost around £10-£15 GBP for the bus portion.

Ferry

The Orkney Ferries operate regular sailings from Kirkwall to Sanday, taking about 2 hours. Ferry tickets typically cost £15-£25 GBP one way. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during summer months.

Car and Ferry Combination

Drive to Kirkwall on Mainland Orkney and take the vehicle ferry to Sanday. The ferry crossing lasts about 2 hours. Car ferry tickets range from £30-£50 GBP depending on vehicle size. Parking in Kirkwall is available but can be limited during peak season.

Discover more about The Belsair

A Hub of Island Hospitality in Kettletoft Village

The Belsair sits at the heart of Kettletoft Village, near the old pier on Sanday, the northernmost of Orkney’s inhabited islands. This gastropub and guesthouse combines traditional charm with a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the close-knit island community. Its location offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by the rugged coastal beauty of Orkney, with easy access to the island’s natural and cultural attractions.

Culinary Delights Rooted in Local Waters

The Belsair is celebrated for its menu featuring fresh, locally sourced seafood, including the renowned Orkney fish. The gastropub’s kitchen crafts dishes that highlight the rich flavors of the surrounding seas, providing a genuine taste of the islands. The food is complemented by a selection of beverages served in the public bar, making it a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors seeking hearty meals and convivial company.

Comfortable Accommodation with a Personal Touch

Beyond dining, The Belsair offers comfortable guest rooms that provide a restful stay for travelers. The rooms are noted for their cleanliness and cozy ambiance, combining modern comforts with traditional island hospitality. Staying here allows guests to immerse themselves fully in the tranquil pace of island life, waking up to the sounds of the sea and the charm of Sanday’s village setting.

A Gathering Place for All Ages

The Belsair welcomes families and children when accompanied, fostering an inclusive environment. Its public bar and restaurant serve as a social hub where stories are shared and friendships forged. The establishment’s friendly staff and relaxed vibe make it a natural meeting point for those exploring the island or seeking a comfortable spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Connection to Sanday’s Natural and Cultural Riches

Visitors to The Belsair benefit from its proximity to Sanday’s stunning beaches, wildlife habitats, and historic sites. The island’s remote charm and natural beauty are echoed in the gastropub’s ambiance, offering a gateway to exploring Orkney’s unique landscapes and heritage. Whether enjoying a meal or a night’s stay, guests are enveloped in the spirit of this remote northern community.

A Welcoming Experience in Orkney’s Northern Reach

The Belsair embodies the essence of Sanday’s hospitality, blending good food, comfortable lodging, and a friendly atmosphere. It stands as a testament to the island’s enduring traditions and the warmth of its people, making it a memorable stop for anyone visiting Orkney’s northern isles.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Dec · before 3am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 22% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 22% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 33% of the busiest month
  4. Apr: 44% of the busiest month
  5. May: 67% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 89% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 78% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 56% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 33% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 22% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 1am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 2am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 3am: 11% of the busiest hour
  5. 4am: 11% of the busiest hour
  6. 5am: 22% of the busiest hour
  7. 6am: 33% of the busiest hour
  8. 7am: 44% of the busiest hour
  9. 8am: 56% of the busiest hour
  10. 9am: 67% of the busiest hour
  11. 10am: 78% of the busiest hour
  12. 11am: 89% of the busiest hour
  13. 12pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  14. 1pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  15. 2pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  16. 3pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  17. 4pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  18. 5pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  19. 6pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  20. 7pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  21. 8pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  22. 9pm: 56% of the busiest hour
  23. 10pm: 44% of the busiest hour
  24. 11pm: 33% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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