The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant: Coastal Charm in St Margaret's Hope
Historic Orkney hotel and seafood restaurant offering cozy stays and fresh local flavors in scenic St Margaret's Hope.
Nestled in the picturesque village of St Margaret's Hope on Orkney's South Ronaldsay, The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and warm hospitality, this three-star hotel features cozy rooms, a lively bar, and a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates Orcadian culture and cuisine.
A brief summary to The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
- Back Rd, Orkney, Saint Margaret's Hope, KW17 2SP, GB
- +441856831205
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Try the seafood platter to sample a variety of fresh local catches, including lobster, scallops, and monkfish.
- Book your room in advance during summer months to secure accommodation near the ferry terminal.
- Enjoy the sunny courtyard for a relaxed meal or drink, especially on warm days.
- Take advantage of the pet-friendly policy if traveling with dogs.
- Explore nearby Orkney landmarks like the Italian Chapel and Scapa Flow after dining.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
A Storied Coastal Retreat in Orkney
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant stands as a cherished landmark in St Margaret's Hope, South Ronaldsay, combining a rich history with contemporary hospitality. The building itself reflects traditional Orcadian architecture, harmoniously blending with the village's quaint coastal character. Its location offers guests a serene base to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Orkney Islands.Exceptional Seafood and Local Flavours
At the heart of the Murray Arms experience is its acclaimed seafood restaurant, celebrated for serving some of the freshest catches from surrounding waters. The menu showcases local delicacies such as lobster, scallops, monkfish, and crab pate, prepared with simple yet refined techniques that highlight the natural flavors. The restaurant’s convivial dining room and sunny courtyard provide inviting settings for enjoying these culinary delights alongside a selection of local ales and spirits.Comfortable Accommodation with a Personal Touch
The hotel offers a range of rooms designed for comfort and relaxation, featuring amenities like private bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities, and tasteful decor. While the rooms are described as cozy, they provide a welcoming retreat after a day exploring the islands. The staff’s friendly and attentive service enhances the stay, making guests feel at home in this family-run establishment.A Hub for Community and Visitors Alike
Beyond accommodation and dining, The Murray Arms serves as a social hub in St Margaret's Hope. The bar and grill attract locals and travelers alike, fostering a lively atmosphere with live music and events. The hotel’s pet-friendly policy and outdoor spaces, including a garden and barbecue area, make it a versatile venue for families and groups.Exploring Orkney from a Convenient Base
Situated just minutes from the ferry terminal, the hotel is an ideal starting point for discovering Orkney’s famed sites such as the Churchill Barriers, Italian Chapel, and Scapa Flow wrecks. The tranquil surroundings and scenic views provide a perfect complement to the island’s rich history and natural wonders.Commitment to Sustainability and Guest Experience
The Murray Arms embraces eco-friendly practices, including the use of sustainable cleaning products and locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a respect for Orkney’s environment. This commitment, combined with its blend of heritage, hospitality, and gastronomy, makes it a memorable destination for visitors seeking an authentic island experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Churchill Barriers
8.3 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
8.6 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
John O'Groats Signpost
21.2 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
The Cannon
24.4 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Above and Beyond Tours
32.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
35.0 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Quern of Whisber
38.1 km
Explore the Quern of Whisber: An ancient Orkney site showcasing traditional milling techniques amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Reiss Sands
39.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Reiss Sands, a pristine public beach near Wick, perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst Scotland's stunning coastline.
Harold’s Tower
39.4 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Birsay Earl's Palace
39.5 km
Explore the stunning Birsay Earl's Palace, a historical landmark in the Orkney Islands showcasing Scotland's architectural grandeur and rich history.
Longaglebe Geo
39.7 km
Discover the stunning cliffs and rich geological history of Longaglebe Geo, a hidden gem in Orkney's breathtaking coastline.
Ackergill Tower
39.9 km
Experience the historic charm and stunning beauty of Ackergill Tower, a magnificent castle in the heart of Caithness, Scotland, perfect for your next getaway.
Caithness.Org
40.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Caithness, Scotland's northern gem, where adventure awaits at every turn.
Brough of Birsay
40.6 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning landscapes of Brough of Birsay, a premier historical landmark and tourist attraction in Orkney.
Caithness Agricultural Society
40.7 km
Experience the rich agricultural heritage of Caithness at the Caithness Agricultural Society, a vibrant hub for farming enthusiasts and tourists.
Unmissable attractions to see
Burn of Sutherland
3.9 km
Discover the peaceful Burn of Sutherland, a pristine Highland stream nestled in Orkney’s wild and historic landscape.
Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre
4.6 km
Explore Orkney’s ancient fossils, wartime history, and island heritage at this engaging centre on Burray.
Olav's Wood
6.7 km
A magical mixed woodland sanctuary in Orkney, blending rare trees, wildlife, and tranquil streams in a unique northern landscape.
Causeway
7.1 km
Historic WWII causeway built by Italian POWs, linking Orkney islands with stunning coastal views and rich heritage.
Italian Chapel
8.2 km
A stunning WWII chapel on Lamb Holm, crafted by Italian POWs, symbolizing faith, artistry, and resilience amid adversity.
Roseness Walk
10.2 km
Experience Orkney’s rugged coastal beauty and tranquil wildlife on the easy, scenic Roseness Walk near Cornquoy.
Hackness Martello Tower and Battery
11.1 km
Explore Orkney’s historic Napoleonic coastal defences at Hackness Martello Tower and Battery, a rare and well-preserved military site overlooking Scapa Flow.
Scapa Flow Museum
13.7 km
Explore Orkney’s naval heritage at Scapa Flow Museum, where history and interactive exhibits bring two World Wars to life in the heart of Hoy.
Waulkmill Bay
14.3 km
Discover Waulkmill Bay, Orkney’s peaceful golden beach with stunning Scapa Flow views and a hidden coastal charm perfect for picnics and nature lovers.
Scapa Beach
15.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Sunken Fleet
15.5 km
A haunting cluster of wartime wrecks resting in the clear waters off Stromness, offering divers a powerful encounter with Orkney’s naval past.
Earls Bu & Church : Orphir
15.6 km
Explore the unique 12th-century Norse estate with Scotland’s only medieval round church, steeped in Viking saga and history.
Orkneyinga Saga Centre
15.6 km
Explore Orkney’s Viking saga through immersive exhibits and historic ruins in the tranquil village of Orphir.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
15.8 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
15.8 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Essential places to dine
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
0.0 km
Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.
The Sands Hotel, Orkney
3.3 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on Burray Island with stunning sea views, excellent dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney.
Skerries Bistro
10.2 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking Pentland Firth views at Skerries Bistro, South Ronaldsay’s coastal dining jewel.
The Foveran
14.7 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Emily’s
14.7 km
Charming and quirky café in Lyness offering homemade treats and warm hospitality near Stromness ferry terminal.
Sakura Kitchen
16.8 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Happy Haddock
17.1 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
The Orkney Hotel
17.2 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Lucano
17.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
17.2 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
17.5 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
17.5 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twenty One
17.5 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Pomona Cafe
17.6 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
Busters Diner
17.6 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Workshop & Loft Gallery
0.1 km
Discover authentic Orcadian knitwear, crafts, and art in the welcoming Workshop & Loft Gallery of St Margaret's Hope.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
8.5 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Wild Heather Crafts
14.6 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and handmade treasures at Wild Heather Crafts, a cozy artisan shop in Stromness.
Deerness Stores
16.7 km
Explore the charming Deerness Stores in Orkney for local goods and delightful snacks, embodying the spirit of island life.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
17.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
Orkney Tweed
17.2 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
17.3 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
17.3 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Judith Glue
17.3 km
Discover Kirkwall’s charming Aladdin’s Cave of local gifts, knitwear, and jewellery at Judith Glue, a beloved hub of Orcadian craftsmanship since 1976.
The Longship
17.4 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
17.4 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
17.4 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
17.5 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
17.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Poundstretcher
17.5 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
0.2 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The West End Guest House
17.0 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
17.2 km
Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.
Auld Motor Hoose
17.5 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
17.6 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
17.6 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Highland Park Bar
17.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.
Skippers
17.7 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
17.7 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Torvhaug
17.7 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
The Mey Hotel
26.2 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
31.9 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Village Inn
33.7 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Taversoe
34.1 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Grove Lounge
41.3 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
17.7 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
41.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
43.2 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly