The Sands Hotel, Burray, Orkney
Charming seaside hotel on Burray Island with cozy nautical bar, fresh local cuisine, and stunning Orkney sea views.
The Sands Hotel in Burray, Orkney, offers a charming coastal retreat with comfortable 4-star accommodation, a welcoming nautical-themed bar, and a highly praised restaurant serving fresh local cuisine. Overlooking serene sea views, this hotel blends modern comfort with a relaxed island atmosphere, making it a favored spot for travelers seeking tranquility and authentic Orkney hospitality.
A brief summary to The Sands Hotel, Orkney
- Orkney, Burray, KW17 2SS, GB
- +441856731298
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your table in advance for the Watersound Restaurant, especially during summer months, to secure a seat with bay views.
- Choose a room with sea views to fully enjoy the tranquil coastal scenery from your window.
- Take advantage of the hotel’s free parking and WiFi to stay connected and explore the island at your own pace.
- Try the Orkney fudge cheesecake dessert at the restaurant, a local favorite praised for its rich flavor.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Sands Hotel, Orkney 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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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Sands Hotel, Orkney
A Coastal Gem on Burray Island
Nestled on the peaceful island of Burray in the Orkney archipelago, The Sands Hotel enjoys a stunning seaside location with panoramic views over the surrounding waters. This setting provides guests with a serene escape from the bustle of city life, where the gentle sound of waves and fresh sea air create a soothing atmosphere. The hotel’s proximity to the ferry from Gills Bay makes it an ideal base for exploring Orkney’s rich heritage and natural beauty.Comfort and Character in Every Room
The Sands Hotel offers a variety of well-appointed rooms, including suites and traditional accommodations, each designed with comfort in mind. Rooms feature modern amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, hypoallergenic bedding, and heating, ensuring a cozy stay year-round. Many rooms boast glorious sea views, allowing guests to wake up to the tranquil beauty of the Orkney coastline. The tasteful nautical décor throughout the property reflects the island’s maritime heritage.A Warm Welcome and Friendly Atmosphere
Known for its exceptional hospitality, the hotel prides itself on friendly, attentive staff who create a relaxed and inviting environment. The nautical-themed bar is a cozy spot for locals and visitors alike to unwind, enjoy a drink, and share stories. The atmosphere is unpretentious yet lively, making it a social hub that complements the hotel’s overall charm.Culinary Delights with Local Flavors
The Sands Hotel’s Watersound Restaurant is celebrated for its fresh, hearty fare featuring local ingredients. The menu offers a range of options from a la carte dishes to bar snacks, catering to diverse tastes including vegetarian selections. Breakfast is freshly prepared each morning, providing a great start to the day. Dining in the conservatory or by the windows offers picturesque views of the bay, enhancing the culinary experience.Activities and Amenities for a Relaxing Stay
Beyond comfortable lodging and dining, the hotel provides amenities such as free WiFi, free parking, and facilities for families including children’s meals. Guests can enjoy leisure activities like darts and billiards, adding to the casual and fun-filled vibe. The Sands Hotel also supports special occasions with wedding services, making it a versatile venue for celebrations.Gateway to Orkney’s Heritage and Nature
Situated in a quiet part of Orkney, The Sands Hotel serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the islands’ archaeological sites, wildlife habitats, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of Orkney while returning each day to the comfort and tranquility of this seaside hotel.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Churchill Barriers
5.6 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
5.9 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
John O'Groats Signpost
23.9 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
The Cannon
25.5 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Above and Beyond Tours
35.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
RSPB Scotland Marwick Head Nature Reserve
37.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at RSPB Scotland Marwick Head Nature Reserve, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Marwick Head
37.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich wildlife of Marwick Head, a stunning peninsula in the Orkney Islands perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
38.2 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
38.5 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Birsay Earl's Palace
39.3 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
39.4 km
Discover the stunning cliffs and rich geological history of Longaglebe Geo, a hidden gem in Orkney's breathtaking coastline.
Brough of Birsay
40.4 km
Explore the captivating history and stunning landscapes of Brough of Birsay, a premier historical landmark and tourist attraction in Orkney.
Reiss Sands
41.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Reiss Sands, a pristine public beach near Wick, perfect for relaxation and exploration amidst Scotland's stunning coastline.
Ackergill Tower
42.5 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.
Harold’s Tower
42.7 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Viking Totem pole
0.8 km
A striking Viking-themed carved wooden pole on Burray’s beach, celebrating Orkney’s Norse heritage through local artistry.
Orkney Fossil & Heritage Centre
1.6 km
Explore Orkney’s ancient fossils, wartime history, and island heritage at this engaging centre on Burray.
Causeway
4.3 km
Historic WWII causeway built by Italian POWs, linking Orkney islands with stunning coastal views and rich heritage.
Italian Chapel
5.3 km
A stunning WWII chapel on Lamb Holm, crafted by Italian POWs, symbolizing faith, artistry, and resilience amid adversity.
Roseness Walk
7.0 km
Experience Orkney’s rugged coastal beauty and tranquil wildlife on the easy, scenic Roseness Walk near Cornquoy.
Olav's Wood
8.9 km
A magical mixed woodland sanctuary in Orkney, blending rare trees, wildlife, and tranquil streams in a unique northern landscape.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
13.0 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Scapa Beach
13.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
14.0 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Hackness Martello Tower and Battery
14.1 km
Explore Orkney’s historic Napoleonic coastal defences at Hackness Martello Tower and Battery, a rare and well-preserved military site overlooking Scapa Flow.
Waulkmill Bay
14.1 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.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
15.5 km
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
The Tankerness House
15.5 km
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
St Magnus Cathedral
15.5 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
The Orkney Museum
15.5 km
Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.
Essential places to dine
The Sands Hotel, Orkney
0.0 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on Burray Island with stunning sea views, excellent dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney.
The Murray Arms Hotel & Seafood Restaurant
3.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh seafood in Orkney’s welcoming Murray Arms Hotel, a cozy coastal retreat in St Margaret's Hope.
Skerries Bistro
12.2 km
Experience fresh, locally sourced seafood with breathtaking Pentland Firth views at Skerries Bistro, South Ronaldsay’s coastal dining jewel.
The Foveran
13.5 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Sakura Kitchen
15.0 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Happy Haddock
15.4 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
The Orkney Hotel
15.4 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Lucano
15.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
15.5 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
15.7 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
15.8 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twenty One
15.8 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Pomona Cafe
15.8 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
Busters Diner
15.8 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Bothy Bar
15.8 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Workshop & Loft Gallery
3.2 km
Discover authentic Orcadian knitwear, crafts, and art in the welcoming Workshop & Loft Gallery of St Margaret's Hope.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
5.9 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Deerness Stores
13.5 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
15.3 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
Orkney Tweed
15.5 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
15.5 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Judith Glue
15.6 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
15.6 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
15.7 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
15.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Starlings
15.7 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
15.7 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
15.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Poundstretcher
15.7 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
The Orcadian Bookshop
15.8 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
3.1 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
15.2 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
15.4 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
15.8 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
15.8 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
15.9 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Skippers
15.9 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
15.9 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Highland Park Bar
15.9 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.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
15.9 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
The Mey Hotel
29.3 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
The Taversoe
32.6 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
35.1 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
36.4 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
The Grove Lounge
44.5 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
15.9 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
44.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
45.7 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
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Nautical Themes
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly