The West End Guest House, Kirkwall
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
The West End Guest House is a charming 10-bedroom guest house located in the heart of Kirkwall, Orkney. Just a short stroll from St Magnus Cathedral and the town's shops, bars, and restaurants, it offers simple, comfortable accommodation with private parking and self check-in. Ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, central base with easy access to Kirkwall’s cultural highlights.
A brief summary to The West End Guest House
- 14 Main St, Kirkwall, KW15 1BU, GB
- +441856881201
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book in advance during peak tourist seasons to secure your preferred room.
- Take advantage of the private car park behind the guest house for hassle-free parking.
- Use the self check-in system for flexible arrival times.
- Explore nearby St Magnus Cathedral and Kirkwall’s historic streets on foot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The West End Guest House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about The West End Guest House
A Central Haven in Kirkwall’s Historic Core
Nestled on Main Street, The West End Guest House provides a peaceful retreat right in the bustling center of Kirkwall. This guest house enjoys an enviable location just a three-minute walk from the iconic St Magnus Cathedral, one of Orkney’s most treasured landmarks. The proximity to the town’s main attractions, shops, and eateries makes it a perfect base for exploring the rich heritage and lively atmosphere of Orkney’s capital.Comfort with a Personal Touch
Offering ten well-appointed rooms, including single, double, and twin options, the guest house balances simplicity with comfort. Each room features modern amenities such as private bathrooms, televisions, and thoughtful touches like tea and coffee facilities. The establishment’s self check-in system provides guests with flexibility and privacy, enhancing the relaxed, welcoming vibe. Guests also benefit from a private car park located conveniently behind the building.Architecture and Ambience
The West End Guest House occupies a traditional building that complements Kirkwall’s historic streetscape. Its understated aesthetic blends rustic charm with modern practicality, creating a cozy environment that feels both authentic and inviting. The quiet location within the town center allows for a tranquil stay despite being close to Kirkwall’s lively social scene.Exploring Orkney from a Strategic Base
Kirkwall serves as the gateway to Orkney’s natural beauty and archaeological wonders. Staying at The West End Guest House places visitors within easy reach of the town’s ferry terminal and bus services, facilitating day trips to sites like Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar. After a day of exploration, guests can return to the comfort of their rooms or enjoy a stroll through the charming streets nearby.Practical Amenities and Guest Experience
The guest house emphasizes convenience with features such as free WiFi, private parking, and a no-fuss booking process. While it offers room-only accommodation, guests appreciate the cleanliness, attentive service, and the quiet atmosphere that makes it a favored choice among travelers seeking a restful stay in Kirkwall.Seasonal Appeal and Accessibility
Open year-round, The West End Guest House accommodates visitors regardless of season, welcoming those who come to experience Orkney’s summer festivals or winter tranquility. Its central location and straightforward access make it suitable for a broad range of travelers, including families, solo adventurers, and cultural enthusiasts.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
9.9 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
10.2 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
The Cannon
19.6 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
John O'Groats Signpost
37.7 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Knap of Howar
41.4 km
Explore Knap of Howar, a Neolithic gem in Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
41.6 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Scotland's northernmost landmark with breathtaking coastal views.
Bucholie Castle
45.1 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Above and Beyond Tours
45.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Mary Ann's Cottage
45.6 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Caithness Broch Centre
47.4 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age at the Caithness Broch Centre, a unique attraction that unveils the mysteries of Scotland's historic broch structures.
Nybster Broch
47.9 km
Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
48.7 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
48.8 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Old Keiss Castle
49.7 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Whitegate broch
50.1 km
An atmospheric Iron Age broch perched on a Caithness headland, offering dramatic sea views and a powerful sense of Scotland’s ancient past.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Tankerness House
0.3 km
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
The Orkney Museum
0.4 km
Discover Orkney’s story from ancient times to today in the historic Tankerness House, home to nationally significant archaeology and vibrant cultural exhibits.
St Magnus Cathedral
0.4 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest cathedral, a stunning medieval masterpiece and spiritual heart of Orkney, rich with Norse history and vibrant cultural life.
Badly Drawn Cat
0.5 km
A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.
Spirit of Orkney
0.7 km
Explore the historic heart of Kirkwall where Orkney’s rich Norse heritage and vibrant local culture come alive.
The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
0.7 km
Discover Orkney’s hand-crafted spirits and rich heritage at Kirkwall’s vibrant distillery and visitor centre on the historic harbour front.
Orkney Wireless Museum
0.7 km
Explore a century of wireless communication and wartime heritage in Orkney’s volunteer-run museum with interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
1.2 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Grain Earth House
1.3 km
Discover the enchanting Grain Earth House, a historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Scapa Beach
2.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Wideford Hill Scenic View
3.8 km
A quiet Orkney hilltop with sweeping views over Kirkwall, the Bay of Firth, and the surrounding countryside, perfect for panoramic photos and peaceful reflection.
Wideford Hill Cairn
4.2 km
Explore Wideford Hill Cairn, a majestic 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb in Orkney, blending ancient architecture with celestial mysteries and stunning views.
Rennibister Earth House
5.5 km
Discover the Rennibister Earth House, a prehistoric marvel nestled in the Orkney Islands, embodying ancient heritage and natural beauty.
Sheila Fleet Kirk Gallery & Café
6.8 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Waulkmill Bay
7.7 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.
Essential places to dine
Happy Haddock
0.2 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
The Orkney Hotel
0.2 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Sakura Kitchen
0.2 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Lucano
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
0.3 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
0.6 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Twenty One
0.6 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Busters Diner
0.6 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
0.6 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
0.6 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Pomona Cafe
0.6 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
Helgi's
0.7 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Dil Se Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
The Shore
0.8 km
Modern waterfront hotel in Kirkwall's harbor district with clean rooms, full breakfast, and walking access to town attractions.
The Foveran
3.7 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Orkney Tweed
0.3 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
0.5 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
Aurora Jewellery
0.5 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
0.5 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
0.5 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Poundstretcher
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
0.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Orkney Souvenirs
0.7 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Anchor Shopping Centre
0.7 km
A compact, modern shopping mall in central Kirkwall, offering everyday essentials, fashion, health and beauty, and practical services in a convenient indoor setting.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
9.7 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The West End Guest House
0.0 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
0.2 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
0.6 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Neuk
0.6 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
0.7 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
0.7 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Highland Park Bar
0.7 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
0.7 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
0.7 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
17.0 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 Taversoe
17.4 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Belsair
34.9 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Mey Hotel
41.0 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
45.5 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
50.2 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
0.7 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
53.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
60.0 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
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly