Ferry Inn Stromness: Historic Harbourside Inn with Warm Hospitality
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
The Ferry Inn Stromness is a charming, traditional inn located at 10 John Street, Stromness, right on the harbour in Orkney. Offering cozy accommodation, a welcoming bar, and a restaurant known for fresh local seafood and hearty Scottish fare, it serves as a popular stopover for ferry travelers. The inn combines rustic comfort with friendly service, making it an ideal base to explore Stromness and the Orkney Islands.
A brief summary to Ferry Inn Stromness
- 10 John St, Stromness, KW16 3AD, GB
- +441856850280
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your table in advance for the restaurant, especially during festival weekends, to secure a spot.
- Request a room away from the main door if you prefer a quieter stay, as some rooms above the entrance can be noisy.
- Enjoy the full Scottish breakfast included with many stays for a filling start to your day.
- Try the local seafood dishes, such as the salmon fillet or scallops, which are highlights of the menu.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ferry Inn Stromness 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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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Ferry Inn Stromness
A Storied Harbourside Landmark in Stromness
Nestled on the waterfront of Stromness, the Ferry Inn has long been a welcoming beacon for travelers arriving by sea. Its location on John Street places it just steps from the ferry terminal, making it a convenient and practical choice for visitors embarking on or returning from island adventures. The inn’s exterior and interior reflect a traditional Scottish maritime charm, with nautical motifs and cozy wood finishes that evoke the town’s seafaring heritage.Comfortable Accommodation with Local Character
The inn offers a variety of rooms spread across four buildings, each individually furnished with a cozy, no-frills style. Rooms tend to be compact but comfortable, featuring essentials such as private bathrooms, heating, and modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Despite their modest size, the rooms are praised for cleanliness and warmth, providing restful accommodations after a day exploring the Orkney Islands.A Culinary Hub Celebrated for Quality and Freshness
The Ferry Inn’s restaurant and bar are central to its appeal. The menu highlights fresh, locally sourced seafood alongside classic Scottish dishes, including lamb and steak options cooked to perfection. Breakfasts are generous and varied, often included with stays, featuring both hearty cooked options and lighter fare. The bar offers a selection of local ales, wines, and spirits, creating a convivial atmosphere where locals and visitors mingle. The service is noted for being friendly and attentive, enhancing the dining experience.Community and Cultural Connection
Beyond its role as accommodation and dining, the Ferry Inn serves as a social hub within Stromness. Its lively bar and occasional live music events foster a sense of community. The inn’s location also places guests within easy reach of Stromness’s cultural highlights, including the Stromness Museum and local art galleries, enriching the visitor experience with a taste of Orkney’s rich history and creative spirit.Practicality Meets Warmth for Ferry Travelers
The inn’s proximity to the ferry terminal is a key feature, especially for those catching early or late sailings. Staff are experienced in accommodating ferry schedules, offering early breakfasts and flexible check-in arrangements. While the inn is not luxurious, its straightforward comfort, combined with excellent food and welcoming service, makes it a dependable choice for travelers seeking a genuine Orkney experience.Balancing Tradition and Modern Needs
While the Ferry Inn retains much of its historic character, some areas show signs of wear, with guests noting the need for occasional maintenance and updates. However, the overall ambiance remains warm and inviting, with a focus on hospitality rather than luxury. This balance appeals to visitors who appreciate authenticity and a friendly atmosphere over polished modernity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cannon
0.9 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
24.2 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
24.3 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
John O'Groats Signpost
37.9 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Above and Beyond Tours
38.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Castlehill Heritage Centre
41.0 km
Discover the captivating history and culture of Castletown at the Castlehill Heritage Centre, a unique museum in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Dunnet Links: St. Coomb Chapel (6th century, former site))
41.3 km
Discover the ancient ruins of St. Coomb Chapel, a 6th-century site near Castletown that reveals Scotland’s early Christian heritage.
Harold’s Tower
41.7 km
Discover the charm and history of Harold's Tower in Thurso, a stunning heritage site offering breathtaking views and rich cultural significance.
Caithness Agricultural Society
42.8 km
Experience the rich agricultural heritage of Caithness at the Caithness Agricultural Society, a vibrant hub for farming enthusiasts and tourists.
Old St Peter’s Church, Thurso
42.8 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Old St Peter’s Church, a must-visit historical landmark in Thurso, Scotland.
North Coast Visitor Centre
42.9 km
Discover the North Coast Visitor Centre in Thurso, a museum and café that showcases Scotland's stunning northern coastline and rich cultural heritage.
Westray Heritage Trust
42.9 km
Explore Westray Heritage Trust, where history comes alive in the beautiful Orkney Islands, showcasing the island's rich culture and traditions.
Noltland Castle
43.0 km
Explore the historical wonders of Noltland Castle in Orkney, where stunning architecture meets breathtaking landscapes.
Things Va
44.5 km
Uncover the secrets of Scotland's ancient heritage at Thurso Broch, a remarkable historical site that whispers tales of the past.
Bucholie Castle
45.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pier Arts Centre
0.1 km
Discover a nationally significant collection of 20th century British art in Stromness’s award-winning Pier Arts Centre with free admission and inspiring exhibitions.
Stromness Harbour
0.3 km
Historic Stromness Harbour: a sheltered maritime gateway blending rich heritage with vibrant coastal charm in Orkney.
Stromness Museum
0.7 km
Explore Orkney’s maritime past and natural wonders at Stromness Museum, a captivating cultural gem on the waterfront.
Ness Battery
1.5 km
Explore Ness Battery, a preserved World War coastal defense site in Stromness, revealing Orkney’s vital naval history and wartime stories.
Hoy High Lighthouse
3.5 km
Explore Hoy High Lighthouse, a historic gem in Orkney, where maritime history meets stunning coastal views and natural beauty.
Unstan Chambered Cairn
3.7 km
Explore a unique 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial cairn blending ancient architectural styles and famed for its distinctive pottery in Orkney.
Maeshowe Visitor Centre
5.7 km
Discover the ancient mysteries of Maeshowe, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb famed for its winter solstice alignment and Viking runes in Orkney.
Ring of Brodgar
5.7 km
Explore the majestic Neolithic Ring of Brodgar, a vast stone circle and henge steeped in mystery and ancient ritual on Orkney’s Mainland.
RSPB Scotland Brodgar Nature Reserve
5.9 km
A peaceful wildlife sanctuary set within Orkney’s ancient Neolithic landscape, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.
Ness of Brodgar
6.0 km
Explore the monumental Neolithic heart of Orkney, where ancient ceremonial grandeur and intricate artistry reveal 5,000 years of history.
Standing Stones of Stenness
6.1 km
Explore the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, a mystical Neolithic henge and one of the oldest stone circles in the British Isles, set amidst Orkney’s stunning landscapes.
Barnhouse Settlement
6.3 km
Explore the ancient Neolithic Barnhouse Settlement, a unique village near the Stones of Stenness revealing 5,000-year-old social and ritual life in Orkney.
Orkney Attractions
6.8 km
Immerse yourself in Orkney’s rich oral heritage through storytelling, guided walks, and cultural workshops at this unique visitor centre.
Orkney FolkLore and Storytelling Centre (Via House)
6.8 km
Experience Orkney’s rich maritime legends and island folklore around the peat fire in a unique cultural storytelling centre near Stromness.
Yesnaby Coastal Walk
6.9 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and ancient fossil-rich sandstone of Yesnaby Coastal Walk near Stromness, a dramatic and scenic Orkney hiking experience.
Essential places to dine
Ferry Inn Stromness
0.0 km
A cozy, historic inn on Stromness harbour offering hearty local cuisine and warm hospitality just steps from the ferry terminal.
Julia's Cafe Bistro
0.1 km
Cozy cafe in Stromness offering freshly made rolls with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Adam's Place
0.1 km
Fresh local seafood and an acclaimed wine list await you at Adam's Place, a cozy culinary highlight on Stromness’s waterfront.
The Hamnavoe Restaurant
0.4 km
A cozy, historic Stromness restaurant serving innovative seasonal dishes blending Orkney seafood with European and Asian flavors.
The Skerries Restaurant
10.7 km
Experience exquisite local seafood with breathtaking views at The Skerries Restaurant by Loch of Harray in Orkney’s tranquil natural setting.
Leigh's Real Taste of Orkney
11.5 km
Discover Orkney’s finest takeaway flavors at Leigh's, where local produce meets generous portions and friendly service in Finstown.
Emily’s
14.4 km
Charming and quirky café in Lyness offering homemade treats and warm hospitality near Stromness ferry terminal.
The Foveran
16.6 km
A family-run British restaurant with rooms offering exquisite local cuisine and stunning countryside views in Kirkwall, Orkney.
Happy Haddock
19.2 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
19.2 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Lucano
19.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
19.3 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Sakura Kitchen
19.3 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
Busters Diner
19.4 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
19.4 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Waterfront Gallery
0.3 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and local artistry at Waterfront Gallery, a cultural gem in the heart of Stromness.
Cream
0.4 km
Explore Cream in Stromness for unique gifts, local art, and a taste of Orkney's creativity.
Vintage Paper Co
0.6 km
Discover handmade papers, artisanal bookbinding, and unique stationery in the heart of Stromness at Vintage Paper Co.
Heksmoar
9.2 km
A charming craft shop in Stromness showcasing handcrafted Orcadian textiles, ceramics, jewellery and art in a warm, welcoming space.
Wild Heather Crafts
14.5 km
Discover authentic Orkney craftsmanship and handmade treasures at Wild Heather Crafts, a cozy artisan shop in Stromness.
Orkney Antique Centre
17.0 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through a captivating collection of antiques in the historic former community centre of Birsay.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
18.8 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Orkney Tweed
19.3 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
Blue Joe's
19.4 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
19.4 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
19.4 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
Aurora Jewellery
19.4 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
Starlings
19.5 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Logo Orkney
19.5 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Kairds
19.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The West End Guest House
19.3 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
19.3 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
19.3 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
19.4 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Oot The Back
19.4 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
The Neuk
19.5 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Highland Park Bar
19.5 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
19.5 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Torvhaug
19.5 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 Taversoe
23.6 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
24.9 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 Mey Hotel
36.6 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
38.3 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Peerie Cafe
41.9 km
Experience delightful flavors and breathtaking views at Peerie Cafe, your cozy retreat by the Thurso harbor.
The Grove Lounge
43.0 km
A cozy and lively bar in Thurso offering hearty food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
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
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly