The Shore
Modern waterfront hotel in Kirkwall's harbor district with clean rooms, full breakfast, and walking access to town attractions.
The Shore is a waterfront hotel in Kirkwall, Orkney, offering modern rooms with contemporary amenities and a well-regarded restaurant. Located on Shore Street in the heart of the town center, it provides easy access to Kirkwall's harbor, local pubs, and dining venues. The hotel features clean, comfortable accommodations with en-suite bathrooms, a full breakfast service, and a bar lounge. Its sister property arrangement with the Kirkwall Hotel streamlines check-in procedures while maintaining independent operations.
A brief summary to The Shore
- Shore St, Kirkwall, KW15 1LG, GB
- +441856872200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Request a room with harbor views when booking to maximize the waterfront setting and enjoy views of Kirkwall's working harbor and fishing boats.
- Take advantage of the town center location to explore Kirkwall's independent shops, galleries, and restaurants on foot without needing a car.
- Plan to dine at the restaurant for locally sourced seafood specialties, particularly hand-harvested scallops when available seasonally.
- Arrange car rental or book organized tours in advance if planning to visit other Orkney Islands, as public transit connections are limited.
- Visit the bar lounge in the evening to experience local hospitality and connect with other travelers in a relaxed waterfront setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Shore location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Shore
Harborside Setting and Town Center Location
The Shore occupies a prime position on Shore Street in Kirkwall's working harbor district, placing guests within walking distance of the town's principal attractions and amenities. The hotel's waterfront setting offers views of the active harbor and provides immediate access to Kirkwall's compact town center, where independent shops, galleries, and cultural venues cluster within a few minutes' walk. This central location eliminates the need for transportation to explore the town's character and dining scene, making it particularly appealing for visitors without rental cars.Accommodation Standards and Room Quality
The Shore provides modern, clean rooms equipped with contemporary furnishings and en-suite bathrooms. Guest feedback consistently highlights the quality of housekeeping, with rooms described as spotless and well-maintained. Bathrooms feature functional showers with adequate water pressure and temperature control—a notable distinction from some competing properties in the area. Room sizes are described as comfortable rather than expansive, with standard hotel amenities including television, heating, and basic furnishings. The three-star classification reflects this mid-range positioning within Orkney's accommodation landscape.Dining and Breakfast Service
The hotel operates a restaurant serving breakfast and evening meals, with a full breakfast included in room rates. The breakfast offering is described as generous and well-prepared, with staff accommodating requests for additional servings. The restaurant menu features locally sourced ingredients and seafood specialties, including hand-harvested scallops and other regional produce. A bar lounge provides a relaxed setting for evening drinks and socializing, with a selection of spirits, wines, and beers reflecting Scottish hospitality traditions.Operational Structure and Check-In Process
The Shore operates as a sister property to the Kirkwall Hotel, with guest check-in handled at the Kirkwall Hotel's reception desk before proceeding to the Shore's accommodations. This arrangement allows the properties to share administrative functions while maintaining separate room inventories and operations. Breakfast service takes place at the Kirkwall Hotel's Harbour View Restaurant, creating a seamless experience across both properties. This structure provides operational efficiency while preserving the Shore's independent character and waterfront location.Accessibility and Practical Considerations
The Shore's town center position makes it highly accessible for pedestrians and those using Kirkwall's limited public transportation network. The hotel is within easy walking distance of local restaurants, pubs, and cultural attractions, with no requirement for vehicle access to enjoy the town's offerings. However, guests planning to explore the wider Orkney Islands will need to arrange car rental or join organized tours, as public transit connections to outlying areas are limited. The hotel's proximity to the harbor and town center makes it an ideal base for visitors prioritizing walkability and urban exploration over rural excursions.Guest Experience and Atmosphere
The Shore attracts a mix of leisure travelers, couples, and small groups seeking convenient access to Kirkwall's harbor district and cultural offerings. The hotel's waterfront setting and central location create a sense of connection to the town's working maritime character, with views of fishing boats and harbor activity providing authentic local atmosphere. Staff interactions are consistently described as friendly and attentive, contributing to a welcoming environment. The combination of modern comfort, reliable service, and strategic location has established the Shore as a dependable choice for visitors prioritizing convenience and accessibility within Kirkwall proper.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
10.5 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
10.8 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
The Cannon
19.9 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
John O'Groats Signpost
38.4 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
40.6 km
Explore Knap of Howar, a Neolithic gem in Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
42.4 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Scotland's northernmost landmark with breathtaking coastal views.
Bucholie Castle
45.9 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Above and Beyond Tours
46.2 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
46.3 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Caithness Broch Centre
48.2 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
48.7 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))
49.5 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
49.6 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
50.4 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Whitegate broch
50.9 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
Orkney Wireless Museum
0.1 km
Explore a century of wireless communication and wartime heritage in Orkney’s volunteer-run museum with interactive exhibits and rare memorabilia.
The Orkney Distillery & Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Discover Orkney’s hand-crafted spirits and rich heritage at Kirkwall’s vibrant distillery and visitor centre on the historic harbour front.
Badly Drawn Cat
0.2 km
A cozy vegan café and art gallery in Kirkwall blending plant-based delights with local creativity and friendly charm.
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.
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.
The Tankerness House
0.4 km
Explore Orkney’s rich history in the stunning 16th-century Tankerness House, home to the internationally significant Orkney Museum.
Bishop’s and Earl's Palaces
0.4 km
Explore Kirkwall’s medieval and Renaissance palaces where Norse kings and notorious earls shaped Orkney’s history.
Grain Earth House
1.0 km
Discover the enchanting Grain Earth House, a historical landmark in Kirkwall, Orkney, showcasing ancient architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Highland Park Whisky Distillery
1.9 km
Explore the northernmost Scotch whisky distillery, blending Viking heritage and Orkney’s unique peat smoke into world-renowned single malts.
Scapa Beach
2.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime history of Scapa Beach, a scenic coastal gem near Kirkwall in Orkney.
Wideford Hill Scenic View
3.9 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
5.4 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
6.9 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery in a restored church, where ancient enamelling techniques meet contemporary design.
Waulkmill Bay
8.3 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.
Essential places to dine
The Shore
0.0 km
Modern waterfront hotel in Kirkwall's harbor district with clean rooms, full breakfast, and walking access to town attractions.
Dil Se Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
Helgi's
0.1 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
Pomona Cafe
0.1 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
Twenty One
0.1 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
0.1 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bothy Bar
0.2 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Busters Diner
0.2 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
0.2 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Lucano
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
0.6 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
0.6 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Happy Haddock
0.7 km
Classic Orkney fish and chips with friendly service and hearty portions in the heart of Kirkwall.
Sakura Kitchen
0.9 km
Authentic Japanese takeaway in Kirkwall with weekly-changing menus and ceremonial matcha from Kyoto.
The Foveran
4.3 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 Souvenirs
0.0 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
Anchor Shopping Centre
0.0 km
A compact, modern shopping mall in central Kirkwall, offering everyday essentials, fashion, health and beauty, and practical services in a convenient indoor setting.
The Orcadian Bookshop
0.1 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Poundstretcher
0.2 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
Kairds
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Logo Orkney
0.2 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Starlings
0.3 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Aurora Jewellery
0.3 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
The Longship
0.3 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
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.
Blue Joe's
0.5 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and unique souvenirs at Blue Joe's, Kirkwall’s charming gift shop full of local treasures and stories.
Orkney Tweed
0.5 km
Discover authentic Orkney tweed craftsmanship in Kirkwall’s charming boutique, where tradition meets sustainable artisan quality.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
0.6 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
St Colms Cafe & Crafts
0.8 km
A cozy Kirkwall café and crafts shop offering homemade treats and unique handcrafted garden furniture and cards.
Celina Rupp Jewellery
10.3 km
Handcrafted Orkney jewellery and café where island stories become wearable art.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Torvhaug
0.0 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Skippers
0.0 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Highland Park Bar
0.0 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.
The Neuk
0.1 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
0.2 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Auld Motor Hoose
0.3 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
0.3 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
0.5 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.
The West End Guest House
0.8 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
The Taversoe
16.7 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
17.7 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 Belsair
34.2 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Mey Hotel
41.8 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
46.3 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
50.9 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Waterfront
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
