Find hotels near Balfour Castle, Shapinsay from CA $129

Top reasons to visit Balfour Castle

• Historical Charm: Explore the fascinating history of Balfour Castle and nearby Kirkwall, immersing yourself in local culture.
• Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy scenic coastal walks and beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling experiences like ferry rides, diving, and clay pigeon shooting.
• Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a range of comfortable stays, from charming B&Bs to full-service hotels.
• Rich Local Culture: Experience the warmth of friendly locals and discover Orkney’s unique traditions.

Find great hotels near Balfour Castle

Discover an array of comfortable accommodations near Balfour Castle, catering to all budgets with options ranging from 2 to 4 stars. Whether you prefer a welcoming bed & breakfast or a full-service hotel, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind. Ideal for adventure seekers and pet lovers alike, the hotels near Balfour Castle offer a unique experience in the beautiful Orkney Islands, ensuring a memorable stay for every traveller.

• The Ayre Hotel: This charming 3-star hotel offers a unique pet-friendly experience for travellers wishing to bring their furry companions along. Located 6.4km from Balfour Castle, The Ayre Hotel caters to pet lovers with a welcoming atmosphere and a range of amenities. Guests can enjoy the convenience of onsite pet policies, including the allowance of dogs and a waived fee for service animals. This hotel is perfect for those who value comfort and companionship during their stay while exploring the scenic surroundings of Shapinsay.
• The Shore: A delightful 3-star accommodation, The Shore is situated 6.4km from Balfour Castle and offers a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on dining and entertainment. The hotel features a bar and lounge area along with a variety of wrapped food options, including a continental breakfast for an enjoyable start to the day. Guests can unwind in their rooms while watching LCD and digital TV or venture out to explore the nearby city centre and shopping district. The Shore promises a lively and convenient stay for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
• Albert Hotel: Also a 3-star lodging option located 6.4km from Balfour Castle, the Albert Hotel combines comfort with accessibility. Guests can indulge in a delicious full breakfast at the onsite restaurant, setting a pleasant tone for the day ahead. The rooms are equipped with modern entertainment options, including digital and flatscreen TVs, ensuring guests can relax after a day of exploration. With its welcoming environment and quality dining options, the Albert Hotel is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a pleasant and convenient stay in Shapinsay.

Where to stay near Balfour Castle

Exploring the enchanting region around Balfour Castle offers a delightful mix of friendly locals and stunning landscapes. Enjoy the historical charm of nearby Kirkwall, experience the warmth of secluded coastal walks, and indulge in the romantic Scottish flair. Whether you're seeking relaxation or ecotourism adventures, this picturesque area promises a memorable stay filled with unique vibes that cater to every traveler's desire.

• Kirkwall: Located a mere 6.4km from Balfour Castle, Kirkwall is the vibrant capital of Orkney. This city offers a unique travel experience with a rich blend of culture, outdoor activities, and romance. History enthusiasts will appreciate its museums and archaeological sites, while the marina is perfect for those keen on exploring the waters. The ferry services and guided tours make it easy to navigate the area. With peak visitor numbers in April and the summer months, Kirkwall buzzes with energy, creating an inviting atmosphere for tourists.
• Shapinsay: Shapinsay, where Balfour Castle is located, is an intimate city that draws visitors for its charm and adventure. The island's appeal lies in its romantic ambiance, cultural experiences, and opportunities for birdwatching. The castle itself, along with the local visitor centre and cathedral, are must-see landmarks that encapsulate the island's history and beauty. Visitor numbers peak in spring and summer, making it a lively time to explore the picturesque landscapes and engage in various tours available around the island.
• Gorseness: Just 6.4km from Balfour Castle, Gorseness is an intriguing destination that showcases the stunning natural beauty of Orkney. Known for its seasonal visitor patterns, Gorseness attracts most travelers during the summer months, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Although it may not be as bustling as Kirkwall or Shapinsay, Gorseness offers a tranquil environment, perfect for those looking to unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes and enjoy the area's unspoiled charm.

Things to do near Balfour Castle

Visitors to Balfour Castle can enjoy a range of activities including ferry rides, diving adventures, and sightseeing tours. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in Sunday tours and try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, making your trip memorable. Embrace the stunning surroundings and rich history while exploring this beautiful part of Scotland.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balfour Castle

When visiting Balfour Castle, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Cubbie Roo's Castle and the Italian Chapel. To save on accommodations, plan your visit between November and January for lower prices, and book about a month in advance. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia and aim to stay on a Tuesday for the best rates. Utilize Expedia’s filtering options to find eco-friendly hotels and bundle your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for the green banner indicating amazing deals to maximize your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Balfour Castle are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Balfour Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Balfour Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Balfour Castle is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can easily arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, showcasing the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Balfour Castle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Balfour Castle

When visiting Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, Scotland, you'll discover a blend of historical ruins and local culture. The area offers fascinating attractions like the castle itself, as well as beautiful beaches for a relaxing experience. Explore Orkney’s rich history at nearby museums, and don’t forget to check out maps for navigation around Balfour Castle and its surroundings. This destination promises a memorable getaway for culture lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

• St. Magnus Cathedral: This stunning cathedral, located 6.4km from Balfour Castle, showcases magnificent Romanesque architecture and is steeped in history. Marvel at the intricate stone carvings and vibrant stained glass windows while soaking in the serene atmosphere of this cultural gem.
• Orkney Museum: Situated 6.4km away, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Orkney's rich history. From prehistoric artifacts to Viking treasures, the diverse exhibits highlight the unique cultural heritage of the islands, making it an enlightening stop for history enthusiasts.
• Bishop's Palace: Just 6.4km from Balfour Castle, these fascinating ruins provide a glimpse into the medieval past. Explore the remnants of this once-grand residence, surrounded by beautiful gardens, and imagine the stories that echo through its ancient walls.

Best time to go to Balfour Castle

The best time to visit Balfour Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	52.0°F (11.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
August	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
October	51.6°F (10.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Balfour Castle

When planning your visit to Balfour Castle on Shapinsay, the closest major airport is Kirkwall Airport (KOI), situated 8.0km away. For accommodation near the airport, you can consider the Lynnfield Hotel, a 4-star option located 3.2km from KOI, or the Hildeval B&B and Graemeshall House, both rated 4 stars and located 3 and 6.4km away respectively. These hotels provide convenient access to transportation services, ensuring a smooth journey to Balfour Castle. With a variety of lodging choices and proximity to the airport, you’ll find it easy to start your Scottish adventure.