About

Friendly and welcoming, in a quiet location 15 minutes’ walk from the town centre, Kirkwall Youth Hostel is the perfect base for exploring the historic sights and wonderful wildlife of Orkney.

Perfect for groups, families and individual travellers, this warm and welcoming youth hostel offers a wide range of room types, all available to be booked as private rooms. None of the rooms are en-suite but there are ample shower and washroom facilities available.

Dogs are welcome, for a small fee, when you book a private room. Please let us know in advance to ensure that a dog friendly room is allocated.

Guests can opt for a wee breakfast served in the dining room or take advantage of the well-equipped self-catering kitchen.

WiFi is available in the lounge area and is free for all guests. Other facilities include a large, comfortable lounge with TV and well-stocked library, a laundry, drying room, secure cycle store for up to 10 bikes and free onsite parking for up to 20 cars.

Basic provisions, confectionery and soft drinks are available to purchase at reception.

Orkney is a Neolithic and Viking treasure trove, with many attractions, like Skara Brae, Maeshowe and The Ring of Brodgar, within walking distance of the youth hostel or only a short drive away.

The hostel is also available for exclusive private rental.

House Rules

Check In

17:00 - 22:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Child Friendly
  • Credit Cards Accepted
  • No Curfew
  • Non Smoking
  • Pet Friendly
  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Security Lockers
  • Free Luggage Storage
  • Luggage Storage
  • Parking
  • Reception (limited hours)
  • Board Games
View all facilities

Reviews

9.1Superb(215)
  • Value for Money
    9.0
  • Security
    9.1
  • Atmosphere
    8.9
  • Cleanliness
    9.7
  • Staff
    9.6
  • Location
    8.9
  • Facilities
    8.9
Summary of traveller reviews

Kirkwall Youth Hostel offers a welcoming stay with exceptionally friendly and helpful staff. Guests appreciate the clean facilities, well-equipped kitchen, and comfortable lounge areas. Its location is convenient for exploring Kirkwall and nearby Scapa Bay, though some find the beds uncomfortable.

Stayed in Jul 2026
9.4
T
Tim
Male, 41+, England
Great place to stay
Stayed in Jul 2026
9.7
A
Anonymous
Male, 41+, England
A lovely hostel. Lots of space, comfortable beds. Lounge, kitchen, dining area and bathrooms spacious and clean. I would recommend it My only caveat is the breakfast wasn’t nice, although cheap. I’d rather pay more and have decent bread, more choice of yoghurt and fruit and some good Orkney cheese!
Stayed in Jul 2026
9.4
S
Stefanie
Female, 31-40, USA
My only very tiny complaint is the bed was pretty lumpy, thin and uncomfortable. But everything else about my stay as great. Laundry was easy to use, staff was very nice, and everything was clean. Would stay again. About a mile walk from city center.
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Location

Old Scapa Road, Kirkwall, Orkney, Kirkwall, Scotland
0.5km from city centre