Hotels near Balfour Castle

Top reasons to visit Balfour Castle

• Historic Charm: Explore the captivating history of Balfour Castle, with engaging tours that delve into its rich past.
• Scenic Ferry Trips: Enjoy stunning views of the landscape through picturesque ferry rides around the island.
• Adventurous Activities: Experience thrill-seeking opportunities, including diving adventures and other outdoor pursuits.
• Beautiful Beaches: Relax on nearby scenic beaches, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty.
• Rich Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in local heritage with intriguing ruins and friendly community interactions.

Find great hotels near Balfour Castle

Discover a delightful range of accommodation options near Balfour Castle, perfect for every type of traveller. From charming guesthouses to the elegant Balfour Castle Country House Hotel, each lodging offers unique amenities such as pet-friendly policies and access to beautiful beaches. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, these hotels provide a welcoming retreat in picturesque Shapinsay, ensuring a memorable stay in this enchanting Scottish locale.

• The Ayre Hotel: Nestled within a charming setting 6.4km from Balfour Castle, The Ayre Hotel caters to pet lovers seeking a relaxing retreat. This 3-star hotel welcomes pets, ensuring that your furry companions can join you on your holiday. With amenities such as a DogsOnly policy and waived fees for service animals, it provides a unique and accommodating atmosphere for guests travelling with pets. The hotel's friendly atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Albert Hotel: Located a short distance of 6.4km from Balfour Castle, the Albert Hotel offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. This 3-star property features an onsite restaurant and bar, serving a variety of breakfast options for guests to enjoy, including full breakfasts for those looking to start their day off right. Entertainment is at your fingertips with flatscreen and digital TVs in the rooms, ensuring a pleasant stay for both relaxation and enjoyment.
• The Shore: Also situated 6.4km from Balfour Castle, The Shore is a welcoming 3-star hotel that combines comfort with accessibility. Guests can indulge in onsite dining with both continental and full breakfast options, as well as a welcoming bar and lounge area. Entertainment options include LCD and digital TVs, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The hotel’s proximity to the city centre and shopping district makes it an ideal base for exploring the local area.

Where to stay near Balfour Castle

Discover the enchanting beauty of Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, where adventure awaits amidst a backdrop of historical charm and serene landscapes. Explore the secluded island, rich in culture and surrounded by friendly locals, while enjoying the impressive art collection at the castle. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat, the unique atmosphere of Shapinsay promises an unforgettable experience steeped in nature and heritage.

• Kirkwall: Situated a mere 6.4km from Balfour Castle, Kirkwall is the capital of Orkney and offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. The city boasts a vibrant atmosphere, particularly during peak months from April to July. Visitors flock to Kirkwall for its cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and beautiful beaches. Highlights include the impressive St. Magnus Cathedral and the captivating archaeological sites that speak of Orkney’s ancient past. With convenient ferry services and guided tours, exploring the surrounding islands is easy, making Kirkwall a gateway to adventure.
• Shapinsay: As the home of Balfour Castle, Shapinsay is a charming island that provides a unique blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. The island welcomes visitors year-round, with peak times in April, July, and September. Nature enthusiasts can indulge in birdwatching or enjoy art exhibitions, while the island’s archaeological sites and historic landmarks offer a fascinating glimpse into Orkney’s heritage. Shapinsay is perfect for families looking to bond over outdoor exploration and cultural discoveries.
• Gorseness: Located just 6.4km from Balfour Castle, Gorseness is a delightful area known for its seasonal appeal, attracting visitors mainly between July and September. Ideal for those interested in cultural experiences, Gorseness provides a tranquil setting for exploration. While specific activities may vary, the natural beauty and local charm of Gorseness make it a pleasant stop for those wishing to enjoy the scenic landscapes and rich heritage of Orkney.

Things to do in Balfour Castle

Discover a range of exciting activities near Balfour Castle, including scenic ferry trips and diving adventures. Enjoy a memorable boat trip that offers stunning views of the landscape, or delve into the castle's history with engaging tours. For those seeking thrill, there are various adventurous experiences to partake in, making Balfour Castle a splendid destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Shopping

In Shapinsay, Balfour Castle offers lovely gift shops featuring local crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Kirkwall's St. Magnus Centre for a variety of shops, including fashion outlets and artisan stores showcasing the best of Orkney's unique offerings.

Recreation

Balfour Castle offers a serene wellness retreat with its tranquil gardens and stunning views. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, yoga sessions on the grounds, and nature walks that promote relaxation and mindfulness, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking peace and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Balfour Castle offers a captivating blend of history and adventure. Explore the stunning gardens, embark on wildlife spotting walks, and engage in kayaking around Shapinsay's coastline. Experience the rich heritage through guided tours, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding Orkney islands.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting atmosphere at Balfour Castle, where you can enjoy a delightful evening stroll through the gardens. For a unique experience, partake in special events hosted within the castle, featuring local music and storytelling, creating an unforgettable night in this historic setting.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Balfour Castle

For a budget-friendly visit to Balfour Castle, consider travelling between November and January when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance, preferably on a Tuesday for the best rates. Use Expedia to filter for eco-friendly options and sort prices from low to high. Look for last-minute deals and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for greater savings. Additionally, take advantage of free local attractions and explore via public transport to further reduce costs during your trip.

• 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: Book your hotel around Balfour Castle about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, chosen location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your Balfour Castle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Balfour Castle

While visiting Balfour Castle in Shapinsay, Scotland, you can explore intriguing ruins and enjoy the scenic beach nearby. The area offers a rich cultural experience, with historic sites that showcase the local heritage. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the shore or a glimpse into the past, Balfour Castle and its surroundings provide a delightful mix of activities for every traveller.

• St. Magnus Cathedral: A true architectural gem, St. Magnus Cathedral is renowned for its stunning red and yellow sandstone, offering a glimpse into Orkney's medieval past. The serene atmosphere and beautiful stained glass windows create a spiritual retreat, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
• Earl's Palace: Explore the impressive ruins of Earl's Palace, a testament to the power of the Earls of Orkney in the 16th century. With its intricate stonework and atmospheric setting, this historical site invites you to imagine the grandeur of its past while enjoying the surrounding landscape.
• Orkney Museum: Dive into Orkney's rich history at the Orkney Museum, where fascinating artefacts tell the story of the islands from prehistoric times to the present. Engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff ensure a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to Balfour Castle

The best time to visit Balfour Castle is dependent 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	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

Accessing Balfour Castle in Shapinsay is convenient via Kirkwall Airport (KOI), located 8.0km away. This airport serves several airlines, making it a practical choice for travellers. Excellent accommodation options near Kirkwall include Graemeshall House, a charming 4-star bed and breakfast situated 6.4km from the airport, and two well-rated 3-star hotels: the Albert Hotel and The Ayre Hotel, both located 4.8km from Kirkwall. Guests can easily arrange transportation from these hotels to the airport, ensuring a smooth start to their Scottish holiday at Balfour Castle.