The Sands Hotel, Burray Village

Name: The Sands Hotel, Burray Village
Address: Burray, Burray Village, Highlands, KW17 2SS
Price range: US$131+
Rating: 9.2

22 photos

Sands Hotel Burray Village Exterior photo

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Key details

About the Hotel

Burray, Burray Village, KW17 2SS

Close to the beach

Perfect

9.2

/10

4.6

4.8

4-star coastal retreat in Burray Village

Rooms

The Sands Hotel offers six en-suite bedrooms and two luxury suites, all featuring breathtaking sea views. Each room is equipped with excellent facilities to support a comfortable stay. Guests can expect varied accommodation options tailored to different needs.

Dining

Watersound Restaurant at The Sands Hotel serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an emphasis on fresh local produce. The a la carte menu also includes a range of bar meals that appeal to guests, locals, and tourists alike. Dining at this restaurant becomes a highlight of the stay for many visitors.

Location

The hotel is conveniently located near various attractions that showcase the history and culture of Orkney. Notable sites include the Orkney Museum, St Magnus Cathedral, and the Italian Chapel. Guests can easily explore Scapa Flow Visitor Centre and Earl's Palace during their stay.

Activities

The hotel provides access to a variety of activities suitable for guests of all ages. Families can find entertainment options that cater to both adults and children. From historical sites to local attractions, there is no shortage of things to see and do.

Wellness

The Sands Hotel does not include dedicated wellness services, but its proximity to natural beauty encourages outdoor activities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can explore the stunning coastal scenery or partake in walks that contribute to their wellbeing. The local environment is conducive to a refreshing experience.

Highlights

Rooms: six en-suite bedrooms with sea views

Dining: Watersound Restaurant serving fresh local produce

Location: near Orkney Museum and St Magnus Cathedral

Activities: access to local attractions for all ages

Must-do experiences

Visit the historic Maeshowe tomb for breathtaking Neolithic art.
Savor the fresh seafood platter at The Burray Hotel's restaurant.
Explore the Skara Brae settlement for a glimpse of ancient life.
Enjoy a whisky tasting at the Orkney Distillery in Kirkwall.
Stroll through the Orkney Market on Saturdays for local crafts.

Select your room type

The Sands Hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Double Room Private Bathroom
2 persons
15 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Heating
room details
Deluxe Triple Room Sea View
2 persons
15 sq. feet
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Superior Suite Sea View
4 persons
15 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Fireplace
Heating
room details

Show all rooms

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

The Sands Hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Perfect

9.2/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
No pets allowed
Allergy-free rooms

Sports & Fitness

Billiard tables
Darts

Guest Parking

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Housekeeping
Laundry
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Children

Cots
Children's menu

Room features

Heating
Sitting area
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Self-catering

Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At The Sands Hotel, dining is a delightful mix of comfort and local charm, promising guests a varied selection of meals in stunning seaside surroundings. Whether enjoying the family-friendly ambiance or taking in serene sea views, both guests and locals eagerly anticipate breakfast and dinner service.

Garden Room
Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free options available
Ambiance
Bright and welcoming environment with views of the lush garden and sea, perfect for families and casual dining.
Key Offerings
Enjoy hearty breakfasts that set the tone for the day and a la carte dinner choices highlighting fresh, local produce. Ideal for those seeking vegetarian and vegan meals.
Reservation
Not needed.
Breakfast and dinner; hours vary.
The Sands Bar
Casual dining and beverages
Ambiance
A lively yet cozy setting where guests can unwind with friends or family, boasting magnificent views of the ocean.
Key Offerings
Guests can relax with a selection of crafted cocktails, local brews, and a range of snacks perfect for an informal gathering after a day of exploration.
Reservation
Not needed.
Open throughout the day; hours may vary.

The Sands Hotel Location

Burray, Burray Village, KW17 2SS

Explore Burray Village

Explore Burray Villages

Burray

17 minutes' walk

Burray offers stunning coastal views and rich wildlife. Perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying nature.

Orkney Fossil and Heritage Centre

25 minutes' walk

This center showcases local history and fossil collections. Engaging exhibits make it a family-friendly spot.

Tomb of the Eagles

35 minutes' walk

An ancient burial site with impressive archaeological finds. Guided tours provide insights into its history.

Wildlife Watching

5 minutes' drive

Join local tours to spot seals, sea birds, and more. Perfect for nature lovers and available year-round.

Kayaking Adventures

5 minutes' drive

Rent kayaks nearby to explore coastal waters. Ideal for everyone looking for some outdoor excitement.

Yoga Retreats

10 minutes' drive

Relax and rejuvenate at local yoga studios offering classes in serene environments, perfect for unwinding.

The Sands Hotel

1 minute' walk

Enjoy local seafood and hearty dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Great for all palates; reservations are recommended.

The Italian Chapel

15 minutes' drive

Authentic Italian cuisine served in a unique setting. Try the homemade pasta and wood-fired pizzas; vegetarian options available.

Orkney Folk Festival

25 minutes' drive

Featuring live music and performances, this annual event offers cultural experiences for music enthusiasts of all ages.

Burray Community Centre

5 minutes' drive

Host to various events and activities, the center provides family-friendly entertainment, including games and activities.

Getting around

City Centre
Burray Village 9 min · 2300 ft
Airports
Kirkwall (KOI) 28 min · 11.3 mi
Eday (EOI) 76 min · 31.4 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-22:00

Check-out

until 10 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

The hotel The Sands provides visitors with a free full breakfast.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room. There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Former name

Sands Motel

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Sands Hotel from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 153 verified reviews

9.3 /10

Perfect

98 %

Recommend

Breakfast

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Comfort

9.7/10

Facilities

9.2/10

Free WiFi

9.5/10

Location

9.4/10

Paid Wi-Fi

6.6/10

Staff

9.7/10

Value for money

9.0/10

Emma from United Kingdom

Couple

Double Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: February 11, 2026

9.5/10

Bay Views and Tasty Breakfast

tea selection comfortable bed good bathroom wide selection

The room offered a selection of tea and coffee. I found the bed very comfortable. The bathroom included both a bath and shower. The food was excellent, especially the wide selection offered during breakfast. It was a treat.

The price felt a little high, though the service was good!

Service

10/10

The staff demonstrated helpfulness, greeting us warmly. Their efficiency ensured the bikes were safely stored overnight, a thoughtful gesture. They offered recommendations for local dining too.

Facilities

9/10

The breakfast featured tasty options. Parking was free and located right behind the building for easy access. The room offered a beautiful view. It faced the water. The conservatory enhanced the visual appeal.

0 Helpful

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Catherine from United Kingdom

Family with children

Superior Suite Sea View

4 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: November 11, 2025

9/10

spacious room kitchen area ample parking

the scapa room was spacious. it has a living room and kitchen area. breakfasts are excellent. there is ample parking behind the hotel..

The minibar prices were slightly higher than expected. But the selection was good.

0 Helpful

Alexander from United Kingdom

Family with children

Double Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: October 10, 2025

9/10

great stay!

friendly staff amazing food

I really liked the friendly staff! they were very helpful. the food was also amazing. There were many options on the menu.

0 Helpful

Edgar from Germany

Single

Double Room Private Bathroom

3 nights in August 2025

Reviewed: October 09, 2025

9/10

fresh pastries free parking

The breakfast included a wide variety of options. I particularly enjoyed the fresh pastries. there was also convenient free parking available behind the building.

the wi-fi signal in my room could be a little stronger.

0 Helpful

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Questions of the users

About The Sands Hotel

Is it possible to check-in past midnight if my ferry arrives late?

8 March 2024

Yes, this can be arranged, but prior notification is required to ensure a staff member is available to meet you upon arrival.

Should I make a reservation for dinner at the restaurant?

15 April 2024

It is highly recommended to book in advance to avoid disappointment, as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

What ferry service is recommended for traveling to the hotel?

22 May 2024

Pentland Ferries is the best option, as they operate three sailings daily, arriving at St Margaret's Hope, just a short drive from the hotel.

How far is the hotel from the Kirkwall ferry terminal?

30 June 2024

The hotel is approximately 20 minutes by car from the Kirkwall ferry terminal, and late check-in can be accommodated with prior notice.

Are dogs allowed in the hotel?

10 July 2024

Dogs are not permitted in the hotel rooms or restaurant but are welcome in the bar area for meals.

Can an early check-out be arranged for a ferry departure?

1 August 2024

Yes, an early departure can be accommodated, and guests can request a packed breakfast the night before.

Is there a need to worry about ferry frequency from the mainland?

13 September 2024

No need to worry, as both ferry services offer three sailings per day, ensuring convenient travel options.

Are there accessible accommodations for guests with mobility needs?

25 September 2024

Unfortunately, there are no ground-floor rooms or lift access; however, the bar and dining areas are accessible for wheelchair users.

What dining options are available at the hotel?

10 October 2024

The Watersound Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on home-cooked meals using fresh, local ingredients.

What activities can I enjoy during my stay at the hotel?

5 November 2024

There are plenty of attractions nearby, including the Orkney Museum, St Magnus Cathedral, and Scapa Flow Visitor Centre, ensuring activities for both adults and children.