Scapa House - Kirkwall

Scapa House: A Historic Bed & Breakfast Experience

For those seeking a truly unique and evocative getaway, Scapa House in St Ola, Kirkwall, presents a compelling destination. Located at Address: St Ola, Kirkwall KW15 1SE, United Kingdom, this historic property offers a blend of breathtaking coastal scenery, fascinating wartime history, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The phone number is Phone: 1856874639, and visitors can find more details on the website: Website: scapahouse.co.uk. Scapa House specializes in providing a comfortable Bed & breakfast experience, catering to travelers looking for a memorable stay.

A Rich and Dramatic History

The story of Scapa House is inextricably linked to one of the most significant events of the First World War – the Scapa Flow Incident. In 1914, following the Battle of the Falkland Islands, the German High Seas Fleet, seeking refuge from the British Navy, sailed into the sheltered waters of the Scapa Flow. Scapa House, owned by the Lloyd family at the time, played a pivotal role in this dramatic chapter of history. The Lloyd family, staunchly neutral, sheltered the German officers and crew, providing them with food, clothing, and vital information. This act of courage and humanity earned the Lloyds a place in history, and their legacy is deeply embedded within the house itself.

Key Features and Characteristics

• Historic Building: The house itself is a stunning example of Victorian architecture, meticulously preserved and brimming with character.
• Coastal Location: Situated directly overlooking the sea, Scapa House offers unparalleled views of the North Sea and the surrounding coastline.
• Unique Atmosphere: The house retains a palpable sense of history, transporting guests back to the early 20th century.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Guests can choose from a range of well-appointed rooms, each offering a comfortable and relaxing retreat.
• Delicious Breakfasts: Scapa House is renowned for its delicious breakfasts, using locally sourced ingredients.

Location and Accessibility

Scapa House's location is one of its most appealing features. It's nestled in the picturesque village of St Ola, a charming coastal settlement on the Black Isle. The village is located approximately 10 miles (16 km) west of Inverness, making it easily accessible by car. From Inverness, the journey takes around 30-45 minutes. The nearest train station is in Keith, which is about 8 miles (13 km) away, and local bus services connect St Ola to nearby towns and villages. The proximity to Inverness offers a convenient base for exploring the Highlands.

Visitor Information and Recommendations

Visitors to Scapa House can expect a warm and hospitable welcome. The house is managed by a dedicated team committed to providing exceptional service. Here are some recommended activities and things to consider when planning your visit:

• Scapa Flow Exploration: Take a boat trip to explore the Scapa Flow and learn more about its naval history.
• Visit the Scapa Flow Lighthouse: Located nearby, the lighthouse offers stunning views and a fascinating insight into maritime navigation.
• Explore the Black Isle: The Black Isle is a beautiful region with stunning coastal scenery, picturesque villages, and abundant wildlife.
• Visit the nearby town of Kirkwall: Kirkwall, the capital of Orkney, is home to numerous historic sites, including St. Magnus Cathedral and the Orkney Museum.

Guest Feedback and Reviews

Scapa House has garnered consistently positive feedback from its guests. Currently, the company has Opinions: This company has 15 reviews on Google My Business, showcasing a strong level of customer satisfaction. The Average opinion: 4.7/5 rating reflects the high regard in which the property is held. Guests consistently praise the house's history, location, and the friendly hospitality of the staff. Common themes in the reviews include the stunning views, the comfortable accommodations, and the delicious breakfasts.

Here’s a summary of what guests are saying:

In conclusion, Scapa House provides more than just accommodation; it offers a journey through time and a chance to connect with the remarkable history of the Scapa Flow. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a memorable and authentic experience in the stunning landscapes of Orkney.

👍 Reviews of Scapa House

AlaskaChip

What can we say? We could not have asked for a better experience. Ida and Balfour made us feel so welcome. Tasty breakfasts, comfortable rooms, great location. If we are able to visit Scotland again first priorities will be Orkney and Scapa House. The only thing we would change would be to allow more time in this historically rich area.

Eva L.

1/5

I stayed at Scapa House for 4 nights in June 2025 and, unfortunately, found the experience frustrating from start to finish.

Booking was a challenge in itself – there’s no online system (unusual these days), and my email enquiry received no reply. I eventually booked over the phone and was asked what time I’d arrive. I said 17:00, arrived just after, and was told they weren’t expecting me until 20:00.

Communication throughout was patchy. Breakfast had to be pre-ordered the night before with a set time, though I was warned it might be ready at that time – or not. I was only given a key to the room, with a vague comment that I wouldn’t need one for the front door unless I came in after midnight.

One day, I returned to find the door to my room wide open, a key in the lock, and no sign of explanation. There was also no spoon on the hospitality tray – I took one from breakfast one morning, which was cleared away during the day. At checkout, I was asked what I’d done with it!

There were no accessible sockets near the bed. I had to trace an extension lead hidden behind furniture, and was rewarded with a dusting of cobwebs and a startled spider.

Overall, Scapa House felt dated and disorganised. With so many great places to stay in Orkney, I wouldn’t recommend this one.

L6294HIpaulb

Upon arrival greeted with a cuobofbtea and lovely Lemon cake. The room was fantastic and the breakfast that Ida provides is amazing.|As a host, Ida cares how you are going, what you see and do, and makes you feel comfortable for the entire stay.|The location of Scapa House means you are no more than 30 minutes to all the attractions that Orkney has to offer. Close to Kirkwall but far enough away to be so quiet.|Scapa Beach is around the corner too.|Met some of the regular visitors to Scapa House, some who have been returning for over 10 years, indicating just how good this accommodation is.|Thanks Ida for the lovely stay.

katehY6526RA

What a lovely Orkney welcome from Ida with tea and homemade shortcake. We only stayed a night but really enjoyed our visit to the nearby Scapa Distillery. Scapa house was formerly the home of its manager!|Parking on a grassy bank by the house is convenient and easy, and it certainly helps to have a car.

568moirat

We had a very enjoyable stay at Scapa House, Ida and Balfour were the most warm and friendly hosts. Our room was spacious, bright and fresh. Deliciously cooked breakfast with lots of other choices, like fresh fruit and cereals. We felt very relaxed in Ida and Balfour’s lovely home. Hoping to make a return visit. Thank-you for helping to make our first trip to Orkney such a memorable one.

zxcvb93

We stayed at Scapa Guest House for 5 nights in early September for the Orkney Science Festival. ||From the moment we arrived in Orkney, Ida and Balfour went out of their way to make us feel at home. The room was immaculately clean and very warm and comfortable. The breakfasts were delicious and catered to our dietary needs (vegan and vegetarian). ||Ida and Balfour kindly gave us several lifts to and from town (it's about a 20 - 25 minute walk to Kirkwall) and they had lots of useful information about places to visit. ||I would definitely recommend and would stay there again.

Paul B.

5/5

Ida is a wonderful host. Most likely the best B&B in Orkney. Great rooms, fantastic breakfast and excellent location. I dare anyone to find better in Orkney.

212fiona

A wonderful welcome, nothing is too much trouble! Scapa House is warm, comfortable and spotless. A beautiful freshly cooked breakfast every morning and clean towels daily. Lovely extras in the rooms; dish of Orkney fudge and Orkney soaps a nice touch. It’s possible to walk into Kirkwall although there is no pavement for part of the walk, but if you don’t want to drive, there are plenty of taxis available. A very special trip, thank you Ida and Balfour.