Woodwick House

With its own bluebell wood and waterfall, Woodwick House offers peaceful rooms, home-cooked breakfasts and free parking and free WiFi. In Evie, on Orkney’s east coast, it overlooks the island of Gairsay and is around 20 minutes’ drive from Kirkwall.

Each room has an en suite bathroom and traditional furnishings. All rooms have tea and coffee facilities, and guests also have use of a lounge with an extensive library, TV and DVD player.

Breakfast is provided in the dining room, which has a fireplace carved by the house’s original owner. This room overlooks the gardens, towards Woodwick Bay. Home-cooked evening meals, using local produce, are occasionally available and upon on request.

The Iron Age village Broch of Gurness is a 6-minute drive away, with prehistoric Skara Brae just under 30 minutes from Woodwick House. Kirkwall is home to Saint Magnus Cathedral and many recommended restaurants, and local guides Orkney Aspects offer tailored tours of the island to discover its heritage, culture and wildlife, including the popular puffins.