Skaill House is a magnificent setting. Right above a beach and surrounded by farmland, adjacent to a UNESCO world heritage site Skara Brae, this traditional manor house is breathtaking. I almost hesitate to give the grand review that the self-catering apartments deserve because I want to be able to book again, and they are often booked for the whole season. We stayed in Peerieskaill, a warm private two bedroom with ensuites. The kitchen was large and well supplied, the living room cozy and comfortable. Everything about Skaill House is top notch, and after five, you have the beautiful grounds to yourself. We had the best weather on record, I think, so sitting out for the long slow sunset at the solstice was magical. Thank you to the entire staff!

The estate is basically adjacent to Skara Brae so if you visit the latter you should make the short walk to the Skail House. The house is largely open to walkthrough the entire location. It has a lot of interesting period furniture and paintings and some good views. There is a small gift shop on site.

We visited here as part of a bus tour and was charmed by the house and then intrigued by the archaeological dig site. The house and family do reflect a rich history of the region and what they have contributed to the Orkneys and Scotland. Give yourself a good few hours here, if visiting in summer there is a beach close as well.

Skaill House is only a short walk away from the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, and is included in the admission price. It was the home of William Watt, the man who discovered Skara Brae, literally on his doorstep. The house has had a fascinating history spanning hundreds of years and is chock full of historic memorabilia and family memories.