Car rental in Kirkwall

In Kirkwall, the main pickup location for hired cars is typically near Kirkwall Airport, which serves as a convenient hub for visitors to the Orkney Islands. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, making it easily accessible. For those arriving by ferry, there are often car hire options available near the Kirkwall ferry terminal. Hosts on Turo may offer flexible pickup locations throughout Kirkwall, including areas close to the harbour. Some hosts might even provide delivery to your accommodation or the ferry terminal, enhancing the convenience of your car rental experience. It's worth exploring the various car hire options on Turo to find a pickup location that best suits your travel plans in Kirkwall and the wider Orkney region.

Kirkwall and the Orkney Islands offer breathtaking scenic drives that showcase the area's natural beauty. The coastal road from Kirkwall to Stromness provides stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged cliffs. Another picturesque route takes you from Kirkwall to the prehistoric village of Skara Brae, passing through rolling countryside dotted with ancient standing stones. For a unique experience, drive across the Churchill Barriers, a series of causeways linking several islands, offering panoramic vistas of the sea. Remember to take your time and enjoy the journey, as Orkney's single-track roads require careful navigation but reward you with unspoiled landscapes and charming rural vistas.

Navigating parking in Kirkwall's city centre during busy tourist periods requires some planning. The Albert Street car park, located near the heart of Kirkwall, offers convenient parking for exploring the town. For longer stays, consider the Kirkwall Harbour car park, which provides ample space and is a short walk from the main attractions. During peak times, arriving early is advisable to secure a spot. Some local businesses offer customer parking, but be sure to check time limits. If central parking proves challenging, look for residential areas just outside the centre where on-street parking may be available. Always adhere to local parking regulations and consider using park and walk options to enjoy Kirkwall's compact centre on foot.

For exploring the Orkney Islands' diverse landscape, a versatile vehicle is key. A compact SUV or a car with higher ground clearance is ideal for navigating the occasionally rugged terrain and narrow coastal roads. These vehicles offer better visibility and handling on Orkney's single-track roads. If you're planning extensive rural exploration, consider a car with four-wheel drive for added stability, especially during inclement weather. For those sticking mainly to Kirkwall and well-maintained roads, a standard car will suffice. Regardless of your choice, opt for a vehicle with good fuel efficiency, as petrol stations can be sparse in remote areas of the islands. Remember, smaller cars may be easier to manoeuvre on Orkney's narrow lanes and in Kirkwall's compact streets.

When exploring the Orkney archipelago, planning your fuel stops is crucial. Kirkwall, as the main town, offers several reliable petrol stations, including ones near the airport and harbour. It's wise to fill up here before venturing to more remote areas. On the mainland of Orkney, you'll find petrol stations in Stromness and St Margaret's Hope. Some of the larger islands like Westray and Sanday also have fuel available, but opening hours may be limited. When touring the outer islands, always check in advance for petrol availability and operating hours. It's a good practice to keep your tank at least half full when driving in rural Orkney. Remember, distances between stations can be significant, so plan accordingly to avoid running low on fuel in remote locations.

Driving on Orkney's single-track roads requires extra caution and courtesy. Always be prepared to give way to oncoming traffic by using passing places, which are marked with black and white posts. When encountering an oncoming vehicle, the driver closest to a passing place should pull in. If the passing place is on your left, stay on the left; if it's on your right, wait on the right for the other vehicle to pass. Never park in passing places, as they're essential for traffic flow. Reduce your speed on these narrow roads and be especially vigilant around blind corners. Keep an eye out for livestock, which may wander onto the road. Finally, remember that even if the road seems empty, a car could appear at any moment, so maintain a moderate speed and stay alert.

When driving around Kirkwall and the Orkney Islands, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Check local forecasts regularly, as strong winds and sudden rain showers are common. Ensure your vehicle has all-season tyres for better traction on wet roads. Pack warm, waterproof clothing even in summer, as temperatures can drop quickly. In winter, be prepared for possible snow and ice, especially on rural roads. Reduce your speed in poor visibility and use headlights when necessary. Keep a charged mobile phone and a road map in case of limited signal in remote areas. It's also wise to inform someone of your travel plans when exploring the islands. Lastly, allow extra time for journeys, as adverse weather may necessitate slower driving or unexpected stops.

Exploring the Orkney Islands by car is refreshingly free from toll roads and bridges. The road network, including the iconic Churchill Barriers connecting several islands, is open for use without any charges. This absence of tolls makes driving around Orkney particularly appealing and cost-effective for visitors. However, it's worth noting that some of the inter-island ferries, which you might need to use to explore the outer islands, do charge a fee for vehicles. These ferry services are an integral part of the Orkney transport system and offer a unique aspect to your driving experience. Always check ferry timetables and booking requirements in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure smooth travel between the islands.