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Kirkwall car hire

Driver's age: 26-65

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Cheap car hire in Kirkwall

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Economy car
Economy
M
Compact car
Compact
M
Intermediate car
Intermediate
M
Standard car
Standard
M
Full-size car
Full-size
M
Luxury car
Luxury
M
People carrier car
People carrier
M
Passenger van car
Passenger van
M
Commercial car
Commercial
M
Pick-up truck car
Pick-up truck
M

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Kirkwall

  • When visiting Kirkwall, car hire provides several advantages over public transport and local taxis. With car hire in Kirkwall, you're free to explore the stunning landscapes and historic sites of the Orkney Islands at your own pace. Public transportation options on the islands can be limited and taxis are pricey, making a car the ideal choice to access remote areas, such as the Neolithic sites of Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar. Car hire in Kirkwall offers flexibility, convenience, and security.
  • Car hire services in Kirkwall are available at Kirkwall Airport (KOI). The desks are conveniently within the terminal building, making it easily accessible upon arrival. To find the car hire desks at Kirkwall Airport (KOI), follow the signs to the Arrivals area and proceed to the designated section outside baggage claim. With a car, you can conveniently pick up your vehicle at the airport and explore the surroundings without additional transportation arrangements, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
  • When driving in Kirkwall, be prepared for the presence of roundabouts, which are common in the city. Familiarise yourself with the correct lane positioning and yield to vehicles already on the roundabout. Additionally, when venturing outside the city, you may encounter single-track roads. Utilise passing places to yield to oncoming traffic and maintain smooth traffic flow. Lastly, be mindful of increased traffic around the ferry area, particularly during peak times. Follow the instructions of ferry staff to ensure safe manoeuvring and efficient traffic movement.
  • In Kirkwall, rush hour typically occurs on weekdays from 08:00 to 09:00 in the morning and 17:00 to 18:00. During these times, main roads such as Victoria Street and Junction Road may experience increased traffic congestion. Additionally, during the winter months, adverse weather conditions, including snow and ice, can make driving challenging, especially on hilly or rural roads. It is important to plan accordingly, allow extra time for your journey, and drive cautiously in these conditions to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience in Kirkwall.

FAQs about car hire in Kirkwall

  • How much is the price of fuel in Kirkwall?

    The average price of fuel in Kirkwall is £5.07 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between £61 and £81, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular car hire in Kirkwall?

    Premium (Audi A4 or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Kirkwall.

  • How can I find car hires near me in Kirkwall?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • How much does a Premium car hire cost in Kirkwall?

    A Premium car hire in Kirkwall costs £77 per day, on average.

  • Should I get insurance when hiring a car in Kirkwall?

    Most car hire providers in Kirkwall offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car hire in Kirkwall, check out KAYAK's car hire insurance guide.

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Kirkwall?

    When considering car hire in Kirkwall, a compact car or a versatile SUV are recommended options. The narrow streets of Kirkwall make a compact car ideal for manoeuvring through the town centre and finding parking in tight spaces. For adventurers looking to explore the rugged landscapes of Orkney, an SUV provides the space and capability needed to navigate rural roads and reach remote areas. Kirkwall car hire offers a variety of vehicles to cater to different traveller needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience throughout your visit.

  • What’s the speed limit in Kirkwall, Scotland?

    In Kirkwall, Scotland, adhere to the specified speed limits to ensure road safety. Within the city limits and residential areas, the general speed limit is 30 mph (48 kilometres per hour). However, it is crucial to keep an eye out for specific speed limits indicated by signage as they may vary in certain areas, such as near schools or construction sites. Additionally, remember that several speed cameras are installed on major roads, including the A920 and the A965, for strict enforcement of speed limits.

  • Where are the best places to park in Kirkwall, Scotland?

    For convenient parking in Kirkwall, explore options outside the city centre and utilise public transport or enjoy a pleasant walk. This approach not only saves money but also allows you to soak in the charm of the city. However, if parking in the city centre is preferred, there are paid car parks and on-street parking available. Hourly rates typically range from £1.50 to £3.50. Popular parking areas include Broad Street Car Park and Ayre Road Car Park, both offering convenient access to various attractions and amenities in Kirkwall.

Kirkwall car hire reviews and directory 
All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car hire booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

Avis

9.3

Wonderful

Best rated

One location in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

W R Tullock

+44 1856 875500

Monday07:30 - 19:30
Tuesday07:30 - 19:30
Wednesday07:30 - 19:30
Thursday07:30 - 19:30
Friday07:30 - 19:30
Saturday07:30 - 19:30
Sunday12:00 - 19:30

Filters

No reviews available

Europcar

6.6

Okay

2 locations in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Castle Garage, Castle Street

+44 1856 876262

Opening times not available

Kirkwall Airport

+44 1856 875500

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Easirent

5.8

Fair

One location in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

keddy by Europcar

5.5

Fair

2 locations in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport,

+44 185 687 5500

Opening times not available

Wr Tullock

+44 185 687 6262

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Routes Car & Truck Rentals

2.0

Poor

2 locations in Kirkwall

Show locations

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport, Terminal Building

Opening times not available

Wr Tullock, Castle Garage, Castle Street, Kirkwall

Opening times not available

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No reviews available

Firefly

7.9

Good

One location in Kirkwall

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Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Shouqi

No score available yet

2 locations in Kirkwall

Locations in Kirkwall

Kirkwall Airport

+44 1856 875500

Opening times not available

Wr Tullock Castle Garage

+44 1856 876262

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Car hire locations in or near Kirkwall

Good to know

Most popular car type

Premium

When to book a car hire in Kirkwall

Average daily price per month
Car hire prices as pick-up date approaches

Car hire insurance in Kirkwall

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) & Theft Protection Waiver

Some Kirkwall car providers already include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection Waiver into the hire price but not all of them. We recommend being aware of your coverage when hiring a car in Kirkwall.

Deductible

Keep in mind that car hire insurances often have a deductible clause, which is the amount you’ll have to pay if something happens during the time of your hire. If you want to avoid unwanted surprises, you should consider adding a non-deductible option to your Kirkwall car hire.

Kirkwall car hire information

Pick-up locationKirkwall
Car types
Hire locations12
Airport locations7