Scandi-Romance Awaits You at Kilnbarn Cottage
Kilnbarn Cottage at a glance
Kilnbarn Cottage, nestled between sweeping sandy bays sits with its toes in the sea. Its picture windows give ocean views from every room.
Beautifully presented in cozy Scandi style, the cottage has two bedrooms , one king and one small twin, one bathroom and a well equipped kitchen. Outside there is direct access to the sea and even an outside bath where guests can relax at one with nature and the elements.
A Space for Living
Kilnbarn is designed around the Danish concept of “Hygge”. Although the word doesn’t have a direct translation, it signifies all the things we associate with contentment and wellbeing. Dressed with soft textures and neutral colours, it feels homely, cozy and just mmmmmm.
The spacious sitting room offers uninterrupted ocean views from the picture window. Snuggle up on the deep sofa with a good book, spin some vinyl on the vintage record player, watch the flames flicker in the fireplace and contemplate “hygge”.
A Space for Dreaming
After a day of skin-tingling walks and a deep warm bath under the stars, flop into these super sumptuous beds. Let our quality mattresses, cloud-like toppers and layers of cosiness embrace you as you drift into rejuvenating sleep.
A Space for Breathing
The unique outdoor bath is a highlight for many couples. Sink into a warm soak beneath the stars, surrounded by sea views and open sky — a romantic experience you’ll never forget.
Your Stay at Kilnbarn Cottage
Rates
1 guest - £166.50/nt
2-4 guests - £185/nt
Minimum stay 3 nights
No restrictions on check-in/check-out days
Check-in from 3pm
Check-out by 10am
Discounts
Returning Orkney Retreats guest 10% discount on any property.
Watch out for periodic discounts on island tours, workshops, eateries and experiences.
Winter Island Retreat 28-night stay
Without servicing £1,295 - 1st November to 31st March (no further discounts apply)
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Kilnbarn sleeps up to four guests, with a luxurious king bedroom and a serene twin room with French doors opening directly onto a patio overlooking the ocean.
The cottage is thoughtfully furnished in Scandinavian “Hygge” style, creating a warm, calming atmosphere from the moment you step inside.
From the picture window in the sitting room you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views across the sea — a front-row seat for winter storms, calm summer seas, playful seals, and, with luck, the shimmering Northern Lights.
A fully enclosed garden surrounds the cottage, complete with a sheltered outdoor dining area, firepit, and a private outdoor bathroom overlooking the water.
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Kilnbarn is equipped with everything you need for a relaxing self-catered stay:
Fully equipped kitchen with AGA, combi oven, air fryer, small appliances and full cookware
Essentials such as tea, coffee, spices, condiments, milk, eggs and local treats
Smart TV with high speed fibre broadband
Crisp bedlinen, soft throws, fluffy towels, cosy hoodies, huge bathrobes & handmade soaps
Beach towels, books, games, records and picnic blankets
Heating throughout + biofuel stove
Washing machine and dryer available on request
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Up to two dogs are warmly welcomed, with towels, bowls and treats provided.
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Kilnbarn sits between two spectacular, virtually deserted beaches:
Lopness Bay – 4.5 km of sweeping sands to the north
Bay of Newark & Cata Sand – a dramatic dune system and tidal peninsula to the south
This is a haven for wildlife lovers: otters, seals, rare birds, dolphins and even orca can be spotted from the shore. The skies here are some of the darkest in the UK, offering exceptional stargazing and aurora viewing.
If you enjoy walking, Sanday is paradise — from clifftop routes and tidal islands to caves, shipwrecks and historic sites dotted across the island.
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Reaching Sanday is part of the adventure. Guests can arrive by ferry or by air:
Ferry: Regular services from Kirkwall — pre-booking is essential.
Air: Daily 20-minute flights from Kirkwall to Sanday Airfield.
Arriving without a car is easy. We can arrange:
Pick-ups from the ferry or airfield
Car hire
Grocery deliveries
Bicycle or e-bike hire waiting at the cottage
Fuel: Available at Sinclair Stores and Sanday Community shop
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Just a short drive away, Sinclair General Stores provides everything you need — fresh produce, local goods and daily essentials. The friendly team can pre-stock the cottage with your grocery order so it’s ready for your arrival.
When eating out, Sanday offers several excellent options:
59 Degrees North – artisan bakery, café & pizzas
Kettletoft Hotel – restaurant, bar meals & takeaway fish & chips
Belsair Hotel – lunches, dinners & carvery
Craft Hub & Community Café – light lunches, cakes and local crafts
Fresh local seafood is available for delivery when in season.
Optional Catering
You can also pre-order delicious homemade meals, subject to availability.
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Sanday is rich in history, wildlife and culture.
Enjoy:
White sandy beaches and miles of coastal walking
Sanday Heritage Centre & Croft Museum
Quoyness Chambered Cairn and local archaeological sites
Craft studios and artisan workshops
Cycling, wild swimming, water sports, fishing and sea angling
Wildlife tours and birdwatching
Swimming pool & fitness centre
Throughout the summer, Sanday hosts a programme of lively community events and festivals including Sanday Soulka weekends, with guided walks, concerts, craft workshops, food events and family activities.
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Medical: Sanday Surgery is located in Lady Village; out-of-hours medical services are accessed via Kirkwall.
Fuel: Available at Sinclair Stores.
Post Office: Located in Kettletoft and Lady Village.
Public Toilets: Several across the island including Kettletoft Pier and Loth Ferry Terminal.
Recycling: Glass and general recycling points available in Kettletoft and Lady Village.
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Sanday’s weather is changeable and part of its charm. Winter storms can be dramatic, and ferry schedules sometimes alter with the conditions. If travel disruptions affect your departure, we will look after you and ensure you’re comfortable until the next available sailing.
The island is a welcoming, safe and close-knit community where visitors are warmly received.
Experiences to suit Kilnbarn Cottage
The Collection
Living History
Step back in time to a truly immersive experience at Boloquoy Victorian Farm & Watermill.
Sleeps up to 6
Scandi-Romance
Soak in the view at our scandi deluxe Kilnbarn Cottage, which sits with its toes in the ocean.
Sleeps up to 4
Heritage Deluxe
A beautifully renovated estate farmhouse opening in 2026. Perfect for group stays and celebrations.
Sleeps up to 8