Cleaton House Hotel, Westray, Orkney

The hotel sits above a sheltered bay on the island of Westray. Built as the mansion for the Laird of Cleat in 1849, it has also seen service as a manse and an eventide home. Round the back is the Pioneer bar where two Orkney Brewery ales are served. The bar's theme can be described as 'nautical but nice' as sailing paraphernalia and pictures adorn the walls. Half a dozen rooms are available for those who want stay and enjoy several real ales. Westray is easily reached by ferry from Kirkwall and a cycling day trip taking in lunch, with excellent food from mainly local ingredients, is highly recommended. The bird colonies of Noup Head and Castle o' Burrian are close by for puffin lovers and seals can be spotted on the coast and don't forget to pay homage to Inga the cat!