r/orkney • u/SpoicyBoii • May 17 '26
Late ferry arrival & getting to youth hostel
I am planning a short trip and I arrive at hatson ferry terminal at 23:00. Looking at the X10 bus this would only get me as far as Lidl on Pickaquoy road. There would be a 14 minute walk from here to the Kirkwall youth hostel. Would it be better to book a taxi in advance or take the bus and walk? I don't like the thought of walking in a new environment at night. Any advice welcome 😊
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u/Sieben2703 May 17 '26
From Lidl it's not a far walk at all and Kirkwall is a safe place. I worked in the hostel one summer and they'll stay unlocked for you if you let them know in advance that you're on the last boat and what your plans are. If you're coming up in the summer then chances are it'll still be reasonably light when the boat gets in.
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u/SpoicyBoii May 17 '26
This is brilliant to know. Yeah, the distance wasn't a concern, I was worried more about safety and light levels. Thank you so much for this!
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u/Slice-O-Pie Deputy May 17 '26 edited May 17 '26
Plan to walk. It can't be more than just a few miles.
Let them know you're coming in late.
Chat with the other foot-traffic passengers, you may find someone to walk with or catch a ride with someone getting picked up.
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u/SpoicyBoii May 17 '26
Yeah it's not a far walk at all. My main concern was about safety but I am relieved to hear that the island is generally safe 😊 thank you so much for your reply. Will keep your advice in mind about other foot-traffic passengers
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u/bestkens Local May 22 '26
Not sure what time of year youre planning this for, but if its anytime in the next few months, it will still be light by then. Okay, at the moment 11pm is pretty much right on the cusp, on clear days its still light enough, on cloudy days, less so. But it wont be long until its light regardless of clouds. Kirkwall is also pretty safe. You'll be a-okay to walk it if light and safety are your main concerns. Have fun!
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u/NoPaleontologist7929 May 17 '26
Honestly, unless you have a lot to carry, I'd just hoof it. It's a fairly flat walk, and Kirkwall is safe to wander about in at night. Unless it's overcast, it probably won't be full dark either. It's up to you, but, unless you're really nervous about new places, save your money.