Balfour Castle, built in 1847-48 and designed by architect David Bryce, sits on the Isle of Shapinsay. The interior owes much to a team of 30 Italian craftsmen.
It is visible from Kirkwall on Mainland Orkney where you can get a ferry to the island.
Guided tours are given of the castle and its walled garden on Sundays from May to September.
Telephone: +44 1856 711 282.
Following the death of David Hubert Ligonier Balfour who left no heirs, the castle was acquired in 1961 by the Zawadzki family but sold to new owners in 2009.
The hotel is currently closed for refurbishment but will reopen in due course - click here for updates.
