A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Stratford-upon-Avon vs. Orkney Islands for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands can help you decide which place is right for you.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a park-filled, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the food and theater.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a pristine, remote, and serene archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orkney Islands. Although Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands are both popular with visitors, Orkney Islands has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orkney Islands is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon is known for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Stratford-upon-Avon is popular for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights. It is also home to The Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

How is Stratford-upon-Avon different from Orkney Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Orkney Islands and Stratford-upon-Avon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is very good for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Orkney Islands offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Stratford-upon-Avon is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Orkney Islands is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Stratford-upon-Avon is world-class. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Orkney Islands is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Orkney Islands has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for Beaches?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Stratford-upon-Avon is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon has an old town worth visiting. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for Hiking?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Orkney Islands. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for Families?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a family-friendly town. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Orkney Islands. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for Couples?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Orkney Islands makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good town for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Orkney Islands. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Orkney Islands has some public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.


Is Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands a more walkable city?

Stratford-upon-Avon
Orkney Islands

Stratford-upon-Avon is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable town. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting? and Is Orkney Islands Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Orkney Islands or Stratford-upon-Avon?

How long in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Both Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Stratford-upon-Avon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Stratford-upon-Avon, and 3-7 days is enough time in Orkney Islands.

Families should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Stratford-upon-Avon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Orkney Islands, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Stratford-upon-Avon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Orkney Islands that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands than Stratford-upon-Avon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Orkney Islands.


  • How many days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Stratford-upon-Avon 1-2 
    Orkney Islands 3-7

One day in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Orkney Islands, many people enjoy the food and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people visit Orkney Islands for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stratford-upon-Avon. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Orkney Islands, many people enjoy the food and museums that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Orkney Islands, five days is sufficent for most.

A week in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the theater. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

In Orkney Islands, many people enjoy the museums and food that this remote destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for one week. This archipelago offers something for everyone. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orkney Islands has to offer.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Orkney Islands or Stratford-upon-Avon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Stratford-upon-Avon is £144, while the average daily cost in Orkney Islands is £128. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Stratford-upon-Avon £87
    Orkney Islands £60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Stratford-upon-Avon £174
    Orkney Islands £120
Compare Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands

Looking for a hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Stratford-upon-Avon


Hotels in Orkney Islands


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Stratford-upon-Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Orkney Islands £56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also for Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Stratford-upon-Avon To London Heathrow Airport Private Transfer Service: $270

Is it cheaper to fly into Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Prices for flights to both Orkney Islands and Stratford-upon-Avon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £39
    Orkney Islands £34
Typical Food Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Cheese & Crackers
    £7.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Shakespearean Cooking Experience in Stratford-upon-Avon: $162
  • Pasta Making Experience - Cooking Class: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Stratford-upon-Avon £21
    Orkney Islands £27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Stratford-upon-Avon's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Warwick Castle (2)
    £59
  • Lunch
    £12
  • Lunch for 2
    £17

Tours and Activities in Stratford-upon-Avon

For Stratford-upon-Avon, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Day Tour Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon : $252
  • 2-Hour Alpaca Farm Experience in Kenilworth: $33
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Coventry’s Cathedral Quarter: $6.99
  • Bath & Stonehenge Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $126
  • City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • Clay Shooting Experience in Warwickshire: $44
  • Cotswold Walks & Villages Tour from Stratford-upon-Avon or Moreton-in-Marsh: $107
  • Cotswolds : 30 Minute Flight Experience: $221
  • Cotswolds Day Tour From Stratford Upon Avon Moreton In Marsh: $95
  • Cotswolds Electric Bike Tour- Public Tour max 6 persons: $250
  • Cotswolds Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $31
  • Cotswolds in a Day Tour from Moreton-in-Marsh / Stratford-on-Avon: $95

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orkney Islands.

  • From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour: $275
  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall : $246

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Stratford-upon-Avon £13
    Orkney Islands £6.43
Typical Alcohol Prices in Stratford-upon-Avon

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Stratford-upon-Avon from other travelers:


  • Beers
    £8.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Stratford-upon-Avon

Also in Stratford-upon-Avon, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Shakespeare Gin Distillery Tour & Taste: $24
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket: $25
  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 1pm Ticket: $25


When comparing the travel costs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive? and Is Orkney Islands Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Stratford-upon-Avon and Orkney Islands. The summer months attract visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year.

In the summer, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Orkney Islands. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Orkney Islands averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Orkney Islands during summer. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Orkney Islands receives 129 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Orkney Islands. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Stratford-upon-Avon 17°C (63°F) 
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Stratford-upon-Avon as well as Orkney Islands. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Stratford-upon-Avon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Stratford-upon-Avon is generally a little warmer than Orkney Islands. Daily temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon average around 11°C (52°F), and Orkney Islands fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the autumn, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Orkney Islands. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Orkney Islands receives 73 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in October than Orkney Islands. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Stratford-upon-Avon 11°C (52°F) 
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands in the Winter?

Both Orkney Islands and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Stratford-upon-Avon for the museums, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Orkney Islands can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Stratford-upon-Avon. Stratford-upon-Avon is cooler than Orkney Islands in the winter. The daily temperature in Stratford-upon-Avon averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Orkney Islands fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives more sunshine than Orkney Islands during winter. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Orkney Islands receives 29 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. In January, Stratford-upon-Avon usually receives less rain than Orkney Islands. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Stratford-upon-Avon 3°C (38°F) 
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Stratford-upon-Avon or Orkney Islands in the Spring?

Both Orkney Islands and Stratford-upon-Avon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Stratford-upon-Avon in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon is a little warmer than Orkney Islands. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stratford-upon-Avon in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Orkney Islands averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the spring, Stratford-upon-Avon often gets more sunshine than Orkney Islands. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Orkney Islands receives 135 hours of full sun.

Stratford-upon-Avon usually gets less rain in April than Orkney Islands. Stratford-upon-Avon gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Stratford-upon-Avon 9°C (48°F) 
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Orkney Islands and Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon Orkney Islands
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 52 mm (2 in) 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (58°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)