Guest User
April 29, 2023
Although I’ve said this was a ‘Couples’ stay, I was on Shetland working but brought my wife with me. This meant I had no input into where I was staying - my employer booked it. And what a favour they did me/us. We’d sailed overnight from Orkney and I’d done a bit of work before heading over to Bressay on the short ferry ride from Lerwick to the hotel. We were warmly greeted by James upon arrival and shown to the outstanding Room 2. More later about the room, but a wee mention on James instinctively taking my wife’s suitcase up to the room - a small gesture that speaks volumes about who you’re dealing with. That first impression bode well. James would turn out to be the most genial and friendly host. The room itself was simply exquisite. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, the heating was excellent and the large bathroom with power-shower was divine. The view from the room was gorgeous - down the garden, across the ferry port and across to Lerwick. It was stunning. After unpacking, showering and changing, we headed down for dinner. We both opted for the Chicken Stroganoff - freshly cooked by James’ wife Nelly. It was out of this world. Be assured, this woman can cook and she does not scrimp on the portions. There was plenty. For afters we both had the Sticky Toffee Pudding - it was basically a party for your tastebuds. Absolutely superb. After dinner we went back to our room for a wee rest. Our plan was to head back down to the bar, but once we lay on the bed it was lights out! It was just so comfy!! Breakfast the next morning was another triumph - whatever you want; cereal, cooked, toast etc; it’s all available. And it’s all delicious. We headed out shortly afterwards across to Lerwick - I had jobs to do and we planned some sightseeing. The sightseeing took us to Sumburgh Head for a bit of Puffin watching. This meant we would be back later than anticipated. We decided to phone the hotel and let them know. When we eventually got back to the hotel we changed and went down to the bar and properly met James & Nelly. We had a memorable evening in their company and that of a few locals. It was a terrific wee night and we’ll remember it for a long time to come. To sum up, The Maryfield House is one of the best places I/we’ve ever stayed. It’s spotless. It’s welcoming. It’s well run. It’s friendly. It’s comfortable. The food is first class. It’s everything you want in a small, family-run hotel and so much more. I/we hope to return to Shetland next year, if so then I’ll be asking my work to book me back in here. It was fabulous. If you go to Shetland, then do yourself a favour and seek out this absolute gem of a place.