59 Degrees North – Cafe, Pizzeria & Motorhome Aire on Sanday, Orkney
A charming family-run café and pizzeria with panoramic sea views, pioneering motorhome aire, and a warm, pet-friendly welcome on Sanday, Orkney.
Nestled in the wildflower meadows of Sanday, Orkney, 59 Degrees North offers a unique blend of cozy café dining, artisan pizzas, and a pioneering motorhome aire. Set amidst panoramic sea views and just a short walk from Roos Wick bay, this family-run spot combines rustic charm with modern amenities, welcoming visitors and motorhome travelers alike with fresh, locally inspired food and a warm, pet-friendly atmosphere.
A brief summary to 59 Degrees North - Cafe | Pizzeria | Motorhome Aire
- Whistlebrae Sanday, Orkney, KW17 2AZ, GB
- +441857600260
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-8 pm
- Thursday 11 am-8 pm
- Friday 11 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Try the fresh homemade pizzas, including gluten-free options, paired with locally sourced salads for a true taste of Orkney.
- Visit during weekdays between 11 am and 8 pm when the café is open for full service and fresh offerings.
- Motorhome travelers can utilize the aire facilities for waste disposal and fresh water refill, a rare service in Orkney.
- Bring your dog along—59 Degrees North is pet friendly and welcomes four-legged visitors with open arms.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of nearby islands and lighthouses from the wildflower meadow surrounding the café.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Sanday’s main village with Whistlebrae, where 59 Degrees North is located. Travel time ranges from 15 to 25 minutes depending on the route. Buses run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency varies seasonally. Tickets cost approximately £3–£5 one way.
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Car
Driving on Sanday is straightforward with well-maintained single-track roads. From the island ferry terminal, it takes about 15 minutes to reach 59 Degrees North by car. Parking is available on-site for motorhomes and cars. Fuel stations are limited on the island, so plan accordingly.
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Ferry plus Walking
Visitors arriving by ferry to Sanday can reach 59 Degrees North by a scenic 45-minute walk across gentle terrain through countryside and coastal paths. This option suits those who enjoy hiking and want to experience the island’s natural beauty en route. Wear sturdy footwear and prepare for variable weather.
59 Degrees North - Cafe | Pizzeria | Motorhome Aire location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about 59 Degrees North - Cafe | Pizzeria | Motorhome Aire
A Distinctive Culinary Haven in Orkney's Northern Isles
59 Degrees North is a family-operated café and pizzeria located on the tranquil island of Sanday, one of the northernmost islands in the Orkney archipelago. Situated within eight acres of wildflower meadow, the venue boasts sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding sea and neighboring islands such as Eday, Rousay, and North Ronaldsay. This setting creates an inviting atmosphere where visitors can enjoy fresh, homemade pizzas, salads, and coffee in a modern yet relaxed environment. The café is known for its friendly staff and high-quality food, with options including gluten-free pizzas, catering to diverse dietary needs.Innovative Motorhome Aire and Camping Facilities
In 2021, 59 Degrees North introduced the first motorhome aire in Orkney, a dedicated facility designed for self-contained motorhomes and campervans. This service allows travelers to responsibly empty waste and refill fresh water, reflecting a growing trend in UK motorhome tourism inspired by European practices. Alongside this, the site offers hardstanding pitches and a pet-friendly camping area, making it a convenient and welcoming stop for touring visitors exploring the northern isles by road.Connection to Sanday’s Natural and Cultural Landscape
The location at Whistlebrae, within the ancient parish of Burness, ties the café to Sanday’s rich crofting heritage. The island itself is renowned for its expansive sandy beaches, abundant wildlife, and peaceful rural character. From 59 Degrees North, guests can see multiple lighthouses and enjoy easy access to coastal walks and nature watching, enhancing the overall visitor experience with a strong sense of place and connection to Orkney’s maritime environment.A Family-Friendly and Pet-Welcoming Destination
59 Degrees North prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming to families and pet owners. The café’s spacious outdoor areas and pet-friendly policies make it a popular spot for dog walkers and families traveling with children. The combination of fresh, locally sourced food and a relaxed setting encourages visitors to linger, whether for a casual lunch or a longer stay at the motorhome aire.Upcoming Developments and Community Engagement
Looking ahead, 59 Degrees North is expanding its offerings with the planned opening of a 5-star self-catering croft cottage named Clickimin. This new accommodation promises luxurious interiors and will be bookable online, further enhancing the site’s appeal as a base for exploring Sanday. The business’s commitment to innovation and visitor experience has been recognized with multiple Orkney Tourism Awards, underscoring its role as a key community hub and destination on the island.Practical Amenities and Visitor Experience
Open from 11 am to 8 pm on weekdays, the café provides a modern, comfortable setting with excellent mobile reception and essential amenities including restrooms, seating areas, and information boards. The site’s location offers scenic views and a tranquil ambience, making it both a dining destination and a restful stopover for travelers. With a moderate price range, 59 Degrees North balances quality and accessibility, inviting visitors to savor Orkney’s flavors while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
First Nations And Orcadian Totem Pole
46.8 km
A striking wooden monument in Orkney symbolizing friendship and shared heritage between First Nations and Orcadian cultures.
Churchill Barriers
47.1 km
Historic WWII causeways in Orkney that safeguarded Scapa Flow and now link islands with a rich legacy of resilience and culture.
The Cannon
54.5 km
Historic cannon from an American privateer, set against the stunning backdrop of Stromness harbour’s maritime heritage.
Duncansby Head Lighthouse
75.7 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Duncansby Head Lighthouse, a must-see landmark on Scotland's northern coast.
Bay of Sannick
75.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of the Bay of Sannick, a stunning coastal gem in John o' Groats, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
John O'Groats Signpost
76.5 km
Britain's most iconic signpost marks the legendary endpoint of the 874-mile Land's End to John o' Groats journey.
Duncansby Stacks
77.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Duncansby Stacks, a natural marvel of towering cliffs and vibrant wildlife on Scotland's stunning coastline.
The Castle & Gardens of Mey
79.8 km
Explore the Castle & Gardens of Mey, where Scottish history and breathtaking landscapes come together in a royal retreat.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse
81.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich heritage of Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Scotland's northernmost landmark with breathtaking coastal views.
Bucholie Castle
83.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views of Bucholie Castle, an enchanting historical landmark in Nybster, near Wick, Scotland.
Above and Beyond Tours
85.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Caithness with Above and Beyond Tours, where adventure meets local expertise in Scotland's stunning north.
Mary Ann's Cottage
85.8 km
Explore the fascinating history of Caithness at Mary Ann's Cottage, a charming museum showcasing 19th-century life and culture.
Caithness Broch Centre
86.0 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age at the Caithness Broch Centre, a unique attraction that unveils the mysteries of Scotland's historic broch structures.
Nybster Broch
86.5 km
Discover the enchanting Nybster Broch, an ancient Iron Age site in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into Pictish history amidst stunning coastal vistas.
Old Keiss Castle
88.3 km
Perched on Caithness cliffs, Old Keiss Castle’s dramatic ruins tell the tale of Sinclair nobility and Scotland’s turbulent history.
Unmissable attractions to see
White Mill Circular Walk & Beach
3.1 km
A peaceful coastal loop on Sanday, linking white-sand beaches, dunes, and the remains of a 19th-century windmill and 1939 shipwreck.
Quoyness Chambered Cairn
7.0 km
Explore the majestic 5,000-year-old Neolithic Quoyness Chambered Cairn on Sanday, a remarkable burial site revealing ancient Orcadian life and architecture.
North Ronaldsay
13.7 km
Orkney's northernmost island where seaweed-grazing sheep roam wild and migratory birds paint the skies.
Knap of Howar
19.2 km
Explore the Knap of Howar, Europe's oldest stone house, a Neolithic farmstead revealing 5,000-year-old life on Orkney’s remote Papa Westray island.
Northern View
19.5 km
A windswept coastal viewpoint on Orkney’s Mainland, offering sweeping panoramas across the Pentland Firth to the Scottish mainland and North Ronaldsay’s cliffs.
Quoygrew settlement
22.6 km
Explore Quoygrew, a Viking Age settlement on Westray revealing centuries of Norse life, fishing heritage, and medieval archaeology in Orkney.
Westray Heritage Trust
22.7 km
Explore Westray’s ancient heritage, from Neolithic carvings to Viking tales, at the heart of Pierowall village.
Natural Arch
22.7 km
Discover Westray’s breathtaking Natural Arch, a rugged sandstone marvel carved by the Atlantic waves along Orkney’s wild west coast.
Noltland Castle
23.5 km
Explore Noltland Castle, a dramatic 16th-century artillery fortress and noble tower set against the wild coastal beauty of Orkney’s Westray island.
Burroughston Broch
26.6 km
Explore Burroughston Broch, an ancient Iron Age landmark on Shapinsay Island, Orkney, where history and natural beauty intertwine.
Taversöe Tuick
29.0 km
Explore the rare double-level Neolithic burial cairn on Rousay, Orkney, revealing ancient mysteries from over 4,000 years ago.
Knowe Of Yarso
30.6 km
Step back over 5,000 years at Knowe of Yarso, a Neolithic chambered cairn on Rousay, revealing ancient communal burials and prehistoric Orkney life.
Knowe of Lairo
31.1 km
Explore the ancient long-horned chambered cairn of Knowe of Lairo on Rousay, a Neolithic marvel overlooking Eynhallow Sound in Orkney.
Midhowe Tomb & Chambered Cairn
32.1 km
Explore the largest Neolithic chambered cairn on Rousay, Orkney, a remarkable ancient tomb sheltered by a modern structure and rich in prehistoric history.
Midhowe Broch
32.2 km
Explore Midhowe Broch, a striking Iron Age tower on Orkney’s coast, where ancient stonework and history meet dramatic seascapes.
Essential places to dine
Stronsay Hotel
16.2 km
Discover comfort and exquisite local cuisine at Stronsay Hotel in Orkney - your perfect retreat amidst stunning landscapes.
The Smithy Cafe
33.5 km
A community-run cafe and restaurant in a historic smithy on Shapinsay, serving Orkney fare in a warm, rustic setting with occasional evening bar service.
Eviedale Bistro & Bakehouse
35.0 km
Orkney's pioneering sourdough bakery and wood-fired pizzeria, where artisanal craft meets island hospitality.
The Shore
39.5 km
Modern waterfront hotel in Kirkwall's harbor district with clean rooms, full breakfast, and walking access to town attractions.
Dil Se Restaurant
39.5 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in Kirkwall’s award-winning Dil Se Restaurant, blending tradition with local freshness.
Helgi's
39.6 km
A vibrant harbourfront gastropub blending Orkney’s Viking heritage with fresh local fare and lively community spirit.
The Storehouse Restaurant with Rooms
39.6 km
A boutique dining and accommodation gem in Kirkwall blending historic charm with world-class local cuisine and cozy rooms.
Pomona Cafe
39.6 km
A cozy, traditional Kirkwall cafe serving hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality in the heart of Orkney’s capital.
Twenty One
39.6 km
A vibrant Kirkwall hotspot serving unique tapas and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Trenabies Cafe Bistro
39.6 km
Cozy cafe and bistro in Kirkwall offering hearty local dishes, great coffee, and friendly service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bothy Bar
39.6 km
Experience the warmth of Bothy Bar in Kirkwall – where delicious food meets delightful drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Busters Diner
39.6 km
A cozy American-style diner in Kirkwall serving hearty comfort food with British influences and local Orkney beers in a relaxed setting.
Lucano
40.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at Lucano, a beloved local restaurant and pizzeria.
The Orkney Hotel
40.0 km
Historic charm meets cosy comfort and local hospitality in the heart of Kirkwall at The Orkney Hotel.
Empire Chinese Restaurant
40.0 km
A reliable, family-friendly Chinese restaurant in central Kirkwall, serving generous portions of classic dishes in a relaxed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Orkney Star Island Soap & Textiles
18.9 km
Authentic handmade soaps and textiles infused with the wild spirit of Stronsay, crafted with natural oils and island magic.
Airy Fairy
19.3 km
Discover handcrafted fabrics and cozy coffee moments at Airy Fairy, a unique artisan shop set in the peaceful heart of Stronsay’s Airy Farm.
Hume Sweet Hume
22.5 km
Discover exquisite Orkney-inspired knitwear and ethically crafted gifts at Hume Sweet Hume, Pierowall’s beloved family-run shop.
Woolshed
36.8 km
Discover authentic Orkney woolcraft at The Woolshed, a historic knit shop and workshop set amidst stunning island landscapes.
MadeitOrkney
38.4 km
Discover authentic Orcadian crafts and handmade treasures in the tranquil setting of Deerness, Orkney Mainland’s artisan hub.
Anchor Shopping Centre
39.5 km
A compact, modern shopping mall in central Kirkwall, offering everyday essentials, fashion, health and beauty, and practical services in a convenient indoor setting.
Orkney Souvenirs
39.5 km
Discover authentic Orkney crafts and local treasures in Kirkwall’s welcoming souvenir shop, celebrating island heritage and artistry.
The Orcadian Bookshop
39.6 km
Discover Orkney’s stories and culture at The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall’s independent literary gem in the historic city centre.
Poundstretcher
39.7 km
Discover unbeatable value and variety at Poundstretcher Kirkwall, your go-to discount store in the heart of Orkney’s town center.
Kairds
39.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts that capture the spirit of Orkney at Kairds, Kirkwall’s beloved gift shop on Albert Street.
Logo Orkney
39.7 km
Explore Logo Orkney for unique clothing and authentic Orkney-themed souvenirs, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
Starlings
39.7 km
Discover authentic Orcadian gifts and crafts at Starlings, a charming boutique shop in Kirkwall’s historic heart.
Aurora Jewellery
39.8 km
Discover exquisite hand-crafted jewellery inspired by Orkney’s heritage and landscapes at Aurora Jewellery in Kirkwall.
The Longship
39.8 km
Discover Orkney’s rich heritage through timeless jewellery, knitwear, and crafts at Kirkwall’s family-run Longship shop.
The Original Orkney Hamper Company
39.9 km
Discover authentic Orkney flavors and handcrafted gifts in charming hampers from Kirkwall’s beloved local shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Belsair
6.2 km
A cozy gastropub and guesthouse on Sanday offering fresh local seafood, comfortable rooms, and authentic island hospitality.
The Taversoe
30.8 km
A cozy 3-star inn on Rousay offering spacious rooms, local cuisine, and stunning sea views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Torvhaug
39.5 km
A lively Kirkwall pub on Bridge Street, Torvhaug offers local whiskys, cozy vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Skippers
39.5 km
Kirkwall’s vibrant sports bar serving local brews, hearty pub fare, and live games in a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Highland Park Bar
39.5 km
A cozy Kirkwall bar serving an extensive range of Highland Park whiskies and local drinks in a warm, inviting atmosphere within the Kirkwall Hotel.
The Neuk
39.6 km
A warm and lively pub-restaurant in Kirkwall offering fresh local fare, historic charm, and a vibrant live music scene.
Oot The Back
39.6 km
Discover Kirkwall’s cozy outdoor garden bar with heated booths, local gins, and a relaxed atmosphere behind Orkney Distilling.
Ayre Hotel & Apartments
39.6 km
Comfortable harbor-side hotel with a lively bar, friendly staff, and easy access to Kirkwall’s historic center.
Auld Motor Hoose
39.7 km
A cozy Kirkwall pub blending automotive nostalgia with friendly service and local ales in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar
40.0 km
Discover Kirkwall’s historic Royal Cask Whisky Gin Bar, home to over 1,000 whiskies, 160 gins, and authentic Orcadian hospitality in a 350-year-old setting.
The West End Guest House
40.2 km
A peaceful, centrally located guest house in Kirkwall offering simple comforts and easy access to Orkney’s historic heart.
Robertsons Coffeehoose & Bar
55.3 km
A warm, family-run coffeehouse and bar in historic St Margaret's Hope, serving traditional fare, local drinks, and inclusive menus in a charming setting.
The Mey Hotel
81.0 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality, hearty Scottish fare, and cozy comfort at The Mey Hotel in scenic Thurso.
Dunnet Bay Escapes
85.7 km
Luxurious coastal retreat with stunning Dunnet Bay views, gourmet breakfasts, and serene hot tub relaxation in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
The Village Inn
89.0 km
A cozy Highland village pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and warm hospitality in the scenic community of Keiss.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Orkney Club
39.6 km
A welcoming social hub in Kirkwall offering lively evening entertainment and a friendly community atmosphere in the heart of Orkney.
Skinandi's Nightclub
93.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Skinandi's, the northernmost nightclub on Scotland’s mainland with two bars and two dance floors.
The Waterfront
98.1 km
Wick's vibrant nightlife heart with a lively dance floor, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere on the scenic Shore.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Pet Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly