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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.

4.9

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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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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.

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