Lighthouse Visitor Centre, Cafe & Shop

Dennis Ness, North Ronaldsay KW17 2BG, United Kingdom
+44 7951 449136
$$$ Cafe
(33 Reviews)

Situated at the charming North Ronaldsay, the Lighthouse Visitor Centre, Cafe & Shop is more than just a stop along your journey—it's an experience that captures the essence of Scottish hospitality and the stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

As you step into the café, you are greeted by a delightful atmosphere where the fragrant aroma of freshly baked goods beckons you to indulge. Renowned for its exceptional sourdough bread and an array of delectable cakes, this café prides itself on using local ingredients that reflect the unique flavor of the island. The strawberry iced cake, a crowd favorite, is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. Each bite is a sweet embrace, balanced perfectly with hints of fruitiness and a view that could make anyone swoon.

The café provides a cozy place to recharge after exploring the historical North Ronaldsay Lighthouse, the tallest land-based lighthouse in the UK. You can admire the craftsmanship of the Victorian era while enjoying a delicious snack. The reviews capture the sentiments perfectly, with visitors praising the friendly staff and the warmth of the atmosphere. “The best sausage rolls on, and at the end of, the Earth” says one satisfied patron, while another delights in the view of ‘seaweed-eating sheep’ right from the café's vantage point—a quirky and picturesque backdrop that enhances your dining experience.

The Lighthouse Visitor Centre is not just about food; it's also a gateway to the island’s rich maritime history. Take a moment to join one of the engaging tours led by the enthusiastic guide, Helen, who brings the island's wool-processing traditions to life, allowing you a glimpse into the everyday life on this unique island. Her passion is infectious, and as you learn, you’ll find the history of the lighthouse elevating your appreciation for this scenic jewel.

In addition to its offerings, the café also features a small shop where you can take home a piece of North Ronaldsay. Whether it's locally crafted items or souvenirs of your visit, there’s a treasure waiting for you to discover.

Make your visit to the Lighthouse Visitor Centre, Cafe & Shop an integral part of your exploration of North Ronaldsay. The combination of delightful food, captivating history, and breathtaking views ensures that this will be a highlight of your trip. Don’t miss the opportunity to unwind here; you’ll leave with your stomach full and your heart warmed by the beauty and hospitality of the island.

For more information, you can reach them at +44 7951 449136.

Offerings
Coffee
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 04:00 PM

33 Reviews
Ceri Owen

13 Sep 2025

Fantastic café, delicious sourdough bread and cake, with incredible views.

A A

29 Aug 2025

Tour guide Helen was exceptionally enthusiastic and it wears off on you; her talking through the process of the wool getting gathered, cleaned, and processed into yarn which can be sold. 30min tour and toilets on site

Following The Lights

16 Jul 2025

Another beautiful example of a Stevenson built Lighthouse. The island has the original Lighthouse known as the beacon. The main light toes as the tallest land-based Lighthouse in the UK. The cottages are available to rent and he is where the former keeper cottages. One of the buildings has a café and a museum to visit which are both well worth seeing during your stay.

hier dort

02 Jul 2025

The lighthouse keeper was very friendly and gave an interesting summary of the history of the lighthouse. The lighthouse itself is perfectly maintained and its lantern testifies to the finest victorian craftsmanship. From the top you could see Sumburgh Head, Foula and Fair Isle.

Suraj Paneru

15 Jun 2025

It is a beautiful place in a wee island of North Ronaldsay.

M

05 Jun 2025

I was lucky enough whilst staying on Sanday isle to hear about an excursion being held to North Ronaldsay Island which included the lighthouse tour. Glad I went as we got to meet one of the lighthouse keepers prior to its automation in 1998, who gave us some background. It's an amazing feat of engineering given in location, still the tallest in operation in the British isles at 42 meters and an incredible price of architecture when you get up it's 176 stairs. If you get the opportunity to visit the island and can go and see this and the original light house which stands off to one side of it, I'd highly recommend it. It's a bit of hidden treasure, there is a cafe on site at the lighthouse and another down by the ferry terminal, well worth a trip out.

Lynn Mumford

04 Jun 2025

Couldn’t wait to visit here as I had seen all the amazing cakes on offer…first stop after arriving even before the Bird Observatory where we were staying had cake and coffee and bought extra cake for following day (they weren’t open for the remainder of our visit ). The cakes didn’t disappoint wonderful strawberry iced cake and the wonderful views of Seaweed eating sheep just topped it off….thank you

joblotabuckshee

26 May 2025

The best sausage rolls on, and at the end of, the Earth.

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