Self catering hostel and bird observatory on North Ronaldsay
The North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory is situated at the south west corner of the island with outstanding views and an adjacent shell sand beach. Seals and the unique seaweed-eating sheep are abundant along the coast which skirts the 34 acres of croft managed by the observatory. The observatory sees spectacular bird migration through the island in spring and autumn. It offers a special attraction for those interested in wildlife, but welcomes all visitors. The Observatory Hostel consists of three dormitories and a self-catering kitchen in a converted barn and byre of the croft. The Byre sleeps four in two bunks and has en-suite washing, shower and toilet facilities, great for family use. The Barn also sleeps four and shares facilities with the Bøl which has a single bunk sleeping two. Adjacent is the Observatory Guest House (3 star) which has a lounge bar and meals which are available to hostellers. Camping (electric hook-up) and grocery shop on-site.
On a 34 acre croft managed by the North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory on the most northern isle of Orkney. Adjacent to a shell sand beach visited by seals and unique seaweed-eating sheep. Spectacular bird migrations and outstanding views. Ideal accommodation for those interested in wildlife but welcomes all. The hostel sleeps 10 in three dormitories with a self-catering kitchen. Lounge bar and meals available in the Observatory Guest House.
The North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory is situated at the south west corner of the island with outstanding views and an adjacent shell sand beach. Seals and the unique seaweed-eating sheep are abundant along the coast which skirts the 34 acres of croft managed by the observatory. The observatory sees spectacular bird migration through the island in spring and autumn. It offers a special attraction for those interested in wildlife, but welcomes all visitors. The Observatory Hostel consists of three dormitories and a self-catering kitchen in a converted barn and byre of the croft. The Byre sleeps four in two bunks and has en-suite washing, shower and toilet facilities, great for family use. The Barn also sleeps four and shares facilities with the Bøl which has a single bunk sleeping two. Adjacent is the Observatory Guest House (3 star) which has a lounge bar and meals which are available to hostellers. Camping (electric hook-up) and grocery shop on-site.
Loganair flights from Kirkwall (Orkney) leave daily. Ferry from Kirkwall on Fridays and between May-Sept also on Tuesdays (subject to tides and weather). Small boats may be chartered. Orkney can be reached by vehicle ferries from Aberdeen, Thurso (Scrabster) and Gill's Bay, and a passenger summer service from John O'Groats.
If you’re a bird lover you have to stay at the Observatory Hostel
April 19th 2022
On the Island of North Ronaldsay in the Orekneys you will have nothing but uninterrupted peace on the rugged island as you can see some wonderful wildlife in the air, on the land and even in the sea.
The sea-weed munching sheep will welcome you to the remote island 5km away from the nearest island and you will find a haven for those with wings or legs who enjoy the wilds of this windswept island. The observatory hostel provides a great base to explore the island and the remoteness means when the sun goes down the stars come out, whether permitting of course, and there are few better places to see the constellations than here.
Latest News
Observatory Hostel on the Isle of North Ronaldsay is still open this winter
November 25th 2020
This absolute gem of a hostel in the Orkney Islands is open in line with the latest Covid restrictions. Bookings are limited so that groups of guests are not sharing facilites.
We request that visitors follow good hand hygiene practice and social distancing, and not to travel to Orkney if unwell.
Long Distance Walks 
Long Distance Walks
