Archive Coffee

Imagine a place where the aroma of freshly roasted beans blends with the history of an old building — that’s Archive Coffee. Located in the heart of Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, this popular café occupies a former library. Today, it is considered one of the best culinary spots the United Kingdom has to offer for fans of quality drinks and home cooking.

Archive Coffee. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The interior of the café is striking with its light and airy atmosphere: high ceilings and large windows create a sense of space despite the constant flow of visitors. Archive Coffee is famous for its attention to detail — from choosing coffee suppliers like Glasgow's Dear Green to using only fresh, local Orkney ingredients in its dishes.

This spot has been recognized with numerous awards, including Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice, and has been named the best café in the region. Whether you're looking for a quiet breakfast, a vegan snack, or want to try some real craft ale from local breweries, this establishment offers the best of the islands' modern culinary arts.

If you would like to book a table or check for availability, you can use the following contact details:

At Archive Coffee, there’s something for everyone: from tasting exquisite coffee varieties to enjoying a leisurely lunch. Be sure to try the signature Archive Espresso blend or order one of the guest roasts, which are updated regularly. If you prefer something stronger, check out the selection of local Orkney gin or craft beers from Swannay and Brewdog breweries — the establishment is licensed to sell alcohol, which is also available for takeaway.

The café's menu is a true feast for foodies. Hearty breakfasts, brunches, and lunches are served here, including original burgers, fresh salads, and sandwiches. Special mention goes to the homemade baking by Rebecca Harrold: chocolate cakes, brownies, and vegan muffins sell out instantly. For families, there is an excellent children's menu, which was recognized as the best on the islands.

Beyond the food, Archive Coffee is a pleasant place to simply spend time with a book or a laptop, taking advantage of the free Wi-Fi. You can also purchase a pack of coffee beans or ground coffee to take a piece of Orkney hospitality home with you. It is a lively, dynamic space where you can meet both locals and travelers from all over the world, and sometimes even celebrities dropping in for a cup of tea.

Finding Archive Coffee is easy — the establishment is located at 8 Laing Street, right in the heart of Kirkwall. It is within walking distance of the city's main landmarks, including the famous St Magnus Cathedral. If you arrive in the city by ferry or bus, the walk from the harbor or bus station to the café will take only a few minutes.

For those traveling from Kirkwall Airport, the distance is about 5 kilometers. You can take a taxi (the trip takes about 10 minutes) or catch a regular bus, which will take you to the city center in 15–20 minutes. From the public transport stop, it’s literally a 5-minute walk through picturesque streets to the café's doors.

Travelers with cars can leave their vehicle in one of the city center parking lots. Keep in mind that Kirkwall is a city with narrow streets, so walking is often the most pleasant way to get around. The café is fully accessible for visitors with strollers, making it a convenient stop during a family city tour.

The building that houses Archive Coffee today has a rich history: it was formerly The Old Library in Kirkwall. Converting this historic space into a modern culinary establishment allowed for the preservation of its unique heritage atmosphere while introducing light, space, and industrial touches to the interior.

Since its opening, the café has quickly transformed from just a "place for a snack" into an important social hub for the Orkney Islands. In 2018, it hosted the first-ever Orkney Gin Festival, cementing its status as a venue for significant local events. The team, led by chef Gary Sutherland, focused on high quality and local products, which soon paid off.

In 2022, Archive Coffee confirmed its leading status by winning two prestigious awards at the Taste of Orkney Food & Drink awards: "Best Café" and "Best Kids' Menu." The combination of a historic backdrop and a modern approach to service has made this place a true legend among locals and a must-visit for tourists in the United Kingdom.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of Archive Coffee and sample local delicacies, 1–2 hours is usually enough for most visitors. If you’re just stopping by for an espresso and a slice of their famous homemade cake, 30–45 minutes will be plenty to catch your breath between tours.

However, if you are planning a full brunch or lunch, it's worth setting aside at least an hour and a half. The café can get very busy on weekends, and you might need a little time to wait for a table. A leisurely meal surrounded by the stylish interior is a great way to feel the rhythm of life in Kirkwall, so there’s no need to rush.

Archive Coffee welcomes guests daily, offering excellent service on both weekdays and weekends. The standard operating hours are as follows:

• Monday – Saturday: 08:30 – 17:00
• Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00

Please note that hours may vary on public holidays, so it is recommended to check for current information on the establishment's official social media pages before your visit.

Its central location makes Archive Coffee an ideal starting point for further exploration of the history and culture of the Orkney Islands. Just a few steps from the café, architectural monuments and curious urban spots await you.