Helgi's Bar (Kirkwall, Orkney)

Converted from a former shipping office, this small, smart bar has the look of a modern cafe and is located on the harbour front where seafood is landed daily. Named in honour of the warrior Helgi who had a tavern on the harbour front, this is pub is of a traditional style with a local stone floor and wood panels. Take your drinks to the cosy upstairs room overlooking the harbour while filling in time before island-hopping on the many ferries to the outlying parts. Coffee, home-bakes and sandwiches are available all day. There are regular music sessions and special food nights where food is matched with the ales on tap and regular Thursday quiz nights. Northern Isles Pub of the Year 2012.