In October 2006 and again in October 2008 I visited the island of North Ronaldsay which is the most northerly of the Orkney Islands which lie off the north coast of Scotland. The island is a migrant 'hot spot' which regularly turns up some rarities and vagrants, although not as famous for this as the nearby island of Fair Isle which can be seen on a clear day. On both visits things were a little quieter than hoped but they were still very interesting and enjoyable trips. On both occasions we turned up something unexpected. Compared with Fair Isle, this island is very much under birded and could well deliver more rarities if more birders went there. Many thanks to Alison and Kevin at the Observatory and to Paul for all his good information and birdng skills.