Amy’s Place

Amy’s Place, formerly The Blue Shed Cafe at Torrin, is run by Mark and Alison not Amy. The Tea Room is named after their daughter, Amy, who suffered from Lupus and epilepsy and sadly died in December 2018 aged only 23. In honour of her Mark and Alison have painted the cafe purple and decorated it with butterflies. Inside they tell Amy’s story in their menus and have a collecting tin for Lupus UK. There is a bookcase of second hand books available for a donation to Lupus UK.

Getting to Amy’s Place

Torrin is located along the Broadford to Elgol road on the banks of Loch Slapin. As the road winds down through the township, you find Amy’s Place on your left just before you reach the loch side. We think that this little hidden gem must have one of the best views on Skye. The towering bulk of Bla Bheinn across Loch Slapin is a sight to behold.

The car park does not have designated parking spaces but is roomy enough. Made up of large stone chippings it is not impossible to navigate. There is a gentle ramp to the front door. It was reasonably easy to move round inside when we were there but it is likely this may not be so easy when it gets busy at the height of the season. The chairs and tables can be moved however and Mark and Alison are lovely helpful people. Once you are seated they offer table service so you don’t have to go up to the counter to get your food.

Inside Amy’s Place

They offer a good selection of hot and cold drinks. The menu consists of freshly made soup, toasted sandwiches and ciabattas served with crisps and salad. Check the specials board behind the counter for the Daily Specials. You can request Gluten Free bread for your sandwiches. The counter top offers a huge selection of Alison’s home baking, of which there are always Gluten Free options. Melanie had a ham and cheese toasted ciabatta and I had tuna, cheese, and sweetcorn in mine. To follow we both succumbed to the Chocolate and Raspberry cake we had been wanting since we had seen it on their Facebook page when it was baked.

There is one toilet but it is very ample in size and has grab rails so it will be suitable for most people.

Amy’s Place is a great place to find a selection of locally produced crafts, jewellery, sauces and sweets. A local craftsman has made some beautiful hard wood candle holders with a butterfly cut-out to follow the Lupus theme. Many of the unusual gifts are created right here on Skye by talented food producers and craftsmen and women.

But the most unique thing about Amy’s Place is the view! You can sit and watch the weather barrel up Loch Slapin. Bla Bheinn disappears behind heavy clouds and then re-emerges in bright sunshine. Torrin is a place to watch all the seasons in one day on Skye. Be sure to check the notebook on the window sill for any recent wildlife sightings in and around Torrin.