Outer Hebrides

This chain of Atlantic islands stretches for around 130 miles along the north-west coast of Scotland, with each island offering a different experience. Walk amongst mountains in Harris and on sweeping beaches in Uist, travel south to Eriskay to see its rare pony breed or set sail for St Kilda to experience its spectacular history and wildlife. Discover a place where you can explore at a gentler pace, admire untouched landscapes, watch for whales breaking the surface of the sea, uncover thousands of years of history, and sample the Atlantic produce. The Outer Hebrides are captivating in every season, offering a unique experience each time you visit. It's easy to see why National Geographic included these islands on their list of best in the world.

An island can be seen as bounded by the sea or as infinitely connected.

Peter Mackay, Lewis-born poet

From ancient stories and close-up wildlife encounters to amazing local flavours and traditions, the Outer Hebrides offer a range of unique experiences that you will cherish forever. Discover the highlights that truly capture the spirit of the islands.

Explore the island’s ancient landscapes 

Walk through a landscape where ancient stone circles, cairns and brochs rest quietly among rolling hills, lochs and machair. Visit places such as Ardvouray in Harris, where a Viking grave mound was unearthed revealing historical artifacts which are now on display in the British Museum. Nunton Chapel and its graveyard, on the west coast of Benbecula, is another incredible spot where you can see archaeological remains. Book a guided tour to learn how these sites continue to shape the islands’ landscape. Download the award-winning free augmented reality archaeology app Outer Hebrides Unearthed. 

Archaeology in the Outer Hebrides 

Taste the islands, from the shoreline to the smokehouse 

Sample the delicious, freshly caught seafood, including scallops, langoustines, crab, lobsters and mussels. Why not try the salmon gently smoked in local smokehouses using traditional methods? Make sure you also enjoy the homemade goods and bakes produced across the islands, along with Stornoway black pudding, which is made with oats, onions and spices by local producers. 

Food & drink in the Outer Hebrides 

Go on a boat trip to spot whales and dolphins 

There is nothing quite like the thrill of a coastal adventure! Set sail from Stornoway’s harbour with Immerse Hebrides on their 2-hour whale and dolphin tour to spot a variety of marine life. From dolphins and porpoises to minke and pilot whales, keep your eyes peeled. You might even be lucky enough to see orcas! Explore the Hebridean Whale Trail to discover the different areas where the different species roam. 

Discover incredible marine life in the Outer Hebrides

Into the wild: visit St Kilda 

Adventure to this remote archipelago in the Outer Hebrides surrounded by sea stacks, islets and with a rich variety of birdlife. It is the UK’s only dual UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to nearly 1 million seabirds, including the largest colony of Atlantic puffins. You can see fulmars and gannets perched on the rocks, as well as grey seals swimming in the water nearby. St Kilda boasts dramatic and spectacular scenery, not to mention a magical and unique location. The abandoned village of Hirta is a reminder of when island life thrived in the past. 

Discover the magic of St Kilda 

Stornoway, Lewis

The largest town in the Outer Hebrides. Take a stroll along its beautiful harbour and explore lively cafés and independent shops. Enjoy a walk through the grounds of Lews Castle, sample the delicious seafood in one of its restaurants and get your toes tapping as you listen to live music in a cosy pub. 

Visit the Isle of Lewis 

Tarbert, Harris

Explore a village surrounded by mountains and white sandy beaches. Visit the Isle of Harris Distillery, galleries and crofting communities or admire the beautiful beaches of Luskentyre and Seilebost. 

Adventure to the Isle of Harris

Lochmaddy, North Uist

Explore this small coastal town by following the coastal paths and enjoy the rich wildlife that calls it home. Visit the Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre or walk along one of the many beautiful beaches. 

Discover North Uist

Eriskay

This peaceful island is the perfect place to slow down and immerse yourself in remarkable stories. Walk along Princes’ Beach, where Bonnie Prince Charlie first stepped on Scottish soil, or find out more about the story behind Whisky Galore. Reconnect with nature and feel the island breeze as you spend some time outdoors with the native Eriskay ponies. 

Plan your trip to Eriskay

Castlebay, Barra

Admire one of the most fascinating harbour views in the Outer Hebrides, with Kisimul Castle rising from the water. Climb up Heaval to enjoy incredible views of Barra or follow the causeway to Vatersay. Don’t forget that you can also see a plane landing on a beach in Barra! It is a unique and beautiful experience.  

Uncover the Isle of Barra