Things to do in Hebrides
Discover the best attractions and experiences Hebrides has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient sites and castles that tell the Hebrides' long history.
Callanish Standing Stones
A prehistoric stone circle on Lewis that dominates the landscape and offers a sense of ancient ceremony.
Dunvegan Castle
Seat of the MacLeod clan on Skye with historic rooms and lush gardens facing Loch Dunvegan.
Iona Abbey
Ancient monastery on Iona, central to early Scottish Christian history.
Kilmuir Old Church
Iconic whitewashed ruin on Skye near Portree reflecting Gaelic heritage.
Kisimul Castle
Sea fortress perched on a rocky island at Castlebay, Barra, with dramatic views.
Museums
Dive into local history, folklore and island life in compact, informative spaces.
Lews Castle Museum (Stornoway)
Museum exploring Lewis and Harris history housed in the refurbished Lews Castle.
The Skye Museum of Island Life
A living history museum in Kilmuir showing traditional island life.
The Museum of the Isles (Armadale, Skye)
Exhibits on MacLeod history and Skye’s island culture at Armadale Castle.
Taigh Chearsabhagh (North Uist)
Independent arts centre with local exhibitions and creative works.
Religious Monuments
From ancient sanctuaries to cliffside chapels, faith has shaped island life.
Iona Abbey
Ancient monastery on Iona, central to early Scottish Christianity.
Kilmuir Old Church
Historic church ruin in Skye with a notable Gaelic graveyard.
Rodel Church
Iconic 17th-century church on Harris with scenic coastal surrounds.
National & Theme Parks
The Hebrides offer dramatic landscapes, though formal national parks are limited.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Hebrides. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Base yourself in vibrant communities that act as gateways to island adventures.
Portree (Isle of Skye)
Colorful harbor town and handy base for Cuillin adventures.
Stornoway (Isle of Lewis)
Main town with ferry connections, lively culture and eateries.
Tarbert (Isle of Harris)
Gateway to Harris with coastal scenery and beaches nearby.
Castlebay (Isle of Barra)
Harbor village with a friendly vibe and access to Kisimul Castle.
Free Things to Do
Nature walks, beaches and viewpoints are free delights across the islands.
Luskentyre Beach (Harris)
Long sandy beach with turquoise water and dramatic dunes.
Quiraing Walk (Isle of Skye)
Iconic loop hike with otherworldly cliffs and views.
Old Man of Storr viewpoint
A famous rock formation offering panoramic isle views.
Portree Harbour stroll
Colorful waterfront with boats, shops and viewpoints.
Gastronomy
Sea-salted delicacies and island spirits await in harbor towns and villages.
Talisker Distillery (Isle of Skye)
Visit a famed distillery for a glimpse of its whisky-making.
Isle of Harris Distillery (Tarbert)
Gin and whisky experiences from Harris's volcanic landscape.
Stornoway black pudding sample
Try the island’s renowned black pudding as part of a meal.
Fresh seafood at Harris & Skye harbours
Enjoy seafood straight from the boats at local harbours.
Nightlife
Quiet, traditional and cozy pubs, with occasional live music and ceilidhs.
Pubs in Stornoway
Local pubs offer Gaelic songs and a friendly vibe.
Portree pubs with live music
Seasonal music sessions and casual ceilidh nights.
Entertainment
Cultural events and centres showcase contemporary and traditional Hebridean arts.
Hebridean Celtic Festival (Stornoway)
Vibrant festival celebrating music and culture.
Taigh Chearsabhagh events
Gallery and events space hosting exhibitions and cinema.
Sports
Active outdoor adventures at sea and on the islands' rugged terrain.
Cuillin Ridge hike (Isle of Skye)
Daring mountain crossing with alpine scenery.
Sea kayaking around Skye and Harris
Paddle coastal waters and sea caves with guides.
Wildlife boat trips
Boat tours to spot seals, porpoises and seabirds.
Off the Track
Hidden corners to slow down and connect with island life.
Dark Sky stargazing (Harris)
Experience remarkable dark skies ideal for stargazing.
Boat trip to the Monach Islands for birdlife
Day trips to the Monach Islands for seabird colonies.
Hidden beaches of Barra
Explore remote beaches with pristine sands and clear waters.