About Eriskay

Things to do

Wildlife

Admire the diverse wildlife. Eriskay Ponies, Otters, Dolphins, Seals and Basking Sharks are just some of the wildlife encountered around Eriskay. South Uist is also a bird-watchers paradise with golden eagles, corncrakes, short-eared owls and many more.

Things to see

Climb the gentle hills, Ben Scrien (609 ft) and Ben Stack (403 ft), and take in the unsurpassed views. The Eriskay football pitch is one of seven of the world’s most unique places to play football, as recognised by FIFA. Visit Eriskay’s most famous beach, Prince Charlie’s Bay where it is said Prince Charlie first made landfall in Scotland. Netty’s tree was also Scottish tree of the year 2018.

Things to do

Visit the local pub, Am Politician, named after the famous ship immortalised in Compton MacKenzie’s “Whisky Galore.” Why not play a round of golf at Askernish Golf Course, South Uist designed by the famous Tom Morris. Arrange fishing/wildlife trips with local guides and for the ultra adventurous, trips to the Island of St Kilda can be arranged. 

Neighbouring Islands

Barra

Barra is the most southerly island in the Outer Hebrides and is just 40 mins away by ferry making it perfect for a day trip. Visit Kismul Castle, the beaches of Vatersay or climb Heaval. Barra also has the only tidal beach runway in the world.

The Uists

The Uist’s are a large collection of islands linked by causeways. Great for bird watchers and fishing, they are a 5 minute drive from Eriskay. Beinn Mhor and Hecla make for a longer hill walk, although many are rewarded by the sightings of Eagles from the summit. The Askernish Golf course, designed by Tom Morris is also within a 20 minute drive.

Lewis & Harris

These island can be visited in a long day trip from Eriskay. Visit the world famous Luskentyre beach and for some history, the standing stones of Callanish, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village or Dun Carloway Broch.

History of Eriskay

1745: Bonnie Prince Charlie first touches Scottish soil on Eriskay’s shore’s

1838: Refugees from Highland Clearances increase Eriskay’s population

1903: St Michael’s Church built

1935: Eriskay’s first road built

1941: SS Politician strikes rocks, spilling its cargo of whisky

2001: Eriskay Causeway to South Uist opened

2003: Vehicle and passenger ferry service to Barra commences

2006: Community buy-out completed

2009: Major improvements to Acarsaid Mhòr harbour

SS Politician relics, as seen in Am Politician pub

Gallery

Eriskay Self Catering, Aird na Haun