About the Isle of Barra

The Isle of Barra is an island located in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, with a population of around 1,200 people.

Despite its small size, the island has a rich history and culture, as well as a unique natural landscape.

The history of the Isle of Barra

The Isle of Barra has been inhabited for thousands of years. It is thought to have been first settled by the Picts, an ancient indigenous people who lived in what is now Scotland.  It has also been home to Celts and Vikings.

From the Middle Ages through to the end of the 20th Century the island was largely owned by the Chief of the Clan MacNeil and Kisimul Castle, which sits in the bay at Castlebay, is the ancestral home of the Clan.

The MacNeils of Barra are reputed to be of Irish descent from Niall of the Nine Hostages, high King of Ireland and a relative of St Columba.

Legend has it one the first MacNeil to control the island won it in a contest.  The challenge was to swim to the island and whoever’s hand touched the shore first would win Barra.

As both men approached the island MacNeil was behind and he is said to have taken his dagger out, cut off one of his hands and thrown it to the shore.

Today, Barra is largely owned by the Scottish government with an option for community ownership should the islanders choose this.

Barra is known as the ‘Jewel of the Hebrides’ with its combination of rugged coastline on the east side and long white Atlantic beaches on the west side.  It is also home to a rich variety of wildlife from golden eagles to basking sharks.

Getting the island is also relatively easy with a regular flight from Glasgow to the island’s world-famous beach airport or ferries from both Oban and Eriskay.

The main village is Castlebay where you can find hotels, cafes and the post office.

The population of the island tends to swell in the summer months as it has become an increasingly popular tourist destinations for those wishing to escape the pressures of mainland life.