Things to do & places to visit in The Hebrides, United Kingdom

This beautiful archipelago, where Scottish Gaelic is still spoken, is divided into the Inner and Outer Hebrides and stretches the length of Scotland's west coast. The most visited and largest of the Western Isles is the brooding Isle of Skye, a short ferry ride or bridge away from the mainland. Islay, home to prolific whisky production, is another gem. Highlights of the less visited Outer Isles include stark Lewis and the town of Stornoway, rugged Harris, with sandy beaches and tranquil Barra.

The Hebrides #41 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.49 based on 36.5k traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 21:48.

Top things to do (21)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Quiraing (2.867 reviews)
- Best hike on skye
Hiking Trails • Geologic Formations

These unique rock formations are a popular destination for hikers and climbers. See more..
5.0 Laphroaig Distillery (1.243 reviews)
- The Jewel of the 3 Distilleries Path
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Distilleries

For nearly 200 years a small team of dedicated islanders have worked here to create what is considered to be the most distinctive single malt in the world. Of course over time the people change, but our traditional methods, the ancient skills and absolute dedication to quality always remains. We would be proud if you make the journey to visit our home and you will be assured of the warmest of welcomes when you do. See more..
5.0 Luskentyre (1.121 reviews)
- Stunning beach
Beaches

On a par with the beaches in the Whitsundays, Australia. It is quite a long drive to the car park at the end of the road but well worth it for the stunning scenery. We visited on a sunny day in mid September and the car park was full so glad we did not attempt this in mid summer. See more..
5.0 Bruichladdich Distillery (1.114 reviews)
- Warehouse experience: must do!
Sunday: Distilleries

We are an innovative Islay distillery producing unpeated Bruichladdich, heavily peated Port Charlotte and super-heavily peated Octomore single malt whiskies. We use a wide range of barley types, including organic and bere, grown on a variety of terroirs including Islay. We also distill The Botanist gin. Mary at the Laddieshop will be glad to organise a tour of our distillery for you and the distilling team will happily answer any questions you may have. See more..
5.0 Isle of Staffa (485 reviews)
- Fantastic!
Islands

See the famous hexagonal rock columns, formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions. Follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, J M W Turner, Sir Walter Scott and William Wordsworth. Listen to the astonishing acoustics of Fingal’s Cave, which inspired Mendelssohn to compose his Hebrides Overture. Enjoy a puffin-spotting picnic on the top of the island in summer. Staffa is cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. See more..
5.0 Fingal’s Cave (136 reviews)
- Mesmerizing
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Caverns & Caves

Large cavern by the sea full of echoes and the sound of crashing ocean waves. See more..
4.5 Fairy Pools (2.890 reviews)
- Really good family walk
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Bodies of Water • Waterfalls

Freey to visit at any time, the Fairy Pools is magical place of outstanding natural beauty at the foot of the Cuillin mountains. The Fairy Pools is becoming increasingly popular so when you visit, please drive carefully on the single track roads, follow the parking enforcement notices and take all your litter away with you. There is a WC at the nearby Glenbrittle Campsite & Cafe along with some great coffee c/o the Cuillin Coffee Co. Thank you and we hope you enjoy your visit! N.B. The Fairy Pools carpark is owned by a separate community organisation called the Minginish Community Hall Association. The operation and maintenance of the Fairy Pools carpark has been leased to OATS and they set the parking charges: See more..
4.5 The Old Man of Storr (2.400 reviews)
- Steep climb in awful weather
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Geologic Formations

We went up on the strongest winds and rain I have ever felt. We couldn't see much but it was still worth it £3 parking (car park still building in progress) for 3 hrs, it only took us just over an hour. Looks like campervans will need to pay for roadside parking as there is a height limit on the parking they are building. Currently no facilities in area See more..
4.5 Neist Point (1.951 reviews)
- Must visit on one's Scotland visit
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

We were told Isle of Skye weather is always iffy - rain, overcast, dark, .. We were incredibly lucky - clear skies as far as the eyes could see. The landscape is breathtaking, you can stare at it for hours on without getting bored. Make the attempt to walk up to the lighthouse - the change of perspective is worth the effort. See more..
4.5 Kilt Rock (1.833 reviews)
- Just Gorgeous
Geologic Formations

This was one of my favorite places to visit on the Isle of Skye. The clear water and green hills are exactly how I pictured Scotland to be. Listening to the waterfall was very peaceful! There was a young Scotsman playing the bagpipes, it even added more to the ambience. It was very crowded the day we were there, you’ll have to wait to see the waterfall in the visitors lookout area. You’ll be able to hear the waterfall before you actually can see it. Definitely worth a visit. See more..
4.5 Callanish Standing Stones (1.676 reviews)
- Do not miss out Standing Stones II and III. Go in the evening.
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Ancient Ruins

This ancient monument is one of the most significant archaeological spots in Scotland's Outer Hebrides. See more..
4.5 Fairy Glen (1.285 reviews)
- Most magical spot on Skye
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas

The Fairy Glen is a unique and unusual landscape, a geological wonder on the Isle of Skye. It is situated between the villages of Sheader and Balnacnoc. See more..
4.5 Iona Abbey and Nunnery (1.061 reviews)
- Fascinating Historical Site with an Excellent Museum
Sunday: Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Iona Abbey is one of Scotland's most historic and sacred sites. Located on the Isle of Iona, just off the Isle of Mull, it was founded by St Columba and his Irish followers in AD 563. As a celebrated focus for Christian pilgrimage, Iona retains its spiritual atmosphere and remains an enduring symbol of worship. The abbey church was restored at the beginning of the 20th century, whilst work on restoring the living accommodation began in 1938, following the foundation of the Iona Community. Today, the Iona Community continues the tradition of worship first established by St Columba 1,450 years ago. See more..
4.5 The Oyster Shed (995 reviews)
- Excellent as ever
Sunday: Spent < 1 hour Farms

Opened our Farm shop in our premises in 2012. Customers can buy fresh oysters harvested daily. Other Skye Seafood available. We are not a restaurant. Just a simple shop with Takeaway, outdoor seating is provided. We have no toilet facilities or alcohol Licence. See more..
4.5 Ardbeg Distillery (969 reviews)
- Warehouse and committe tasting
Distilleries

We did both tastings and it amazed us the range of flavour we covered. Each tasting is not cheap but given the no. of drams we had and the opportunity to try things that cannot be bought, both tasting were well worth the price. Both guides were friendly and knowledgeable. We love the local insights/family story they both shared with us as it just adds to the whole experience. See more..
4.5 Tobermory Distillery & Visitor Centre (838 reviews)
- Informative and enjoyable way to spend an hour
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Distilleries • Visitor Centers

This was our first proper tasting experience, despite having visited around 25 distilleries over the last 31 years. Our guide Alex (easy for me to remember his name!) was personable, knowledgeable and a good communicator, disseminating information both on the tour and while we tasted the 4 whiskies. Those selections were great, comprising two peaty Ledaig offerings and two Tobermory unpeated ones which we tried first. As the designated driver I could only sample in extreme moderation but I learnt a lot even with that in mind and with no arm twisting I ended up buying the two peaty choices even though I always say I prefer unpeated. Just goes to show what a good tutor can achieve with a willing student! I’d highly recommend doing this Warehouse 1 experience whether you’re a novice or otherwise. Well worth the money. See more..
4.5 Claigan Coral Beach (770 reviews)
- Blissfull New Years Eve day stroll
Beaches

We came here on New Year's Eve day for a quiet walk. The car park is easy to find with plenty of spaces this time of year, however it was busier than expected. The weather was perfect, around 10 degrees and still with just enough breeze in the air to hold the midge down (apart from one tiny section where they were enjoying a little fly around!) The waters are so clear and the coral sand is beautiful. The black rocks against the white sand is magical, especially if you walk to the top and look down. Everyone we passed was very friendly with some well behaved dogs enjoying a run around together. Minimal litter had been left and thankfully we didnt see much dog waste that has been left like with other popular routes. It took around an hour and a half to walk there and back after slowly strolling along and stopping to watch a seal and take in the lovely fresh air amd wild views. Would definitely recommend coming here if you are on the Isle of Skye See more..
4.5 Bowmore Distillery (714 reviews)
- Bowmore's Finest Whisky and Staff
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Islay is a world-class destination in its own right, but for the Scotch whisky lover it is without rival. For those of you lucky enough to visit our wonderful island, a tour of the Bowmore Distillery is a must. It’s here, in Islay’s capital, that we’ve been making Bowmore Scotch whisky for almost two and half centuries. Rich in heritage and awash in expertise, our tours will give you a privileged insight into life behind the distillery gates, and you’ll see for yourself why so many people keep coming back to Bowmore. See more..
4.5 Duart Castle (711 reviews)
- Fantastic castle, stunning views, well worth visiting
Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 1, 2023 Spent 1-2 hours Castles

For over 700 years, Duart Castle, the seat of Clan Maclean, has dominated the view to the Sound of Mull and Loch Linnhe with its huge curtain walls and solid keep. Tour the Castle, explore the grounds and learn more about the Clan. Enjoy the ancient Keep, ghostly Dungeons, magnificent Banqueting Hall, quaint Edwardian State Rooms and breathtaking views from the Battlements. Duart Castle was featured in a number of Hollywood films such as Sean Connery's, Entrapment (1999), "When Eight Bells Toll" (1971) with Antony Hopkins and "I Know Where I'm Going" (1945). The Castle is open from April through to October every year and hosts a number of Weddings and Events throughout the summer months such as Outdoor Theatre, Military Re-enactments, Music, Storytelling, Birds of Prey and Scottish Pipers and Highland Dancers. Travel to Mull via the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Lochaline to Fishnish or from Oban to Craignure. Duart Castle is a 10 minute drive from Craignure. See more..
4.5 Calgary Bay (695 reviews)
- Beautiful Beach and Delicious Cafe
Beaches

Beautiful beach, interesting sculpture exhibition (outside) and a wonderful Cafe close by! We were staying 20 minutes from Calgary and we visited the beach and Cafe three times - the Cafe served delicious cakes and savoury light snacks and the farmshop sold the most delicious sausages (which we cooked and enjoyed at home). This Cafe is a must if you have visited the stunning beach. Golden sands and stunning surrouding views. Just beautiful. See more..
4.5 Skye Museum of Island Life (668 reviews)
- Don’t miss this fabulous wee museum
History Museums

We went early in the morning before it got to busy and had a fantastic time. We’re from Skye but it was still fabulous looking back at all the amazing items on display in this museum, takes a good couple of hours to see everything in the various buildings. Really authentic and telling the history of Skye in a great way, will definitely go back £5 per person, worth every penny, nice wee shop and coffee van as well. Plenty parking See more..
4.5 Bunnahabhain Distillery (558 reviews)
- Whisky flight on the sun deck overlooking crystal clear water and Jura
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Distilleries

One of our favourite distillery experiences. Booking late to visit Islay we were unable to do any tours but loved the opportunity to purchase a flight to drink out on the stunning deck overlooking the sound and Jura. Great to speak with the knowledgable staff who were keen to impart their knowledge. See more..
4.5 Isle of Harris Distillery (550 reviews)
- Week in Harris with friends ❤️
Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

The Isle of Harris Distillery is The Social Distillery, offering a warm welcome to all in the heart of Harris. We are open six days a week with regular tours, a public canteen offering fresh local produce and a shop full of local products as well as our own Isle of Harris Gin. See more..
4.5 Kilchoman Distillery (528 reviews)
- Great distillery, cafe and shop
Sunday: 9:45 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

Kilchoman Distillery is a family run, independently owned single malt whisky distillery on Islay. It was the first to be opened on the island in over 124 years and is currently the only distillery producing whisky entirely on the island from barley that is grown on Rockside Farm, malted, distilled, matured and bottled on site. It is the smallest distillery and offers regular tours throughout the day. A cafe serving light lunches, homemade cakes and fresh tea and coffee is also open during the hours of 10am - 4.45pm. Advanced bookings for tours are encouraged to avoid disappointment. See more..
4.5 Butt of Lewis Lighthouse (507 reviews)
- Beautiful
Lighthouses

We walked on the coastal path from the Eoropie Dunes car park along to the lighthouse. It was a stunning walk with the most incredible scenery, would 100% recommend - it was about 1 hour there and 1 hour return and worth every minute. The lighthouse was voted the windiest place in the UK, which we can definitely vouch for. We seen puffins & the most beautiful wildlife which was such a pleasure. See more..
4.5 Isle of Raasay Distillery (270 reviews)
- Great experience and tasting - highly recommend!
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Enjoy a guided whisky tasting tour through Isle of Raasay Distillery and into our tasting room where you’ll be offered a complementary dram of Isle of Raasay Single Malt or Isle of Raasay Gin. The Isle of Raasay Distillery welcomes visitors from around the globe with any level of whisky knowledge, from the curious to the connoisseur. As you pass the all-important copper pot stills, you will catch sight of the incredible view across to Skye, arguably the best from any Scottish distillery. The Isle of Raasay Distillery visitor centre also includes a well-stocked gift shop of whisky and distillery merchandise. Pick up something to remember your visit by or share your experience with friends and family back home. See more..
4.5 Fairy Pools (2.890 reviews)
- Really good family walk
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Bodies of Water • Waterfalls

Freey to visit at any time, the Fairy Pools is magical place of outstanding natural beauty at the foot of the Cuillin mountains. The Fairy Pools is becoming increasingly popular so when you visit, please drive carefully on the single track roads, follow the parking enforcement notices and take all your litter away with you. There is a WC at the nearby Glenbrittle Campsite & Cafe along with some great coffee c/o the Cuillin Coffee Co. Thank you and we hope you enjoy your visit! N.B. The Fairy Pools carpark is owned by a separate community organisation called the Minginish Community Hall Association. The operation and maintenance of the Fairy Pools carpark has been leased to OATS and they set the parking charges: See more..
4.5 The Old Man of Storr (2.400 reviews)
- Steep climb in awful weather
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Geologic Formations

We went up on the strongest winds and rain I have ever felt. We couldn't see much but it was still worth it £3 parking (car park still building in progress) for 3 hrs, it only took us just over an hour. Looks like campervans will need to pay for roadside parking as there is a height limit on the parking they are building. Currently no facilities in area See more..
4.5 Neist Point (1.951 reviews)
- Must visit on one's Scotland visit
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

We were told Isle of Skye weather is always iffy - rain, overcast, dark, .. We were incredibly lucky - clear skies as far as the eyes could see. The landscape is breathtaking, you can stare at it for hours on without getting bored. Make the attempt to walk up to the lighthouse - the change of perspective is worth the effort. See more..
4.5 Kilt Rock (1.833 reviews)
- Just Gorgeous
Geologic Formations

This was one of my favorite places to visit on the Isle of Skye. The clear water and green hills are exactly how I pictured Scotland to be. Listening to the waterfall was very peaceful! There was a young Scotsman playing the bagpipes, it even added more to the ambience. It was very crowded the day we were there, you’ll have to wait to see the waterfall in the visitors lookout area. You’ll be able to hear the waterfall before you actually can see it. Definitely worth a visit. See more..