North Uist, Outer Hebrides, Scotland



(Image above illustrates a traditional, thatched cottage on North Uist.)

This evening, I am posting information on North Uist which sits in the centre of of the chain of islands located off Scotland's N.W. coast and which is collectively known as the Outer Hebrides.

Summary information on North Uist:
  • Population:1271
  • Percentage of population which speak Gaelic: 61pct.
  • Religion: The majority of the population (54.4pct) are Presbyterian (Church of Scotland).
  • Principal community: Lochmaddy which is also a ferry port.
  • Area: 118 square miles.
  • Access from mainland: Options include(a) by air or ferry via Barra to the south (b) by air or ferry via Harris (ferry only) or Lewis to the north or (c) via ferry from Skye to Lochmaddy.
  • North Uist boasts extensive wildlife and sandy beaches plus peat bogs and lochans (small lochs or lakes).
  • Wildlife includes otters,the rare corncrake (bird) and large colonies of grey seals.
  • There are several prehistoric sites including the huge chambered burial cairn of Barpa Langass. 
  • There are hotels and other accommodations for visitors.
 Barpa Langass, the remains of a Neolithic (approx.5000 years old) well preserved passage tomb with internal polygonal chamber.

 Landscape view from Pobull Fhinn

Pobull Fhinn stone circle, possibly 5000 years old.

 North Uist landscape






 Dun an Sticir Crannog which dates from approx. 2000 years ago.

 Peat cutter at work. Peat is a free fuel resource for the locals.

© Nigel P Cole/Catswhiskerstours Limited

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