Please check this page regularly for local news and updates in the Outer Hebrides. We update the page regularly and aim to share on our Facebook and Twitter channels on a Monday evening.
You can also pop into Welcome Points and iCentre throughout the islands to get local information.
Our two messages to ensure you have a great holiday is to plan ahead and follow our visitor PLACE code.
Week commencing 4 September 2023
TRAVEL
Ferries
Please check your CalMac ferry service status or download their status App - ferries can, on occasions, be cancelled at short notice. CalMac website: www.calmac.co.uk
Mallaig (MAL)/Oban (OBA) - Lochboisdale (LBO) changes
UIG HARBOUR CLOSURE 2023
Please note the Uig Harbour Closures in 2023 which will affect some of our ferry services. Uig Harbour in Skye will close for planned upgrade works from 30 October - 11 December 2023. This will affect Tarbert (Harris) and Lochmaddy (North Uist) ferry services in particular with timetable changes to accommodate the service changes on the Stornoway, Lochboisdale and Sound of Harris ferries. More information is detailed here.
Flights
Check Hial airports for Loganair flight status.
ACCOMMODATION
It is really really busy right now and there is limited availability. You can check our Late Availability Page, or do an availability search on our Plan Your Trip section on each webpage or an availability search on VisitScotland.
Please ensure you book your Outer Hebrides accommodation before you travel.
FOOD AND DRINK
The islands are still in economic recovery from the pandemic and as a result some areas, including Harris and Uist, have a limited choice of places to eat and drink. Please plan ahead and check current opening hours online to avoid disappointment. Check out our new Taste of the Outer Hebrides EBOOK.
BUSES
See timetables and contact details for service providers – please check terms of carriage for pets and bulky items before travel.
WEATHER
Keep an eye on the weather forecast as it can change very quickly! You can check it here.
WHATS ON
Our colleagues at VisitScotland have compiled a Whats On guide for this week for the Outer Hebrides.
For the larger events head over to our Whats On page. There are lots of local events and the best way to find out about them is to visit the local Welcome Points or iCentre.
HEBRIDEAN WAY ROUTE DIVERSIONS
Please be aware there are some route diversions and advisories on the walking route:
LOCAL NEWS
It is worth checking local news for information:
Hebrides News (Outer Hebrides)
Guth Bharraigh (covers Barra and Vatersay)
We Love Stornoway (covers Lewis and Harris)
Stornoway Gazette (Outer Hebrides)
Am Paipear (Uist)
CRUISE
For information about cruise ships visiting our Stornoway click here. If you require further information, please contact Stornoway Port Authority.
SUNDAY IN THE OUTER HEBRIDES
Sunday tends to be a quiet day in the Outer Hebrides.
In the northern islands most shops, cafes and attractions are closed. In the southern islands there will be some shops, cafes and attractions open.
On all islands there is no bus service on a Sunday, but hotels are open everywhere and you can get food and drink served.
Lots of questions answered and what to expect when you are here.
