Your Guide to the Outer Hebrides
The Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles, are one of Scotland’s most spectacular and remote island chains. Stretching over 130 miles along the Atlantic coast, the Outer Hebrides islands offer a rare blend of wild landscapes, rich Gaelic heritage, and warm island hospitality. They form part of the wider Hebridean archipelago - a diverse collection of islands that includes both the Inner and Outer Hebrides, each with its own character. You can learn more about the entire region in our Guide to the Hebridean Islands.
In this guide to the Outer Hebrides, you’ll discover which islands make up this remarkable chain, the best ways to travel here, and when to plan your visit. We’ll highlight the main towns, share travel tips, and point you towards more detailed guides on accommodation, camping, and exploring nearby Hebridean islands - so you can start planning your perfect island adventure.
Key Takeaways
The Outer Hebrides are a chain of over 100 islands, with around 15 inhabited.
Main islands include Lewis and Harris, North Uist, South Uist, Benbecula, Barra, and Vatersay.
Travel here by ferry or air – Hebridean Air Services offers inter-island flights, while CalMac operate ferries that connect the islands with the Scottish mainland
Best visiting months are May - July for daylight and calm weather, though each season has unique appeal.
Stornoway is the main town in the Outer Hebrides and the capital of Lewis and Harris
Relax on stunning beaches, explore historic sites, spot rare wildlife, and experience traditional island crafts.
Which islands make up the Outer Hebrides?
The Outer Hebrides islands form a long, narrow chain lying further out to sea than the Inner Hebrides. While over 100 islands are part of the group, only around 15 are inhabited.
The main inhabited islands include:
Lewis and Harris – technically one island, with Lewis in the north and Harris in the south. The Isle of Lewis is known for the Callanish Standing Stones and dramatic coastal cliffs, while Harris is famous for its white-sand beaches and Harris Tweed heritage.
North Uist – a haven for birdwatchers, with vast tidal sands, machair meadows, and rich wildlife.
Benbecula – centrally located, making it a perfect base for exploring the Uists; known for lochs, beaches, and a mix of Gaelic and Norse heritage.
South Uist – celebrated for its mountain views, fishing lochs, and strong Gaelic traditions.
Barra – Famous for its beach runway at Traigh Mhor, where scheduled flights land on the sand at low tide.
Vatersay – Known for its sweeping twin bays (Vatersay Bay and Bagh Siar) and for being the most southerly inhabited island in the Outer Hebrides.
Smaller inhabited islands, such as Eriskay and Berneray, are linked by causeways, while many of the uninhabited isles are protected nature reserves or archaeological sites.
When planning your trip, it’s useful to get a sense of the islands’ layout. An Outer Hebrides map gives you a clear picture of where Lewis and Harris, North and South Uist, Benbecula, Barra, and Vatersay sit within the chain, helping you visualise your journey from north to south.
How do you get to the Outer Hebrides?
If you’re wondering how to get to the Outer Hebrides, you have two main options:
By Air
The Outer Hebrides are accessible by air from the Scottish mainland, with flights arriving at Stornoway (Lewis), Benbecula, and Barra. From these main gateways, Hebridean Air Services connects the Hebridean islands with regular inter-island flights, making it easy to explore more in less time.
Flying between the islands not only saves hours of travel compared with ferry routes, but also offers spectacular aerial views of beaches, lochs, and rugged coastlines. Popular connections include:
Flights between Benbecula and Stornoway – linking the Uists with Lewis and Harris
Flights between Oban and Coll, Tiree, and Colonsay– serving the Inner Hebrides for onward island-hopping
Take a look at current flight schedules and book your flight with Hebridean Air Services today.
By Ferry
Ferries operated by CalMac (Caledonian MacBrayne) connect the Outer Hebrides with the Scottish mainland and with neighbouring islands. Routes vary by season, so it’s always worth checking the current timetable before travelling
Ullapool to Stornoway (Lewis)
Crossing time: ~2 hours 40 minutes
The main northern gateway to the Outer Hebrides, with multiple daily sailings year-round.
Oban to Castlebay (Barra)
Crossing time: ~4 hours 45 minutes
A spectacular southern route, arriving in the heart of Barra’s main village.
Mallaig to Lochboisdale (South Uist)
Crossing time: ~3 hours 30 minutes
Operates year-round, with scenic views past the Small Isles.
Oban to Lochboisdale (South Uist)
Crossing time: ~5 hours 10 minutes
Operates in winter only, complementing the Mallaig service.
What is the best month to visit the Outer Hebrides?
The best month to visit the Outer Hebrides depends on your travel style:
May & June – With long daylight hours, blooming machair meadows, and generally calmer weather, these months are perfect for nature lovers. Think camping in the Outer Hebrides, long cycling routes, and abundant wildlife watching.
July & August – Peak summer brings warmer weather for coastal walks and milder seas for wild swimming and a greater calendar of events, including Benbecula’s Eilean Dorcha Festival and the Hebridean Celtic Festival (HebCelt) in Stornoway. Ideal for pairing outdoor adventures with island culture.
September to February – Shorter days and wilder weather make this the quiet season, but it’s also your best chance to see the Northern Lights dancing over the islands. This is when many travellers choose a warm and welcoming hotel or guesthouse - explore our guide to accommodation in the Outer Hebrides to find your perfect cosy base.
What is the main town in the Outer Hebrides?
The main town is Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis. It’s the cultural and economic hub of the islands, with a working harbour, local shops, and a lively music scene. From here, you can explore Harris’s stunning beaches, visit the ancient Callanish Standing Stones, or head south through the island chain.
For a more central location with easy access to both northern and southern isles, Benbecula is a practical choice – especially if you’re combining flights with ferry travel.
What is There to do in the Outer Hebrides?
Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a full island-hopping adventure, the Outer Hebrides offer countless ways to experience their beauty and culture:
Relax on stunning beaches – From vast white sands to sheltered coves, the islands have some of the most beautiful coastlines in Scotland.
Step back in time at historic sites – Discover ancient standing stones, brochs, and other reminders of the islands’ long history.
Cycle or walk scenic routes – Enjoy quiet roads and trails that connect communities and reveal breathtaking views.
Look out for local wildlife – The islands are home to rare birds, marine life, and other fascinating species.
Experience traditional crafts – Learn about weaving, knitting, and other skills passed down through generations.
Get out on the water – Try kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, or simply watch the waves from the shore.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Outer Hebrides
Book early – Ferries and flights can fill up quickly in summer, especially during big events like the Hebridean Celtic Festival or Eilean Dorcha Festival.
Pack for all weathers – The weather can change fast, even in summer. Bring waterproofs, warm layers, and sturdy shoes so you’re ready for anything.
Plan for Sundays – In parts of Lewis and Harris, many shops, cafés, and attractions close on Sundays, so stock up on supplies and plan a quieter day.
Look after nature and wildlife – Keep your distance from animals, stick to paths where possible, and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code when camping or walking.
From wild Atlantic beaches to vibrant Gaelic culture, the Outer Hebrides offer a rare mix of natural beauty, history, and warm island hospitality. Whether you come for a few days or a few weeks, you’ll find each island has its own charm - and plenty of reasons to return. Now’s the time to start planning your trip and discover the magic of this remarkable island chain for yourself.
