Castlebay is the main village and ferry port of the island of Barra. It was once a thriving Herring centre but alas these times have now gone. The entrance to the harbour is covered by the old Castle Kisimul, home to the chieftain of clan MacNeil.

The village with it's shops and services is the nerve centre of the community where all that happens or is about to happen is known from there.

The island has an airstrip further up the coast, a little way from the village, with the unusual feature of being on the beach, thus landings and departures depend very much on the tides. The beaches by the way, are beautiful with golden sands in an unspoilt condition.Fishing, golf, walking, hillclimbing and cycling plus a popular festival are the main attractions of a very attractive island.

At Cille Bharra, a twelfth century church, with a copy ancient stone of Norse/ Celtic origins, has been restored for visitor viewing. other places of interest are Craigston Museum with it's thatched roof, Dualchas Heritage Centre and the Barra golf course at Grean Head among others.

For eats the hotels, restaurants and cafes all provide good local fayre.
Hotel, guesthouse and camping sites are available.

Travel is by bus or car
For the tourists from abroad the nearest airport to Barra is Glasgow.

Ferry service from the mainland is at Oban. Glasgow has a connection with Oban by rail, bus or coach.

Comments or photos to improve this page most welcome.

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