Barra Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
island in Outer Hebrides, Scotland, UK
About Barra
The resident population was about 1200 in 2011; two-thirds of them speak Gaelic but everyone speaks English. Barra is predominately Catholic, so there are fewer restrictions on Sunday activities (e.g. shop opening) than on the islands further north. There are also some wayside shrines, unusual for Scotland. Castlebay gets its name because Kisimul Castle, the seat of Clan MacNeil, sits on a rock out in the bay. (And Kisimul in turn is from Gaelicciosamulmeaning "castle island", so it's all very logical.) A Clan McNeil gathering takes place on Barra every two years, reuniting their diaspora from around the world.
Top Attractions in Barra
Explore the best things to see and do in Barra:
- ★Barra Golf Club
- ★Barra Heritage Centre
- ★Chapel of Cille Bharra
- ★Kisimul Castle
Where to Eat in Barra
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Cafe Kisimul
Where to Stay in Barra
- 🏨Bayview
- 🏨Castlebay Hotel
- 🏨Craigard Hotel
- 🏨Dunard Hostel
- 🏨Heathbank
- 🏨Isle of Barra Beach Hotel
Barra Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 11 sections including: