Eilean Siar

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Eilean Siar

Lewis | Harris | Berneray | North Uist | Benbecula | South Uist | Eriskay | Barra | Vatersay

Eilean Siar, also know as the Western Isles, is an island group off the West of Scotland separated from the Inner Hebrides and mainland Scotland by the waters of the Minch and the Little Minch. Scottish Gaelic is widely spoken in the Western Isles, however, there are areas where English is spoken by the majority.

A population of 27,684 live on the 14 inhabited islands and there are over 50 uninhabited. The islands were previously part of the Norse Kingdom for over 400 years before control was taken by clan chiefs, mainly MacLeods, MacDonalds, Mackenzies and MacNeils.  The Highland Clearances of the 19th century had a devastating effect on the islands and it is only recently that population has stopped declining.

The islands are served by regular ferries and there are three island airports.

Interestingly, 50% of Eilean Siar is now community-owned with around 75% of the population living on community owned land.

This island housing guide will help navigate the housing options available in all the inhabited  islands in the Eilean Siar; looking at what social housing is available, housing for sale, house plots for sale as well as opportunities to rent. Please click on the island where you are interested in finding a house.

All social housing stock has been transferred to the Hebridean Housing Partnership, please click here to apply for social housing.