Benbecula facts for kids
| Meaning of name | pennyland of the fords |
|---|---|
| OS grid reference | NF807525 |
| Coordinates | 57°26′46″N 7°19′12″W / 57.446°N 7.320°W |
| Physical geography | |
| Island group | Uists and Barra |
| Area | 8,203 hectares (31.7 sq mi) |
| Area rank | 16 |
| Highest elevation | Ruaval 124 metres (407 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Country | Scotland |
| Council area | Na h-Eileanan Siar |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 1,219 |
| Largest settlement | Balivanich |
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Benbecula (Scottish Gaelic: Beinn nam Fadhla) is a small island located in the Outer Hebrides. These islands are in the Atlantic Ocean, off the west coast of Scotland. Benbecula is part of the area managed by the Western Isles Council.
In 2001, about 1,249 people lived on Benbecula. The island is known for having a mix of different Christian groups. This is a bit unique for the Highlands and Islands area, which often has a different religious makeup.
Contents
Exploring Benbecula Island
Benbecula is a fascinating island. It has a unique landscape and a rich history. The island is connected to other nearby islands.
Where is Benbecula?
Benbecula is one of the many islands in the Outer Hebrides. This chain of islands stretches along Scotland's west coast. It is located between the islands of North Uist and South Uist.
Connecting Islands
Benbecula is linked to North Uist by a causeway. A causeway is a raised road across water. It is also connected to South Uist by another causeway. This makes it easy to travel between these islands.
Life on Benbecula
The main settlement on Benbecula is Balivanich. This is where many people live and work. The island's capital is Uachdar.
Population and Culture
The island has a small but strong community. Many people speak Scottish Gaelic. This is a traditional language of Scotland. The island's name, Beinn nam Fadhla, is Gaelic. It means "pennyland of the fords."
Island Landscape
Benbecula has a varied landscape. You can find beautiful beaches and many small lochs. Lochs are like lakes in Scotland. The highest point on the island is Ruaval. It is 124 meters (407 feet) tall.
History of Benbecula
Benbecula has a long and interesting past. People have lived on the island for thousands of years. There are signs of ancient settlements.
Old Castles and Homes
You can find old ruins on Benbecula. One example is Borve Castle. It reminds us of earlier times. There are also old, abandoned houses. These show how life used to be on the island.
Flora MacDonald's Story
Benbecula is linked to the famous Flora MacDonald. She was a Scottish heroine. She helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape after a battle in 1746. She helped him hide on the island.
Nature and Wildlife
The island is home to many different plants and animals. Its unique environment supports various species.
Island Ecosystem
Benbecula has a mix of habitats. These include sandy beaches, rocky shores, and freshwater lochs. This variety helps many different creatures thrive. You might see various birds and marine life.
Fishing and Farming
Fishing has always been important to the islanders. You can still see fish cages in the waters around Benbecula. Farming also plays a role in the island's economy.
See also
In Spanish: Benbecula para niños
Images for kids
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Beach (Cula Bay) on the west coast of Benbecula looking towards South Uist
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Islands in Loch Uisgebhagh. Bearran is at top right, Orasaigh, middle right and the peninsula of Meanais at top left.
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Loch Ba Una
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Loch Dùn Mhurchaidh; Dun Buidhe is on the larger island in the distance.
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Borve Castle
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View over Loch Langabhat
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Flora MacDonald in 1747
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Abandoned house on Benbecula
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Fish cages
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