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List of Inner Hebrides facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Hebridesmap
The Hebrides. The Outer Hebrides lie to the west, with the Inner Hebrides (in red) closer to the mainland of Scotland in the east.
North Cuillin from Portree
The Cuillin ridge from Portree harbour, Skye

This article is about the Inner Hebrides, a group of islands and small rocky islets called skerries. They are located off the west coast of mainland Scotland. There are 36 islands in this island chain where people live. The biggest and most populated ones are Islay, Mull, and Skye.

All the islands off Scotland's west coast are known as the Hebrides. The Inner Hebrides are separated from the Outer Hebrides by two stretches of water: The Minch in the north and the Sea of the Hebrides in the south. The Inner Hebrides are split into two groups by a place called Ardnamurchan. Each group is managed by a different local government.

The northern Inner Hebrides, which include Skye, the Small Isles, and the Summer Isles, are part of the Highland council area. The southern group, including Islay, Jura, the Slate Islands, and Gigha, belong to the Argyll and Bute council area.

In the past, the Hebrides were a strong Scottish Gaelic-speaking area. In 1921, more than half the people on most of these islands, like Skye, Mull, and Islay, could speak Gaelic. However, today, fewer people speak Gaelic in the Inner Hebrides. In 2001, only Skye (31%) and Tiree (48%) had more than 25% of their residents speaking Gaelic. Other islands like Mull, Jura, Gigha, and Coll had less than 15%.

Today, the economy of these islands mainly relies on tourism. Other important activities include crofting (small-scale farming), regular farming, fishing, and making whisky. The islands face strong winds and tides from the sea. Because of this, there are many lighthouses to help ships navigate safely.

There are different ways to describe what counts as part of the Hebrides. The Collins Encyclopedia of Scotland says the Inner Hebrides are "east of The Minch." This would include all islands near the coast. Some islands are in sea lochs, like Eilean Bàn and Eilean Donan. They might not always be called "Hebridean," but they are included here for simplicity.

What do the Island Names Mean?

Many island names come from the Scottish Gaelic language. Some words are used often.

  • The ending ay, aigh, or aidh usually comes from the Norse word øy, meaning "island."
  • Eilean (or eileanan for plural) also means "island."
  • Beag and mòr (or bheag and mhòr) mean "little" and "big." You often see them together.
  • Sgeir means "skerry." This often refers to a rock or rocks that are covered by water at high tide.
  • Dubh means "black."
  • Dearg means "red."
  • Glas means "grey" or "green."
  • Orasaigh comes from the Norse word Örfirirsey, which means "tidal" or "ebb island." This means it's an island you can reach at low tide.

Islands Where People Live

Clachan Bridge
The Clachan Bridge, Seil, also known as the "Bridge Over the Atlantic"
Eilean Donan
Eilean Donan castle
MausoleumAtHarrisWithRumCullins(LisaJ)Apr2006
The Bullough mausoleum with the Rùm Cullin in the distance
Tiree, spotted house
A restored traditional house on Tiree
Kilarrow round church
Bowmore, Islay with its distinctive round church
TobermoryMull
Tobermory harbour, Mull

In 2001, 18,257 people lived on the Inner Hebrides. By the 2011 census, this number had grown to 18,948. The highest mountains on these islands have names from both Gaelic and Old Norse. This shows how important both cultures were in the past. However, there isn't much archaeological evidence from the Viking period in the Early Historic times.

In the Outer Hebrides, all inhabited islands are connected by roads. But in the Inner Hebrides, only four islands are connected to the mainland by road.

  • The Clachan Bridge connects Argyll to Seil. It was designed by Thomas Telford and built in 1792.
  • Skye has been connected to Kyle of Lochalsh by the Skye Bridge since 1995.
  • Danna is connected to the Tayvallich peninsula in Argyll by a stone causeway.
  • Tiny Eilean Donan, famous for its castle, might have been connected to the mainland as early as the 13th century. The arched bridge used today was built in the early 1900s.
Island Gaelic name Group Area (ha) Population Highest point Height (m)
Canna Canaigh Small Isles &&&&&&&&&&&01130.&&&&&01,130 &&&&&&&&&&&&&012.&&&&&012 Càrn a' Ghaill &&&&&&&&&&&&0210.&&&&&0210
Coll Cola Mull &&&&&&&&&&&07685.&&&&&07,685 &&&&&&&&&&&&0195.&&&&&0195 Ben Hogh &&&&&&&&&&&&0104.&&&&&0104
Colonsay Colbhasa Islay &&&&&&&&&&&04074.&&&&&04,074 &&&&&&&&&&&&0124.&&&&&0124 Carnan Eoin &&&&&&&&&&&&0104.&&&&&0104
Danna Danna Islay &&&&&&&&&&&&0315.&&&&&0315 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&01.&&&&&01 Cruiadh Bharr &&&&&&&&&&&&&054.&&&&&054
Easdale Eilean Èisdeal Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&&020.&&&&&020 &&&&&&&&&&&&&059.&&&&&059 &&&&&&&&&&&&&038.&&&&&038
Eigg Eige Small Isles &&&&&&&&&&&03049.&&&&&03,049 &&&&&&&&&&&&&083.&&&&&083 An Sgurr &&&&&&&&&&&&0393.&&&&&0393
Eilean Bàn An t-Eilean Bàn Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&&&02.4000002.4 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&00.&&&&&00 &10000000000000006000000c. 6
Eilean dà Mhèinn Eilean dà Mhèinn Knapdale &&&&&&&&&&&&&&03.&&&&&03 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&01.&&&&&01 &&&&&&&&&&&&&016.&&&&&016
Eilean Donan Eilean Donnain Loch Duich &&&&&&&&&&&&&&01.&&&&&01 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&00.&&&&&00 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&03.&&&&&03
Eilean Shona Eilean Seona Loch Moidart &&&&&&&&&&&&0525.&&&&&0525 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&02.&&&&&02 Beinn a' Bhàillidh &&&&&&&&&&&&0265.&&&&&0265
Eilean Tioram Eilean Tioram North Highland &&&&&&&&&&&&&&02.&&&&&02 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&06.&&&&&06 &&&&&&&&&&&&&010.&&&&&010
Eriska Aoraisge Loch Linnhe &&&&&&&&&&&&0310.&&&&&0310 &10000000000000000000000? Ceann Garbh &&&&&&&&&&&&&047.&&&&&047
Erraid Eilean Earraid Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&0187.&&&&&0187 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&06.&&&&&06 Cnoc Mòr &&&&&&&&&&&&&075.&&&&&075
Gigha Giogha Islay &&&&&&&&&&&01395.&&&&&01,395 &&&&&&&&&&&&0163.&&&&&0163 Creag Bhàn &&&&&&&&&&&&0100.&&&&&0100
Gometra Gòmastra Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&0425.&&&&&0425 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&02.&&&&&02 &&&&&&&&&&&&0155.&&&&&0155
Isle of Ewe Eilean Iùbh North Highland &&&&&&&&&&&&0309.&&&&&0309 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&07.&&&&&07 Creag Streap &&&&&&&&&&&&&072.&&&&&072
Iona Ì Chaluim Chille Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&0877.&&&&&0877 &&&&&&&&&&&&0177.&&&&&0177 Dùn Ì &&&&&&&&&&&&0101.&&&&&0101
Islay Ìle Islay &&&&&&&&&&061956.&&&&&061,956 &&&&&&&&&&&03228.&&&&&03,228 Beinn Bheigeir &&&&&&&&&&&&0491.&&&&&0491
Jura Diùra Islay &&&&&&&&&&036692.&&&&&036,692 &&&&&&&&&&&&0196.&&&&&0196 Beinn an Òir &&&&&&&&&&&&0785.&&&&&0785
Kerrera Cearrara Firth of Lorn &&&&&&&&&&&01214.&&&&&01,214 &&&&&&&&&&&&&034.&&&&&034 Carn Breugach &&&&&&&&&&&&0189.&&&&&0189
Lismore Lios Mòr Firth of Lorn &&&&&&&&&&&02351.&&&&&02,351 &&&&&&&&&&&&0192.&&&&&0192 Barr Mòr &&&&&&&&&&&&0127.&&&&&0127
Luing Luinn Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&01430.&&&&&01,430 &&&&&&&&&&&&0195.&&&&&0195 Binneinn Furachail &&&&&&&&&&&&&087.&&&&&087
Lunga Lunga Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&0254.&&&&&0254 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&00.&&&&&00 Bidean na h-Iolaire &&&&&&&&&&&&&098.&&&&&098
Muck Eilean nam Muc Small Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&0559.&&&&&0559 &&&&&&&&&&&&&027.&&&&&027 Beinn Airein &&&&&&&&&&&&0137.&&&&&0137
Mull Muile Mull &&&&&&&&&&087535.&&&&&087,535 &&&&&&&&&&&02800.&&&&&02,800 Ben More &&&&&&&&&&&&0966.&&&&&0966
Oronsay Orasaigh Islay &&&&&&&&&&&&0543.&&&&&0543 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&08.&&&&&08 Beinn Orasaigh &&&&&&&&&&&&&093.&&&&&093
Raasay Ratharsair Skye &&&&&&&&&&&06231.&&&&&06,231 &&&&&&&&&&&&0161.&&&&&0161 Dùn Caan &&&&&&&&&&&&0444.&&&&&0444
Rona Rònaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&0930.&&&&&0930 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&03.&&&&&03 Meall Acairseidh &&&&&&&&&&&&0125.&&&&&0125
Rùm Rùm Small Isles &&&&&&&&&&010463.&&&&&010,463 &&&&&&&&&&&&&022.&&&&&022 Askival &&&&&&&&&&&&0812.&&&&&0812
Sanday Sandaigh Small Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&0184.&&&&&0184 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&09.&&&&&09 Tallabric &&&&&&&&&&&&&059.&&&&&059
Scalpay Sgalpaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&02483.&&&&&02,483 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&04.&&&&&04 Mullach na Càrn &&&&&&&&&&&&0396.&&&&&0396
Seil Saoil Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&01329.&&&&&01,329 &&&&&&&&&&&&0551.&&&&&0551 Meall Chaise &&&&&&&&&&&&0146.&&&&&0146
Shuna Siuna Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&0451.&&&&&0451 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&03.&&&&&03 Druim na Dubh Ghlaic &&&&&&&&&&&&&090.&&&&&090
Skye An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Skye &&&&&&&&&0165625.&&&&&0165,625 &&&&&&&&&&010008.&&&&&010,008 Sgurr Alasdair &&&&&&&&&&&&0993.&&&&&0993
Soay Sòdhaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&01036.&&&&&01,036 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&01.&&&&&01 Beinn Bhreac &&&&&&&&&&&&0141.&&&&&0141
Tanera Mòr Tannara Mòr Summer Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&0310.&&&&&0310 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&04.&&&&&04 Meall Mòr &&&&&&&&&&&&0124.&&&&&0124
Tiree Tiriodh Mull &&&&&&&&&&&07834.&&&&&07,834 &&&&&&&&&&&&0653.&&&&&0653 Ben Hynish &&&&&&&&&&&&0141.&&&&&0141
Ulva Ulbha Mull &&&&&&&&&&&01990.&&&&&01,990 &&&&&&&&&&&&&011.&&&&&011 Beinn Chreagach &&&&&&&&&&&&0313.&&&&&0313

Some islands, like Lunga in the Firth of Lorn, Eilean Bàn, and Eilean Donan, had a few residents in 2001. However, by 2011, no one was officially living there. Other islands, such as Castle Stalker, Eilean Horrisdale, Eilean Loain, and Inch Kenneth, are counted as inhabited islands for statistics. But they had no regular residents in either the 2001 or 2011 censuses.

Islands Where No One Lives Anymore

Caraislandaerial
Cara from the air

There are 43 uninhabited Inner Hebrides islands that are larger than 30 hectares (about 74 acres). We don't always know exactly when the smaller islands were last lived on. But most of the islands listed here probably had people living on them at some point. This includes during the Neolithic (New Stone Age), Iron Age, Early Historic period, or Norse times.

Many of Scotland's remote islands were abandoned in the 1800s and 1900s. Some had been lived on continuously since prehistoric times. People once thought these places were self-sufficient for farming. But later, both islanders and outsiders felt that remote islands lacked modern services.

Some of these islands still play a part in modern culture. Staffa became famous in the late 1700s after Sir Joseph Banks visited. He and his friends praised the amazing basalt columns, especially the island's main sea cave. Banks renamed it "Fingal's Cave." Many famous people visited Staffa later, including Felix Mendelssohn. His Hebrides Overture made the island even more famous.

During the Second World War, Gruinard Island was used for a biological warfare test by British scientists. The British government wanted to see how vulnerable Britain was to attack. They also explored the possibility of attacking Germany using anthrax.

It can be tricky to define some islands. For example, some maps show Lunga as one island. But at high tide, it becomes one inhabited island and many small, uninhabited tidal islets. Another example is Eilean Mòr in Loch Dunvegan. It connects with nearby Eilean Dubh and Garay Island at low tide.

Island Gaelic name Group Area (ha) Last inhabited Highest point Height (m)
Calbha Beag Calbha Beag Eddrachillis Bay &&&&&&&&&&&&&031.&&&&&031 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&041.&&&&&041
Calbha Mor Calbha Mòr Eddrachillis Bay &&&&&&&&&&&&&070.&&&&&070 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&067.&&&&&067
Calve Island Eilean Chailbhe Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&&072.&&&&&072 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&020.&&&&&020
Cara Cara Gigha &&&&&&&&&&&&&066.&&&&&066 1940s &&&&&&&&&&&&&056.&&&&&056
Càrna Càrna Loch Sunart &&&&&&&&&&&&0213.&&&&&0213 1980s Cruachan Chàrna &&&&&&&&&&&&0169.&&&&&0169
Eileach an Naoimh Eileach an Naoimh Garvellachs &&&&&&&&&&&&&056.&&&&&056 10th century &&&&&&&&&&&&&080.&&&&&080
Eilean an Ròin Mòr Eilean an Ròin Mòr North Highland &&&&&&&&&&&&&033.&&&&&033 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&063.&&&&&063
Eilean Dubh Mòr An t-Eilean Dubh Mòr Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&&065.&&&&&065 No census records &&&&&&&&&&&&&053.&&&&&053
Eilean Fladday Eilean Fhladaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&0137.&&&&&0137 1970s &&&&&&&&&&&&&039.&&&&&039
Eilean Horrisdale Eilean Thòireasdal North Highland &&&&&&&&&&&&&032.&&&&&032 20th century Carn Garbh &&&&&&&&&&&&&038.&&&&&038
Eilean Ighe Eilean Ighe Sound of Arisaig &&&&&&&&&&&&&035.&&&&&035 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&020.&&&&&020
Eilean Macaskin Eilean MhicAsgain Loch Craignish &&&&&&&&&&&&&050.&&&&&050 1880s &&&&&&&&&&&&&065.&&&&&065
Eilean Meadhonach An t-Eilean Meadhanach Crowlin Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&&077.&&&&&077 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&054.&&&&&054
Eilean Mhic Chrion Eilean MhicChrìon Loch Craignish &&&&&&&&&&&&&054.&&&&&054 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&063.&&&&&063
Eilean Mòr An t-Eilean Mòr Crowlin Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&0170.&&&&&0170 circa 1920 Meall a' Chòis &&&&&&&&&&&&0114.&&&&&0114
Eilean Rìgh Eilean Rìgh Loch Craignish &&&&&&&&&&&&&086.&&&&&086 1939 Dùn Righ &&&&&&&&&&&&&055.&&&&&055
Eilean Tigh Eilean an Taighe Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&&058.&&&&&058 Unknown Meall Mòr &&&&&&&&&&&&0111.&&&&&0111
Eilean Trodday Eilean Throdaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&&042.&&&&&042 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&045.&&&&&045
Eorsa Eòrsa Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&0122.&&&&&0122 No census records &&&&&&&&&&&&&098.&&&&&098
Garbh Eileach Garbh Eileach Garvellachs &&&&&&&&&&&&0142.&&&&&0142 Pre-modern &&&&&&&&&&&&0110.&&&&&0110
Gruinard Eilean Ghruinneart North Highland &&&&&&&&&&&&0196.&&&&&0196 1920s An Eilid &&&&&&&&&&&&0106.&&&&&0106
Gunna Gunnaigh Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&&069.&&&&&069 Pre-modern &&&&&&&&&&&&&035.&&&&&035
Handa Eilean Shannda North Highland &&&&&&&&&&&&0309.&&&&&0309 1848 Sithean Mòr &&&&&&&&&&&&0123.&&&&&0123
Harlosh Island Eilean Heàrrlois Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&&034.&&&&&034 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&051.&&&&&051
Horse Island Eilean nan Each Summer Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&&053.&&&&&053 19th century Sgurr nan Uan &&&&&&&&&&&&&060.&&&&&060
Inch Kenneth Innis Choinnich Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&&055.&&&&&055 1970s &&&&&&&&&&&&&049.&&&&&049
Insh An Innis Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&&036.&&&&&036 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&069.&&&&&069
Isay Ìosaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&&060.&&&&&060 1860 &&&&&&&&&&&&&028.&&&&&028
Isle Martin Eilean Mhàrtainn Summer Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&0157.&&&&&0157 1948 &&&&&&&&&&&&0120.&&&&&0120
Isle Ristol Eilean Ruisteil Summer Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&0225.&&&&&0225 18th century? &&&&&&&&&&&&&071.&&&&&071
Little Colonsay Colbhasa Beag Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&&088.&&&&&088 1940s &&&&&&&&&&&&&061.&&&&&061
Longa Island Longa North Highland &&&&&&&&&&&&0126.&&&&&0126 late 19th century Druim am Eilean &&&&&&&&&&&&&070.&&&&&070
Longay Longaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&&050.&&&&&050 16th century &&&&&&&&&&&&&067.&&&&&067
Lunga Lungaigh Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&&081.&&&&&081 1857 Cruachan &&&&&&&&&&&&0103.&&&&&0103
Oldany Island Eilean Alltanaidh Eddrachillis Bay &&&&&&&&&&&&0200.&&&&&0200 Unknown Sidhean nan Ealachan &&&&&&&&&&&&0104.&&&&&0104
Ornsay Eilean Iarmain Skye &10000000000000035000000c. 35 Unknown &&&&&&&&&&&&&046.&&&&&046
Oronsay Orasaigh Loch Sunart &&&&&&&&&&&&0230.&&&&&0230 Unknown Druim Mòr &&&&&&&&&&&&&058.&&&&&058
Pabay Pabaigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&0122.&&&&&0122 1980s &&&&&&&&&&&&&028.&&&&&028
Priest Island Eilean a' Chlèirich Summer Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&0122.&&&&&0122 No census records &&&&&&&&&&&&&078.&&&&&078
Scarba Sgarba Islay &&&&&&&&&&&01474.&&&&&01,474 1960s Cruach Scarba &&&&&&&&&&&&0449.&&&&&0449
Shuna Siuna Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&0155.&&&&&0155 1960s Tom an t-Seallaidh &&&&&&&&&&&&&071.&&&&&071
Staffa Stafa Mull &&&&&&&&&&&&&033.&&&&&033 18th century &&&&&&&&&&&&&042.&&&&&042
Tanera Beag Tannara Beag Summer Isles &&&&&&&&&&&&&066.&&&&&066 No census records &&&&&&&&&&&&&083.&&&&&083
Texa Teacsa Islay &&&&&&&&&&&&&048.&&&&&048 Early 19th century Ceann Garbh &&&&&&&&&&&&&048.&&&&&048
Torsa Torsa Slate Islands &&&&&&&&&&&&0113.&&&&&0113 1960s &&&&&&&&&&&&&062.&&&&&062
Wiay Fuidheigh Skye &&&&&&&&&&&&0148.&&&&&0148 19th century &&&&&&&&&&&&&060.&&&&&060

Smaller Islands and Rocks

Skerryvore 01
Skerryvore lighthouse
Old man of stoer
The Old Man of Stoer, a 60 metres (200 ft) high stack of Torridonian sandstone

Many smaller islands, tidal islets (only separated at high tide), and skerries (only seen at low tide) are scattered around the main Inner Hebrides. Most of them are not well-known, and only a few have ever been inhabited. Still, some are quite famous.

Lady's Rock, a skerry in Loch Linnhe, is known for a dark story. In 1527, Lachlan Maclean of Duart tried to murder his wife, Lady Catherine Campbell, by leaving her stranded on the rock at low tide. Nearby Castle Stalker belonged to Clan Stewart of Appin at that time. More recently, it became famous as a filming location for Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Remote lighthouses stand on Dubh Artach and Skerryvore. Skerryvore lighthouse is 48 metres (157 ft) tall, making it the tallest in the United Kingdom. Belnahua once had a community of slate workers in the 1800s. They worked in a large quarry that is now filled with water.

Nearby, Eilean-a-beithich used to be in the Easdale Sound. But it was quarried so deeply (76 metres (249 ft) below sea level) that only its outer edge remained. The sea eventually washed this away, and now there's little left of the island.

The Torran Rocks, south of Erraid, are dangerous for ships. They are also featured in the novel Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson. This is where Alan Breck Stewart and David Balfour were shipwrecked.

Here are some of the smaller Inner Hebridean islands, grouped by their location from south to north:

South Argyll Coast Islands

Eilean Mor
Eilean Mor in the MacCormaig Isles, looking towards Jura
Crinan
Crinan locks with tiny Black Rock beyond
  • Kintyre: Mull, Scart Isle, The Merchants
  • Gigha: Còrr Eilean, Craro, Eilean á Chuill, Eilean Leim, Eilean Liath, Eilean na h-Aird, Eilean na h-Uilinn, Gamhna Giogha, Gigalum
    • Cara: Coire Cara, Sgeir à Bhuntata, Sgeir Buideil
  • West Loch Tarbert: Eilean Ceann na Creige, Eilean da Ghallagain, Eilean Eòghainn, Eilean nan Craobh, Eilean Traighe
  • Loch Stornoway: Carriag Mhaidean, Eilean Clach nan Uamhannan, Sgeir Choigreach
  • Loch Caolisport: Eilean Fada, Eilean na h-Uamhaidh, Eilean nam Muc, Eilean Naomhachd, Glas Eilean, Liath Eilein
  • MacCormaig Isles: Corr Eilean, Eilean Ghamna, Eilean Mòr, Eilean nan Leac, Eilean Puirt Leithe
  • Loch Sween: Cala, Eilean Loain, Eilean Mhartan, Eilean na Circe, Taynish Island, Ulva Islands
    • Danna: Eilean à Chapuill, Eilean nan Uan, Liath Eilean
    • Fairy Islands: Eilean a' Bhrein
  • West Taynish: Carsaig Island, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Fraoich, Eilean nan Coinean, Eilean Traighe, Leth Sgeir, Ruadh Sgeir
  • Loch Crinan: An-unalin, Black Rock, Eilean Glas, Eilean nan Coinean
  • Loch Craignish: Eilean na Cille, Eilean na-h Eairne, Garbh Rèisa, Sgeir na Maoile
    • Eilean Macaskin: Liath-sgeir Bheag, Liath-sgeir Mhòr
    • Eilean Mhic Chrion: Eilean Buidhe, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Inshaig, Eilean na Nighinn, Eilean Traighte
    • Eilean Rìgh: Eilean nan Gabhar,
  • West Craignish: Coiresa, Creagach Chrosgach, Culbhaic, Eilean Ona, Reisa an t-Sruith, Reisa Mhic Phaidean
  • Craobh Haven: Eich Donna, Eilean an Duin, Eilean Arsa, Eilean Buidhe, Eilean Creagach, Fraoch Eilean, Liath Sgeir
  • Loch Melfort: Eilean Coltair, Eilean Gamhna, Scoul Eilean

Islay Group Islands

Portellen lighthouse
The lighthouse at Carraig Fhada, Islay, looking towards Caolas Eilean nan Caorach, Sgeir Fhada and Sgeir Phlocach with Port Ellen at left
Scarba
Looking north from Na h-Urrachann towards Rubha nam Faoilean, Scarba, with Guirasdeal, Lunga and Eilean Dubh Mòr in the Slate Islands beyond
  • Islay:
    • Mull of Oa and Laggan Bay: Eileanan Mòra, Sgeirean Buidhe Ghil
    • Loch Indaal: Carraig Dhubh
    • Rinns of Islay: Am Ballan, Eilean Liath, Eilean Mhic Coinnich, Frenchman's Rocks, Orsay, Sgeiran Dubha
    • North west coast: Boghachan Mòra, Eilean an Tannais-sgeir, Eilean Beag, Eilean Mòr, Nave Island, Post Rocks
    • East coast: Eilean Liath
    • Kildalton: Ceann nan Sgieran, Eilean á Chùirn, Eilean an Droighinn, Eilean Bhride, Eilean Craobhach, Eilean Mhic Mhaolmhoire, Outram, Sgeir nam Ban
    • Ardbeg: Carmichael's Rocks, Cleit Buidhe, Corr Sgeir, Eilean an t-Sluic, Eilean Imersay, Iseanach Beag, Iseanach Mòr
    • Carraig Fhada: Am Plodan, An Gànradh, Eilean nan Caorach, Sgeir Fhada, Sgeir Phlocach
  • Colonsay: Eilean á Chladaich, Eilean Dubh, Eilean na Brathan, Eilean Leathann, Eilean Mhártain, Eilean na Bilearach, Eilean nam Ban, Eilean nam Feannaig, Eilean Olmsa, Glas Eilean
  • Jura:
    • East coast: Eilean á Bhorra, Eilean an Rubha, Eilean Buidhe Mòr, Eilean na h-Aorinn, Eilean Traigh an Airgid, Liath Eilean, Na Cuiltean
    • Small Isles: Eilean Bhride, Eilean Diomhain, Eilean nan Coinnean, Eilean nan Gabhar, Pladda
    • Sound of Islay: Am Fraoch Eilean, Brosdale Island, Glas Eilean
    • Loch Tarbert: Eilean an Easbuig, Eilean Ard, Eilean Dubh à Cumhainn Bhig, Eilean Dubh à Cumhainn Mhoir, Eileanan Gleann Righ, Eilean Iosal
    • West coast: Eilean Beag, Eilean Mòr, Shian Island
  • Oronsay: Dubh Eilean, Eileanan à Chuir, Eilean Ghaoideamal, Eilean Mhic Iain Ruaidh, Eilean Mhugaig, Eilean nam Uan, Eilean nan Ron
  • Scarba: Eilean à Bhealach, Eilean Ard, Sgeiran à Mhaoil, Sgeir nan Gobhar
  • Texa: Sgeiran an Lòin, Tarr Sgeir

Firth of Lorn Islands

Fladda lighthouse
Fladda lighthouse
  • Slate Islands:
    • Easdale: None
    • Eilean Dubh Mòr: Eilean Dubh Beag, Liath Sgeir, Sgeir à Gheòidh, Sgeir nan Taod
    • Insh: Dubh-sgeir, Eilean Bàn-leac
    • Luing: Diar Sgeir, Dubh-fheith, Dubh Sgeir, Eilean Loisgte, Fraoch Eilean (2), Funaich Mhòr, Glas Eilean, Rubh Aird Luing, Sgeir Bhuidhe
    • Lunga: An Tudan, Belnahua, Eilean Ioasal, Eilean nan Ceann, Fiola an Droma, Fiola Meadhonach, Fladda, Guirasdeal, Liath Sgeir, Ormsa, Rubha Fiola, Sgeir Mhic an Altair, Sgeir Poll nan Corran
    • Torsa: Eilean Fraoch, Glas Eilean
    • Seil: Eilean à Chomraidh, Eilean Buidhe, Eilean Dùin, Eilean nam Beathach, Eilean nam Freumha, Eilean Tornal, Henderson's Rock,
    • Shuna: None
  • Garvellachs:
    • Eileach an Naoimh: Sgeiran Dubha, Sgeir Leth à Chuain
    • Garbh Eileach: À Chùli, Dùn Chonnuill

Loch Linnhe Islands

  • Loch Feochan: Eilean an Ruisg
  • Kerrera: Bach Island, Eilean nan Gamhna, Eilean nan Uan, Eilean Orasaig, Heather Island, Maiden Island, Rubh'a Cruidh, Sgeir à Gheòidh
  • Loch Etive: Abbot's Isle, Eilean Beag, Eilean Mòr, Eilean nam Meann, Eilean Traighe, Kilmaronag Islands
  • Eriska: Glas Eilean, Sgeir Caillich,
  • Lismore: Bernera Island, Branra, Creag Island, Eilean Dubh (2), Eilean Loch Oscair, Eilean Musdile, Eilean na Cloich, Eilean nam Bàn, Eilean nam Meann, Eilean nan Caorach, Eilean nan Chaorainn, Eilean nan Gamhna, Eilean Ramsay, Inn Island, Lady's Rock, Pladda Island,
  • Shuna: Eilean Balnagowan, Castle Stalker
  • Loch Leven: Eilean à Chòmraidh, Eilean Coinneach, Eilean Munde, Eilean nam Ban
  • Loch Eil: Eilean à Bhealaidh, Eilean na Creich, Eilean nan Craobh, Rubha Dearg

Mull Group Islands

Dubh artach
Dhu Heartach Lighthouse, During Construction by Sam Bough (1822–1878)
Fratercula arctica and Uria aalge -Scotland-8
Bac Mòr, also known as "The Dutchman's Cap", as seen from Lunga
  • Coll: A' Chairidhe, Airne na Sgeire, An Glas-eilean, Eag na Maoile, Eilean an Eith, Eilean an t-Sean Chaisteil, Eilean Ascaoineach, Eilean Bhoramuil, Eilean Bhuigistile, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Eatharna, Eilean Halum, Eilean Iomallach, Eilean Mòr, Eilean na Bà, Eilean nam Muc, Eilean Odhar, Eilean Ornsay, Eilean Tomaluam, Soa, Sùil Ghorm
  • Eorsa: None
  • Gometra: Eilean Dioghlum, Màisgier
  • Gunna: Eilean nam Maidean, Eilean nan Gamhna
  • Iona: Corr Eilean, Eilean Annraidh, Eilean Chalbha Eilean Didil, Eilean Musimul, Eilean na h-Aon Chaorach, Reidh Eilean, Soa Island, Stac an Aoineidh, Stac Mhic Muhurchaidh
  • Inch Kenneth: Samalan Island
  • Little Colonsay: None
  • Mull:
    • Calve Island: Cnap à Chailbe, Eilean na Beithe
    • Sound of Mull: Am Brican, Dearg Sgeir, Eileanan Bàna, Eileanan Glasa, Eilean Bàn
    • Loch Don: Eilean Bàn, Eilean a' Mhadaidh, Eileanan nan Caorach
    • Loch Spelve: Eilean Amalaig
    • Loch Buie: Eilean Mòr, Eilean Uamh Ghuaidhre, Frank Lockwood's Island
    • Ross of Mull south: Eilean à Chròtha, Eilean Imheir, Eilean Liath, Eilean Mòr, Eilean Nam Boc, Eilean nan Caorann, Gamhnach Mhòr, Garbh Eilean, Na Minn, Na Maoil Mhòra
    • Erraid: Am Baister, Eilean a' Chalmain, Eilean Dubh (2), Eilean Ghomain, Eilean nam Muc, Eilean na Seamair, Livingston's Rocks, Rankin's Rocks, Sgeir à Chobhain, Sgeir na Caillich
      • Torran Rocks: Dearg Sgeir, MacPhail's Anvil, Na Torrain, Torran Sgoilte, Torr an t-Saothaid
    • Sound of Iona: Eilean à Ghearrain, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Dubh na Ciste, Eilean Gainmheinich, Eilean nam Ban, Liath Eilean
    • Loch na Làthaich: Eilean an Fheòir, Eilean Bàn, Na Liathanaich
    • Loch Scridain: Eilean nan Caorach, Sgeir Leathan
    • Ardmeanach: Eilean Dubh Cruinn, Erisgeir
    • Loch na Keal: Eilean Casach, Eilean Feòir,
    • Mishnish: Cuan Mòr, Eilean an Tairt, Eilean nan Gabhar
  • Staffa: Am Buchaille
  • Tiree: Ceann Mòr, Chreachasdal Mòr, Eilean Ghreasamuill (2), Eilean Ghreusgain, Eilean nan Siolag, Eilean Shomhairle, Fadamull, Rubha Liath, Sgeir Mhòr, Soa
  • Lunga: Bac Beag, Bac Mòr, Cairn na Burgh Beag, Cairn na Burgh Mòr, Fladda, Sgeir an Eirionnaich, Sgeir a' Chaisteil
  • Ulva: Eilean à Bhuic, Eilean à Chaolais, Eilean an Dusain, Eilean an Righ, Eilean na Creiche, Eilean na h-Uamha, Eilean Reilean, Garbh Eilean, Geasgill Beag, Geasgill Mòr, Sgeir Feòir, Trealbhan
  • Outliers: Dubh Artach, Skerryvore

Small Isles Group

Eilean Chathastail
The north end of Eilean Chathastail from Eigg
  • Canna: Alman, An Stéidh, Eilean à Bhaird, Haslam
  • Eigg: Eilean Chathastail, Eilean Thuilm
  • Muck: Eagamol, Eilean nan Each
  • Rùm: None
  • Sanday: Dùn Mòr
  • Outliers: Garbh Sgeir, Humla, Hyskeir

North Argyll Coast Islands

These islands are located from Ininmore Bay in Morvern to the River Sheil.

  • Sound of Mull: Eilean na Beitheiche, Eilean Rubha an Ridire, Glas Eileanan, Sgeir Chorrach
  • Loch Sunart: Dun Ghallain, Eilean an t-Sionnaich, Eilean à Chuilinn, Eilean à Mhuirich, Eilean Mòr, Eilean mo Shlinneag, Garbh Eilean, Glas Eilean
    • Càrna: Eilean an Fheidh, Eilean nan Eildean, Eilean nan Gabhar, Eilean nan Gad, Risga
    • Oronsay: Eilean Mòr, Sligneach Mòr
  • Ardnamurchan:
    • South coast: Eilean nan Seachd Seisrichean, Glas Eilean
    • North coast: Eilean Carrach, Eilean Chaluim Cille, Eilean Dubh, Eilean na h-Acairseid, Sanna Island, Sgeir à Chàm Eilein, Sgeir an Eididh, Sgeir an Rathaid, Sgeir nam Meann
    • Kentra Bay: Eilean an Eididh Eilean Dhònuill, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Loisgte, Eilean nan Gad

South Highland Coast Islands

Tioram Castle1 (Dave Wilkie)
Eilean Tioram and its ruined castle
  • Eilean Shona: An Glas-eilean, Eilean à Choire, Eilean an Feheidh, Eilean an t-Sabhail, Eilean Coille, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Mhic Neill, Eilean Raonuill, Eilean Tioram, Eilean Uaine, Riska
  • Sound of Arisaig:
    • Loch Ailort: Eilean à Bhuic, Eilean à Chaolais, Eilean Buidhe, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Dubh an Aonaich, Eilean na Gualinn, Eilean nam Bairneach, Eilean nan Gabhar, Eilean nan Trom, Samalaman Island, Sgeir Glas
    • Loch nan Uamh: Am Fraoch-eilean, An Garbh-eilean, An Glas-eilean, Còrr Eilean, Eilean à Ghaill, Eilean Aird nam Bùth, Eilean an t-Snidhe, Eilean Ceann Fèidh, Eilean Gobhlach, Eilean nan Cabar, Eilean Port nam Murrach
  • Eilean Ighe: Am Fraoch-eilean, Eilean Ban, Luinga Beag, Luinga Mhòr
  • North Arisaig coast: An Glas-eilean, Bogh' Oitir, Rubha dà Chuain, Sgeirean na Corra-gribhich
  • Morar Bay: Eilean Ruadh, Eilean Toigal
  • Mallaig: Eilean na h-Acairseid
  • Loch Nevis: An Corr-eilean, Eilean Giubhais, Eilean Maol, Eilean na Glaschoille,
  • West Knoydart coast: Airor Island, Eilean an t-Sionnach, Eilean Dearg, Eilean na Gàmhna, Eilean Shamadalain, Glas Eilean, Sgeir Glas
  • Loch Hourn: Corr Eileanan, Eilean à Chuilinn, Eilean à Gharb-Iain, Eilean à Mhuineil, Eilean à Phiobaire, Eilean Chamas nan Doth, Eilean Chlamial, Eilean Choinnich, Eilean Mhartain, Eilean Mhogh-sgeir, Eilean Ràrsaidh, Eilean Tioram, Fraoch Eilean, Glas Eilean
  • Sandaig Islands: An Gurraban, Eilean Carach, Eilean Mòr Fraoich Eilean

Skye Group Islands

Macleod's Maidens
Macleod's Maidens off the coast of Duirinish
  • Crowlin Islands:
    • Eilean Mòr: None
    • Eilean Meadhonach: Eilean Beag,
  • Eilean Bàn: None
  • Eilean Trodday: None
  • Isay: Clett, Mingay
  • Longay: None
  • Pabay: None
  • Raasay: Eilean Aird nan Gobhar, Eilean an Inbhire, Holoman Island, Manish Island
    • Eilean Fladday: Fraoch Eilean, Glas Eilean, Griana-sgeir
    • Eilean Tigh: Eilean an Fhraoich
  • Rona: Cow Rock, Eilean Garbh, Eilean Seamraig, Garbh Eilean, Sgeirean Buidhe Borlum, Sgeir Shuas
  • Scalpay: Eilean Leac na Gainimh, Guillamon Island, Sgeir Dhearg
  • Skye:
    • Sleat: Eilean Dubh, Eilean Ruairidh, Eilean Sgorach
    • Ornsay: Eilean an Eòin, Eilean Sionnach
    • Loch Eishort north coast: Eilean Gaineamhach Boreraig, Eilean Heast
    • Strathaird: Eilean na h-Àirde
    • Minginish: An Dubh-sgeir, Eilean Glas, Eilean Reamhar, Stac à Mheadais
    • Loch Bracadale: Oronsay, Sula Skerry, Tarner Island
      • Harlosh Island: None
    • Duirinish: An Dubh Sgeir, An Stac, Macleod's Maidens
    • Loch Dunvegan: Carraig Shleamhuinn, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Dubh Beag, Eilean Glas, Eilean Grianal, Eilean Mòr, Eilean na h-Eigheach, Eilean Traigh, Garay Island, Garbh Eilean, Lampay
    • Waternish: Caisteal an Fhithich
    • Loch Snizort: Eilean Beag, Eilean Mòr
      • Ascrib Islands: Eilean Creagach, Eilean Garave, Eilean Iosal, Sgeir à Chapuill, Sgeir à Chuin, South Ascrib
    • Trotternish: An t-Iasgair, Eilean Chaluim-chille, Eilean Flodigarry, Holm Island, Sgeir na Eireann, Staffin Island, Tulm Island,
      • Fladda-chùain group: Fladaigh Chuain, Gaeilavore Island, Gearran, Lord MacDonald's Table (Am Bord), The Cleats, Thon Eilean
    • Broadford Bay: Eilean na Ruadhaich, Glas Eilean, Sgeir Dubh
    • Loch Alsh: Sgeir na Caillich
  • Soay: Na Gamhnaichean
  • Wiay: None

North Highland Coast Islands

Summer Isles Jan 2006
The Summer Isles from Ben Mòr Coigach
Am buachaille
Am Buachaille – "the shepherd"
  • Wester Ross:
    • Loch Alsh: Glas Eilean
      • Loch Long: À Ghlas-sgeir, Sheep Island
      • Eilean Donan: Eilean Tioram
      • Loch Duich: Am Fraoch-eilean
    • Kyle of Lochalsh: Black Islands, Eilean à Mhal, Eileanan Dubha, Eilean na Crèadha, Eilean nan Gobhar Beag, Eilean nan Gobhar Mòr
    • Loch Carron: An Garbh-Eilean, Eilean an-t-Sratha, Eilean Glasiach, Eilean na Beinne, Eilean na Creige Duibhe, Eilean nan Fraoich, Eilean nan Stac, Kishorn Island, Sgeir Bhuidhe, Sgeir Fhada, Strome Islands,
      • Plockton: À Ghlas-leac, An Garbh-Eilean, Eilean à Bhata, Eilean à Chait, Eilean an Duine, Eilean Dubh, Eilean Dubh Dhurinis, Eilean Lagach, Eilean na Bà Beag, Eilean na Bà Mòr, Eilean nam Fiadh, Eilean na Sgeir-Feor, Eilean nan Gamhainn, Eilean Stacan, Eilean Sgreabach, Sgeir Bhuidhe
    • Inner Sound: An Ruadh-Eilean, Eilean Chuaig, Eilean na Bà, Eilean nan Naomh,
    • Loch Torridon: Eilean à Chaoil, Eilean an Inbhire Bhàin, Eilean Dùghaill, Eilean Mòr, Eilean Tioram, Sgeir Ghlas, Sgeir na Trian, Shieldaig Island
    • Eilean Horrisdale: Eilean Tioram, Sgeir Glas
    • Gairloch: Eilean an t-Sabhail, Eilean Shieldaig, Fraoch-eilean, Glas Eilean, Na Dùnain
    • Longa Island: None
    • Rubha Rèidh: An Sean Sgeir, Stac Buidhe, Stac Dubh
    • Isle of Ewe: Boor Rocks, Eilean Furadh Beag, Eilean Furadh Mòr, Sgeir an Araig, Sgeir Maol Mhoraidh, Sgeir Maol Mhoraidh Shuas, Stac Ruadh
    • Gruinard: Fraoch, Eilean Beag, Fraoch Eilean Mòr
    • Summer Isles:
      • Horse Island: Càrn nan Sgeir, Meall nan Caorach, Meall nan Gabhar
      • Isle Martin: None
      • Isle Ristol: Bò Bhùiridh, Eilean Glas, Eilean Mullagrach
      • Priest Island: Bottle Island, Carn Deas, Carn Iar, Eilean Dubh, Glas-leac Beag, Sgeirean Glasa, Sgeir nam Mult
      • Tanera Beag: Eilean à Chàr, Eilean Choinaid, Eilean Fada Beag, Eilean Fada Mòr, Glas-leac Mòr, Sgeir an Aon Iomairt, Sgeir Loisgte, Sgeir nam Feusgan, Sgeir Ribhinn, Stac Mhic Aonghais
      • Tanera Mor: Eilean à Bhuic, Eilean Beag, Eilean Mòr, Eilean na Saille
    • Enard Bay: À Chleit, Eilean Mòineseach, Eilean Mòr, Fraochlan, Green Island, Rubha à Bhrocaire, Sgeir Bhuidhe, Sgeir Ghlas Bheag, Sgeir Ghlas Mhòr, Sgeir nam Boc
  • Sutherland:
Oldany1
The islets east of Oldany with Mòr Eilean in the foreground
Kylesku Bridge
The Kylesku bridge crossing the Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin narrows with Garbh Eilean in the foreground.
    • Loch Inver: Glas Leac, Soyea Island
    • Stoer: Old Man of Stoer
    • Oldany: Bogh' an Tairbh, Eilean Chrona, Eilean na Ligheach, Eilean nam Boc, Eilean nan Gobhar, Eilean nan Uan, Mòr Eilean, Sgeir nan Gall
    • Eddrachillis Bay: An Calbh, Eilean à Bhuic, Eilean Rairidh, Meall Beag, Meall Mòr, Sgeir à Chlaidheimh
      • Badcall Bay: Dubh Sgeir, Eilean à Bhreitheimh, Eilean Garbh, Eilean na Bearachd, Eilean na Rainich, Eilean Riabhach, Glas Leac, Meall Earca, Ox Rock
      • Loch a' Chàirn Bhàin: Eilean à Ghamhna, Eilean na Furaradh, Eilean na Rainich, Garbh Eilean
      • Loch Glencoul: Creag Bàgh an Liath Bhaid, Eilean à Chon' à Chreige, Eilean à Chumhainn, Eilean an Tighe, Eilean an Tuim, Eilean Àrd, Eilean na Moine
    • Loch Dhrombaig: Cul Eilean, Eilean an Achaidh, Sgeir Liath,
    • Handa: Eilean an Aigeich, Glas Leac, Sgeirean Glasa
    • Loch Laxford: Dubh Sgeirean, Eilean à Chadh-fi, Eilean à Mhadaidh, Eileanan Dubha, Eilean an Eireannaich, Eilean an t-Sithein, Eilean Àrd, Eilean Dubh an Teoir, Eilean Dubh na Fionndalach Bige, Eilean Dubh nam Boc, Eilean Meall à Chaorainn, Eilean na Carraig, Eilean na Saille, Eilean Port à Choit, Glas Leac, Rubh' à Cheathraimh Ghairbh, Sgeirean Cruaidhe, Sgeir Eorna, Sgeir Fhanda, Sgeir Iosal, Sgeir Ruadh
    • Kinlochbervie: Eilean à Chonnaidh, Eilean Dubh, Glas Leac, Na Clusnadh
    • Eilean an Ròin Mòr: Dubh Sgeir, Eilean an Ròin Beag, Eilean na h-Aiteg, Na Stacan, Seana Sgeir
    • Sandwood Bay and Cape Wrath: Am Balg, Am Bodach, Am Buchaille, Goedha Ruadh na Fola

Smaller Island Groups

Treshnish Isles from above Port Haunn
The Treshnish Isles as seen from Port Haunn on Mull. Nearest are Cairn na Burgh Beag and Cairn na Burgh Mòr. Behind are the low flat island of Fladda and the tallest island, Lunga, which obscures Bac Mòr and Bac Beag beyond.

Within the Inner Hebrides, there are several smaller groups of islands. The largest of these "mini-archipelagos" are:

There is also another group of small islands called the Small Isles off Craighouse on the east coast of Jura.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Anexo:Islas del archipiélago de las Hébridas Interiores para niños

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List of Inner Hebrides Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.