Things to do on Islay
Whisky Distilleries:
There are 8 working distilleries on Islay: Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Lagavulin and Laphroaig and Isle of Jura on Jura. All have Visitors' Centres and give guided tours.
Islay House Square:
Islay House Square is the location for a number of Islay enterprises including: Islay Community Garden, Elizabeth Sykes Batiks, Islay Brewery, Islay Studios, Islay Gallery, Islay Chocolateria, Islay Heritage Centre, Islay Quilters, and several gift shops.
Islay Woollen Mill:
Makers of fine tartans and tweeds, Islay Woollen Mill has provided cloth for the Royal family and also for costumes for many films and period dramas including Braveheart.
Art & Craft Markets:
The “Made on Islay” craft association runs regular Art & Craft Markets over the summer, and also at Easter and Christmas. These events take place in the Columba Hall, Port Ellen and in Bruichladdich Hall.
Finlaggan Visitors Centre:
A new Visitors' Centre was completed in 2008 at the historic home of the Lords of the Isles.
Islay Museum of Island Life:
This museum in Port Charlotte offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the inhabitants of Islay in times gone by.
Islay Natural History Trust:
The field centre in Port Charlotte houses comprehensive information about Islay's wildlife. It holds activity days for children and adults throughout the season.
Nature Reserves:
The RSPB Nature Reserves at The Oa, Loch Gruinart and Smaull Farm are a haven for birdwatchers at all times of the year. The reserve at Gruinart has a Visitors' Centre and hide.
Islay Birding:
Experience the wildlife of Islay in the company of experts. Ideal for beginners or those who know what to look for!
Fishing:
Dunlossit, Laggan and Islay Estates all offer loch and river fishing. Sea angling can be arranged through Islay Marine Charters.
Islay Sea Safari:
Operating from Port Ellen, Islay Sea Safaris offer a range of tours including distillery trips, wildlife trips and trips to Northern Ireland (45 minutes away by boat).
Islay Stalking:
Learn about the skills of the gamekeeper and how to track deer.
Machrie Golf Links:
The Machrie is rated as one of the finest courses in Scotland. It has 18 holes and magnificent views and is open to visitors throughout the year.
Magtaggart Leisure Centre:
The Leisure Centre is located in Bowmore. Community owned, it comprises a 25 metre swimming pool, gym, tancab, laundrette, multi purpose activity room and sports kiosk.
Ponytrekking:
There are two trekking centres on Islay, one at Ballivicar Farm near Port Ellen and one at Rockside Farm near Kilchoman.
Port Ellen Playing Fields:
Situated adjacent to the Ramsay Hall, the playing fields sport a tennis court, a pitch and put, bowling, a football pitch and a tearoom.