There are a wide range of activities to enjoy on the islands.

Bird Watching
We have some of the most spectacular bird watching in Britain, including significant numbers of corncrakes, and many other rarities Indeed one can sit in my garden and just occasionally see the Golden and Sea eagles working the hills. There is a very wide range of raptors, and the islands are noted for their waders.

Sea Fishing
I am not an experienced sea angler myself, but the sea fishing can be very good and I can put you in touch with experienced skippers to discuss your requirements. Species include Pollack, mackerel, skate, saithe etc. Check with www.barrafishingcharters.com, they will organise trips, provide tackle and bait.

Shooting
Bird shooting will continue to be based on Grogarry Lodge. All shooters will be accompanied by one or both of the 2 full time keepers.
Shooting is available for snipe, geese and duck.

There is a large head of red deer in the hills – stalking is available by arrangement with the head keeper, and unlike bird shooting guests can stay where they please. Kinloch would make the ideal base for this activity.

Golf
There is an exceptional links course at Askernish. This course was originally designed by “old Tom Morris” in 1891 who amongst many other claims to fame also designed St Andrews.

Under the new Community ownership this course is being restored to its former glory in association with Mackenzie & Ebert Limited – International Golf Course Architects.

Once complete in the architects word:

”The resultant course has unlimited potential. It could be the equal of any links in the world. If its potential is realised, it will take golfers upon a return to many of the qualities of the great courses of the early part of the 20th century.
The course will be a challenge for the best golfers but will be a very enjoyable test for the higher handicap players.”

For an update of progress on the course development see
www.askernishgolfclub.com

Camping
I have spent occasional nights sleeping out by the lochs; dining on barbecued trout and fishing at last and first light. Subject to the weather, this can be a great experience.

Guided Tours
A good friend of mine will take you on a half or full day tour of the island. Kenna is a very experienced guide and will, through her company Crann Tara Tours, give you a unique and often amusing insight into the people and history of the island.

Archaeology
Primarily through the efforts of Sheffield University a number of exciting Sites have been excavated over the last few years. Normally one of the archaeologists on site will be pleased to show you round.

Otter Watching
There are a surprising number of otters on the island. Talk to SNH, or I can try to point you in the right direction - usually involving getting up early in the morning.

The Beach & Swimming
The West coast beaches are strikingly beautiful, with golden sands. Just (very) occasionally the water is warm enough to swim in!

Horse Riding
Is becoming increasingly popular on the island. There are local stables with horses for hire, and a wide range of rides can be arranged to suit any level of experience.

I am investigating the possibility of going fishing on horseback - perhaps combined with a barbecue.

Cycling
A great way of getting round the island. Tommy Macdonald at Howmore is the local expert and can offer a wide range of cycles for hire, sale and can repair. See www.rothan.com

Cockle, Mussels & Winkle Picking
There are extensive beds of cockles, mussels and winkles. Spending an hour or two on the foreshore collecting shellfish for dinner can be an exhilarating experience.

Photography
One of the great pleasures of spending time on the island is the continuously changing light. This makes for some great photographic opportunities—do not be misled by my rather parochial efforts in this web site.

Film supply is limited to standard film speeds on the island so do make sure you bring your own specialist equipment and film.

Art
An artists delight. Spectacular vistas combined with an ever changing light.

Day Trips
To Barra by ferry. Take a short drive down to Eriskay, which is now linked to South Uist by a causeway. There you can take a half hour ferry to Barra – enjoying the gannets fishing on the way. Shopping or take a tour round the ruined Castle. A relaxing half or full day trip.

To Lochmaddy, North Uist - by car or bus.

To Balranald, North Uist - RSPB reserve with a ranger service and occasional guided walks.