Castlebay

Castlebay is the main village and settlement on the Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland. It lies on the eastern coast of the island, beside Castlebay Bay and facing the Sound of Barra. Castlebay sits within the council area of Na h-Eileanan Siar and serves as the island’s commercial and administrative hub.

The village functions as Barra’s primary ferry terminal and harbour, with services operated by Caledonian MacBrayne to Oban. It also provides local shops, a post office, hospitality venues, and a community facilities hub. Barra Airport, situated near Castlebay, offers air links to the Scottish mainland and other islands; its runway is renowned for being located on Traigh Mhòr beach, a feature that attracts visitors.

A prominent landmark in Castlebay is Kisimul Castle, which sits on a small tidal island at the entrance to the bay. The castle, dating from the medieval period, is traditionally linked to the Macneill clan and is connected to the mainland by a short causeway that is passable at low tide, allowing access during specific tidal windows.

Culturally, Castlebay and the wider Barra region are strongly Gaelic-speaking areas with a traditional economy based on crofting, fishing, and, increasingly, tourism. The village hosts local events and preserves island heritage, contributing to the distinct identity of Barra within the Western Isles.

Governance is through the Barra and Vatersay community council area, within Na h-Eileanan Siar. The population centers around Castlebay and nearby settlements, with Gaelic usage remaining a defining aspect of daily life.