How Many Islands Are There In The Outer Hebrides?
There are 11 inhabited islands lying off the north west coast of Scotland that make up the Outer Hebrides, or Western Isles. The island chain stretches for more than 200 miles and comprises Barra, Benbecula, Berneray, Eriskay, Great Bernera, Harris, Lewis, North Uist, Scalpay South Uist, and Vatersay. The most populous part of the Outer Hebrides is the Isle of Lewis where the bulk of the population reside. The greatest concentration of the 28,000 strong population, approximately 8,000, lives in the main town of Stornoway. Connected to Lewis to the south, but regarded as an island in its own right, is the Isle of Harris. Here the peaty moorland of Lewis gives way to rocks and steep mountains. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are to be found in Harris. The island gave its name to the world-famous Harris Tweed. Lying at the southern tip of the Outer Hebrides is Barra. Tide and seagulls permitting, aircraft bound for the island airport land on the beach. Interesting!
