BY JACKIE MACKENZIE
Barra’s most famous landmark, Kisimul Castle, is once more welcoming visitors after the completion of a programme of essential conservation works.
The official reopening of the former stronghold of the MacNeils of Barra was held last Thursday afternoon when, under a cloudless sky, the 27th Chief of the Clan, Rory MacNeil, performed the ribbon cutting ceremony at the slipway in Castlebay, joined by locals and representatives from castle custodians Historic Environment Scotland.
HES will now be running guided tours of the castle on selected dates through to 30th September.
A major tourist attraction in the Outer Hebrides, Kisimul Castle has been closed to visitors since 2022 for safety reasons.
The conservation works have included the introduction of new support systems for the concrete, stabilisation of the ceiling in the Great Hall to allow access, replacement of the tower stair, re-roofing of the chapel and repairs to Castlebay jetty.
The high-level walkway has also been replaced, giving visitors a dramatic bird’s eye view back towards Castlebay, enhancing the overall visitor experience and creating a more memorable connection to the site.
Katey Boal, head of north region at HES, said: “This is an achievement that has been years in the making, with essential works taking place to address complex conservation challenges, including historic issues that have been compounded by the coastal environment.
“We have worked closely with the communities of Barra and Vatersay during this time and re-opening Kisimul Castle to the local community and visitors has been our long-term goal.
“I am thrilled to be able to announce its doors are open once again and look forward to welcoming all to experience this iconic part of Scotland.”
The only remaining medieval castle in the Outer Hebrides, Kisimul sits on an islet off the village of Castlebay.
Guided tours will allow visitors to experience and discover more about the history of the 15th century fortress, hear stories of notable events in the castle’s history, from clan gatherings and cèilidhs to darker tales of murder and sieges.
There will also be the chance to learn more about life on the island of Barra, with insight into local fishing history and the impact of the Highland Clearances on the community, as well as the castle conservation works.
Parts of the works have been funded by the Historic Scotland Foundation, which received donated monies for Kisimul Castle, organised by the Clan MacNeil Association of America.
Tickets for tours, which last one hour and depart by boat from Castlebay jetty, must be booked in advance at: historicenvironment.scot/visit.
