Ten years ago we undertook a Hebridean Hopscotch, starting at the north end of the Isle of Lewis, working our way south through the Outer Hebrides to the Isle of Barra.
Day 6 – 11 July 2011 – Kisimul Castle and Barra Churches
On Day 6 of the Hebridean Hopscotch we visited Kisimul Castle and then sought out the churches of Vatersay and Barra.
Barra is the southern most point were a ferry can be caught to the Scottish Mainland. South of Barra is Vatersay, which has been connected to Barra via a Causeway since 1991. To the east of Vatersay is Muldoanich. South of Vatersay is Flodday and Sandray, then Lingeigh and Na h-Eileanan an Iar, followed by Pabbay, Mingulay and finally the southernmost island of the Outer Hebrides, Barra Head.
Kisimul Castle
The first place we visited on Day 6 was Kisimul Castle. Built on a small rocky outcrop in the bay, it gives Castlebay its name. The castle is built on a rocky islet in the bay, just off the coast of Barra. It can only be reached by boat. Kisimul has its own fresh water wells. Legend has it that was the stronghold of the MacNeils since the 11th century.
Kisimul was abandoned in 1838 when the island was sold, and the castle’s condition subsequently deteriorated. Some of its stone was used as ballast for fishing vessels, and some even ended up as paving in Glasgow. The remains of the castle, along with most of the island of Barra, were purchased in 1937 by Robert Lister MacNeil, the then chief of Clan MacNeil, who made efforts at restoration.
Courtyard of Kisimul Castle
11 July 2021
Barra & Vatersay Memorials
Heading out of Castlebay, the War Memorial is reached.
Barra War Memorial
11 July 2011
Once across the causeway to Vatersay, the wreck of a Catalina Flying Boat can be seen on the slopes of Heiseabhal Beag. A memorial to the crew of Catalina JX273 has been erected.
Memorial to Catalina JX273 on Vatersay
11 July 2011
Some pieces of the wrecked aircraft can be seen.
Wreck of Catalina JX273
11 July 2011
Our Lady of the Waves and St John, Vatersay
Continuing onto Vatersay we visited the Roman Catholic church of Our Lady of the Waves and St John. The church was opened in 1913. Prior to the construction of the causeway, accommodation was provided in the event the parish priest was unable to return to Barra.
Our Lady of the Waves and St John, Vatersay
11 July 2011
More about Vatersay
Prior to 1991, the only way to reach Vatersay was via a ferry. Since then a causeway has linked Barra and Vatersay.
Vatersay Causeway
11 July 2011
From the north side of the island, Castlebay and Kisimul Castle can be seen.
Castlebay with Kisimul Castle
11 July 2011
St Brendans, Craigston (Eaglais Naomh Briannan)
Leaving Vatersay, we headed round Barra in a clockwise direction. The next church we reached was another of the Barra group of Roman Catholic churches. The present-day St. Brendan’s Church at Craigston, the “mother church of the island” was built in 1857 during the time of Father William MacDonnell.
St. Brendan’s Church, Craigston
11 July 2011
Barra Church of Scotland
Although there are a number of Roman Catholic churches on Barra, there is a Church of Scotland presence.
Barra Church of Scotland
11 July 2011
St Barr’s Northbay
St Barr’s at Northbay dates from 1906 and is situated by an old natural harbour.
St Barr’s, Northbay
11 July 2011
More can be read about the Roman Catholic churches on Barra at the Barra Catholic Web Site.
Barra
Travelling around the Isle of Barra you cannot not fail to appreciate the picturesque coast line.
Barra Coastline
11 July 2011
MV Clansman
MV Clansman paid two visits to Castlebay during the day, firstly in the morning having arrived from Lochboisdale enroute to Oban, and later on the return from Oban.
MV Clansman at Castlebay in the evening sunshine
11 July 2011
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