Kisimul Castle, Island castle in Outer Hebrides, Scotland
Kisimul Castle is a medieval fortress standing on a rocky islet in Castlebay's waters. The complex includes a square tower, encircling walls, and defensive structures arranged to protect against attacks from the sea.
The castle was built in 1427 as the home of Clan MacNeil and remained under their control until 1838 when money troubles forced the sale of the island. The building was later restored and now belongs to the state.
The name comes from Gaelic roots with Norse influences, reflecting how different cultures met in the medieval Hebrides. This blend of languages is part of what makes the place feel connected to the islands' past.
You reach the castle by taking a short boat ride from Castlebay pier, with regular services running throughout the day. The crossing takes just a few minutes and you land right next to the fortress.
The state pays the MacNeil clan a symbolic sum plus a bottle of whisky each year as part of a long-term agreement. This unusual arrangement keeps the connection between the family and their historic seat alive.
Location: Outer Hebrides
Location: Barra
Inception: 1427
Part of: Outer Hebrides
Website: https://historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/kisimul-castle
GPS coordinates: 56.95200,-7.48700
Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:25
Barra Head Lighthouse
21.1 km
Tràigh Mhòr
8.7 km
St Michael's Church
18.6 km
Biruaslum
5.8 km
Arnamul
19.9 km
Dun Cuier
5.5 km
Dun Bharpa,chambered cairn 800m NE of Balnacraig
4 km
Church of our Lady, Star of the Sea, Barra
383 m
Eriskay Causeway
19.3 km
Barra, Castlebay, The Square
372 m
Cille Bharra
10.3 km
Prince’s Beach
17.5 km
Dun a Chaolais
3.7 km
Garrynamonie, Our Lady Of Sorrows Rc Church Including Boundary Walls And Gatepiers
20.7 km
Annie Jane Monument, Vatersay
4.4 km
Barra Head Lighthouse, Berneray, Keeper's House
21.2 km
South Uist, Pollachar Inn
18.3 km
Mingulay, Geirum Mor
20.4 km
Barra, Dun Ban
4.2 km
Dun Scurrival,dun,Eoligarry
10.6 km
Dunan Ruadh,galleried dun,Pabbay,Barra
11.5 km
Pabbay,symbol stone,cross-marked stones,chapel and settlement
12 km
Cille Bharra, church, two chapels, and seven grave markers, Barra
10.3 km
West Kilbride Walled Garden, South Uist
18.6 km
Pollachar,standing stone 250m SW of
18.3 km
Mingulay, village and field system
17.9 km
Alt Chrisal, multi-period settlement 750m ESE of Gortein, Barra
2.3 km
Mingulay, Dun Mhiughlaigh
19.5 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes