Essence of Harris: Artisan Candles and Homewares on the Isle of Harris
Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
Essence of Harris is a charming gift and candle shop located on Pier Road in Tarbert, Isle of Harris. Renowned for its high-quality, locally inspired scented candles and diffusers, the shop captures the spirit of the Outer Hebrides with products named after local beaches. Visitors can explore a range of homewares and enjoy a welcoming, tranquil atmosphere that reflects the island's natural beauty and heritage.
A brief summary to Essence of Harris
- Pier Rd, Isle of Harris, HS3 3DG, GB
- +441859502768
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more personal shopping experience.
- Consider ordering candles online for convenient home delivery or workshop collection.
- Explore the full range of scents named after local beaches to find your favorite island aroma.
- Pair your candle purchase with locally made homewares for a complete Harris-inspired gift.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Essence of Harris location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Essence of Harris
A Celebration of Harris Through Scent and Craft
Essence of Harris offers visitors a unique sensory experience deeply rooted in the island’s landscape and culture. Specializing in luxuriously scented soy wax candles and diffusers, each product is thoughtfully crafted and named after iconic beaches and locations around Harris, such as Horgabost. The brand emphasizes sustainability, with vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced ingredients, making it gentle on both people and the environment.A Boutique Experience in Tarbert
Situated on Pier Road in the heart of Tarbert, the shop presents a warm and inviting ambience that mirrors the island’s relaxed and friendly character. The interior is carefully curated to showcase not only candles but also a selection of homewares that complement the ethos of natural beauty and craftsmanship. The shop’s layout and presentation encourage visitors to linger and discover the essence of Harris encapsulated in each product.Connection to Local Heritage and Nature
Essence of Harris is more than a retail space; it is a celebration of the Outer Hebrides’ natural environment and cultural heritage. The scents evoke the rugged coastline, wildflowers, and sea breezes of the island, connecting customers to the landscape even after they leave. This strong sense of place is a hallmark of the brand, reflecting the islanders’ pride in their surroundings and traditions.Craftsmanship and Quality
The candles and diffusers are made with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a high-quality product that burns cleanly and evenly. The shop offers the option to collect purchases from the workshop, allowing a glimpse into the artisanal process behind the products. This transparency and dedication to craft enhance the authenticity of the Essence of Harris experience.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors often describe the shop as a relaxing and friendly space, where the calming scents and tasteful design create a peaceful retreat from the rugged outdoor environment. The shop’s location in Tarbert makes it an accessible and convenient stop for travelers exploring the Isle of Harris, providing a memorable souvenir or gift that encapsulates the island’s charm.Supporting Local Economy and Sustainability
By sourcing materials sustainably and producing goods locally, Essence of Harris contributes to the island’s economy and environmental stewardship. The shop’s commitment to eco-friendly practices aligns with the broader community values of the Outer Hebrides, where preserving the natural landscape is paramount.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harris House
0.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
10.3 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
13.0 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Temple Harris
19.4 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Sound of Harris
25.1 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Visit Outer Hebrides
26.3 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
37.3 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Old Ruins
39.2 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Ardmore Arches
40.0 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
51.5 km
Explore the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens on the Isle of Skye, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
historic scotland
51.6 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
51.9 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and historic charm of Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
The Brother's Point
52.2 km
Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Neist Point Lighthouse
52.7 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Dun Osdale
54.0 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn castle-like monument in Tarbert honoring Isle of Harris heroes from the World Wars, standing proudly on Main Street as a beacon of remembrance.
Lorna's Larder
0.3 km
Savor fresh seafood and artisanal coffee at Lorna's Larder, a vibrant mobile caterer set in Tarbert’s scenic marina on the Isle of Harris.
Loomshed Deli and Coffee Shop
0.3 km
Cozy deli and coffee shop in Tarbert offering fresh local fare, vegan options, and artisan beers on the Isle of Harris.
Isle of Harris Distillery
0.3 km
Discover the heart and heritage of the Outer Hebrides through the award-winning spirits and warm hospitality of Isle of Harris Distillery.
Black Lab gallery
1.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish Highland art and expert framing services at Black Lab Gallery in West Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom
3.7 km
Discover evocative Hebridean photography and homemade delights with stunning views at Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom on the Isle of Harris.
Bunavoneader Whaling Station (Bun Abhainn Eadarra)
4.8 km
Explore the haunting ruins of a 20th‑century whaling station on Harris’s wild west coast, where concrete tanks, rusted machinery, and whale bones tell a powerful story of industry and isolation.
Shiant Isles viewpoint
5.4 km
Breathtaking views of the wild Shiant Islands, a volcanic seabird sanctuary off the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides.
Isle Coffee Harris
5.8 km
Discover the best coffee on the Isle of Harris in a cozy, friendly spot with scenic marina views in Tarbert.
Caolas Gallery Harris Hebrides Photos
5.9 km
A wooden yurt gallery on the Isle of Harris showcasing evocative Hebridean landscapes, with tea, cake, and views over the sea.
North Harris Eagle Observatory Car Park
8.6 km
Starting point for a scenic walk to a timber-framed hide offering iconic golden eagle views in the wild North Harris hills.
The Cake Shed Luskentyre
8.8 km
A charming bakery near Luskentyre Beach serving fresh, delicious treats in a stunning island setting on the Isle of Harris.
Fir Chlis
8.9 km
Luxury architect-designed beachhouse with panoramic views overlooking Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris.
Luskentyre Harris Tweed Co
9.0 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed handwoven in the remote village of Luskentyre, where tradition and craftsmanship meet rugged island beauty.
Luskentyre Beach
9.1 km
A vast, white-sand beach with turquoise waters and dramatic views across the Sound of Taransay on the Isle of Harris.
Essential places to dine
Pierhouse Cafe And Restaurant
0.0 km
A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.
Hotel Hebrides
0.1 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.
Harris Hotel
0.5 km
Experience authentic island charm, warm hospitality, and local flavors at Harris Hotel, your cozy retreat in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Flavour
0.7 km
Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
North Harbour Bistro
6.5 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
Bays Of Harris Community Centre
7.7 km
A welcoming cultural hub on the Isle of Harris offering hearty local fare, lively ceilidhs, and vibrant community spirit in a scenic coastal setting.
Talla na Mara Restaurant
12.5 km
Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
13.4 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
Òran na Mara
15.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.
Scarista House
16.5 km
Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.
Lingay House
18.9 km
Experience warm hospitality, modern comfort, and stunning loch views at Lingay House, a charming B&B and restaurant on the Isle of Harris.
Butty Bus
19.8 km
A cozy, no-nonsense café at Leverburgh ferry terminal serving fresh local fish and chips with charming harbor views.
The Anchorage Restaurant, Cafe & Bar
19.8 km
Fresh seafood and local flavors served with stunning harbour views in a relaxed, welcoming setting on Leverburgh’s pier.
Loch Erisort Hotel
23.0 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
Uig Sands Restaurant
35.2 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Essence of Harris
0.0 km
Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
Tarbert charity shop
0.0 km
Explore Tarbert Charity Shop, a unique thrift store on the Isle of Harris, where every purchase supports local charities and sustainability.
John Morrisons Newsagents
0.1 km
A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.
Akrams General Store
0.1 km
Akrams General Store offers authentic local goods and essentials in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris, blending convenience with Hebridean charm.
Blamire at Harris
0.2 km
A split-level gift shop in Tarbert showcasing handcrafted ceramics, original oil paintings, and authentic souvenirs from the Isle of Harris.
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
The Wee Croft Shop - Isle of Harris
0.8 km
Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
5.4 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
Harris with Love
6.1 km
Discover authentic Hebridean artistry and handcrafted treasures at Harris with Love, a charming boutique in Scalpay on the Isle of Harris.
David's sausages
6.6 km
Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.
Luskentyre Beach Hut
9.0 km
A charming trust-based gift hut offering local crafts and refreshments with stunning views over Luskentyre Bay on the Isle of Harris.
Woven & Wild
14.3 km
Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.
Harris Community Shop (An Clachan)
19.1 km
A well-stocked, community-owned shop serving as the essential retail and social hub in Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris.
Grannie Annie's
19.3 km
Discover the quirky charm and authentic Hebridean spirit at Grannie Annie's, a beloved gift shop on the Isle of Harris.
The Hebridean Mustard Company
19.4 km
Discover artisanal mustards crafted with passion and natural ingredients at the iconic Hebridean Mustard hut in Leverburgh, Isle of Harris.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
4.2 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
19.2 km
A cozy pub and café in Leverburgh offering local ales, hearty meals, and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Harris.
Isle of Harris Brewery
19.8 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
THE HARBOUR BAR
42.1 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
The Criterion Bar
42.1 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
42.1 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
42.2 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
42.2 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Artizan
42.3 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
The Ferry Inn
43.0 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Stein Inn
44.6 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
Westford Inn
50.9 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
The Rip
57.7 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
The Isles Inn
64.7 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
West Highlands Bar
64.8 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Number 5
5.2 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
11.0 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
64.2 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
