Background

Islay Natural History Trust

Hands-on discovery of Islay's wildlife and geology in an interactive visitor centre.

5

Discover Islay's rich natural heritage at this engaging visitor centre in Port Charlotte. Run by the Islay Natural History Trust, a dedicated charity, the centre features interactive wildlife displays, live sea aquaria, touch pools, and geological exhibits. Hands-on activities cater to all ages, from a dedicated wildlife den for children to a comprehensive natural history reference library. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts seeking to understand the island's diverse ecosystems and geological story.

A brief summary to Islay Natural History Trust

  • 33 Main St, Isle of Islay, Port Charlotte, PA48 7TX, GB
  • +441496850288
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the day to enjoy the centre without crowds and have plenty of time for hands-on activities and the touch pools.
  • Check the local posters or website for upcoming natural history rambles and monthly talks, which offer deeper insights into Islay's ecosystems.
  • Consider purchasing a membership if you plan multiple visits; at just £12 for a household, it provides free access and reduced activity rates.
  • Bring binoculars and a notebook to record any wildlife sightings during your visit; the Trust welcomes observations for their database.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits, especially if visiting with children who will want to engage with the Wildlife Den.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Local Bus Service

    Regular bus services operate between Port Ellen (the main ferry terminal) and Port Charlotte, approximately 10 kilometres away. Journey time is typically 20–30 minutes depending on service and stops. Services run several times daily during peak season and less frequently in winter months. Fares are modest, usually under £5 per journey. Check local timetables for current schedules, as services may vary seasonally.

  • Car Rental

    Hire a vehicle at Port Ellen ferry terminal or arrange rental in advance. Port Charlotte is approximately 10 kilometres north of Port Ellen via the A846 road. Driving time is roughly 15–20 minutes. The centre is located on Main Street in the village centre with nearby parking available. Car rental typically costs £35–60 per day for a standard vehicle.

  • Taxi Service

    Local taxi services operate from Port Ellen and other parts of the island. A journey from Port Ellen to Port Charlotte typically costs £15–25 and takes 20–30 minutes depending on traffic and exact pickup location. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.

  • Walking from Port Charlotte Village

    If staying in Port Charlotte, the centre is centrally located on Main Street and easily accessible on foot from most village accommodation. Walking from the harbour or beach areas takes 5–10 minutes across flat terrain. The village is compact and pedestrian-friendly with clear signage.

Islay Natural History Trust location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather

Unlock the Best of Islay Natural History Trust

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Islay Natural History Trust

A Window into Islay's Living World

The Islay Natural History Trust operates this welcoming discovery centre in the heart of Port Charlotte, dedicated entirely to celebrating the island's remarkable wildlife and geological heritage. As the only charity focused exclusively on Islay's natural beauty, the Trust has created a space where visitors of all ages can explore, learn, and connect with the island's ecosystems through carefully curated displays and immersive experiences.

Interactive Learning for Every Visitor

The centre's philosophy embraces hands-on discovery, with the motto that touching is not just permitted but encouraged. The Wildlife Den provides a dedicated space for children to explore at their own pace, while the broader exhibition space features touch tables, seaweed identification activities, geology quizzes, and the popular challenge to measure yourself against a basking shark or compare your height to an orca's fin. Live sea aquaria and rock pool touch tanks bring the island's marine life into intimate focus, allowing visitors to observe and handle specimens under expert guidance.

Collections and Resources

Beyond the interactive exhibits, the centre houses an extensive natural history reference library and a well-stocked gift shop. The Trust maintains detailed records of wildlife sightings and welcomes observations from visitors, contributing to an ongoing database that documents Islay's biodiversity. This commitment to citizen science makes the centre a living research hub as much as a visitor attraction.

Seasonal Programming and Community Engagement

The Trust organizes natural history rambles, hands-on wildlife activities, and monthly talks throughout the year, with weekly sessions during the peak summer months of July and August. A natural history blog keeps enthusiasts updated on seasonal wildlife developments and upcoming events. Membership is available at modest cost, offering free centre access and reduced rates for activities, making regular engagement accessible to local residents and returning visitors alike.

Accessibility and Family Focus

The centre is fully wheelchair accessible throughout, ensuring all visitors can navigate the displays and participate in activities. The emphasis on family engagement, combined with the Trust's independent charity status and modest entrance fees, reflects a genuine commitment to making natural history education available to everyone. The friendly staff are knowledgeable about local wildlife and happy to help identify unusual sightings or answer questions about Islay's natural environment.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Islay Natural History Trust

Popular Hotels near Islay Natural History Trust

Select Currency