The Serene Splendor of Isle of Jura

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
United Kingdom
Isle of Jura

The Isle of Jura, located off the west coast of Scotland, is a hidden gem in the United Kingdom. Known for its rugged landscapes, whisky distilleries, and abundant wildlife, it is a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. The island's dramatic terrain includes the famous Paps of Jura, three towering mountains that dominate the skyline and offer challenging hikes with breathtaking views. Jura is sparsely populated, with only around 200 residents, providing a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can explore charming villages like Craighouse, home to the Isle of Jura Distillery, where you can sample some of the finest single malt whisky. The island's coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches and hidden coves, perfect for a quiet picnic or a leisurely stroll. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled with the opportunities to spot red deer, golden eagles, and seals. Jura's rich history is also evident in its ancient sites, including standing stones and ruins that tell tales of the island's past. Whether you're an adventurer, a whisky connoisseur, or simply in need of a serene escape, the Isle of Jura offers an unforgettable experience.

Local tips in Isle of Jura

Pack sturdy hiking boots for exploring the Paps of Jura and other trails.
Visit the Isle of Jura Distillery for a guided tour and whisky tasting.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Check the ferry schedules in advance as they are limited.
Stock up on essentials before arriving; shops are few and far between.

File:The harbour and the Paps of Jura - geograph.org.uk - 4382884.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Jura Distillery - geograph.org.uk - 2973104.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Cow and Calf reef from the shore.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Overtoun House, gardens area, West Dunbartonshire, Scotland.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Craighouse, Isle of Jura - geograph.org.uk - 2441837.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Restr:West Loch Tarbert, Isle of Harris and Lewis, Scotland, 23 April 2011 - Flickr - PhillipC.jpg - Wikipedia

When is the best time to go to Isle of Jura?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

American Monument

A towering stone lighthouse memorial on Islay’s Mull of Oa, honoring American WWI servicemen lost at sea in 1918.

Kildalton Cross

Discover the exquisite 8th-century Kildalton Cross on Islay—one of Scotland’s finest Celtic high crosses, rich in history and intricate biblical carvings.

Castle Sween

Scotland's oldest dated stone castle, a 12th-century Norse-founded fortress commanding Loch Sween's strategic waters.

Dunyvaig Castle

Ruins of a mighty clan fortress on Islay’s coast, where history, sea, and legend converge in dramatic fashion.

Barnhill

George Orwell's remote Hebridean sanctuary where Nineteen Eighty-Four was born.

Kilmeny Church [Church Of Scotland] : Islay

Historic 1828 B-listed Parliamentary Church nestled in scenic northern Islay, embodying Scotland’s rich ecclesiastical heritage.

Colonsay Whale

A wild coastal formation where Scotland's seabirds and marine life meet rugged Atlantic beauty.

Unmissable attractions to see

Dunadd Fort

Explore Dunadd Fort, ancient royal seat of Dál Riata, where history, legend, and panoramic views converge in the heart of Argyll’s Kilmartin Glen.

Kilchoman Distillery

Experience Islay’s only farm distillery where whisky is crafted from barley to bottle amidst stunning coastal landscapes.

American Monument

A poignant stone lighthouse memorial on Islay’s Mull of Oa, honoring over 550 American WWI soldiers lost at sea in 1918.

Finlaggan Trust

Explore the historic seat of the Lords of the Isles on Islay, where medieval ruins and immersive exhibits reveal Scotland’s Gaelic heritage.

RSPB Loch Gruinart, Islay

Experience breathtaking wildlife spectacles and tranquil trails at RSPB Loch Gruinart, Islay’s premier nature reserve and working farm.

Jura

Discover Jura’s wild deer, rugged mountains, and legendary whisky in Scotland’s remote Inner Hebrides island.

Isle of Jura Distillery Co

Discover the Isle of Jura Distillery, where historic Highland whisky craft meets island charm in a uniquely intimate setting.

Carraig Fhada Lighthouse

A unique square lighthouse on Islay, built in 1832 as a heartfelt maritime memorial and coastal beacon near Port Ellen.

Keills Chapel

Discover the tranquil 12th-century Keills Chapel, home to rare Celtic carved stones and the unique 8th-century Keills Cross, set above scenic Loch Keills.

Carsaig Beach

A secluded Hebridean cove with dramatic arches, fossil-rich shores, and sweeping island views.

Kilmory Knap Chapel

Explore Kilmory Knap Chapel, a 13th-century Highland ruin famed for its medieval West Highland sculptures and iconic MacMillan’s Cross.

Craigard Kitchen of Ballygrant

Cozy coffee shop in Ballygrant serving artisanal brews and homemade pastries with a warm island welcome.

Craignish Point

A tranquil coastal headland offering breathtaking panoramic views and rich wildlife on Scotland’s scenic Craignish peninsula.

Kiloran Bay

A tranquil sandy bay on the Isle of Colonsay, offering serene coastal beauty, rich wildlife, and a peaceful escape in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides.

Claggain Bay

Discover the serene beauty of Claggain Bay, a sheltered coastal gem on Islay’s east coast with sandy shores and tranquil walks.

Essential places to dine

Peatzeria - Restaurant and Takeaway

Historic church turned Italian eatery serving fresh, inventive seafood pizzas with stunning Loch Indaal views in Bowmore, Islay.

The Barn Bar

A rustic country pub at Cologin offering seasonal Scottish fare, cozy log fires, and lively local music near Oban.

Jura Hotel

Traditional charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Jura’s coastal village, with stunning sea views and local whisky on your doorstep.

Ballygrant Inn

Family-run inn on Islay offering cozy modern rooms, fresh local cuisine, and an award-winning whisky bar in a tranquil northern setting.

The Antlers Bistro Restaurant

Cozy bistro in Craighouse serving local Scottish dishes, fresh seafood, and artisanal baked goods with stunning bay views.

Bridgend Restaurant & Katie's Bar

Authentic island dining with local flavors, cozy charm, and a celebrated selection of Islay whiskies and gins in Bridgend’s welcoming heart.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Co-op Food - Islay Bowmore - Main Street

Your friendly local Co-op in Bowmore, Isle of Islay, offering fresh groceries, bakery delights, and essentials daily from dawn till late evening.

The Celtic House

Discover a cozy blend of Scottish literature, unique gifts, and artisan café delights in the heart of Bowmore on the Isle of Islay.

Port Askaig Hotel and Stores

Charming family-run Highland inn with stunning harbour views, local whisky bars, and fresh seafood dining on the shores of the Sound of Islay.

Persabus farm, Accommodation and Pottery

Secluded farm stay with artisan pottery, panoramic Jura views, and warm Highland hospitality on the Isle of Islay.

Bruichladdich Mini Market

Discover authentic local flavors and warm hospitality at Bruichladdich Mini Market, the cozy heart of Bruichladdich village on Islay.

The Islay Shop

Bowmore’s largest and friendliest gift shop offering authentic Islay crafts, souvenirs, and essentials in a welcoming island atmosphere.

Tormisdale Croft Crafts

Remote island craft shop celebrating handmade Islay traditions in an authentic working farm setting.

Bridgend Shop

Your friendly, convenient fuel and grocery stop in Bridgend, Isle of Islay, offering essentials with a local touch.

The Island Shop - Isle of Colonsay

The Island Shop in Scalasaig: Your essential local store for fresh produce, island specialties, and warm community spirit on Colonsay.

Islay Home Stores

Discover unique homewares and essentials in the heart of Bowmore at Islay Home Stores, your friendly local shop on the Isle of Islay.

Islay Celtic Craft Shop

Discover authentic handcrafted gifts and personalized leatherwork in a charming family-run shop nestled in Portnahaven, Isle of Islay.

The Islay Whisky Shop

Discover rare and exclusive Islay whiskies at Bowmore’s premier whisky shop, a treasure trove for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The Jura Community Shop

The Jura Community Shop: Your essential stop for local provisions and community connection in Craighouse, Isle of Jura.

The Islay Whisky Vault

Discover the rich smoky heritage of Islay whiskies at The Islay Whisky Vault, your expert guide to rare drams and local treasures.

Re-Jig Whin Park

Discover unique preloved treasures and support local sustainability at Re-Jig Whin Park on the Isle of Islay.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Peatzeria - Restaurant and Takeaway

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Peatzeria, Bowmore's premier pizzeria, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes on the Isle of Islay.

The Oyster Bar

A charming seafood haven in historic Ellenabeich, offering fresh oysters, scenic coastal views, and warm Scottish hospitality.

The Lochside Hotel & Restaurant

Charming waterfront hotel in Bowmore with modern rooms, scenic loch views, and a welcoming restaurant serving local delights.

Port Charlotte Hotel

Historic coastal hotel on Islay with stunning sea views, award-winning whisky bar, and fresh local seafood in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Ardview Inn

Cozy traditional pub in Port Ellen offering authentic Islay whiskies, local beers, and scenic bay views in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Barn Bar

Discover the rustic charm of The Barn Bar in Lerags Glen, Oban, offering hearty meals, local brews, and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.

Tigh An Truish

Charming inn and acclaimed restaurant with stunning views of the iconic Clachan Bridge, offering exceptional Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality.

Jura Hotel

A welcoming island hotel in Craighouse with traditional charm, sea views, local whisky, and a cozy pub at the heart of Jura’s wild landscape.

Ballygrant Inn

Family-run inn on Islay offering cozy rooms, fresh local cuisine, and an award-winning whisky bar in a scenic northern location.

No. 1 Charlotte Street

A charming bar and B&B in Port Ellen offering cozy rooms, a lively whisky lounge, and stunning waterfront views on the Isle of Islay.

The Corner House

A cozy and lively pub on Tarbert’s Harbour Street, famed for warm welcomes, quality drinks, and a true taste of Scottish coastal life.

Lochindaal Hotel

Warm Scottish hospitality, fresh seafood delights, and cozy island charm converge at Lochindaal Hotel in Port Charlotte.

The Antlers Bistro Restaurant

Experience the best of Isle of Jura dining at The Antlers Bistro, where local flavors and artisanal coffee meet stunning views.

Lussa Gin

Experience the enchanting world of artisanal gin at Lussa Gin, nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Isle of Jura.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Isle of Jura

Discover Isle of Jura with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Isle of Jura

- HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeBàrrachd leat
  [ba-rach le-at]
- YesTha
  [ha]
- NoChan eil
  [chan el]
- Please/You're welcomeToilichte
  [toi-likh-te]
- Thank youTapadh leat
  [ta-pa le-at]
- Excuse me/SorryM'fhaicinn
  [m-ai-kin]
- How are you?Ciamar a tha thu?
  [ki-mar a ha hu]
- Fine. And you?Math. Agus thu?
  [mah. a-gus hu]
- Do you speak English?A bheil Gàidhlig agad?
  [a vel ga-li-lik agad]
- I don't understandChan eil mi a' tuigsinn
  [chan el mi a tu-ik-sin]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBu toil leam am mheanu, mas e do thoil e
  [bu to-lik lum am vee-an-oo mas e do hul e]
- I don't eat meatChan ith mi feòil
  [chan ith mi fe-ol]
- Cheers!Slàinte mhath!
  [slan-cha va]
- I would like to pay, pleaseBu toil leam pàigheadh, mas e do thoil e
  [bu to-lik lum pa-ee-ee ma-se do hul e]
- Help!Cobhair!
  [ko-war]
- Go away!Falbh air falbh!
  [fal-av er fal-av]
- Call the Police!Cuimhnich air an t-Siorrachd!
  [ku-vee-ich er an te-she-or-rach]
- Call a doctor!Cuimhnich air dotair!
  [ku-vee-ich er do-ter]
- I'm lostTha mi air chall
  [ha mi er khal]
- I'm illTha mi tinn
  [ha mi tin]
- I'd like to buy...Bu toil leam ceannach...
  [bu to-lik lum can-ach]
- I'm just lookingTha mi a' coimhead
  [ha mi a ko-yim]
- How much is it?Cia mheud tha sin?
  [ki-a ve-oot ha shin]
- That's too expensiveTha sin ro dhaor
  [ha shin ro yaor]
- Can you lower the price?Am faod thu an t-suim a ìseal?
  [am faod hu an tu-im a ees-al]
- What time is it?Dè an t-àm a th' ann?
  [de an tam a ha an]
- It's one o'clockTha e aon uairean
  [ha e een oo-ar-an]
- Half past (10)Leath air
  [lay-ar]
- MorningMadainn
  [ma-dan]
- AfternoonFeasgar
  [fes-gar]
- EveningFeasgar
  [fes-gar]
- YesterdayAn-dè
  [an-de]
- TodayAn-diugh
  [an-ju]
- TomorrowA-màireach
  [a-ma-re-ach]
- 1Aon
  [een]
- 2Dà
  [da]
- 3Trì
  [tree]
- 4Ceithir
  [ke-er]
- 5Còig
  [ko-ik]
- 6Sia
  [she-a]
- 7Seachd
  [shachk]
- 8Ochd
  [ochk]
- 9Naoidh
  [nee]
- 10Deich
  [dech]
- Where's a/the...?Càite tha a'...
  [ka-tche ha a]
- What's the address?Dè an seòladh?
  [de an sho-la]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Am faod thu sealladh dhomh (air a' mhapa)?
  [am faod hu shal-av dom (ar a va-pa)]
- When's the next (bus)?Cuin a thèid an ath (bus)?
  [kwin a hee an ah (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Ticead (gu ....)
  [ti-kat (go)]

History of Isle of Jura

The Isle of Jura boasts a rich tapestry of human history dating back to the Mesolithic era. Archaeological finds, such as shell middens and stone tools, suggest that the island was inhabited over 8,000 years ago. The early settlers were likely drawn by the island's abundant natural resources, including its fertile land and rich marine life.
During the early Middle Ages, the Isle of Jura, like much of the Hebrides, fell under Norse control. The island's name is derived from the Old Norse 'Dyrøy,' meaning 'Deer Island,' reflecting the Norsemen's significant impact on local culture and language. Jura was part of the Kingdom of the Isles, a maritime kingdom that included the Hebrides and the Isle of Man, and flourished under Norse rule until the 13th century.
In the medieval period, the Isle of Jura came under the control of the Maclean and Campbell clans. The Macleans of Duart held sway over the island for several centuries, engaging in frequent skirmishes with rival clans. By the late 16th century, the Campbells of Craignish had established dominance, with the island becoming a part of the extensive Campbell estates. The clan conflicts and alliances played a crucial role in shaping Jura's social and political landscape.
The 18th and 19th centuries were a time of significant upheaval for Jura's inhabitants due to the Highland Clearances. Landowners, seeking to increase their profits, evicted tenant farmers to make way for large-scale sheep farming. This led to a dramatic decline in the island's population, as many residents were forced to emigrate to the Lowlands or overseas. The Clearances left a lasting impact on Jura's demographic and cultural landscape.
In the mid-20th century, the Isle of Jura gained literary fame through George Orwell, who sought refuge on the island to work on his seminal novel, '1984'. Orwell resided at Barnhill, a remote farmhouse on the northern tip of Jura, from 1946 to 1949. Despite his frail health, he found the island's isolation ideal for writing, and it was here that he completed his dystopian masterpiece. Today, Barnhill remains a point of pilgrimage for literary enthusiasts.
In recent decades, Jura has seen a resurgence in population and interest, balancing its rich heritage with modern developments. The island is renowned for its single malt whisky, with the Jura Distillery established in 1810 and revitalized in the 1960s. The local community continues to celebrate traditional music, crafts, and festivals, while also embracing sustainable tourism and renewable energy projects, ensuring that Jura remains a vibrant and resilient island.

Isle of Jura Essentials

The Isle of Jura is located in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. The most common way to reach Jura is by taking a ferry from Kennacraig on the Scottish mainland to the neighboring island of Islay, and then another short ferry ride from Port Askaig on Islay to Jura. You can also take a small plane from Glasgow to Islay and then proceed by ferry. It’s advisable to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during the tourist season.
Once on the Isle of Jura, the most practical way to get around is by car. There is a single main road that runs from the south to the north of the island. Car rentals are available, but it's best to arrange this in advance. Alternatively, cycling is a popular option due to the scenic landscapes. Public transport is limited, but there is a community bus service that operates on the island.
The local currency is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and remote areas. There is a single ATM on the island located at the Jura Hotel in Craighouse, so make sure you have enough cash before traveling to more remote parts of the island.
The Isle of Jura is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are extremely low, and there are no specific areas with high crime targeting tourists. However, as always, it's wise to take standard precautions such as locking your vehicle and not leaving valuables unattended. The island's remote nature means that medical facilities are limited, so it's essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. There is a small medical center in Craighouse that can handle minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, evacuation to the mainland may be necessary. It’s recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest medical facilities and emergency contacts upon arrival.
Fashion: Do wear practical clothing suitable for outdoor activities and variable weather conditions. Layers and waterproofs are advisable. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although the island is not particularly religious. Public Transport: Do plan your transportation in advance as public transport options are limited. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. Islanders are known for their hospitality. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Jura whisky. Don’t forget to book in advance if you plan to dine at the limited number of restaurants.
To experience Jura like a local, visit the Jura Distillery in Craighouse and take a tour to learn about the island's famous whisky. Engage with the locals, who are known for their friendliness and willingness to share stories. Explore the island’s natural beauty by hiking the Paps of Jura or taking a boat trip to see the abundant wildlife, including red deer and seals. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the isolated and historic Jura House Gardens.

The Serene Splendor of Isle of Jura

Local tips in Isle of Jura