Public sitting room?
If you haven’t been to our pub, An Tigh Seinnse before, it is a bit like walking into someone’s house. This tiny pub is truly the centre of the community, never more so when phones ring an alarm to warn of an incoming storm, a birthday needs to be celebrated or a glass raised to the life of a neighbour. The locals may look round when you walk in, but they are most certainly friendly, particularly Archie, the circus dog, who you may find on a stool at the bar. The food is good, but if you want to eat, be sure to book a table: 01496
860725.
Windswept farm shop
Popping into Windswept Farm Shop to pick up a few Islay gifts recently, it’s easy to see why locals love it. Whether it’s artisan produce, thoughtful gifts or a last-minute answer to “what’s for tea?”, Jessie’s
friendly shop has become a real
hub for island life. Open seven days a week, it’s well worth a visit, and a trip along the stunning West road.
Islay sauna is open!
Islay has joined Argyll and Bute’s
growing sauna trail. The newest
addition to the region’s flourishing
collection of coastal saunas, Islay Sauna was born from the aftermath of Storm Éowyn in January 2025. Nestled beside Burnside Lodge, it offers a truly Hebridean experience:
relax in Finnish heat while watching seals offshore, then cool beneath a cold shower with a view of the iconic Orsay Lighthouse—surely one of Scotland’s most scenic showers.
There are many health benefits
associated with sauna use but in
practice, it just makes you feel good! Open 3 days a week, almost always on a Sunday, other days may vary according to the week. Book your slot at https://wunderbook.link/Burnside
and feel more at home in your skin.
Celtic craft shop
Where else would you purchase a
painted sheep’s scull as a holiday souvenir? Mairi and Gordon are truly connected with the land and sea on Islay and open daily, pop in for a chat!
Burnside Lodge
Bacon Butty before the beach? Open most Sundays, and occasionally other days for breakfast rolls, coffee and good cake. Eat in on wild days or sit in the garden and enjoy the view! Follow @IslayBaker on Instagram to see what’s baking.
Heading out west
Catching Anna, Ruby and Kalynne at Orsay Seafood, just by Portnahaven Boatyard for the freshest Crabbie Fries!
Popping into Portnahaven Church on a Tuesday or Thursday morning for a coffee and a chat about its future.
Trying your hand at fishing (or crabbing)
get what you need from Neil 07900 835526.
Grabbing a cake from Eilidh’s cake box. Creagan Mor Cake and Eggs is open on Saturdays.
