Harris and Scalpay
Wildlife Festival Snorkelling with Wild Harris
Specific Beach Confirmed After Booking​
Friday 20th June - Session at 10:00am and 11:30pm
Hosted by Wild Harris
​
Join Wild Harris for an unforgettable snorkelling experience in the crystal-clear waters off one of Harris’s stunning white sand beaches. Led by Daryll, a qualified snorkel leader, free diver and marine biologist, this event offers the perfect introduction to exploring life below the surface.
​
You'll discover vibrant marine habitats and encounter a variety of fascinating sea life, including flat fish, starfish, sand eels, crabs, jellyfish and vividly coloured algae/seaweed. Daryll was instrumental in creating Scotland’s second snorkel trail right here in North Harris, forming a partnership with the Scottish Wildlife Trust and each site revealing something different about the island's underwater world.
​
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeller or returning for more, Wild Harris will guide you to the best snorkel spots — including some hidden gems — ensuring a safe and immersive adventure. You will be guaranteed to get the most from any of the trail sites or be guided to some hidden gems rarely glimpsed by human eyes!
​​
Cost £30 per person - (Discounted Price for the Wildlife Festival, usually £50 per person!)
​
Booking Essential
​
Booking link: Online Scheduler for Wild Harris listed as 'Wildlife Festival Snorkelling’.
​​​​
Contact details: Wildharris@outlook.com
​
Sea, Kayaking, Coasteering, Gorge Scrambling
Scaladale Outdoor Centre
Activities will run Monday–Saturday throughout the Wildlife Festival
Hosted by Scaladale Outdoor Activity Centre
​​
Scaladale will be hosting a series of exciting outdoor adventures throughout the Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival and the Fringe Festival. Sessions are tailored to your level of experience and guided by qualified instructors.
​
-
Loch or Sea Kayaking: Journey along the coast exploring beaches, islands, and spotting incredible wildlife such as sea eagles, otters, puffins, seals, starfish, jellyfish—and perhaps even dolphins!
-
​
-
Coasteering: Traverse the boundary between land and sea, swimming, climbing, and jumping under expert supervision. Every session is different, shaped by tides and terrain.
-
​
-
Gorge Scrambling: Navigate the dramatic gorge environment—climbing rocks, leaping into pools, and discovering unique plant life and possibly soaring sea eagles overhead.​
​
Please refer to the website for pricing details per event.
​
Book here: https://www.scaladale-centre.co.uk/book
​​​
Contact details:
info@scaladale.co.uk
01859 502502 / 07535 544207
​​​​
Wild Wonders: Instant Photography Nature Hunt
Scalpay Community Centre
Saturday 21st June, 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Hosted by Nature in an Instant
​
Get ready for a fun-filled outdoor adventure where children and families explore the unique wildlife of the Outer Hebrides through instant photography! We will meet at Scalpay Community Centre and take a short gentle walk along the start of the Heritage Walk moorland trail.
​
Using instant cameras, participants will capture their favourite discoveries while taking part in an exciting scavenger hunt.
​
Back at the centre, each child will create their own mini wildlife photo journal to take home—a perfect blend of creativity, exploration, and discovery!
​
For children aged 7–12 and their families. All materials and instant cameras provided. The activity involves a short walk on uneven boggy ground, so it won’t be accessible to wheelchair users. Participants should wear walking shoes/wellies and a waterproof jacket.
​
Cost - £10
​
Booking via ticket tailor - https://buytickets.at/natureinaninstant/1699006
​​
​
Nature in Blue – Cyanotype & Creative Nature Writing
Saturday 21st June, 10:30am – 12:00pm
Hosted by Émilie Atmane of Nature in an Instant
​​​​
Step into a world of light and shadow in this calming indoor workshop where we’ll explore the magical process of cyanotype printing—a historic photographic technique using sunlight to create striking blueprints.
​
You will arrange pressed plants, feathers and other natural textures on light-sensitive paper, then watch your image appear in develop in rich indigo tones.
​
After printing, take part in a gentle creative session with nature-inspired drawing, poetry, or textures to turn your cyanotype into a unique piece of art.
​
This workshop is especially welcoming to children and families who enjoy hands-on creativity in a relaxed, indoor setting.
​
Cost: £10
​
https://buytickets.at/natureinaninstant/1698378
​​​​
​
​
​
Nature Poetry
Tarbert Library
Monday 23rd June, 5pm - 6pm
Hosted by Louise MacDougall
​
Join us for a relaxed and inspiring celebration of nature through poetry at Tarbert Library. This event invites you to explore your connection to the natural world of the Outer Hebrides—its landscapes, wildlife, and weather—through words.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer, a complete beginner, or simply a lover of poetry, come along to listen, share your own poems, or try your hand at writing in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. All are welcome—no experience necessary. Materials will be provided, and you’re welcome to bring a favourite nature poem to share.
Let the beauty and wildness of the islands inspire your voice!
This is a free event, no booking required.
​
Contact details: jannagrimm@cne-siar.gov.uk​
​
​
Image: John McAvoy
​
​
​
​
​
Eagle Observatory Drop-in
Eagle Observatory, Miabhag nam Beann
Tuesday 24th June, 13:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Hosted by North Harris Trust Ranger
​
Our Ranger will be at the Eagle Observatory, ready to answer your questions and help you look for the local pair of golden eagles, amongst the wildlife to be found in Gleann Mhiabhaig.
​
Everyone is welcome, but please come prepared for the conditions. Appropriate footwear and water are necessary. Accessibility may be limited depending on terrain.
Meeting at Bogha Glas Car Park (HS3 3AD).
Booking not essential. Donations welcome.
​
Contact details: ranger@north-harris.org ​
​
​
Image: Golden Eagle (c) Nigel Puttick
​
​
​
The Eagle Walk
Meet at Bogha Glas Carpark, North Harris
Wednesday 25th June, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Hosted by North Harris Trust Ranger
​
Join us for a walk into the North Harris hills in search of eagles and other wildlife, including a raid over the border to Lewis! This area is home to the highest densities of golden eagles in Europe.
​
Free to attend – donations encouraged
​
No booking required
​
Please come prepared for the conditions. This walk is not suitable for those with limited mobility due to terrain and distance. Appropriate footwear and water are essential.
​​​​
​
Image (c) Nigel Puttick
​
​​​
In the Wake of Whales Workshop
Leverhulme Community Hub, Leverburgh
Wednesday 25th June, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Hosted by Keening the Song of the Stranding
​
Join us to paint life-size whales, to celebrate the lives of 55 long-finned pilot whales, and share their story following the mass stranding on Traigh Mhor, Isle of Lewis on 16 July 2023.
​
Together with local schools, we’re creating cardboard whales—three of which will be “island community whales” made during the festival. You’re invited to be part of something special, join us and paint, write, print, draw, and help bring these whales to life in both English and Gaelic.
​
All whales created through community events during the festival will come together for a symbolic final gathering at North Tolsta Community Hall on 12 July 2025, as part of Keening: Song of the Stranding, a public art event at Traigh Mhor, Isle of Lewis commemorating the mass stranding.
Find out more about the public art event at the project website - www.northharrisstudio.co.uk/keening
Free entry
No booking required – drop-in sessions
All materials provided
​
Open to all ages and abilities. Please note that accessibility may vary by venue—check with the venue in advance if needed.
​
​​
​
Harris Surf
Talla na Mara, Niseabost
Thursday 26th June, 10.30am & 14:00pm
Hosted by SurfLewis
​​
Surfing with views of sea birds, seals, and eagles in scenic West Harris.
​
Join SurfLewis in celebrating the Outer Hebrides Wildlife Festival with an exciting series of outdoor, ocean-based adventures. Led by a marine biologist and keen ornithologist, our sessions offer a perfect mix of water sports, wildlife watching, and nature connection across stunning Hebridean landscapes.
Meet at Talla na Mara, Niseabost.
​
Booking essential: https://www.surflewis.com
​
Please check website for costs
Contact details: contactsurflewis@gmail.com ​
​
Who can attend?
-
Suitable for anyone aged 8 and above (10+ for Paddleboarding).
-
Participants must be able to swim 50m unaided.
What to bring:
-
Swimwear, towel, snacks, drinks
-
Relevant medication (e.g. Epipen, inhaler)
-
Appropriate outdoor clothing
​
​​
Birds of a Feather: Talk; Walk & Create
Tarbert Library
Thursday 26th June, 4pm - 5:50pm
Hosted Rosie Morrison & Heather MacDougall
​​
Join us for a relaxed and inspiring session that blends learning, walking, and creativity. We'll begin with a short, engaging talk introducing local bird species, the art of birdwatching, and tips on spotting birds in the Outer Hebrides.
​
Next, we’ll step outside for a gentle guided walk – binoculars at the ready – to enjoy birds in their natural habitats. The session will wrap up with a creative crafting activity, where you’ll make your own bird-inspired artwork or nature journal keepsake using simple materials. No experience needed!
​
This event offers a chance to slow down, tune into the world around you, and connect with nature through observation and art.
​
This is a free event, no booking required.
​
This event is suitable for all ages and experience levels. Please note:
· The walk will be gentle but may include uneven ground.
· Wheelchair access at Tarbert Library.
· Children must be accompanied by an adult.
· Please wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear.
​
​Contact details: jannagrimm@cne-siar.gov.uk​
​
Image (c) Cristina McAvoy
Huisinis Whale Watch
Meet at Gateway building at Huisinis
Saturday 28 June, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Hosted by Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust
​
Join us for some sea-gazing from this gorgeous Hebridean Whale Trail site.
Led by our Sightings Officer, learn about species we see around the coast and how you can help deepen our understanding by conducting surveys using the Whale Track app.
Free
​
No booking required
Contact details: sightings@hwdt.org​
​
Accessibility & Suitability
-
This event is open to all.
-
The Gateway building is fully accessible and located next to the car park.
-
More information on the site is available at: whaletrail.org/huisinis-isle-of-harris
-
No specific fitness level or age restrictions.
​
What to Bring
-
Sensible waterproof footwear
-
Waterproof jacket, trousers, and warm clothing (this is Scotland!)
-
Binoculars if you have them – limited spares are available to borrow from HWDT
​
Wildlife Festival Snorkelling with Wild Harris
Specific Beach Confirmed After Booking​
Date Saturday 28th June, Sessions at 2:00pm and 3:30pm
Hosted by Wild Harris
​
Join Wild Harris for an unforgettable snorkelling experience in the crystal-clear waters off one of Harris’s stunning white sand beaches. Led by Daryll, a qualified snorkel leader, free diver and marine biologist, this event offers the perfect introduction to exploring life below the surface.
​
You'll discover vibrant marine habitats and encounter a variety of fascinating sea life, including flat fish, starfish, sand eels, crabs, jellyfish and vividly coloured algae/seaweed. Daryll was instrumental in creating Scotland’s second snorkel trail right here in North Harris, forming a partnership with the Scottish Wildlife Trust and each site revealing something different about the island's underwater world.
​
Whether you’re a first-time snorkeller or returning for more, Wild Harris will guide you to the best snorkel spots — including some hidden gems — ensuring a safe and immersive adventure. You will be guaranteed to get the most from any of the trail sites or be guided to some hidden gems rarely glimpsed by human eyes!
​​
Cost £30 pp - (Discounted Price for the Wildlife Festival, usually £50 pp!)
​
Booking Essential
​
Booking link: Online Scheduler for Wild Harris listed as 'Wildlife Festival Snorkelling’.
​​​​
Contact details: Wildharris@outlook.com
Nature Through Touch & Lens: A Sensory Photography Workshop
Tarbert Library ​
Tuesday 15th July, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Hosted by Nature in an Instant
​
A multi-sensory workshop designed for participants with additional support needs. Explore the textures of the Outer Hebrides—soft seabird feathers, smooth shells, and delicate seaweed—before capturing them with an instant camera! Participants will create a tactile ‘touch-and-see’ nature board, combining photography and sensory exploration in an interactive and accessible way.
​
This workshop is suitable for teenagers and adults with additional support needs. The organiser will contact participants in advance to tailor the session to individual needs.
​
Suitability & Access Information:
​
For participants with additional support needs (10yrs old + and adults) .This workshop is suitable for teenagers and adults with additional support needs. The organiser will contact participants in advance to tailor the session to individual needs.
​​
Cost £10
​
Booking recommended via Ticketmaster Please follow the link to buy tickets for the Instant Photography Workshop at Tarbert Library on 15th July:
​
https://buytickets.at/natureinaninstant/1699013
​​​​
Contact details: natureinaninstant@gmail.com
​
Nature’s Blueprints: Cyanotype Art & Hebridean Landscape
Scalpay Community Centre​
Tuesday 15th July, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Hosted by Nature in an Instant
​
Experience the outdoors through the lens of light and nature in this immersive cyanotype art workshop. We will begin outdoors, gathering natural materials from the nearby shoreline and moor – grasses, feathers, seaweed, wildflowers or wool, and textures unique to the Outer Hebrides.
​
Back indoors, you will explore the magic of cyanotype printing using sunlight or UV exposure. This workshop invites you to experiment boldly – layering materials, incorporating natural or collage elements for a mixed-media twist. This workshop is perfect for anyone wanting a more expressive, land-connected art experience.
​
This creative experience connects art and the Hebridean landscape in a hands-on, expressive way.
​​
Cost For children (7–12 yrs) and their families – £15
​
Booking recommended via TicketTailor. Please follow the link to buy tickets for the Cyanotype Workshop at Scalpay Community Centre on 15th July:
​
https://buytickets.at/natureinaninstant/1698423
​​​​
Contact details: natureinaninstant@gmail.com
Seabirds Out and About Arts Workshops
Multiple venues
10 & 11 July
Hosted by An Lanntair
​
Children can discover the wonders of the natural world through Seabirds Art Workshops, taking place in community venues across Lewis and Harris! These fun, creative sessions are designed to spark imagination and inspire young artists as they learn about the unique seabird species that call the islands home. With guidance from An Lanntair arts workers, children will take part in movement, music, drawing and construction while deepening their connection to the environment around them. Come join us and let your creativity take flight!
​
Dates and venues:
​
-
Thurs 10 July, Leverburgh Village Hall, 10am – 12pm, age: 5-8 (English)
-
Thurs 10 July, Leverburgh Village Hall​, 1pm - 3pm, age: 9-12 (English)
-
Fri 11 July, Tarbert Community Centre, 10am – 12pm, age: 5-8 (English)
-
Fri 11 July, Tarbert Community Centre​, 1pm - 3pm, age: 9-12 (English)
​
Contact: 01851 708480