North Uist & Grimsay
Empower
Growth
In the Wake of Whales Workshop
Taigh Chearsabhagh, Lochmaddy
Saturday 21st June, 5pm - 7pm
Hosted by Sam Gare (as part of Keening: Song of the Stranding)
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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.
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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.
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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
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Free. No need to book, just drop in.​
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​Open to all ages and abilities.
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This is a dual-language event (English and Gaelic) and is suitable for Gaelic speakers as well as those with no Gaelic skills.
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Contact details: info@samgare.com
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Land of Otters Guided Walk
Langass Lidge, Langass, North Uist
Wednesday 25th June, 10am - 1pm
Hosted by RSPB
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Join RSPB staff for a guided walk around Loch Langass in search of local wildlife, including resident seal and otter populations. Learn about these fascinating mammals and explore the natural beauty of the east coast of Uist.
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Location: Langass Lodge, Langass, Isle of North Uist HS6 5HA. What3words: writing.autumn.sport
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Walk duration: 2–3 hours
Distance: Up to 2 miles
Terrain: Rough and wet ground along a hillside trail. Not suitable for individuals with mobility restrictions. Stout footwear recommended.​
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To book, please email: outerhebrides@rspb.org.uk​
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Image (c) Lorne Gill / NatureScot
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Balranald Machair Guided Walk
RSPB Balranald Visitor Centre, Balranald, North Uist
Monday 23rd June, 10am - 12pm
Hosted by RSPB
Join an RSBP warden for a guided walk around the reserve and learn more about the wildlife and the work the RSPB are doing at the reserve.
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Location: Meet at Balranald Reserve Visitor Centre, HS6 5DL (What3Words: mainframe.chill.emailed)​
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This is a free event, no need to book.
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Contact: 01876 714040 / outerhebrides@rspb.org.uk
​Image (c) Katy Malone
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Machair Bumblebee Safaris
Multiple locations
23, 24, 30 & 31 July, 12pm - 1pm
Hosted by University of Glasgow Remote Scotland Expedition
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Join the Remote Scotland Expedition team from the University of Glasgow for an educational walk through our beautiful machair habitats! Learn to identify bumblebee-friendly plants, appreciate the role of crofting in supporting pollinators, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Great Yellow Bumblebee. You may even get to see bees caught and safely released after identification!
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Dates and locations:
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23rd/24th July – Newtonferry
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30th July – Tràigh Iar
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31st July – Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve
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This is a free event. Booking is not essential, but prior notice is appreciated.​
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Contact: remotescotland2025@gmail.com
Climate & Nature: Nature-based Solutions to Climate Change and Seed Bomb Workshop
Grimsay: Ceann na h-Àirigh
Tuesday 22nd July, 2–4pm
Hosted by Climate Hebrides
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Climate & Nature: Nature-based Solutions to Climate Change
Join Climate Hebrides for a relaxed and engaging workshop exploring how climate and nature are deeply connected in the Outer Hebrides.
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We’ll begin with a short presentation on the relationship between biodiversity and climate change, and the powerful role of nature-based solutions in addressing the climate crisis.
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We'll explore how restoring nature can help both people and wildlife thrive in the Western Isles.
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Then, get hands-on with a fun seed bomb workshop – a creative and eco-friendly way to support pollinators and promote wildflowers in your local area, contributing to a healthier local environment.
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Whether you're passionate about climate action or just curious about nature, we’d love to see you there!
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Free
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Booking essential email sarah@climatehebrides.com to reserve a place.
Max capacity: 10 attendees
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Image (c) Pieter Haringsma
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