North Uist campus

content

Based on the island of North Uist, our campus provides an opportunity to study in the distinctive environment of the Outer Hebrides on the west coast of Scotland.

Renowned for their beauty, unique habitats, unusual geomorphology and spectacular coastlines, these islands comprise a rich and diverse natural environment.  Home to a wide range of native flora and fauna, they also play host to a large variety of migrating birds throughout the year.

Human occupation of the islands dates back thousands of years and archaeological evidence of this is apparent throughout.  The traditional island lifestyle of crofting flourishes, (small hold farming), as does the Gaelic language and traditional music, making this a unique and stimulating place in which to study.

Courses delivered on campus include:

content
content

Contact us

UHI Outer Hebrides
Taigh Chearsabhagh
Lochmaddy
Isle of North Uist
Outer Hebrides
HS6 5AA

Facilities 

In 1996, Taigh Chearsabhagh established its own art school, with many students taking inspiration from the beautiful location and rich cultural heritage.  Students have the opportunity to attend exhibitions, artist talks and various events.  The centre hosts a vibrant programme of exhibitions and events, and students have the opportunity to exhibit in the gallery spaces.

The centre also has its own cafe, open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

We have a top-quality print facility, complete with:

  • Rochat roller press
  • Etching and intaglio equipment
  • Relief printing facilities, including woodcut, collagraph and linocut
  • Monoprint 
  • Chine collé

We have a fully equipped analogue darkroom for traditional and alternative photography, such as film processing and photographic printing.  Students will also be able to benefit from the high resolution film scanner for hybrid analogue/digital working, and a large collection of photographic equipment including analogue cameras, lights and tripods.

Location

Taigh Chearsabhagh is conveniently located close to the ferry terminal in Lochmaddy and forms the hub for North Uist’s art, heritage and economic development.  

North Uist itself is in the centre of the Outer Hebridean islands and is an incredible location for bird watching, beach walking and tranquil studying.  

While you explore your location, keep a look out for seven sculptures commissioned by Taigh Chearsabhagh.  The installations form the Uist Sculpture Trail and merge creativity with the incredible landscape.

Accommodation

Our knowledgeable, friendly staff will be happy to help you find suitable accommodation during your time with us.

Travel

To get to North Uist by ferry, you can leave from Uig, Skye and arrive at Lochmaddy. The journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.  If you’re coming to the Uists from the Isle of Harris, you can get a ferry from Leverburgh to Berneray, and drive south. Information on ferry timetables to North Uist can be found here.

Another option is to sail from the mainland to South Uist and drive up to North Uist.  The ferry leaves from Mallaig and Oban and arrives at Lochboisdale.  This crossing from Mallaig takes 3 hours and 30 minutes. The crossing from Oban takes 5 hours and 10 minutes and only operates during the winter.  Information on crossings to South Uist can be found here.

Benbecula has its own airport, operating flights to and from Glasgow and Stornoway.  

For information on getting around the Uists by bus, visit the bus timetables here.  Cars can be hired at Car Hire Hebrides. 

Local links

Visit Outer Hebrides contains an abundance of useful information for anyone visiting the islands for the first time.  Inspiration for things to see and do in North Uist can be found here.  A website on exploring North Uist containing plenty of useful information here.  

Benbecula, sandwiched between North and South Uist, is well worth exploring.  Find out all you’ll need to know here.

Looking to explore South Uist?  You’ll find loads of helpful information here.