The Isle of Wiay, a historic Scottish island in the Outer Hebrides where Bonnie Prince Charlie once hid after fleeing the Battle of Culloden, has been put up for sale. The island, located off the east coast of Benbecula, is listed with estate agents Bell Ingram for offers over £995,000.
A property with a remarkable story
Wiay extends to around 970 acres and features sandy beaches, freshwater lochs, sheltered anchorages, and an abundance of wildlife. Its highest point, Beinn a' Tuath, rises to 335 feet above sea level, offering coastal views in every direction.
The island has strong Jacobite connections, with Bonnie Prince Charlie believed to have sought refuge there in 1746 after fleeing government forces. According to Luxury Property News, a cave at the foot of Beinn a' Tuath known as Prince Charlie's Rest is thought to be where he sheltered until he eventually escaped to France.
Traces of the past and wildlife
Wiay was once home to a small crofting community, and traces of its history remain, including the ruins of a cottage overlooking Bagh na Murla, a sheltered bay along the western shore. Planning consent for renovating the cottage was previously granted but has since expired.
The freshwater lochs offer fishing opportunities, and sporting rights are included in the sale, with stalking among the island's primary sporting pursuits. The remote landscape has recorded nesting sites for golden eagles and white-tailed sea eagles, and the island has supported around 200 sheep in the past.
An entire Hebridean island below £1 million
Estate agent Carl Warden said: "The opportunity to own an entire Hebridean island with an asking price below £1 million is certain to capture people's imagination. Add in Wiay's traditional connection to Bonnie Prince Charlie, its sandy beaches and extraordinary wildlife, and you have a property with a remarkable story to tell."
Warden added: "With approximately 970 acres to call your own, it offers privacy and a sense of escape in a spectacular setting."
The Isle of Wiay is part of the Uists, a series of interconnected islands in the southern Outer Hebrides. It is sheltered by Benbecula to the west and enjoys panoramic views across the surrounding waters, with the Cuillin mountains on the Isle of Skye visible on the eastern horizon on clear days.
The nearest settlement is Balivanich on Benbecula, the primary commercial and administrative hub of the Uists, which has shops, supermarkets, healthcare facilities, schools, cafés, and an airport. Benbecula Airport provides regular flights to the mainland.
