Leverburgh Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Leverburgh is accessible via the main A859 road that runs the length of Harris and Lewis, with connections to Tarbert in the north where ferries arrive from the mainland at Uig, Skye. The drive from Tarbert to Leverburgh takes approximately 30 minutes through some of Harris's most spectacular scenery. Public buses operate between Stornoway (the largest town in the Outer Hebrides) and Leverburgh, with the journey taking about 1.5 hours. If arriving by car, there's convenient parking available near the ferry terminal. For those without vehicles, local taxis can transport visitors from nearby accommodations directly to the ferry point.

Nestled on the southern coast of the Isle of Harris, Leverburgh serves as a vital maritime link in Scotland's stunning Outer Hebrides. This charming fishing village, with its working harbor and rugged coastal beauty, offers travelers their first glimpse of Harris's distinctive landscape where mountains meet sea. As ferries glide into port, visitors are welcomed by the sight of traditional stone cottages and the promise of authentic island hospitality that defines this remote Scottish outpost.

Leverburgh experiences a maritime climate, with mild but often changeable weather throughout the year. Summer months (June to August) offer the most reliable weather, with extended daylight hours sometimes stretching until 11pm, perfect for evening walks along the coastline. Spring (April-May) brings wildflowers and fewer tourists, making it ideal for peaceful exploration. Ferry services operate year-round but run more frequently during summer months, with additional sailings to accommodate increased visitor numbers. Winter visits (November-February) provide a raw, authentic island experience with dramatic seas and skies, though some local services may operate on reduced hours.

Leverburgh serves as a key departure point for ferries to North Uist, with the 60-minute crossing offering spectacular views across the Sound of Harris. From North Uist, travelers can continue their island-hopping adventure south to Benbecula, South Uist, and eventually Barra, each island offering its own distinct character and landscapes. The small island of Berneray, connected to North Uist by causeway, rewards visitors with pristine white beaches and abundant wildlife just a short ferry journey from Leverburgh. The route between Leverburgh and the Uists is particularly scenic, passing numerous small islands and skerries that create a mesmerizing maritime landscape rarely seen elsewhere in Scotland.

The breathtaking expanse of Scarista Beach lies just 15 minutes from Leverburgh, offering miles of pristine white sand and turquoise waters that rival Caribbean shores. Food enthusiasts should sample the fresh seafood at the Anchorage Restaurant, where locally-caught fish and shellfish feature prominently on the menu. The nearby village of Northton provides excellent hiking opportunities with trails leading to ancient ruins, a 16th-century chapel, and spectacular viewpoints across to the islands of the Sound of Harris. Harris Tweed shopping opportunities abound in the area, with several weavers and outlets selling this world-famous fabric that's still handwoven in local homes. Don't miss the chance to visit the imposing St. Clement's Church in Rodel, just a short drive from Leverburgh, with its remarkable medieval stone carvings.

Leverburgh was named after William Lever (Lord Leverhulme), the soap magnate who purchased the entire island in 1919 and had ambitious plans to develop the village into a major fishing port. The harbor was once home to an unusual floating church ship called 'Hebrides' that served the spiritual needs of fishermen without requiring them to come ashore. The village sits at the meeting point of the mountainous North Harris and the flat, fertile lands of South Harris, creating a geographical divide visible to all ferry passengers. Leverburgh's pier was constructed using stones from demolished local buildings, with some residents claiming you can still spot carved fragments from these original structures in the harbor walls.