Autumn on the Small Isles
| VISIT SMALL ISLES |
October 2026 Newsletter
Image by Katrina Stewart
Welcome to our autumn newsletter.
Autumn brings a different feel to the Small Isles. Red deer rut on Rum, migratory birds pass overhead and the evenings draw in, bringing darker skies and changing light. The weather can be unpredictable, but there is plenty to enjoy if you're prepared for the conditions.
Island life continues beyond the summer season, although the rhythm changes. Some businesses reduce their hours or close for the winter, and ferry services move to their winter timetable.
If you're thinking about visiting this autumn or winter, a little planning ahead will help you make the most of your time here.
Image by Esther Rutter
Planning an autumn or winter visit
CalMac winter timetable | From 19 October
From 19 October, the Small Isles move onto the winter ferry timetable.
The islands remain well worth exploring beyond the summer months, but travelling at this time of year calls for a little extra preparation.
Before you travel:
Check the ferry timetable. Review the CalMac winter timetable and book your sailing in advance.
Confirm what's open. Contact accommodation providers, cafés and other local businesses directly to check opening dates and hours.
Plan your supplies. Check what is available locally and bring anything essential that you may not be able to buy on the islands.
Pack for the weather. Waterproofs, warm layers and suitable footwear will help you enjoy being outdoors in changeable conditions.
Make the most of daylight. Days are shorter, so allow plenty of time for walks and outdoor activities.
Allow flexibility. Weather can affect ferry services, so avoid making plans that depend on a tight connection or immediate onward travel.
Remember your travel insurance. Ferry disruption can mean an unexpected overnight stay, extra accommodation costs or alternative travel arrangements. Check your policy carefully before travelling, including whether it covers disruption to your ferry sailing and any additional costs you might incur. Cover varies between policies.
Check the CalMac website for the latest sailing information before setting off.
Image by Fiona Hutton
Your visit makes a difference
Visiting the Small Isles outside the main summer season can be a wonderful way to experience island life, while helping local communities sustain businesses and services throughout the year.
Where possible, stay a little longer, eat locally, shop with island businesses and book local guides or activities. Check what's available before you arrive, and let people know when you've enjoyed your experience.
Small purchases and overnight stays can make a real difference to the people who live and work here year-round.
Wildlife to look out for
Red deer | Rum
October is rutting season, when stags roar and compete for the attention of hinds. It's a remarkable time to experience Rum's wildlife, but rutting stags can be dangerous. Observe from a safe distance.
Eagles | Across the islands
Golden eagles and white-tailed eagles can be seen on Rum. Keep an eye on the skies and coastlines, and take binoculars if you have them.
Otters | Across the islands
Otters can be elusive, but autumn and winter can offer better opportunities to spot them, with sightings often more frequent than in summer. Ask locally for advice on suitable places to watch, then settle in quietly and be patient. Keep your distance to avoid disturbing them.
Migratory birds | Across the islands
Autumn brings movement in the skies and along the shorelines as summer visitors depart and wintering birds arrive. Keep an eye out during coastal walks.
Rum Cuillin - Katrina Stewart
The Night Sky
October brings something that summer can't: darkness.
The evenings are drawing in, making autumn and winter some of the best months for experiencing the Small Isles after sunset. While everyone hopes for the Northern Lights, there's plenty to look for even when the aurora doesn't appear. On a clear night, step outside and give your eyes time to adjust. Look for the Milky Way, familiar constellations and the changing moon.
Looking ahead:
Isle of Rum Dark Sky Festival | 6–8 February 2027
The Isle of Rum Dark Sky Festival returns from 6–8 February 2027, following its successful launch earlier this year.
It will include guided stargazing sessions in a mobile planetarium, astrophotography and arts workshops and the guest speaker will be Professor Catherine Heymans, Scotland’s Astronomer Royal.
Admission is free and February offers an opportunity to experience Rum in the quieter winter months, with the island’s dark skies providing the backdrop. Stargazing is, of course, weather-dependent, so fingers crossed for clear skies!
The full programme is still to be announced, but if you’re interested in attending, it’s worth planning ahead and checking accommodation and ferry arrangements early. Find out more on the Isle of Rum website.
Make plans for your next island visit
Whether you're drawn to Rum's wildlife and dark skies, Eigg's landscapes, Muck's quieter corners or Canna's rich natural and cultural heritage, each of the Small Isles offers its own reasons to stay a little longer.
Visit our website for travel information, accommodation, local businesses, walks and inspiration for exploring the islands.
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Small Isles, United Kingdom
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