Islands for Sale in Scotland

Latest listing added: April, 2023.

From the prehistoric settlements of the Outer Hebrides, to the rugged coastlines of the Northern Isle; Scotland is home to some of the most visually stunning archipelagos on the planet.

In total, Scottish borders are home to more than 900 offshore islands, though only three currently find themselves on the market for private sale.

A maritime temperate climate awaits those investing in one of the Scotland’s private islands – a weather system influenced by the neighbouring oceans and characterised by a lack of extreme conditions. Rather, British summers are warm, the winters are cool, and rain is to be expected throughout the year.

Nuances do exist though, with the experience of cooler temperatures the further north travelled – and vice versa. The more remote islands also experience stronger winds.

3 Private Islands for Sale in Scotland

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Barlocco Island (Accepting offers until 16th May)

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• Location: Borgue, Kirkcudbright, Dumfries and Galloway
• Size: ~25 acres
• Description: Accessible by boat or at low tide on foot or by tractor/quad from Knockbrex.
• Ownership: Freehold
• Development: Non-Developed
• Map: See on Google Earth

Barlocco Island is located just off the coast and is the westernmost of the Isles of Fleet, in Fleet Bay. It is approximately 9 miles by road from Kirkcudbright.

There are no dwellings or buildings on the Island, only a flood pond providing water for animals. A pebble beach can be found on the western side of the island which can be used to dock a boat.

Any planning activities need to be agreed with the local planning authority.

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Isle of Pladda (SOLD)

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• Location: Isle of Arran, Firth of Clyde
• Size: ~28 acres, ~11 hectares
• Description: 1km from shore, 16km south of Brodick, 31km from Ayr, 73km SW of Glasgow
• Ownership: Freehold
• Development: Developed

The Isle of Arran is one of Scotland’s greatest treasures – a 400-square-kilometre expanse renowned for its rugged coastlines, dramatic landscapes, dense forests, and abundant local cuisine. The Isle of Arran’s closest neighbour? Pladda.

Just ~1km from the shores of ‘Scotland in Miniature’, Pladda Isle is a poster child for well-connected serenity. The ~28-acre island comprises a lighthouse, former residences of the lighthouse keepers, a range of out-buildings, walled gardens, and a stone jetty. Six double bedrooms are distributed amongst the different living spaces, though, having not been lived in for some years, there is a definite need for refurbishment.

The wealth of Pladda extends beyond its man-made developments and prime location. The island is an important breeding ground for a variety of migratory seabirds – from gulls to arctic terns; Pladda is an incredible reflection of Scotland’s native flora.

A final note to investors: there is an urgency regarding the sale of the island. With a closing date set for the end of September, interest in Pladda Isle should be expressed as soon as possible.

Private serenity awaits.

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Isle of Vaila (SOLD)

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• Location: Walls, Shetland
• Size: ~760 acres, ~306 hectares
• Description: 330m from shore, 2.4km SW of Walls, 23km west of Lerwick
• Ownership: Freehold
• Development: Developed

Vaila is an island with a storied past. The ~760-acre body of land, located on the western flank of the Shetland archipelago, has been inhabited for thousands of years. After generations of Norwegian possession, the island was finally returned to local ownership – Arther Anderson, a Shetland-born businessman and founder of the P&O shipping and logistics company, leased Vaila to establish a fishing company.

Following years of growth and commerce, the island was sold to Herbert Anderton, a Yorkshire mill owner who oversaw the construction of Vaila Hall – a mansion still considered to be one of Shetland’s finest. After a series of extravagant parties, plans to extend the hall were broached – though these were ultimately derailed by the outbreak of the First World War.

History aside, the reasons for Vaila’s popularity remain apparent. Reaching 95 metres at its highest point, and with more than ten kilometres of diverse coastline, the island offers breathtaking views on clear days. Vaila is also home to a diversity of flora and fauna – from visiting marine birds and a resident flock of Shetland ewes, to otters and orca.

A host of existing infrastructure – beyond the titular hall – adds further appeal. Purchase of the island would also be to inherit its farm, additional accommodations, and boating piers.

Connected, historic, and diverse – the Isle of Vaila offers much to its prospective investors.