Around Rum
The Isle of Rum, once known as the Forbidden Isle, is open to the public and welcomes visitors. Described as the 'Diamond of the Hebrides' the peace and tranquillity of the island, along with the stunning landscapes, bring thousands of visitors to the island every year. From quiet days at the beach and gentle low level walks to breathtaking mountain ridge walks Rum has something for all outdoor lovers. The ferry timetable allows for short stopovers and daytrips to the island, but we highly recommend spending a few days here to take it all in! See below for links to things going on around the island including accommodation options.
While the scenery on Rum is spectacular and the remoteness is part of the appeal and beauty of the island please always remember that the island is rugged, wild and mountainous and that weather conditions can change quickly. Please always be prepared and plan ahead for your journey when venturing out of the village, and when heading for the hills, please be aware of the risks and ensure you have the necessary equipment, supplies and ability to enjoy the day and complete your journey without assistance. In an emergency phone 999, there is emergency phone coverage throughout the island.
Getting to Rum
The Isle of Rum is one of the four Small Isles in the Inner Hebrides, South of Skye.
The islands are reached by Calmac Ferries from Mallaig. There are car parking facilities in Mallaig, and Mallaig can be reached by train at the end of the West Highland Line, or by bus.
For current Small Isles Ferry Timetables see
Mallaig - Small isles | Caledonian MacBrayne
Rum can also be reached in the summer months on certain days from Arisaig Marine. We are delighted to see the MV Sheerwater returning to the island again. For information see :
Island Ferry Trips to the Small Isles from Arisaig | Arisaig Marine
Rum Bunkhouse and Campsite
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Rum Bunkhouse and campsite, open all year round can be booked online at the website below. The bunkhouse has 20 beds, 2 well equipped kitchens (including fridges, freezers, gas hobs and 2 ovens) and a super cosy lounge and dining area. There are also cabins available and a well kept campsite with one of the best views in Scotland! Book early to avoid disappointment.
Isle of Rum National Nature Reserve
Rum National Nature Reserve, covering most of the island is owned and managed by NatureScot.
Home to Golden Eagles and White Tailed Eagles as well as the world's largest breeding colony of Manx Sheerwaters and hundreds of famous Rum Red Deer. The mighty Rum Cullin Ridge and other mountains are located within the Nature Reserve, as well as the 2 bothies at Dibidil and Guirdil. Wild campers are welcome on the Nature Reserve, please follow the outdoor code and leave only footprints!
For more information about the Nature Reserve see link below :
Ivy Cottage Guesthouse
Ivy Cottage is a vegetarian and vegan guest house with 2 rooms which offers bed and breakfast, dinner, and runs bespoke retreats. There is also a gorgeous self catering Shepherd's Hut with spectacular views over the bay.
See website blow for bookings or queries :
Rum Primary School
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Rum primary school has fantastic kids and staff, and is central to the community on Rum and it's future. Keep up to date with the latest goings on at the school and follow their blog on the website below :
Rum Primary School – Learning and Growing Together on the Isle of Rum
Harbour BBQ Hut
One of the best kept secrets on Rum - Harbour BBQ Hut is near the campsite, with amazing views out over Loch Scresort and the Old Pier. The BBQ Hut sleeps 4 comfortably and can fit up to 20 sitting, so is perfect for socialising with the indoor BBQ creating a warm, cosy, midge-free atmosphere!
Dark Sky Sanctuary
The Isle of Rum is an amazing place for stargazing on a clear night, especially in the winter months. In 2024, after a lot of hard work by the people involved, the Isle of Rum was awarded Dark Sky Sanctuary status - one of only 2 in the UK and just over 20 in the world.
For more information see :
Red Deer Project
The Isle of Rum is home to the longest running deer study in the world, ongoing since 1972.
The deer project is one of the longest and most complete studies of a wild group of vertebrates in the world, and has been the subject of over 100 scientific papers.
For more information see :
Other Useful Links
Home - Welcome to the Isle of Rum
Road to the Isles - Explore the West Highlands and the Lochaber Coast
Isle of Rum walks (walkhighlands)
The Mountain Bothies Association
Diamond of the Western Isles - The Isle of Rum
Visiting the Small Isles: Isle of Rum Travel Guide - Watch Me See
7 of the best places to wild camp in Europe | National Geographic