Treshnish Isles join the Trust

The Treshnish Isles are a group of eight uninhabited islands and many more skerries, located in the Inner Hebrides to the west of Mull. The entire archipelago is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and the islands are known for their distinctive silhouette in the seascape – especially Bac Mor or the Dutchman’s Cap. In summer many of the islands are covered in rich grasslands and abundant wildflowers. They are also internationally significant as a nesting site for many seabird species including guillemots, razorbills, puffins, kittiwakes, fulmars, shags and skuas.

The marine environment surrounding the islands is part of the Sea of the Hebrides Marine Protected Area due to the presence of basking sharks and minke whales. Bottlenose and common dolphins, as well as grey seals, are also found there.

The islands were in the possession of King Hakon of Norway until 1249 and have a history of habitation from the Iron Age. They contain the protected archaeological remains (scheduled monuments) of two medieval chapels, a 15th–16th-century castle and an 18th-century barracks. In the 20th century, the islands frequently featured in the work of important Scottish artists like F C B Cadell and S J Peploe. The Treshnish Isles have been in the care of the Hebridean Trust since 2000 and were transferred to the National Trust for Scotland earlier this month.

The National Trust for Scotland Foundation USA has supported this acquisition, continuing a strong tradition of American support for conservation in this part of Scotland.

This announcement comes as Chief Executive Philip Long OBE marks his third anniversary with the Trust. Philip Long took on the role at the height of the pandemic, which impacted severely on our ability to provide access for visitors, carry out our conservation work and raise funds. The launch of our 10-year strategy – Nature, Beauty and Heritage for Everyone – in March 2022 has been described as a ‘fresh start’ for our conservation charity, which is responsible for the conservation and protection of some of Scotland’s most special places, including the islands of Staffa, Mingulay, Pabbay & Berneray, Canna and, of course, the dual World Heritage Site of St Kilda. Taking on the care of the Treshnish Isles further contributes to our strategic objective to enrich Scotland’s protected heritage.

Philip Long recently visited the islands. He said: ‘The National Trust for Scotland is privileged to take on the role of protecting the beautiful Treshnish Isles, which have such a long human history and are so rich in habitats and wildlife. I am delighted that our charity is playing this important role and adding these precious islands to the many already in our care.

‘Uninhabited islands are invaluable as havens for wildlife and as places of great natural beauty. Looking after them is a great responsibility, which we are proud to undertake, and which, as an independent charity, is only made possible thanks to the generosity of our members and supporters.’

Chair of the Hebridean Trust Mike Stanfield said: ‘For over 20 years, the Hebridean Trust has been proud to act as guardian for these special islands. The focus for the Hebridean Trust has now shifted towards community projects on Tiree and so we are very pleased that the National Trust for Scotland has agreed to take the Treshnish Isles into their care for the nation.’

Caroline Clark, Director of Scotland for The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: ‘Thanks to National Lottery players, we supported the Hebridean Trust to take ownership of the Treshnish Isles to secure their future for nature and the community. We are delighted that the isles will now pass to the stewardship of the National Trust for Scotland, who bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise and experience to continue to care for this beautiful environment. Earlier this year we launched our 10-year strategy Heritage 2033; at the heart of it is our vision for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. We know that aligns closely with the National Trust for Scotland’s own strategy Nature, Beauty & Heritage for Everyone.’