Enjoy Hogmanay on Islay

Hogmanay is what we call New Year’s Eve in Scotland. It’s a time of much celebration as we wave goodbye to the old year and welcome in the new with songs, fireworks and perhaps the odd dram of whisky. Here on Islay, we have many customs and celebrations and welcome visitors to join us as the clock strikes 12. If you are looking to book some holiday accommodation on Islay over the new year, then Islay Cottages makes for a perfect place to relax, party and enjoy this beautiful island. 

Local Hogmanay celebrations on Islay

Hogmanay is a time when residents can get together and wish each other all the best for the new year. Although our celebrations are small, they are welcoming and great fun. People usually meet by the pier in Bowmore, and here we’ll often see some fireworks. On a clear night with the stars shining above us, this is a remarkable experience and one visitors should seek out. 

There is also usually a ceilidh underway nearby – some dancing might even spontaneously appear on the street! 

In Scotland, residents welcome ‘first footers’. This is an ancient tradition where the first person to enter your home in the new year brings good luck and can bring gifts such as shortbread or whisky. Perhaps if you make some friends on the night, you might be lucky enough to be someone’s first footer!

You may also see some bonfires dotted around the island. This is a tradition on Islay and people tend to gather around them, enjoying the heat and each other’s company. A verse of Auld Lang Syne might even be sung, so make sure you know the words!  

Hire Islay Cottages for Hogmanay

If you are looking to enjoy a large celebration with friends and family on Hogmanay, then consider hiring our cottages on the stunning Scottish island of Islay. Whether it’s a small or large group, we can accommodate and give you the best start to a new year imaginable. 

Our largest building is Kilchoman House. This Georgian building was built in 1825 and sleeps up to 12 people. There’s plenty of room for celebrations, including a large southwest-facing sitting room with views out to Creag Mhor. 

There’s also our  Kilchoman cottages available to hire. Each one of our 4 cottages sleep up to four people, with Fieldgate Cottage also able to sleep 6. In total, up to 34 people can sleep between the house and the cottages. Find out more about group accommodation on Islay here. 

And in Bowmore, you can choose Dundonald Cottage. Sleeping up to 4, it makes the Hogmanay celebrations on the island only a short walk away. Of course, many people like to just sit in and relax on Hogmanay – maybe even with a delicious pizza from our restaurant Peatzeria. 

Hogmanay on Islay

However you choose to spend Hogmanay on Islay, we hope you have a magnificent time. Remember to book your break with us well in advance. From large gatherings in Kilchoman House and cottages, to a smaller group in Dundonald Cottages, just remember that Hogmanay is not just about the party, but is all about the people you are with. Sláinte!