Rooted in Islay
Who we are, where to find us, and a little about the remarkable island we call home.
A small shop with a big welcome
The Islay Shop is a family-run business at the heart of island life. Since 2003 we've been the place in Bowmore to find a bit of everything, from gifts and clothing to the everyday bits and pieces that keep island life running.
Today we're a stop for islanders picking up essentials, holidaymakers hunting for the perfect souvenir, and Islay fans all over the world who order online to keep a taste of the island close.
Whatever brings you in, you'll get honest advice, a warm welcome, and probably a recommendation for your next beach walk.
Ìle: the Queen of the Hebrides
People have called Islay home for around ten thousand years. Here are a few highlights.
- 1100s–1493
Lords of the Isles
From Finlaggan, the MacDonald Lords of the Isles ruled a sea-kingdom across the west coast.
- 1768
Bowmore's Round Church
Built round, so the legend goes, so the devil had no corners to hide in.
- 1779 onwards
The whisky island
Distilleries spring up along the shores, and Islay's smoky malts become famous worldwide.
- 2003
The Islay Shop opens
We open our doors, and we've been welcoming islanders and visitors ever since.
- Today
A thriving island
Around 3,000 islanders, twelve distilleries and tens of thousands of wintering geese.
Where to find us
Arriving on the ferry? Order online before you travel and collect on your way through.