THE BLACKHOUSE

This 1880 cottage is a rare witness to island history and local traditions. Its last inhabitants left it as it was in 1966 and it has remained unchanged since then. There was no chimney and the peat fire was evacuated through the windows and thatched roof, keeping insects away. The white house across the street is the result of the hygiene regulations that were subsequently introduced. It is also owned by Historic Environment Scotland and is in stark contrast to its neighbour.