Iona Shopping
We may be at the far edge of Western Europe, but we certainly have enough retail therapy opportunities to give a good massage to a visitor's wallet. Indeed, one could almost posit that Iona has been a leading commercial retailer since St Columba's arrival; looking after and selling mementos to the pilgrims, travellers and tradesmen has helped many an island household over the years. Whilst no-one is selling "genuine" pieces of St Columba's Coracle any more, there are still quite a few houses that have boxes of semi-precious stones and shells for sale outside their gates. Otherwise, below is an annotated list of all that's available.
Local Artisans
Aosdana
Studio and Gallery located in the Columba Steadings, adjacent the St.Columba Hotel Aosdana is a small studio selling unique artwork by local artist Mhairi Killin. Mhairi who trained at Glasgow school of art creates finely woven sculptures and framed work, in addition to an usual range of hand made cards. Aosdana Arts Also sells Iona Celtic Jewellery, originally designed by Iona silversmith, Alex Richie (1856-1941). This Building, restored locally with loving care, is itself worth a visit.
Opening time : Daily 10am-5pm, or by appointment ( Telephone: 01681 700121 )
www.aosdanaiona.com
Iona Gallery & Pottery
Gallery and pottery workshop graces a converted croft house across the road from the Abbey. Thrown and hand-built pottery reflects the land and seascapes of Iona. The gallery specializes in contemporary and early 20th century original paintings. Edition prints and art cards of Iona are also available.
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday approx. 11am-4pm, Easter to October
Telephone: 01681 700439 Email: enquires@ionagallery.com
www.ionagallery.com
Oran creative crafts
A craft co-operative located at the Columba Steadings. Here you will find that perfect, locally produced gift. What better way to support the local community. Go for a wee skeck and a blether with a local artisan.
Tel: +44 (0)1681 700 127 Email: info@orancrafts.co.uk
www.orancrafts.co.uk
Shops
Iona Bookshop
Antiquarian and second hand books. Specialist in Scottish West Coast books, prints, old postcards and Celtic Tapestry Kits. Located across from the Columba Hotel.
Opening Times: Monday to Friday
Telephone: 01681 700699 or email angus_johnston_iona@yahoo.com
Iona One
Situated 3 minutes from the pier on the road to the Abbey - selling an eclectic and predominantly range of Celtic jewellery, knitwear, pottery, scarves, books, cards, etc. This shop, run by the lovely Katie and Mike is one you shouldn't pass by.
Opening Times: All Week, 11am-5pm
Telephone: 01681 700001
Iona Community's Shop
Stock in this welcoming shop consists of craft work from local small producers, fairly traded goods from the developing world, and a wide selection of books - including Wild Goose Publications (Iona Community publishing): liturgy, music, writing on Peace and Justice issues. Located across from the Abbey.
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday 12pm-4pm
Telephone: 01681 700404 or email shop.manager@iona.org.uk
Finlay Ross Ltd
General store close to the pier. Fancy goods, jewellery, books, cards, knitwear, non-perishable groceries, etc. Bicycles available for hire.
Opening Times: All Week
Telephone: 01681 700562 or email finlayross@ukgateway.net
Spar Shop
Our village shop is one of the oldest family businesses on Iona. The Spar is open all year round selling groceries, newspapers, wines and spirits and an interesting variety of gifts, crafts, and books. Deliveries can be arranged.
Opening Times: Daily, except Sunday
Telephone: 01681 700321 or email ionavillagestore@aol.com
Post Office
Post cards, stationery, hand knits, complimentary health products, and gifts.
Opening Times: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 am - 1pm and 2pm - 7pm
Wednesday 9am - 1pm Saturday 9am - 12.30pm Sunday Closed
(Mail collected daily 10am except Sundays)
Telephone: 01681 700515
Iona Abbey Shop
Set in the Abbey cloisters, this shop, run by Historic Scotland, sells locally made goods and a wide selection of quality gifts and souvenirs.
Open all year, 9:30am to 5pm. Runs 6 tours per day of the Abbey, and 4 on a Sunday.
Admission to Abbey: £4.50 per adult, £3.50 concessions (60years and older), and £2.25 for children.
Telephone: 01681 700512 or email hs.ionaabbey@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
