The main township of North Uist is Lochmaddy, which holds the ferry terminal with routes connecting to the islands of Harris and Skye.
 
Linked to Benbecula by causeway, with a road running from north to south through the townships; the spectacular Isle of South Uist's west side is virtually all Machair land, while the east side is very rocky and backed by a stunning range of hills, the highest being Beinn Mhor (620m).

It is steeped in history and has many ancient ruins and monuments. The Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve allows one to experience the varied and outstanding bird life of the island.

 Taigh Chearsabhagh, the shared premises of the North Uist Historical Society and the Uist Arts Association, is housed in the recently restored and renovated 18th Century slate roofed structure, just a short walk from Lochmaddy Pier.