Lamb

Lamb is a small, uninhabited island in the Firth of Forth off Scotland’s east coast. It lies between Fidra and Craigleith, flanked by two tiny skerries called North Dog and South Dog. The island formed millions of years ago through volcanic activity, like many of the nearby Forth islands. Access is only by canoe or small boat from North Berwick, with no proper landing place. Compared to Fidra or the Bass Rock, Lamb offers little to draw visitors. Yet its wildlife and quiet setting make it worth the short crossing.

The island supports many seabirds that return each year to feed, nest and raise young. Around 600 puffins now live there after first arriving in the 1970s. In 2022 a single invasive rat was removed after a two-year effort involving 35 canoe trips and infra-red cameras. Historically, Lamb belonged to the feudal barony of Dirleton. It was once owned by Camilo Agasim-Pereira, Baron of Dirleton and Fulwood.

In 2009 Uri Geller bought the island for £30,000. He has suggested it might hide ancient Egyptian treasure. In mid-2022 he proposed declaring Lamb a micronation called the Republic of Lamb. Geller also became chairman of North Berwick Amateurs FC, named as Lamb’s national football team. The island remains quiet and unspoilt, a place for seabirds rather than crowds.