stornoway tourist office

• Scottish Isles

Stornoway in Scotland is a beautiful, bustling town in the wilds of the Outer Hebrides of Scotland that welcomes weary travellers into its corner of the world with good food, beautiful sights, and Harris Tweed.

This stalwart town is the capital city of the entire Western Isles and unites the Outer Hebrides islands of Harry and Lewis.

Most importantly, it’s filled with amazing attractions that proudly shows the vibrant culture and history of Stornoway, with places that call on its past like the Lews Castle, empower artists like at the An Lanntair, and imbue Outer Hebrides culture like HebCelt Festival.

That being said, Stornoway is overflowing with so many exciting activities, events, stories that it’s difficult to plan what you should be doing in Stornoway .

We’ve put together this guide of things to do in Stornoway so that your holiday will be filled with the attractions and events that cater to your specific interests in this amazing city.

In This Post

Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean

If you’d like to get an in-depth look into the history of Stornoway, Outer Hebrides, and mainland Scotland, then there is no better place to do so than the Museum nan Eilean.

Funded in part by the Western Isles Council (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar) and home to the Stornoway Historical Society, this museum was opened as part of Lews Castle and now is the best place to witness and engage with the history that Stornoway offers like the Lewis Chessmen.

The museum is home to a wide range of artefacts, clothing, maps, and papers that take you from the beginnings of Stornoway to the present.

To fully appreciate the town of Stornoway and understand how far it’s come, take an hour or two at the Museum nan Eilean.

Harris Tweed Story Room

There’s no tweed as well-known and spoken of like Harris tweed, and its origins start in Stornoway and the Outer Hebrides.

The Harris Tweed Story Room and Harris Tweed Hebrides is a brilliant way to engage with a crucial part of Stornoway’s growth and notoriety, with authentic tweed machines, clothing, and samples that weave the material’s narrative from the past to the present.

Lews Castle Grounds

At the heart of Stornoway town is the gorgeous Lews Castle, styled in the classical Scottish baronial architecture and is a building, once owned by Sir James Matheson, that has been a part of Stornoway and Lewis since 1847.

Sometimes known as Stornoway Castle and restored by the Western Isles Council, the surrounding castle grounds now play host to cosy accommodation and many vibrant shops. A stroll around the grounds is the perfect way to watch the hustle and bustle of Stornoway town centre while having a picnic with the family.

The Stornoway Trust has also constructed a series of woodland walkways around the grounds for visitors to enjoy as they admire the well-maintained grounds.

With free access grounds, you won’t even need to worry about paying fees for entry!

Storehouse Cafe

If you’re craving a bite to eat as you’re exploring the city or waking up from your accommodation at a place like Caladh Inn, there’s no better place to sit down in the Outer Hebrides than the Storehouse Cafe on Stornoway Castle grounds.

The cafe offers excellent coffee and cake and has some incredible local flavours to offer for lunch, right in the heart of Lews Castle.

The Cafe is perfectly placed on the ground floor of Lews Castle and allows you to dine whilst also basking in the opulence that surrounds you.

An Lanntair Arts Centre

Whether it’s the sounds of music, an art gallery museum, or a thrilling performance, you can be sure that it’s happening at the An Lanntair Arts Centre, right next to the harbour.

An Lanntair is one of the most visited locations in Stornoway and has won many awards for its contemporary art venue, theatre, cinema, and concert hall.

The Arts Centre is an absolute hub of culture and activity throughout the year and the perfect place for you to experience the wide variety of creativity that Stornoway offers.

Whatever your tastes and preferences, An Lanntair has something for you to enjoy.

HebCelt Festival

With how remote the Isle of Lewis of the Outer Hebrides seems to be compared to the rest of the world, you’d think there wouldn’t be any music festivals to enjoy. You’re mistaken.

The HebCelt Festival is the celebration of music and life of the Outer Hebrides that will, without a doubt, get your feet moving with the locals.

The Festival takes place between 13 – 16 July and has many local and international music celebrities hopping on the stage and showing off their talents. The Festival also raises money for the HCF Trust every year, so your money will support local artists.

Grab your tickets now and don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience the HebCelt Music Festival.

Stornoway Old Town Hall

Near the historic Lews Castle and town centre sits Stornoway Town Hall, where many of the crucial decisions of the administrative centre that shaped Stornoway were made.

Today, Stornoway Town Hall is pristine and intimidating with the Scottish baronial tower architecture that is present in many of the more established buildings in Stornoway.

Found near Cabarfeidh Hotel and Caladh Inn, Stornoway Town Hall sits on the west side of the town and can be seen towering over the surrounding buildings.

Stornoway Town Hall holds a piece of history that is amazing to behold and will only give it up if you visit the Old Town Hall.

Bethesda Charity Shop

Those thrifty visitors to the Isle of Lewis will be doing themselves a disservice by not visiting Bethesda Charity Shop, near Cabarfeidh Hotel & Caladh Inn.

All pre-loved items you can find here go to a great cause, so you won’t feel bad about purchasing yourself an entirely new wardrobe while here.

You won’t find better bargains on high-quality thrift clothing than at Bethesda Charity Shop. Who knows, you may even find yourself a bit of Harris Tweed.

The Isle of Lewis Sports Centre

If you’re keen to keep your health and fitness while on holiday or want a way for you and the family to spend some time together, there is no better place than this sports centre.

Right in the heart of the town of Stornoway, this hub of activity and adventure is easy to enter and has something for everyone.

With plenty of amenities like a swimming pool, fitness suite, and climbing wall, this sports centre is perfect for whatever kind of exercise you’re looking to do, as long as it’s active!

Stornoway Golf Club

Why wouldn’t you want to work on your handicap while visiting Stornoway? And at Stornoway Golf Club, it’s difficult to resist the urge to tee up.

This golf club has 18 incredible and unique courses to line up your shot for and is a great way to enjoy a calming morning or afternoon golf session while at Stornoway.

After your golfing session, feel free to sit and admire the beautiful, well-maintained greens of the Club at the cafe and bar that overlooks the whole range of courses.

If the full 18 holes don’t fit with your schedule or you want something more family-friendly, then Bayhead Playpark is a great alternative for crazy golf.

Segway Hebrides

Stornoway is a large city to explore, and it’s easy to forget how tiring walking around can be when you’re lost in the fantastic sights it offers.

Segway Hebrides is the ultimate way to traverse around places like Lews Castle grounds and fit more into your day than you ever could walking around the city.

Glide around Stornoway Castle Grounds with guided segway tours and experience the city like never before while being informed of local curiosities and history every step of your way.

Woodlands Centre

Food is best enjoyed when in good company and incredible surroundings, and the Woodlands Centre can provide both with nature being the focus of the dining experience.

The Centre also has outdoor seating and serves as an excellent pet-friendly place to eat, a crucial bonus to natural retreats like this one.

The excellent dining experience offers great meals like soups, sandwiches, incredible coffee and cakes, and holiday specials galore.

Stornoway Balck Pudding is especially a local Outer Hebrides delicacy worth trying at the Woodlands Centre and their fantastic selection of brunch items and local coffee and teas.

Arnish Point Lighthouse

Constructed in 1852, the Arnish Point Lighthouse has acted as a guardian for Stornoway and the Outer Hebrides ever since and now proudly stands on the south beach between the Isle of Lewis and the ocean.

Just a short trip from Stornoway, the Arnish Point is a pretty highlight as you continue the road along the east coast of the Isle of Lewis.

A highlight of a visit is when walking around Arnish Point and witnessing the incredible views towards the Inner Hebrides and the beautiful south beach.

Stornoway Harbour

The heart of Stornoway is Stornoway harbour, an amazing place to sit and witness trade flowing in and out of the Outer Hebrides while eating at one of the many restaurants on Cromwell street.

Those brave enough should also join one of the many guided boat tours available from Stornoway Harbour that allow you to explore the Outer Hebrides, Steering Bay, and the Isle of Lewis from the waters.

As the lifeblood of Stornoway, missing out on a visit to Stornoway Harbour is like missing out on Stornoway itself.

Hebridean Adventures

Hebridean Adventures is your guide to seeing the wildlife hidden beneath the waves of Stornoway.

Their cruises guide you through the Outer Hebrides’ waters and reveal Scottish whales, dolphins, and even more of the ocean’s splendid creatures.

The cruises leave Stornoway harbour through the Steering bay and into the waters beyond, so make sure to book a trip, so you don’t miss their next departure!

• Columba’s Church

Angelic choirs echo through Stornoway when mass occurs at the St. Columba’s church, named after the Irish Abbot who spread Christianity throughout Scotland and the Outer Hebrides.

It sits in Stornoway as the go-to temple for residents on the Isle of Lewis, with much of Stornoway and Lewis observing closures on Sunday to rest.

Whether your visit is for religious reasons or you want to look at the beautiful colours and atmosphere that St. Columba offers, it’s well worth the site search to appreciate this stunning church.

Tiumpan Head Lighthouse

Watching over the Outer Hebrides, with its powerful light rhythmically flashing over the Western Isles in the distance, is the spectacular Tiumpan Light House.

This feat of engineering is a beautiful working lighthouse complex that’s just a short walk through grassy pastures. It gives onlookers incredible views not only of this regal white-and-gold lighthouse but of the beautiful ocean beyond it.

The Tiumpan Head Lighthouse is a great way to appreciate the true isolation of the Point on the Isle of Lewis.

Walk the Hebridean Way

There is no better way to fully experience the wondrous Outer Hebrides than to walk the 252-kilometre Hebridean Way.

This daunting task is not for the faint of heart but will give you an adventure like none you’ve experienced before.

The Way begins at Vatersay and ends in Stornoway, the perfect place to finish the incredible island journey. It certainly beats landing by plane at Stornoway airport.

Isle of Lewis First World War Memorial

Standing tall on the highest point of Stornoway, this magnificent World War Memorial presents the lives lost in the First World War with the utmost respect.

More castle than a memorial, its architecture honours both the historic Isle of Lewis heritage and provides a place for those who lost family to mourn their loss.

The World War Memorial is too close to the main town of Stornoway to miss out on and deserves a visit while you explore Lewis.

Cameron’s Fish Shop

Nothing beats a fish and chip shop in a harbour town, and Cameron’s Fish Shop sits as one of the best fish shops on the Isle of Lewis. It can be found on Point Street within Stornoway town centre near the harbour.

Enjoy traditional delights of a fish ‘n chippy with favourites like fish & chips, scampi, chip butty, and pickled onions.

Cameron’s is definitely worth going out of your way when you’re craving the wonderful flavours that this main port town offers.

The Boatshed Restaurant

Perfectly situated in the Royal Hotel, the Boatshed Restaurant of Stornoway will serve you a delicious dinner of local specialities and hand caught seafood that rivals many of the best dishes you’ve had.

Enjoy a variety of amazing dinner courses like local hand-dived scallops, mussels, and sustainable creel caught langoustines being just a few of the dishes prepared by the experienced kitchen team.

The Boatshed Restaurant is a refined dining experience for those that enjoy finely crafted and expertly cooked meals, with the confidence to try local flavours like Stornoway black pudding.

Stornoway Airport

The best way to visit Lewis is through the Stornoway Airport, with multiple daily flights in and out of the Scottish mainland.

Stornoway Airport is the gatekeeper between the Isle of Lewis. It is a lovely airport to travel into when you consider it’s the only airport on the island, so take an afternoon to watch unique and interesting plane models fly in and out of the airport.

Next time you’re travelling to the largest settlement on the Isle of Lewis, treat yourself to a trip via Stornoway Airport.

Cromwell Street

Cromwell Street is one of the bustling streets that lead off the sheltered harbour in Stornoway, with Gaelic street signs, plentiful shops, petrol stations, and superb accommodation all in one.

Book yourself into luxury Scottish comfort at accommodation like the Crown Inn, Cabarfeidh Hotel, and Caladh Inn.

The street is also parallel to Point Street, another street filled with bustling shops and activities for you to pursue as you venture into the largest town on the Isle of Lewis.

The Good Food Boutique

If you’re hungry but not sure what you want to eat, this boutique has you covered!

As the name suggests, the boutique offers an incredible smorgasbord of high-quality, artisanal food products that will make your inner foodie squeal.

The boutique, run by local foodie Emma, is a welcoming and lovely visit to those that have a craving that they just can’t fill anywhere else.

Hebridean Tea Store

The Hebridean Tea Store is one of the only shops on the Isle of Lewis. You can get a wide variety of high-quality teas from local Scottish and international brands, herbal and fruit-infused blends, and many more calming remedies.

The exclusivity of the Hebridean Tea Store is reason enough to visit, but trying the incredible selection of teas is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon while enjoying this island harbour and its traditional businesses.

Stornoway Seafari

The Isle of Lewis boasts some spectacular coastlines and views that only can truly be appreciated from the water.

Stornoway Seafari provides excellent and informative tours of the island and wildlife within its waters. The team is happy to personalise your tour to the specifics you want to learn about the island.

Experience the Isle of Lewis from the water and admire the jaw-dropping sights, with easy bookings from the Stornoway harbour.

Stornoway Ferry

The Stornoway Ferry terminal travels throughout both the Outer Hebrides and the Inner Hebrides, allowing easy and smooth travel on your island journey.

Enjoy the boat ride as you make your magical voyage towards the Isle of lewis from the Scottish Mainland, filled with imaginings of what your Stornoway holiday will entail.

The Stornoway Ferry terminal is also the best way to travel into the Isle of Lewis and Stornoway, offering an adventurous way to arrive in the harbour and fresh to start your Stornoway journey.

Island Darkroom

Just outside of Stornoway lies the Island Darkroom, a traditional darkroom in the Outer Hebrides Scotland.

Here you can treat yourself and see the beautiful photographs of the Isle of Lewis and the Outer Hebrides processed with the traditional use of a Scottish darkroom.

Whether you’re leaving Stornoway to your next destination or just taking a quick look around the harbour area, the Island Darkroom is a must-see on your bucket list.

Try Stornoway Black Pudding

Black Pudding is one of the local delicacies you can try at one of the many shops in town, and there’s a bit of a competition going on about who has the best one.

Black pudding is delicious, made from pork or beef blood and mixed with oats into a sausage shape.

The top contenders for the best Black Pudding on the Isle of Lewis are Charlie Barley’s, Willie John, and MacLeod & MacLeod, but it’s definitely worth it to try them all to see what your taste buds prefer.

Gress Beach

The beautiful Gress beach is just outside of Stornoway, with sublime white sands and gorgeous blue water that’s perfect for a beach day with the family and a relaxing afternoon filled with sunbathing and sandcastle-building.

If you can summon the courage to enter the colder Hebridean seas like the locals, this beach is a peaceful place to dive and enjoy the refreshing seawater and air.

Want a second away from the hustle and bustle of Stornoway? Gress beach is the perfect place to do so.

Alladin’s Cave

Alladin’s Cave is an adorable novelty shop found by the harbour of Stornoway. It is a family-owned business that sells a wide range of toys, gifts, local fabrics and materials but is primarily known for its knitting yarn and needles.

As you’re wandering the town’s streets, it’s difficult not to be caught by the colourful shop and its many intriguing items on display.

They cater to the many realms of arts and crafts with paints, maps, pins, posters, and tapestries to hang up in your study or on your wall back home.

Whether you’re interested in looking just for the novelty or serious about taking home a souvenir for your friends and family, Alladin’s Cave is just the place to spend your time exploring.

Other Things To Do in Scottish Isles

• Things to do in Arran
• Things to do in Brodick
• Things to do in Harris
• Things to do in Islay
• Things to do in Isle of Lewis
• Things to do in Isle of Mull
• Things to do in Isle of Skye
• Things to do in Kirkwall
• Things to do in North & South Uist
• Things to do in Orkney
• Things to do in Portree
• Things to do in Shetland

Graham Grieve

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Things to see & do on Lewis and Harris

There are plenty of things to do on Lewis and Harris. From rugged island landscapes and pristine beaches to friendly Hebridean culture and ancient history, here are some of our recommendations for things to do in Lewis, Harris and the main town on the islands, Stornoway.

Calanais Standing Stones Calanais, Lewis

The Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis

It's now over 9,000 years since the first people explored and lived on these islands, and there are some remarkable reminders left behind. The Calanais Standing Stones are older than the Pyramids of Giza and are surrounded by an atmosphere of romance and mystery. Located on the west of coast of the Isle of Lewis, there are still questions as to what this stone circle was built and used for. Discover more about its history, archeology and story at the visitor centre, which also has a small gift shop selling local makers and artists and a café with beautiful views out over Loch Roag.

Please note, the visitor centre is currently closed for refurbishment and due to reopen in 2025 but you can still access the stones.

• On Public Transport Route
• Pets Welcome
• Hearing Loop
• Level Access
• Accessible toilets
• Cafe or Restaurant

Museum Nan Eilean Stornoway, Lewis

Lews Castle and Museum in Stornoway

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Uncover the island's past and find out how it has shaped the way of life today at the newly redeveloped Museum nan Eilean in Lews Castle. Six of the iconic Lewis Chessmen are on display here, after they were uncovered in Uig on the west coast of Lewis in the 19th century. You can also take a stroll in the surrounding woodland, as well as admire the epic views out over the town of Stornoway.

Beaches Lewis and Harris

Seilebost, Luskentyre Sands

A trip to Lewis and Harris isn't complete without visiting some of the amazing beaches around the islands, with their white sands and deep blue waters. A beach stroll is the perfect way to disconnect and engage with nature and each one has its own character and stunning views of the atlantic and the islands. Luskentyre Sands on Harris was named one of the UK's best beaches in the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards.

Blackhouse at Arnol Arnol, Lewis

The Blackhouse Museum, Arnol

There are few trees on Lewis and Harris, so those who lived here long ago had to be more creative with what they used to keep warm. The quaint thatched houses have been preserved to give visitors an insight into what life was like for islanders in the 1800s, where families and their animals would share these small spaces. The blackhouse takes its name from the open hearth peat fires that kept the family warm and filtered smoke out through the roof. Visiting the blackhouse is a great way to connect with the history and culture of the islands and be transported back in time.

Stornoway Stornoway, Lewis

Stornoway harbour

Stornoway is the main settlement on Lewis, and the largest town in the Outer Hebrides. Visit the harbour to see the fishermen at work and sample their fresh catches in the restaurants in the town. You can also wander the streets and enjoy the local shops and cafés to sample some of the islands best food, drink and produce including the world-famous Harris Tweed. 

Tarbert Harris

The sea is almost a perfect mirror, reflecting the low hills of Harris and the small fishing boats in the bay

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam, all rights reserved

Tarbert is the main ferry terminal for Harris and a great place to catch one of the many boat tours out to see the puffins and razor bills. The Isle of Harris is full of dramatic island landscapes and Tarbert is nestled against the backdrop of the valley that slopes down to the port. It has a collection of quaint shops selling knitwear and local art, as well as being the home to the Isle of Harris Distillery which is well worth a visit. The distillery runs tours and tastings of their world-renowned gin and their newly produced whisky, The Hearach . There's a roaring fire to welcome you in and a small but trendy café serving hot drinks and local bakes. 

St Kilda St Kilda

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

Taking a trip to St Kilda is a truly unique and special experience. Enjoy the journey of a lifetime with an adventurous boat trip to the island recognised by UNESCO for its natural and cultural heritage. St Kilda has the highest sea cliffs in Britain, the largest colony of guillemots in the world, the oldest and largest colony of fulmars, the biggest colony of puffins in Britain and over one million birds in total! This incredible volcanic archipelago was abandoned by its inhabitants in 1930, but you can still visit the old village and imagine what life might have been like on the remote island.

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village Carloway, Lewis

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, Isle Of Lewis

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

A restored traditional crofting township, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village has nine cottages which were lived in until 1974. Watch the weaving of Harris Tweed, which has protected status and can only be made in the Outer Hebrides. Make sure you pause  and take in the views of the secluded bay of Carloway nearby.

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Things To Do In Stornoway (Steòrnabhagh)

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Table of Contents

I had never visited Stornoway, the main town on the Western Isles of Scotland and capital of the Isles of Lewis and Harris before meeting Lauren, but it has now become somewhere I travel to each year and a town that I’ve become very fond of.

And although now a frequent visitor, I am still very much a tourist on these islands, discovering something new on each trip. So, from one tourist to another (with some help from Lauren), this is our guide and some of our recommendations for all the things to do in Stornoway.

Where is Stornoway in Scotland?

Stornoway can be found on the Isle of Lewis which is located in the Outer Hebrides islands to the west of mainland Scotland.

How To Get To Stornoway

There are frequent flights to Stornoway from many of the bigger Scottish cities and these can be booked through Loganair . Although flights are frequent, they are limited from the majority of locations and I feel can be quite costly unless booked well in advance.

There are two options to take using CalMac ferries . You can begin your journey from the South of Scotland, starting in Oban to South Uist before driving on to North Uist, the Isle of Harris and then the Isle of Lewis or you can catch the ferry from Ullapool directly to Stornoway.

Find accommodation in Stornoway

Check the latest prices and availability for hotels in Stornoway and the surrounding area.

Lews Castle

Overlooking the town of Stornoway and probably one of the first things that you’ll spot when coming into Stornoway Harbour, either by ferry from Ullapool or by one of the many Hebridean cruises that visit the islands during summer, is Lews Castle.

Once the building that Sir James Matheson built and called home, Lews Castle is now a luxury hotel run by Natural Retreats.

The castle itself is open daily to visitors and also features a coffee shop and restaurant called The Storehouse cafe, whisky bar and Outfitters shop inside.

To the back of the castle you will find Museum Nan Eilean which I mention in great detail later in this post.

Lews Castle is family-friendly and there are often activities held in the castle for children, inclusive of Sundays when the island is otherwise mostly closed, so be sure to check when visiting if anything is happening during your trip.

Our So Called Life Recommends this day tour of the Isle of Lewis

Lews Castle Grounds

Outside the castle, you’ll find the sprawling Castle Grounds that are ideal for taking a stroll.

While the rest of the town shuts down to observe the Sabbath, Lews castle grounds become an extremely popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

You’ll find many people taking their dogs on woodland walks around the vast 270 hectares of trails and pathways that follow the River Creed as it winds its way down towards the mouth of the harbour. There are benches around the Castle Grounds should you need to take a seat!

Lookout for Lady Matheson’s Monument which was erected in 1880 in memory of and to commemorate her late husband.

Listen for the sound of herons and if lucky, you may also spot some seals in the waters.

If mountain biking is your thing then you will find several trails through the woodland. It’s worth keeping your wits about you if you’re walking, just in case you end up on a cycle track as they can appear from nowhere.

However, to share a piece of folklore, I remember my granny telling me stories years ago of Mac an t-Srònaich (the local bogeyman), and how he used to hide in the Castle Grounds. I still don’t like to be too close to the grounds come darkness. Just in case.

The castle grounds are also home to the popular Hebcelt Festival during the summer.

Which leads us on to the next thing to do.

Hebcelt Festival

This may be the reason that you’re visiting the town of Stornoway but if not and you’re planning your visit during the last few weekends in July, you’ll find the island a lot, lot busier than usual.

Hebcelt is an annual Celtic music festival that takes place within the castle grounds, bringing thousands of visitors to the islands every year. The festival is a mixture of folk, rock and Celtic music and some of the main headliners from years past include Runrig, The Proclaimers, Van Morrison, The Saw Doctors, Idlewild and more.

To coincide with the festival you will find lots of activities happening in the town such as markets, street performers, competitions and a general buzz of excitement around Stornoway.

Hebcelt tickets can sell out far in advance of the festival and considering the population of Stornoway is only around 8000 people, local establishments, hostels and caravan parks (Laxdale Holiday Park is one of the most popular during Hebcelt) which can accommodate visitors, quickly fill up.

There are several fields which allow camping but again, make sure to book as early as possible to ensure a space.

If the Hebridean Celtic festival sounds like your sort of thing then you can grab tickets over at Hebcelt

View this post on Instagram A post shared by HebCelt Festival (@hebcelt)

Another music festival you may have the honour of experiencing is the Royal National Mòd. This is a festival celebrating Scottish Gaelic poetry, music, song, arts and culture.

Scottish Gaelic is prominent within the Islands where you will hear it spoken often but you will also see this throughout the town on the street signs, where Gaelic is featured above the English.

Museum Nan Eilean

A modern extension built to the back of Lews Castle currently holds the Islands museum which is funded by Western Isles Council (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar) among others. The museum offers an interactive insight into the culture, history and diversity of life for those living on the Islands from prehistory to present day. The museum also features artefacts from history, some of the infamous Lewis chessmen, to more of the current influences such as the Nike and Vivienne Westwood tweed collaborations.

The museum is closed on Thursdays and Sundays.

Entry is free.

War Memorial

This Scottish Baronial Tower, which reaches heights of over 85 feet on top of an already 300-foot high hill gives you some of the best views over the town of Stornoway.

Despite the beautiful views, we are not to forget that this memorial in remembrance of those that were lost during the war and Iolaire disaster.

Iolaire Monument

A short distance from the town of Stornoway is the Iolaire Memorial to remember those lost on the Islands, and one of the UK’s, greatest maritime disasters.

Having just passed the centenary of this disaster, you may see frequent mention and reference to it throughout the town.

On the fateful night of January first 1919, shortly after the New Year Bells, the H.M.Y Iolaire struck the infamous rocks, the ‘beasts of Holm’ while taking many sailors back to their loved ones following the end of WWI.

205 men were lost that are known and can be accounted for although the number may be much higher, many families and villages lost their men and this sorrow is still felt to this day.

Take time to also visit the Iolaire Memorial at South Beach, Stornoway Harbour.

The ‘Sheol Nan Iolaire’ commemoration shows the outline of the H.M.Y Iolaire ship, in actual size and is built with 280 wooden posts, one for each man aboard the ship of that fateful night.

79 posts are painted white as a visual representation of the survivors.

As the tide comes in each night and covers the memorial, those markers light up blue apart from those 79 posts depicting survivors, which turn red.

It is a beautiful and poignant piece of art.

Stornoway Town Hall

I would consider this the most prominent building in the centre of Stornoway and it was always my favourite, having more ornate details than most, turrets and the clock tower.

I fondly remember the days that An Lanntair was within these walls but it is now mainly used as a venue location and for private functions.

Today, you will find craft fairs, markets, music shows and weddings being held in Stornoway town hall. It is also the home of the Stornoway Historical Society.

A mini Harris Tweed visitor centre has also been opened within Stornoway Town Hall in which visitors can join in on an audio and visual presentation into the history of Harris tweed and see the looms at work.

An Lanntair

An Lanntair (The Lantern in Scottish Gaelic) is a cinema, art gallery, cafe, gift shop, multi-arts centre in Stornoway.

I would consider An Lanntair as one of the main hubs in Stornoway among tourists and locals.

There are quite often different exhibits on in An Lanntair that are free to visit, so it’s always worth popping in as this is changing regularly.

Shopping in Stornoway

One question I am often hesitantly asked is ‘what shops are in Stornoway?’, and while the island may feel in the back and beyond, rest assured that there is still ample shopping opportunity.

While many of the locals (myself included) are still missing popular shops such as Woolworths, and more recently Murdo Macleans (the only department store in town) there have been signs of regeneration when it comes to shopping in Stornoway.

For those coming from the mainland, there will be some familiar names such as Boots, Superdrug and Argos. These stores may not be as widely stocked as those on the mainland but I do find that the Superdrug in Stornoway offers a lot of options that I struggle to find elsewhere.

There are many shops in Stornoway but one area that I find limited is clothes shopping, especially for the younger generations, however, there are options with Peacocks (to be found in The Co-op), Influence, M&Co and Underground for men.

Make your way through ‘The Narrows’ and the coloured buildings to find some of the shops below.

Stornoway Shops

Delights – This is a lovely homeware and gift store who also sell some artisanal foods. There is a small cafe within the store but tables are limited.

The Blue Lobster – I love the homeware at The Blue Lobster. They have a very blogger/Etsy aesthetic, and if you are a blogger, or read blogs, you will know what I mean by that.

Bethesda Hospice Charity Shop – My favourite shop in Stornoway. If you appreciate mid-century modern furniture as I do, you will find it here in droves. And at a spectacularly low cost to boot.

Aladdin’s Cave – There are no limits to what is sold in Aladdin’s Cave and I wouldn’t know where to begin in describing it. From the mundane to the truly bizarre, it’s a shop you have to see to believe.

The Good Food Boutique – The local deli where you can buy all your cheeses, meats, olives, bottles of vinegar and oils. They also sell packaged teas and foods which make lovely gifts.

Influence – A long-standing shop in Stornoway, Influence sell womenswear and some homeware among others.

The Baltic Bookshop – The local bookshop, which is across from the library. I would consider The Baltic Bookshop a mix between newsagents and bookshop. Here, you can pick up cards, pens, papers, sweets along with a selection of books and trinkets. Be sure to head up to the back to the dictionary to see what the “word of the day” is.

K J Macdonald (Kenny Froggans) – Primarily a pharmacy, you will also find a selection of beauty, perfumes, homeware, children’s goods and some of my favourite locally made Sandwick Bay Candles, among others.

Sportsworld – Sportsworld sell some clothing and shoes, sports and fishing equipment.

An Lanntair – The best stockist of Rifle Paper Co products that I have come across in Scotland. They also sell a lot of locally made items and are a great store for gifts.

Lewis Loom Centre and Harris Tweed Hebrides – You will come across many tweed shops in The Outer Hebrides and we are proud of the heritage and hard work that goes into making it. Whether you are looking to buy tweed cloth itself, or some already made products, there is no short supply when it comes to shopping but make sure to look out for that all-important Orb from the Harris Tweed Authority for authenticity.

VisitScotland iCentre – Head here for maps, postcards and tourist information.

Supermarkets in Stornoway

There are 2 supermarket options available in Stornoway; The Co-op and Tesco.

I would consider The Co-op to be the largest supermarket in Stornoway although not often the most competitive in price.

Tesco is most easily accessible to those travelling to Stornoway by ferry as it is directly opposite when departing the ferry car park. Tesco is a popular option and this store can be very busy.

Lastly, you can find a smaller Co-Op on Cromwell Street in the town centre. This Co-Op is the only supermarket in Stornoway without designated parking but there is a pay and display car park in Perceval Square just across the road.

Wherever it is you choose to shop, make sure to add some locally made Stag Bakery products to your basket!

Notably, their morning rolls which are our absolute favourite. They may be more expensive than your branded names, but they are worth it.

Where to buy black pudding in Stornoway?

Black pudding (Marag dubh in Scottish Gaelic) is a bit of an institution in Stornoway and often heralded as the best in the world.

Three of the most popular are as follows, Charley Barley, MacLeod and MacLeod and Willie John – If you have tried Stornoway black pudding, let us know which you think is best!

Petrol Stations and Parking in Stornoway

There are two main car parks (although there are others) that you will find used in Stornoway.

Perceval Square car park – There is a very small fee when using this car park, you will also find local markets in Perceval Square.

South Beach Car Park – By the harbour, this is the largest car park and is free.

Spar – Spar is next to the Co-op just out of the town centre

Engebret Ltd – Close to the Sports Centre and is the only station open for a limited time on Sundays

Gordons – If you can make your way out to Back, approx 8 miles out of Stornoway town centre, the petrol cost is significantly less.

Our So Called Life Recommends

Places to eat

If you are looking for a bite to eat when visiting Stornoway and you’re not sure of where to go?

We’ve got your back.

Check out our full guide to the best restaurants and cafe’s in Stornoway.

Fun Things To Do In Stornoway For The Family

The Isle of Lewis Sports Centre is a dual sports complex with use by the Nicolson Institute school but is also available for use by the public. The Sports Centre offer a variety of facilities including; climbing wall, swimming pool (separate pool for younger children), squash courts, running track, astroturf and fitness centre and health suite. There is also a cafe in which parents can sit whilst watching either the pool or climbing wall.

Adventure Island Softplay – A multi-level soft play area for children which includes a cafe.

Bayhead Playpark  – Just along from the castle grounds and town centre, offers a wide variety of activities and fun for the family such as; Playpark, Skatepark, Tennis Courts, Rugby Club, Bowls and Crazy Golf.

Stornoway Golf Club – An 18 hole golf course within the Lews Castle grounds

Beaches  – Of course, one of the things that The Outer Hebrides are best known for are the beautiful and tropical-looking beaches and luckily, when on an island, you don’t have to travel far to find one. Please see our post on the best things to do on the Isle of Lewis linked below for more information on some of our favourite beaches.

Segway Hebrides  – Segway Hebrides offer tours around the castle grounds for groups of up to 5.

Stornoway Accommodation

Haven’t yet booked your accommodation? I have listed 5 of the largest Stornoway hotels to help you get started!

Please take care to check availability and make early bookings if visiting the Outer Hebrides during the summer months or for the HebCelt Fest as accommodation can book quickly during these times.

All hotels are within a 10-minute drive to Stornoway airport and only a short distance from the ferry terminal.

The Royal Hotel

The Royal Hotel Stornoway is a traditional harbourside hotel and is a great location to stay if you are looking for ease as it is located by the centre of town but also connected to two of the most popular eating establishments; The Boatshed Restaurant and HS-1 Cafe Bar.

The hotel boasts of views across the marina, towards and with views of Lews Castle, so you couldn’t hope for nicer views over the water.

There is a range of rooms available from single to deluxe and as mentioned above, the decor is traditional and rooms come with WiFi, tea and coffee facilities, TV and some toiletries are also provided in the en-suite free of charge.

Free car parking is available to the rear of the hotel and breakfast is included in the cost.

Book your stay at The Royal Hotel

Find the best price online for your stay.

The Cabarfeidh Hotel

The Cabarfeidh is Stornoway’s only hotel with a 4* rating which is set a short distance out of the town centre, not far from the Castle Grounds and the Stornoway golf club.

This hotel has 46 bedrooms for guests which all come with bath and shower en-suite. Again, I consider this hotel to have quite a traditional decor and comes with WiFi, tea and coffee facilities, TV, luxury toiletries and breakfast which is included in the price of your stay.

A benefit of The Cabarfeidh Hotel is the free access to the on-site Fitness Studio along with the surrounding gardens.

Free car parking available and accommodation is pet friendly.

Book your stay at The Cabarfeidh Hotel

The caladh inn.

The Caladh Inn Stornoway boasts of 68 en-suite bedrooms and is located within the town centre. It is the closest hotel to both the ferry terminal and Stornoway airport along with one of the major supermarkets if that is of benefit to you during your stay.

The Caladh Inn is connected to the Eleven restaurant which offers carvery and buffet dining at a very reasonable cost.

Room rates include breakfast, WiFi, tea and coffee facilities and TV.

This hotel is pet friendly with free on-site parking and offers lift access.

Book your stay at The Caladh Inn

The crown inn.

The Crown Inn is a small family run business based in the town centre which overlooks the marina and has 16 en-suite rooms, restaurant and lounge bar.

It has been newly refurbished and the restaurant has a great and extensive food menu with beautiful views over the harbour.

Make sure to read the sign outside The Crown Hotel Stornoway as it has a lovely (although not condoned) story of a 14-year-old Prince Charles’ antics.

Room rates include breakfast, WiFi, tea and coffee facilities with biscuits, TV and some toiletries are also provided.

This hotel is pet friendly with free parking available.

County Hotel

The County Hotel Stornoway is located right in the middle of town which is great for those visitors who plan on mainly walking and cycling during their stay.

There are 14 en-suite bedrooms available for booking and room rates include breakfast, WiFi, tea and coffee facilities and TV.

The County offers a more varied selection of meals in the Seasgair restaurant from Indian, Italian and Scottish.

I believe the hotel is currently being modernised but some areas may still seem a little dated at the moment.

Limited parking available to the rear of the hotel.

Book your stay at The County Hotel

Find the best prices for a stay at the County Hotel in Stornoway

Didn’t have a hotel in mind for your stay? You can always book one of the many bed and breakfasts, guest houses or Airbnb Stornoway options if you are looking for a more unique experience!

It may not be everything, but hopefully, this post will help provide you with a starting travel guide to Stornoway.

This is a great opportunity to explore Scotland’s West Coast and begin your adventure in the Capital of the Outer Hebrides.

Check out our post for hidden gems in The Outer Hebrides  when doing the Hebridean Way and our post of some of the best things to do on the Isle of Lewis including the infamous Callanish / Calanais standing stones and Blackhouse Village.

If your trip includes a weekend you may want to take a look at our post of what to do in Stornoway on a Sunday to get an insight into what you can expect!

One of the most amazing things to do when visiting the Outer Hebrides is definitely taking a trip to visit St Kilda . You can book your tickets online and the boat excursion leaves from Leverburgh in Harris.

Peter may be the go to guy for travel tips and information but I like to think I bring the heart (maybe even a little humour) back into our writing.

I’m Scottish and proud, a millennial 30 something and your stereotypical girls girl but as opposed to what the press may say, I don’t see those as negatives and neither should you!

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Stories My Suitcase Could Tell

A Mini Travel Guide to Stornoway

October 13, 2016 By Katie MacLeod 15 Comments

Welcome to Stornoway, the gateway to Scotland’s Outer Hebrides !

As the largest town on the archipelago, the chances are that on any trip to the Outer Hebrides you’ll find yourself in Stornoway at least once.  I t’s the ideal place to start your island journey, and a great base from which to explore Lewis and Harris before moving south, to Uist and beyond.

But don’t let that fool you into thinking Stornoway is simply a launching pad for your Hebridean holiday. Stornoway is more than somewhere to rest your head while you see the tourist sights: it’s a thriving little town in its own right, and deserves its own travel itinerary.

Stornoway: past and present

The town’s name comes from Sjornavagr, which is the Old Norse term for ‘steering bay.’ Even during Viking times, it seems, the harbour was busy! According to the Stornoway Historical Society, over the years the town has been a bit of everything: “a medieval castle, a colonial settlement, a Cromwellian fortification, a major fishing port, and centre of the Harris Tweed industry.” Stornoway has certainly had an eventful history so far.

Today, Stornoway is a small harbour town that offers everything a small town elsewhere in Scotland does – and even more besides.  This is a town that still has local butchers and bakers, but the convenience of a handful of high street shops when necessary. It’s one filled with small locally owned businesses, selling everything from clothes to crafts. It’s holding on to its uniquely Hebridean heritage, with Gaelic street signs and traditional music events, while also keeping up with the times.

What to see and do

Start in the centre of town and stroll the pedestrianised streets that are known locally as ‘The Narrows.’

There are plenty of shops to browse here, as well as pubs, butchers, the local art gallery, and the Stornoway Town Hall. On a sunny day I often think you could be mistaken for thinking you were somewhere more tropical, thanks to the brightly painted facades of the buildings!

For culture of all kinds, you can’t miss An Lanntair .

It’s long been one of my favourite spots in town, encompassing an award-winning art centre, shop, cafe, restaurant, cinema, and theatre. Meaning ‘The Beacon’ in Gaelic, it’s certainly a beacon of creativity in the islands. Definitely check out their events calendar when you’re town, as you never know what might be on.

I’ve listened to Jenny Colgan talk about her latest novel, danced the night away to Skerryvore, and watched the Moscow State Ballet pirouette across the stage – there really is something for everyone here.

Listen to some local music.

In the height of the summer, music will be everywhere – on the streets, in the pubs, and on the Castle Green – as part of the annual HebCelt Festival, and the local Mod, a competitive celebration of Gaelic music and culture, which takes place every May.

But even outwith the tourist season, there’s music to be heard, as local pubs often host live music and open-mic nights.

Get out of town!

To see Stornoway from its finest angle, you need to get out of town (well the centre of it, anyway), via a little walk by the harbour. The pontoon berths at the marina were introduced in recent years, and have been a runaway success – t hey’re busy with boats every summer.

Past the statue of the Herring Girl and the fishing boats by the pier, on Bayhead Road you’ll eventually find a little foot bridge that takes you into the Castle Grounds. The views of the town from the Gardener’s Cottage, and Cuddy Point, are truly lovely, and one of my favourite sights in the islands.

Explore the Castle Grounds – by foot or by bike!

Covering more than 200 hectares, the Lews Castle Grounds are a popular recreation spot for those in Stornoway and beyond. (You’ll often meet someone you know while walking round the trails on a sunny weekend afternoon!) They were originally created in the 1850s by Sir James Matheson, and offer hours of exploration through pathways and carriage trails, up steep hills and around the edge of river bends.

Take a tour of the newly revamped Lews Castle , home to Museum nan Eilean.

The Castle started life in the 1680s as Seaforth Lodge; it wasn’t until Sir James Matheson bought the land in 1840 that  construction began on the building that we know today, using the fortune Matheson had amassed through his role in the opium trade. (In short, the Castle was basically built with drug money from China – how’s that for a bit of scandalous local history?)

Lord Leverhulme bought the island in 1918, modernizing the Castle further, before the building and the land surrounding it came into public ownership in the Twenties. Since then it’s been a World War II naval hospital, student accommodation, and even lain derelict. After extensive renovations, the Castle reopened in 2016, providing a home for the brilliant local museum, a café, shop, and the addition of luxury accommodation from Together Travel Co. Lews Castle is now a must-see on any visit to Stornoway, whether you’re staying there or not.

See the town from above, at the Lewis War Memorial.

The Scottish Baronial Tower – one that reaches 85 feet –  is the Lewis War Memorial, and was constructed in 1924 to commemorate the islanders who lost their lives during World War I; on a clear day it can be seen from many of the roads that approach the town. The hill it occupies, Cnoc nan Uan, also offers far-reaching views of the town and the surrounding villages – some local photographers have taken spectacular photos from this vantage point.

Visit the Iolaire Memorial, dedicated to one of Britain’s worst maritime disasters in peacetime.

Just outside Stornoway, in Holm, sits a memorial to those who died with the sinking of the Iolaire. It was 31 December 1918, and 284 servicemen were on board, heading back to the islands after the end of World War I.

Most of them never made it, as the Iolaire sank just 20 feet from shore, on the Beasts of Holm; the tragedy affected every village on the island. The monument to these men sits at the edge of the cliffs in Holm, with panoramic views across the bay to Arnish and Lochs. To visit this beautiful but sombre spot, drive out of town on the road leading towards the airport, or hop on any buses making their way to Point or Parkend.

Visiting with kids?

They’ll want to go wild on the beaches (I certainly did as a child, and still do as an adult! ), but there’s still plenty to keep younger members of the family occupied in the town itself.

There’s the aforementioned Castle Grounds, of course, as well as a soft play area at Adventure Island; the local Sports Centre , which has a swimming pool, climbing frame, squash court, and a small soft play area for pre-schoolers; Bayhead Playpark, which offers a climbing frame, crazy golf, a tennis court, and skate park; and weekly arts activities at An Lanntair.

Where to shop

Invest in a luxury fabric full of heritage, at harris tweed hebrides..

On North Beach Street you’ll find the retail outpost of the largest Harris Tweed producer in the islands, Harris Tweed Hebrides . Whether you’re looking for a sharp blazer (like the one I bought before moving to the USA ), a chic handbag, or even a length of tweed itself, this is the place to splurge.

Get ready for outdoor adventures at Store 67.

The Outer Hebrides offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, from cycling along the Hebridean Way, to climbing the Harris hills, and swimming or paddle boarding in the ocean. And the place to prepare for all of that is Store 67 on Kenneth St, where you’ll find everything from camping gear and paddle boards to yoga equipment and bikes for all ages. (I bought myself a mountain bike there recently, and I spent every sunny day in Lewis cycling to the beach on it!)

Discover something unique at The Blue Lobster.

It’s a coffee shop by the harbour, yes – but The Blue Lobster is also home to a wee lifestyle shop, filled with beautiful homewares, jewellery, and accessories you won’t be able to resist.

Browse books, stationery, and more at the An Lanntair gift shop.

As a stationery addict, I can never resist a browse of the gift shop on the ground floor of the arts centre. But it’s not just paper products they offer: you can choose from local books, artwork, music, and even handmade jewellery.

Keep in mind…

The Visit Scotland outpost and a variety of local newsagents also sell a wide selection of souvenirs, postcards, and local literature.

Where to eat

Delights, for some of the best coffee and cake in town.

With only three small tables squeezed between the counter and the rest of the shop (home to high-end culinary and baking ingredients), you might be tempted to give up on waiting. Don’t! This home baking is some of the best you’ll find, as is the coffee and conversation from the lovely ladies behind the counter.

(I’m not exaggerating when I say that I was in here six days out of seven when I worked in Stornoway!) But if you really can’t wait, there are plenty of good coffee options in town, including The Blue Lobster, the café at An Lanntair, and the Storehouse Café at Lews Castle.

The Good Food Boutique, for takeaway sandwiches and deli delights.  

This is Stornoway’s version of an Italian deli: the counter is heaving under all types of meats, hams, cheeses, and antipasti, while the shelves display a wide selection of harder-to-find cooking ingredients. It’s a great place to pop into for a takeaway sandwich, or to stock up on food for your self-catering holiday kitchen.

The Woodlands Centre, for snacks to keep you going on your tour of the Castle Grounds.

All wood and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, The Woodlands Centre is a lovely, bright spot to have lunch – think wraps, sandwiches, and baked potatoes – before heading off to see more of the Castle Grounds.

One of the many chip shops, for proper Scottish fish and chips.

A good fish supper is one of the meals I miss most as an islander abroad. Order your fish supper from Cameron’s, Church Street, or the Stornoway Chippy, and – if the weather cooperates – sit on the benches in the Narrows, or find a spot near the pontoons, like Perceval Square, where you can feast on your food outside.

A local butcher, for a bite of the infamous Stornoway Black Pudding!

While most restaurants have it on their menus in some form, I recommend visiting the local butchers that produce it, and buying a marag or two vacuum packed to take home. I won’t voice my opinion in the debate on which pudding is best: you’ll have to visit Charlie Barley’s, Willie John’s, and MacLeod & MacLeod to decide for yourself!

HS-1 Cafe and Bar, for a hearty lunch or delicious dinner.

This my go-to spot for dinner with friends and family. The restaurant’s wide windows offer great views of the Lews Castle, and the atmosphere is modern and laid back. As for the food? Expect anything from beef burgers topped with Stornoway Black Pudding to curry-filled wraps, fresh local mussels, and seafood pastas.

Eleven, for a big buffet dinner.

The restaurant on the ground floor of the Caladh Inn is family friendly (there’s even a small play area for children ), and offers a carvery lunch or dinner for a bargain price. They also host regular ‘themed’ dinner evenings, where you can book in advance to enjoy an evening of food from elsewhere – maybe Mexican, Nepalese, or Indian.

The Thai Cafe, for fresh flavours and a BYOB policy.

For something a little different, book a table at the Thai Café, one of my favourite spots for a celebratory get-together or an easy take away dinner. I can be a creature of habit with food, and nearly always order the peanut chicken curry (the staff are usually surprised when I don’t!), but anything you order on this menu is going to be lovely.

Where to drink

An lanntair, for a pre-dinner cocktail overlooking the harbour..

Head here at the start of your night, not only because it tends to quieten down earlier than some other bars, but because you’ll get a prime view of the sunset over the harbour as the ferry docks for the night.  The sloe gin bramble cocktail here is so good, it’s what first turned me into a gin fan!

The upstairs Harbour Bar at The Crown Inn, for a quiet G&T.

Here you’ll find dark walls decorated with antlers, Harris Tweed accents, and old maps of the Outer Hebrides , all overlooking comfortable leather chairs and a well-stocked bar – the last time I visited, there were over 80 varieties of gin on offer. (The building is owned by the same company as The West Highland Bar I visited on Skye , and you can definitely see the design similarities).

Where to stay

Having spent most of my life living a 15-minute drive from Stornoway, I don’t often stay in the town itself – but there are plenty of different options for visitors of different budgets.

There’s the Heb Hostel on the colourful Kenneth Street; the family of hotels that take in the Caberfeidh, The Royal, and The Caladh Inn; countless B&Bs; and of course, plenty of Air BnB options. I’ve been lucky to spend a night in Lews Castle courtesy of Together Travel Co., and can definitely recommend it for a historic stay on the edge of Stornoway.

Getting there

There are two options for arriving in Stornoway: by air, or by sea.

Loganair operates direct flights daily to Stornoway from Inverness (30 minutes), Glasgow (45 minutes), and Edinburgh (1 hour), making Stornoway (and the wider Outer Hebrides) easily accessible from the Scottish mainland.

The ferries that operate in the Inner and Outer Hebrides are run by Caledonian MacBrayne (referred to as ‘CalMac’). The ferry from Ullapool, on the Scottish mainland, gets you to Stornoway in 2 hours 45 minutes. While it’s a longer journey than the one by air, it’s worth doing at least once for the breathtaking scenery.

Getting around

In Stornoway itself, nearly everything is within walking distance.  But if you’re planning on leaving the town – and let’s be honest, you can’t miss these incredible sights ! – you’re going to need to hire a car. Bus services run fairly frequently, but will not allow you the flexibility to see all the islands have to offer.

More information

For the latest information on events in Stornoway, I recommend visiting  welovestornway.com , or checking out the latest EVENTS Newspaper, which you can read online in PDF form , or pick up in print across Lewis and Harris.

(Full disclosure: I’ve worked for this paper for nine years, but it really is your best source for what’s happening in Lewis and Harris. Plus, you’ll get to read more stories by yours truly!)

____________________ 

Have you ever been to Stornoway, or would you like to visit? Where are your favourite spots in the town?

Let me know in the comments below – i’d love to hear from you.

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If you enjoyed this, you might like:

The Outer Hebrides Travel Guide

14 Useful Things to Know Before Visiting the Outer Hebrides

The Outer Hebrides Gift Guide

October 13, 2016 at 7:06 am

What a great guide! I would love to visit the Outer Hebrides some time, so far I’ve only made it to Skye and the Highlands..

October 16, 2016 at 8:01 am

Thanks Maria! Skye and the Highlands are beautiful too, but I hope you make it out to the Outer Hebrides at some point – they’re a little bit magical, I think!

October 13, 2016 at 9:24 am

Brilliant and accurate. Brought up here and Mum still here. Offered me some tips. Some places have arrived since I left and I will try them in the evening. Great guide. Well done.

October 16, 2016 at 8:03 am

Thank you so much Jane! I hope you like the new spots – and have a great time 🙂

October 15, 2016 at 9:30 pm

Such a wonderful and thorough guide. Stornaway hadn’t been on my radar particularly but reading this has piqued my interest! Will definitely look into a trip if I ever manage to properly explore Scotland in the future.

October 16, 2016 at 8:04 am

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it Lorna! I definitely recommend getting out to the islands on any visit to Scotland 🙂

January 25, 2017 at 2:30 pm

I really enjoyed your mini travel guide on ‘ town’ . I travel home each year from Australia, on my next vsit I will view the town through your lens. I am looking forward to seeing the castle reno’s and may even try a segway tour of the grounds.

March 6, 2017 at 8:22 am

Thank you Elaine, I’m really pleased you enjoyed it 🙂 The Castle renovations are lovely (and the segway tours are a great laugh!).

May 2, 2017 at 12:58 pm

Hi Katie!! You’ve inspired me to go to Stornoway! I’m liking the idea of taking a bus from Inverness to Ullapool and going over on the ferry. Where is the best place to hire a car? I really appreciate all your wonderful info!

May 3, 2017 at 8:33 am

Thanks Emily – I’m delighted to hear this has inspired you to visit the islands! There are a few places that do car rental in Lewis: Stornoway Car Hire, Car Hire Hebrides, Lewis Car Rental, Arnol Motors… having lived there, I never had a reason to hire a car, but there are plenty of options 🙂

July 10, 2017 at 10:10 am

Hi Katie, thank you very much for this mini travel guide to Stornoway! We will visit Lewis&Harris this summer and somehow I was worrying about wether there would be nice restaurants. (We had a bit of a problem last summer on Orkney … with only a handfull of restaurants in Kirkwall and all fully booked.) With your recommendations I am looking forward to dine out in Stornoway!

July 11, 2017 at 7:06 am

I’m so glad it was helpful, Francesca! Outside of Stornoway I would also recommend 40 North Foods, on the West Side of Lewis (you’ll find an article on it on my Outer Hebrides resource page), and North Harbour Bistro on the Isle of Scalpay. They’re two of my favourite food spots in the Hebrides!

January 26, 2018 at 5:51 am

My favourite restaurant in Stornoway is Digby Chick’s. Always excellent.

March 30, 2021 at 5:55 pm

My wife and i stayed in Stornoway about 2017 and had a fanastic holiday there The crossing from from Ullapool was really good and we loved it The little shops and places to eat are all worth a visit bought a few clothes We then went 0n to Harris and three other islands the scenery and beaches are fantastic we said why go abroad when we have such fantastic places like this and beaches better than some we have been to when abroad Can not wait to be back

March 31, 2021 at 7:57 am

I’m so glad to hear you and your wife had a lovely time in the islands, Bert! (And I completely agree… I don’t think I’ve seen beaches like the ones in Harris anywhere else in the world!) I hope you get to go back for a visit soon when travel opens up again 🙂

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• 1.1 By plane
• 1.2 By boat
• 2 Get around
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge

Stornoway (Gaelic Steòrnabhagh ) is the main town on Lewis and the admin centre for all of Scotland's Outer Hebrides . Indeed it's the only town in these islands; it has the best amenities and transport links, and it's the obvious base for exploring both Lewis and Harris. It is industrial, and not particularly picturesque, but has lots to see. The population was 4800 in 2021, a sharp decline on previous figures.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

By boat [ edit ].

Calmac ferries sail to Stornoway from Ullapool on the mainland, taking 2 hr 30 min. There are two sailings year-round M-Sa, and on Sunday two Apr-Oct and just one Nov-Mar. Until end of March 2025, return fares are £121.30 per car, £22.30 per adult including driver, and £11.20 per child aged 5-15. These ferries often sell out in summer, so even foot passengers should book in advance. Be at the pier at least 45 min before sailing.

There is also a ferry from Uig on Skye to Tarbert on Harris, from where you can drive up to Lewis.

You can also sail to Lochmaddy on North Uist , or to South Uist or Barra , then work your way north by road and ferry, as part of a tour of the Outer Hebrides.

By bus [ edit ]

See Lewis for buses around the island, which all converge on Stornoway. They're sparse M-Sa with nothing on Sunday. The bus station is next to the ferry terminal.

A bus-ferry service runs up the Western Isles through Barra, the Uists and Harris to Stornoway, so M-Sa it may be possible to go the whole way in one day. There are half-a-dozen services part-route, but for the full route you need to set off from Castlebay on Barra at 6:20AM, Lochboisedale on South Uist at 9AM, Benbecula at 11:10AM, Lochmaddy on North Uist at 11:30AM and Tarbert on Harris at 4:20PM, to reach Stornoway by 5:30PM. Going south, you leave Stornoway 9:30AM to reach Tarbert at 10:45AM, Lochmaddy at 1:45PM, Benbecula at 2:25PM, Lochboisdale at 3:25PM and reach Castlebay at 5:35PM.

Get around [ edit ]

By bus: see Lewis for routes around the island, which all converge on Stornoway. The town is small and the only bus you're likely to use within it is W5, which runs east along A866 to the airport and away out to The Point. Northbound it runs along B895 up the east coast past the hospital towards Tolsta. About a dozen run M-F and five on Saturday.

Bus W1 (for the north tip of the island) and Bus W2 (west coast loop) run through town along A857 to Manors roundabout and the hospital before wandering off into the countryside.

Car hire: rental firms are Stornoway Car Hire (+44 1851 702658), Stornoway Vehicle Hire (+44 7502 156439) and Car Hire Hebrides (+44 1851 706500). They can all pick up or drop off at the ferry terminal or airport.

Taxi: the Stornoway airport website lists almost two dozen local operators.

See [ edit ]

• Highland Cow is a monster statue opposite the Coop on Bayhead the main road north. Useful to knowː you can actually buy model cows like these on Amazon.
• 58.2037 -6.3721 3 Old Gun Battery is just a pair of 19th-century Royal Naval Reserve 6-inch guns at the entrance to the power station. The battery was in use 1876-1919: it was just a training facility. It was built over by the power station but these guns were recovered from the site. You can continue out along the causeway to the marina, though the area is industrial.
• 58.19 -6.348 4 Iolaire Memorial : in the early hours of New Year's Day 1919, HMY Iolaire was bringing home sailors demobilised at the end of the Great War, but she struck a rock at the entrance to Stornoway harbour and sank. The official death toll was 205, mostly local men, but the boat was overcrowded and it may have been higher. The memorial is at Holm east of town, follow the lane south just before the airport entrance.

Do [ edit ]

• What's on? Read Stornoway Gazette or listen to Isles FM on 103.0 Mhz.
• Lews Castle Grounds are woodlands always open to stroll, and there are 20 miles of off-road bike trails.
• Golf: Stornoway GC is on Lady Lever Park just west of town. White tees 5010 yards, par 68, visitor round £40.
• Boat trips: Stornoway Seafari go wildlife-spotting May to mid-Oct.
• Stornoway Historical Society occasionally holds exhibitions and events.
• Hebridean Way is a way-marked hiking and cycling trail the length of the Outer Hebrides. Northbound the 12th and final stage for hikers is from Balallan to the Woodlands Centre. Cyclists get to within 7 miles of town at Langabhat, but turn west to follow the coast road all the way to the Butt of Lewis.
• Football is played only at amateur level. The soccer team play in the Harris & Lewis League Mar-Oct. The rugby union club are made of sterner stuff and play through the winter.
• Hebcelt music festival is at multiple venues but mostly in the grounds of Lews Castle and at An Lanntair in town. Flights, ferries and accommodation are booked solid while it's on. There's no camping within the venues, and no dogs allowed. The next is 17-20 July 2024.

Buy [ edit ]

Never on a Sunday: Lewis Sabbatarians are fighting a bitter rearguard action. They've been unable to resist the ungodliness of flights and ferries on a Sunday, but all shops remain closed except Engebret's filling station, and the majority of eating and drinking places. On Saturday night, pubs and entertainments halt by midnight.

Several shops sell Harris Tweed, either by the metre or made into clothes and bags.

• Cash: ATMs are at Tesco, RBS by Crown Hotel, Bank of Scotland on Cromwell St and Co-op Food on MacAulay Rd.
• Tesco is 100 yards east of the pier on Ferry Rd, open M-F 6AM-midnight, Sa 6AM-10PM
• Co-op Food main store is north side of town on MacAulay Rd, off Bayhead main road, open M-Sa 7AM-22ː00. The smaller Co-op on Cromwell St in town centre has the same hours.
• Stornoway Smokehouse , 10 Shell Street HS1 2BS ( near Tesco and the pier ), ☏ +44 1851 702723 . Tu-F 9AM-5PM . A good traditional smokery cures local fish. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Harris & Lewis Smokehouse is next to the Caladh Inn and has a cafe.
• Baltic Bookshop , 8-10 Cromwell St HS1 2DA , ☏ +44 1851 702082 . M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM . Books, including a large selection on island interests, with newspapers, stationery and gifts. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Hebridean Tea Store , 22 Cromwell St HS1 2DD , ☏ +44 800 228 9294 . M Tu Th-Sa 10AM-4PM . They stock a wide range of premium loose leaf teas (and some coffee), many blended to their own recipe. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 58.2082 -6.3758 1 Engebret Filling Station , Sandwick Road HS1 2SL , ☏ +44 1851 702303 . M-Sa 6AM-11PM, Su 10AM-4PM . Filling station and convenience store, it could be your lifesaver on a Sunday. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Pharmacies: Boots (corner of Cromwell Rd and Point St) is open M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM, and KJ MacDonald at 20 Cromwell St has the same hours. These are just about the only pharmacies on Harris & Lewis. There is also a non-dispensing Superdrug near Boots.

Eat [ edit ]

• Cameron's Chip Shop is at 33 Point St opposite Crown Hotel, open M-W noon-8PM, Th-Sa noon-9PM.
• Istanbul Restaurant on South Beach next to An Lanntair is actually Indian.
• The Fank is a cafe bar at 3 Cromwell St open W-Sa noon-4:30PM, 5:30-8:30PM.
• Harbour Kitchen is a seafood restaurant at 5 Cromwell St open Th-Sa 5-9PM.
• Golden Ocean is a Chinese restaurant next to the Library at 12 Cromwell St, open M-Sa 11:30AM-10PM, Su 4-10PM.
• Good Food Boutique is a deli at 59 Cromwell St open 8:30AM-5:30PM.
• The Boatshed is the restaurant within Royal Hotel on Cromwell St (see Sleep), open daily noon-9PM. HS-1 is the Cafe Bar.
• Peking Cuisine , 30 Church St HS1 2JD ( next to Police Station ), ☏ +44 1851 705548 . W-M 4-9PM . Chinese takeaway, quick, inexpensive and filling. Cash only. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 58.2101 -6.3866 1 Thai , 27 Church St HS1 2JD , ☏ +44 1851 701811 . M-Sa 4-10PM . Mixed reviews for this Thai restaurant which also does takeaway. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Bangla Spice at 33 Church St also gets mixed reviews. It's open Tu-Sa 5-9PM.
• Eleven is the restaurant within Caladh Inn (see Sleep) at 11 James St. Breakfast is served M-F 7-9:30AM, Sa Su 8-10AM, and the carvery is open daily noon-9PM. Booking essential as residents have first dibs. They also do takeaway.
• Fusion , Perceval Rd South ( by Cabarfeidh Hotel at Manor roundabout ), ☏ +44 1851 706373 . Tu-Th noon-2PM, 4-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM, Su 1-9PM . Chinese takeaway at the north edge of town. It's convenient for the Cabarfeidh and Laxdale caravan site but the food is mediocre. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 58.2118 -6.3911 2 Woodlands Centre , Castle grounds , ☏ +44 1851 706916 . M-Sa 10AM-5PM . Serving coffee & snacks. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Crown Inn on Castle St (see Sleep) is the bar where the 14-year-old Prince Charles (now King Charles III) came on a sailing outing from his school Gordonstoun. Locals recognised the boat and crowded round. The prince fled in here and ordered the only drink he knew the name of: a cherry brandy. His forebear Bonnie Prince Charlie could have drained the bottle in a trice, but the young prince was under age. His bodyguard (his only friend and confidant) was sacked, and Charles was thereafter closely confined to his school regime of cold showers, dawn runs, and bullying, bullying, bullying
• McNeills , 11 Cromwell Street HS1 2DA ( block west of County Hotel ), ☏ +44 1851 703330 . M-W noon-11PM, Th-Sa noon-1AM, Su noon-5PM . Sports bar with live music Thursdays, no food. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• The Criterion , 32 Point Street HS1 2XF , ☏ +44 1851 288030 . M-W 11AM-11PM, Th-Sa 11AM-1AM, Su 12:30-11PM . Good trad bar, dog-friendly. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• New Lewis Bar , 8-10 North Beach HS1 2XP ( Castle Street ), ☏ +44 1851 704567 . M-Th 11AM-11PM, F 11AM-1:30AM, Sa 11AM-12:30AM, Su noon-11PM . Welcoming pub with food, dog-friendly. ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Star Inn by the harbour gets dismal reviews.
• Distillery: Abhainn Dearg makes malt whisky. It's at the northwest end of the island, see Lewis#Drink for tours. Tarbert on Harris also has a distillery.

Sleep [ edit ]

Advance booking is essential June-August, and advisable any time of year.

Budget [ edit ]

• Wild camping is mostly permitted, but overnight parking is not.
• 58.2273 -6.3924 1 Laxdale Holiday Park , 6 Laxdale Lane HS2 0DR ( off A857 a mile & half north of Stornoway ), ☏ +44 1851 706966 . Clean efficient place with good facilities open Apr-Oct, with 35 pitches for tents and 19 hook-ups for caravans, plus static caravans, bunkhouse (no dogs) and wigwams. Tent pitch £15 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Heb Hostel , 25 Kenneth Street HS1 2DR ( next to County Hotel ), ☏ +44 1851 709889 . Friendly well-run central hostel open Apr-Oct. No pets. Dorm bunk £23, double £70, shepherd's hut £80 . ( updated Sep 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 58.2208 -6.3879 2 Jannel B&B , 5 Stewart Drive HS1 2TU ( near hospital and golf course ), ☏ +44 1851 705324 . Friendly comfy B&B at north end of town. B&B double £140 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 58.2083 -6.3901 3 Crown Inn , Castle St HS1 2BD ( entrance is on Point St ), ☏ +44 1851 703734 . Small hotel, dog-friendly, some street noise. With a public bar (the one where Prince Charles asked for a cherry brandy) and upstairs restaurant. B&B double £120 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 58.2087 -6.3868 4 County Hotel , 12 Francis Street HS1 2XB , ☏ +44 1851 703250 . Small central place, comfy enough but pricey for what you get. B&B double £150 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 58.2082 -6.3816 5 Caladh Inn , James Street HS1 2QN , ☏ +44 1851 702740 . Simple hotel with 68 rooms, handy for the ferry and the bus station. Most rooms are comfy enough but the economy singles are horrid little broom cupboards. B&B double £130 . ( updated Sep 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 58.2106 -6.3883 6 Royal Hotel , Cromwell St HS1 2DG , ☏ +44 1851 702109 . Comfy hotel on waterfront with 24 rooms and Boatshed restaurant. Built in 1845 and the state of some facilities confirms this. B&B double £180 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• 58.2195 -6.3881 7 Cabarfeidh Hotel , Manor Park, Perceval Rd South HS1 2EU , ☏ +44 1851 702604 . Hotel with 46 rooms and Solas restaurant north side of town, often caters to weddings. Overpriced for what you get. B&B double £250 . ( updated Sep 2023 )
• Lews Castle , HS2 0XP , ☏ +44 1625 416430 . 17 luxury self-catering apartments. The castle has a cafe and a bar, see website for seasonal restaurant. Accommodation management is outsourced to a third party based in Wilmslow, Cheshire. Double (room only) from £170 . ( updated Sep 2023 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of Sep 2023, Stornoway has 4G from EE, which extends along the island roads. You might get a signal in town from O2, Three or Vodafone. 5G has not yet reached Lewis and Harris.

Stornoway Library , 49 Cromwell Street HS1 2DA , ☏ +44 1851 822744 . Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sa 10AM-4PM . This has internet access. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Cope [ edit ]

• 58.2132 -6.3876 1 Bayhead Bridge Centre , Bayhead HS1 2EB , ☏ +44 1851 705808 . Laundry M-Sa 8AM-7PM . Community centre with inexpensive laundrette and public showers. Also has a cafe and student rooms for longer stays. ( updated Sep 2023 )

Go next [ edit ]

• The rest of Lewis is easiest to explore by day-trips from Stornoway, for example the Callanish Stones. You need your own vehicle.
• Great Bernera is an island linked by road to Lewis. It has accommodation.
• Harris is more rugged and scenic than Lewis. It is within range of a day-trip from Stornoway, or you might move base to either Tarbert or Leverburgh.
• Berneray , reached by ferry from Leverburgh, is the next island on the chain leading south, with a good paved road all the way down through the Uists.

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Outer Hebrides

Visit this hub for its gaelic heritage, the colourful waterfront and stornoway black pudding, a type of sausage and local specialty..

This is the main town on the Isle of Lewis, with a little something for everyone. Originally a Viking settlement, it’s now better known as a hub for its Gaelic heritage. Notable attractions here include the new Museum of the Western Isles inside the Lews Castle, the colourful waterfront and Stornoway Black Pudding, a type of sausage and local specialty.

Stornorway Town

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Beaches of luskentyre & scarista, butt of lewis, arnol blackhouse museum, tours including stornoway.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Stornoway

Things to do in stornoway, explore popular experiences, ways to tour stornoway.

Guided Day Tour of the Isle of Lewis

3-Day Lewis, Harris and the Outer Hebrides Small-Group Tour from Inverness

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Isle of Lewis Heritage: Private Day Tour from Stornoway

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• Lews Castle
• Museum Nan Eilean Stornoway
• Stornoway Harbour
• Iolaire Memorial
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Guided Day Tour of the Isle of Lewis

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3-Day Hebrides Tour from Inverness: Isles of Lewis and Harris

Isle of Lewis Heritage: Private Day Tour from Stornoway

3 Day Isle of Lewis and Harris Tour from Inverness

3 Sides to 1 Island Hebridean Sense Explore Connect Experience

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• Lews Castle
• Museum Nan Eilean Stornoway
• Stornoway Harbour
• Iolaire Memorial
• An Lanntair Gallery

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The  travel guide on Stornoway in  Outer Hebrides here guides you with information on and around the place. The guide also include details about getting to Stornoway, sights, sleeping and eating, transportation and essential information needed on a visit to Stornoway.

Phone code: 44 (0) 1851

The fishing port of Stornoway , the only town in the Outer Hebrides, is the islands' commercial capital and as such boasts more services and facilities than you might expect in any town of comparable size. It has the full range of banks, shops, hotels, guesthouses, pubs and restaurants, garages, car hire firms, sports facilities, an airport and ferry terminal, and for the visiting tourist it presents a rare opportunity to stock up on supplies. steòrnabhagh

Stornoway is also the administrative capital and home to the Comhairle nan Eilean (The Western Isles Council), which has done much to broaden the local economy and to promote and protect Gaelic language and culture, but is probably best known for its disastrous financial dealings with the Bank of Credit and Commerce International (BCCI), which collapsed in 1991, losing the islands a cool £23 million.

The tourist information centre is at 26 Cromwell St. They stock maps, bus timetables and various books and brochures, and sell tickets for minibus tours to Calanais and for wildlife trips around Lewis and Harris.  Info Tel. 703088. Apr-May and Sep-Oct Mon-Fri 0900-1800, Sat 0900-1700; Jun-Aug Mon-Fri 0900-2000; Oct-Mar Mon-Fri 0900-1700

The pubs and hotels serve the usual range of bar meals. Probably the best restaurant in town is at the Park Guest House , which offers top-class modern Scottish cooking using local fish, lamb and venison. It also caters for vegetarians and is open Tue-Sat. Mid-range to expensive.

Also recommended is The Boatshed , in the Royal Hotel , which specializes in seafood. Expensive. Less upmarket and cheaper is their HS-1 Cafe bar.

Stornoway Balti House

24 South Beach T:01851 706116. ( review ) Family-run restaurant that’s been in Stornoway  for decades. The curries are the real thing and the service is great, but the real boon is that it is open on Sunday. Best value are the set menus: lunch £10, dinner £16. Daily noon - 2pm & 5 - 11.30pm.

27 Church St T: 01851 701811, website: thai-cafe- stornoway .co.uk (not working). Despite the name, this is actually a restaurant, serving authentic Thai food. The lunchtime Pad Thai is good value at £5, while evening mains like the spicy Jungle Curry - stir-fried beef and peppers in a spicy cocount gravy – cost around £9. No licence, so BYOB (£1 corkage). Mon–Sat noon - 2.30pm & 5 - 11pm.

An Lanntair

Kenneth St T: 01851 703307, website: lanntair.com . Arts venue with a stylish, modern café-bar restaurant that serves food all day. Light lunches start at £4 for soup and bread, or for more substantial eating, they do burgers, fish and chips and pastas from £10. Food served Mon–Sat 10am–8pm.

Digby Chick

5 Bank St,  T: 01851 700026, website: digbychick.co.uk . Smart, modern, buzzy little bistro with a real emphasis on using local produce, such as the famous Stornoway black pudding. There are some interesting options on offer here like their Indian-French fusion of salmon with curried bisque, tandoori onions and coconut bonbons, or ordinary battered fish 'n' chips if curry’s not your thing. Two-course lunch menu costs £14.50. Mon–Sat noon–2pm & 5.30–9pm.

The Golden Ocean Restaurant ( facebook page ), on Cromwell St.

There are several other takeaways offering the standard fare of pizza, kebabs, fish and chips etc. The cheapest option is the all-day breakfast served in the Co-op supermarket. For a cheap lunch try the cafeteria in the Deep Sea Fishermen's Mission on North Beach.

The Criterion

32 Point St T01851 701990. A tiny, authentic no-frills Stornoway pub, where they have regular informal (music) sessions – if nothing’s going down, try nearby MacNeill’s. Mon–Thurs 11am–11pm, Fri & Sat 11am–1am.

Supermarkets

There are 2 large supermarkets in town. Safeway is beside the ferry terminal and the Co-op is by the first roundabout on the road out to Barabhas. There's also a smaller supermarket opposite the tourist information centre.

Remember that

 thet pubs are closed on Sun and hotels cater only for residents.

Nearby Places

Travel directions to stornoway.

Stornoway is the island's transport hub. The airport is 4 miles east of the town centre, a £5 taxi ride away. For details of flights to the other islands and the mainland. The CalMac ferry terminal is just beyond the bus station, which is on South Beach, a short walk from the town centre. Full ferry details are also given in Ins and outs. Buses leave from Stornoway to all parts of the island and also to Tarbert and Leverburgh on Harris. Bus timetables are available from the tourist office.

Hebridean Excursions offer a wide range of car tours around the Hebrides - their phone number is 01851 870 882.

The town is compact and most of what you need is within easy walking distance of the tourist office. Some of the B&Bs in the residential areas are quite a distance from the centre, but there's an hourly town bus service, or hire a taxi from Central Cabs (Tel. 706900)

Buses leave from Stornoway to all parts of the island. Note that buses do not run on Sun. To Port Niss (Ness) via Barabhas (Barvas) 4-6 times per day; to Arnol, Siabost (Shawbost), Càrlabhagh (Carloway), Calanais (Callanish), and back to Stornoway ('West Side Circular') 4-6 times per day; to Bearnaraigh (Great Bernera) via Gearraidh na h-Aibhne (Garynahine) 4 per day; to Uig District 3-4 per day; to Ranais (Ranish) 6-8 times per day. For full details, Tel. 840269. There are also buses from Stornoway to Tarbert and on to Leverburgh (for the ferry to North Uist) 4-5 times per day (Tel. 01859-502441).

Car and bike rental

This is available at good rates from Lewis Car Rentals, 52 Bayhead St, Tel. 703760, Fax. 705860. Also Arnol Motors, in Arnol, Tel. 01851-710548 (Tel. 0831-823318 mobile), Fax. 710248. You can rent bikes at Alex Dan's Cycle Centre, 67 Kenneth St, Tel. 704025, Fax. 701712.

Local Sights & Activities for Stornoway

Stornoway is short on conventional tourist sights and once you've been to the tourist office and bought the necessities from the local supermarkets, there's not much else to do. The focal point of the town has always been its sheltered deep-water harbour and, though the fishing industry has declined since its peak at the end of the last century, there's still a fair amount of activity, especially at the fish market on North Beach on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The harbour is usually full of seals, giving the town its nickname of Portrona (port of seals). There's a good view across the harbour to  Lews Castle , a 19th-century edifice built by Sir James Matheson with money earned from opium and tea. The castle now houses a college and its real attraction is the wooded grounds, the only place you'll see trees on the islands. The Museum nan Eilean, on Francis Street, features a range of temporary exhibitions on island life and history. Info Apr to Sep Mon-Sat 1000-1730; Oct-Mar Tue 1000-1700 and Sat 1000-1300 . Free. Tel. 703773.

Anyone remotely interested in Harris Tweed should visit the Lewis Loom Centre, housed in the Old Grainstore at the northern end of Cromwell Street, just off Bayhead. The 40-minute guided tour includes demonstrations of traditional methods of warping, dyeing and spinning, and a detailed lecture on the history of Harris Tweed. There's also a craft shop.  Info Mon-Sat 1000-1700. Adult £2.Tel. 703117 .

The impressive baronial Town Hall on South Beach currently houses the An Lanntair Art Gallery, though plans are afoot to move the gallery into a new arts centre. The gallery features the work of local, national and international artists and also stages various musical events. The coffee shop serves home baking and tasty snacks. Info Mon-Sat 1000-1730. Free. Tel. 703307, 

Castles Nearby

Lews Castle

Fake castle built in 1863 by Sir James Matheson (of Jardine Matheson fame) who resettled crofters to take the land.It has undergone a huge refurbishment.

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Nearby Ancient Monuments

Doune Broch / Dun Calloway

Dun Carloway is one of the best-preserved Iron Age Brochs in the whole of Scotland dating back to something like 1st century AD. It is near Callanish and should be visited.

Stornoway Hotels & Accommodation

As the largest settlement on the islands, Stornoway has a good selection of accommodation from which to choose, though you should book in advance in the peak summer season. The tourist information centre will do this for you, for a small fee. There are several centrally located hotels, the best of which is the Royal Hotel, Cromwell St, Tel. 702109, Fax. 702142. 24 rooms. Good value, and good food in its restaurant and bistro (see 'Eating' below). On the outskirts of town is B Cabarfeidh Hotel, Manor Park, Tel. 702604, Fax. 705572. 46 rooms. Not as convenient as the Royal but with the full range of facilities and a decent restaurant. B Park Guest House, 30 James St, Tel. 702485, Fax. 703482. 10 rooms. This Victorian townhouse is comfortable, only 500yd from the ferry terminal, and the best of the guesthouses. It also has an excellent restaurant which is recommended even if you're not staying.

There are many B&Bs in and around the town centre, most of which offer a 'room only' rate for those requiring an early start to catch the first ferry. There are several along Matheson Rd, which is close to the town centre and the ferry terminal, including, E Mrs Anne Maclead, at No 12, Tel. 702673; and E (F room only) Mrs M MacMillan, 'Fernlea' No 9, Tel. 702125. Another option is F Fairhaven, 17 Keith St, Tel. 705862, which can also do meals.

The basic F Stornoway Backpackers Hostel is at 47 Keith St, Tel. 703628. Includes breakfast, open all year. There's also a Bunkhouse Hostel at F Laxdale Holiday Park, on Laxdale Lane, about a mile out of town on the road to Barabhas, Tel. 703234. It has 16 beds, basic facilities and is open all year.

Hotels near Stornoway

Whitefalls Luxury Spa Lodges, Isle of Lewis - Sleep 2

Stunning luxury Island Lodges with a spa. Highly recommended for honeymoons, romantic weekends, or just a beautifully relaxing holiday. Sleeps 2 in luxury!

27 Habost Stornoway sleeps 4-6

This is a traditional croft house near the northernmost point of the Outer Hebrides, only a few minutes from the Atlantic.

• Sleeps: 4-6

Bayhead Isle of Harris Self Catering sleeps 8

Enjoy a peaceful holiday in this large, well equipped, 5 bedroomed bungalow on the beautiful Isle of Harris. Watch otters, see golden eagles, catch trout like some of our guests or take a short drive to Finsbay and watch the seals swimming or sleeping on the rocks

Stornoway Cottages and Holiday SelfCatering

7 Habost Cottage on Lewis East Coast - Sleeps 6

• Cottage details.

Jardine Apartment @ Cairn Dhu Stornaway Sleeps 2

This is a lovely, ground floor apartment, situated in an historic, listed building, located in Stornoway, Isle of Lewis and can sleep two people in one bedroom.

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Top Things to Do in Stornoway

Things to do in stornoway, explore popular experiences, ways to tour stornoway.

Guided Day Tour of the Isle of Lewis

3-Day Lewis, Harris and the Outer Hebrides Small-Group Tour from Inverness

3-Day Hebrides Tour from Inverness: Isles of Lewis and Harris

Isle of Lewis Heritage: Private Day Tour from Stornoway

3 Day Isle of Lewis and Harris Tour from Inverness

3 Sides to 1 Island Hebridean Sense Explore Connect Experience

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Stornoway

Other Top Attractions around Stornoway

Cultural & Theme Tours

What travellers are saying.

• Lews Castle
• Museum Nan Eilean Stornoway
• Stornoway Harbour
• Iolaire Memorial
• An Lanntair Gallery

Stornoway travel guide

Stornoway tourism | stornoway guide, you're going to love stornoway.

With a population of 5,423, Stornoway is a must-see destination in Scotland, United Kingdom. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Stornoway deserves at least 2 full days for you to see its main sights.

When to visit Stornoway

Looking for warm weather? Then head to Stornoway in August, when the average temperature is 57.2 °F, and the highest can go up to 60.8 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 35.6 °F, with an average temperature of 41 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in January, when precipitation is around 4.7″. In contrast, May is usually the driest month of the year in Stornoway, with an average rainfall of 2″.

How to Get to Stornoway

When flying to Stornoway, you’ll arrive at Stornoway Airport (SYY), which is located 3 km from the city center. The shortest flight to Stornoway from the United States departs from Washington, D.C. and takes around 16h 45m.

Another option to get to Stornoway is to pick up a car rental from Edinburgh, which is about 316 km from Stornoway. You’ll find branches of GREEN MOTION and Europcar, among others, in Edinburgh.

Airports near Stornoway

Airlines serving stornoway, where to stay in stornoway.

Average rates range from around $153 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $246 and up for a 5-star experience.

Where to stay in popular areas of Stornoway

Most booked hotels in stornoway, renting a car in stornoway.

Expect to pay $6.89 per gallon in Stornoway (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $82.67 and $110.23.