Exploring the town

This page can only give a taste of the area, so, for the full picture, visit the tourist information office in Stornoway, when you arrive.  Or perhaps view some of the information available from our links page.

Stornoway is quite a busy little town, providing the population of Lewis and Harris with supermarkets and essential shopping.  In addition to a number of national multiple stores, independent shops still thrive and you'll find good quality local crafts, clothing, books and art.

At the harbour, fishing boats unload their catches, pleasure yachts and small cruise ships visit - it's an interesting area in which to explore and get a feel for a town that has not been overtaken by tourism.

A walk from Cuddy Point provides interesting views in the extensive grounds of Lews Castle, built by the Matheson family but better known for its connections with Lord Leverhulme.

Callanish
...neolithic history in the Outer Hebrides  

At Callanish (Gaelic - Calanais) fields were first cultivated before 4000BC. However, farming on the earthen ridges below the Standing Stones probably started much later.

Stone circles on earth embankments were built around 3000 BC and it's thought that a structure was built at about that time, which would be surrounded by the ring at Callanish.

The Callanish Stones at sunset - so far north that night is very short in Summer and skies can be dramatic, especially around the solstice.

Whatever the time of year, the stones are well worth a visit.

Hebridean beaches
...never far away

Which beach is the best is a matter for debate, but Bosta must be high on the list. At the northern tip of Great Bernera and around 45 minutes drive away, a place where, on a still, warm day, you could be forgiven for thinking you were basking beside the Indian Ocean.

A little beyond the turn off to Bosta, you'll find Uig beach, probably the largest expanse of soft sand on the island.

Closer to home, on the east coast, are Dhail Beag and Dhail Mor - well worth a visit and noted for their surf.  To the north of Stornoway you will find Traigh Mor at Tolsta - a long beach that's also popular with surfers.

The great outdoors
...so much to see and do  

Whether your interest is a gentle stroll, birdwatching, 18 holes of golf, a wide choice of stunning surfers' beaches, sailing, cycling, hill walking or a multitude of other outdoor pursuits, you'll find them here.  

From guided bird walks across moorland to learning to surf, there are plenty of organised pursuits, too.  Forget the world you've left behind and relax in the peace and tranquility of our fresh, green environment.

With light Summer evenings, you can really make the most of your visit.