Lews Castle is one of Stornoway’s most iconic landmarks, set amidst a wooded hillside overlooking the harbour. Built in the mid-19th century by Sir James Matheson, a wealthy merchant who purchased the Isle of Lewis, the castle has served many purposes over the years, from private residence to wartime hospital. Today, it’s a public space that blends heritage and culture with modern accessibility.
One of the main draws is Museum nan Eilean, housed within the castle’s restored ground floor. This modern museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Outer Hebrides. Its exhibits include archaeology, Gaelic culture, crofting life, and a striking display of six original Lewis Chessmen – 12th-century Norse artefacts discovered on a nearby beach. These exquisitely carved figures are internationally renowned and give insight into medieval society.
The castle’s grounds offer lovely walks, gardens, and panoramic views across Stornoway harbour. Inside, there’s also a café and boutique accommodation. The elegant ballroom and restored rooms often host weddings and local events.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing stroll with scenic views, Lews Castle delivers. Entry to the museum is free, making it an accessible cultural highlight for all visitors to the town.
Located in the heart of Stornoway, An Lanntair is the cultural heartbeat of the town. It serves as a multi-arts venue that includes a gallery, cinema, performance space, shop, and popular café-bar. The name “An Lanntair” means “the lantern” in Gaelic – a fitting metaphor for its role in illuminating the creative spirit of the Outer Hebrides.
This vibrant centre hosts an eclectic programme of events throughout the year, ranging from live music, theatre, and Gaelic song to art exhibitions, film screenings, and community workshops. It is particularly renowned for supporting local artists and Gaelic culture while also attracting international talent and contemporary touring shows.
An Lanntair is not just for art enthusiasts – it’s a welcoming hub for everyone. The gallery frequently features works that explore the unique landscapes and identity of the Hebrides, often focusing on environmental themes and island heritage. The auditorium offers a comfortable setting for performances and films, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility.
The café-bar is a local favourite, offering views over Stornoway harbour along with a menu showcasing local ingredients. It's the perfect spot to relax before or after an event.
For visitors interested in the creative side of island life, An Lanntair offers a rich, immersive experience that reflects both the traditional and contemporary spirit of the Hebrides.
Stornoway Harbour is more than just a working port – it’s the beating heart of the town’s economic and social life. Lined with colourful boats, fishing vessels, and visiting yachts, the marina offers a scenic, peaceful place to explore, with easy access to the town centre and local attractions.
The harbour has served as a safe anchorage for centuries and today welcomes everything from local fishing boats to large cruise ships. The bustling quayside captures the essence of island life – a blend of tradition, trade, and tourism. Watching the comings and goings of the harbour can be surprisingly absorbing, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light dances across the water.
A stroll along the harbourfront offers charming views and plenty of photographic opportunities. You’ll find small seafood stalls, occasional pop-up markets, and glimpses of the town’s maritime past. For those keen to get on the water, boat tours depart from the marina during the summer months, offering wildlife-watching trips or scenic cruises around the coast.
The nearby Harbour Trail guides visitors through key historical points, telling the story of Stornoway’s development from a Norse settlement to a modern Hebridean hub. It’s an easy, enjoyable walk suitable for all ages.
Whether you're interested in maritime history, local fishing culture, or simply enjoying the sea air and scenery, Stornoway Harbour provides a relaxing and authentic experience.
Tucked within the sprawling Lews Castle Grounds, Stornoway Golf Club offers a rare opportunity to play golf in one of Scotland’s most picturesque and historic parklands. Founded in 1890, the club is one of the oldest in the Hebrides and is open to visitors year-round.
The 18-hole course weaves its way through mature woodland, open meadows, and rolling terrain, offering stunning views across Stornoway and out to sea. Its setting within the castle grounds gives it a unique charm – where else can you tee off with a Victorian castle as your backdrop and red deer grazing nearby?
Despite its compact layout, the course presents a good challenge for golfers of all abilities. The narrow fairways, natural hazards, and unpredictable winds provide plenty of variety across the holes. The course is well-maintained and often praised for its friendly welcome and relaxed atmosphere.
After a round, players can enjoy refreshments in the clubhouse, which has a reputation for its hospitality and hearty local fare. Even non-golfers can enjoy the area, as the grounds are criss-crossed with walking and cycling paths. The golf course and wider estate are also popular spots for wildlife watchers and photographers.
Stornoway Golf Club is more than just a sporting facility – it’s a peaceful, scenic retreat for visitors seeking outdoor activity and an authentic Hebridean setting.
Just outside Stornoway, near Holm Point, lies the poignant Iolaire Memorial, commemorating one of the worst maritime disasters in British history. On 1st January 1919, HMY Iolaire, carrying over 280 returning servicemen, struck rocks just yards from shore and sank in the early hours, resulting in the loss of 201 lives.
The tragedy deeply scarred the community, many of whom lost multiple family members. Most of the men aboard had survived the horrors of World War I, only to perish within sight of their home. The memorial, overlooking the very rocks where the ship went down, stands as a solemn reminder of the devastating loss and the resilience of the island communities.
The site is accessible via a short, well-maintained path, offering panoramic views of the sea. Interpretive boards tell the story of the disaster and provide context about the lives of those lost. A granite memorial stone lists their names, and visitors often leave flowers or personal tributes.
Visiting the Iolaire Memorial is a moving experience. It offers a moment of quiet reflection and a chance to understand the profound impact the event had on Lewis and Harris. While it is not a traditional tourist attraction, it is a vital part of the island’s story and is approached with respect by locals and visitors alike.
For those interested in Scottish history, war memorials, or local heritage, this site offers a powerful and unforgettable connection to the past.
