Home / Explore / Locations / Isle of Lewis

Isle of Lewis

Connected to Harris by land and tradition, Lewis has a vibrant community to discover. Part of a chain of islands which make up the Outer Hebrides, Lewis is a place where ancient monuments like the Calanais Standing Stones and Gaelic culture enrich the hustle and bustle of modern life. An area of traditional industry and crofting culture, the island flows with creativity and craft, an abundance of wildlife and unique heritage.

Stornoway is the capital of Lewis and Harris and the main port on the island with regular crossings from Ullapool. Founded by the Vikings in the 800s, the sheltered harbour is the reason for the towns existence. Named by the visiting Vikings as "Steering Bay" which, when phonetically translated, became the name Stornoway, the town has plenty to offer visitors from local arts and crafts, seafood and stunning views to woodland walks and an excellent museum and art gallery.

Gaelic, Adventure and Whisky!

The Isle of Lewis offers travellers a serene landscape to take at their own pace with a range of activities to choose from. For the outdoor enthusiast, Ardroil Sands, Broad Bay and Garry beach are a must visit, especially as the coastline of Lewis is hailed as a ‘utopia’ for windsurfers! The Butt of Lewis is popular with walkers who can enjoy the coastal path signposted from here to the nearby settlement at Dell – offering a great opportunity to experience the area’s stunning sea- and skyscapes, as well as spotting some of the island’s shyer inhabitants – otters!

Just over 20 miles West of Stornoway lies Uig, situated around an inlet, with beautiful white sandy beaches, hills, cliffs, and offshore islands to explore. The scattering of villages along the shorelines of Uig are a great way to connect with local people and sample a dram of whisky at Uig Abhainn Dearg Distillery.

At the Northern tip of Lewis lies the parish of Ness, a Gaelic stronghold on the island. Giving an insight into the legends, folklore and traditions which have shaped the island’s unique identity and culture.

From Lewis, visitors can explore a number of neighbouring islands including Great Bernera (Beàrnaraigh Mòr in Gaelic). It is the largest of many islands which lie in the waters of Loch Roag on the west side of Lewis and is eight square miles in size.

Plan your visit

Places to Stay

Things to Do

Food and Drink

Get Inspired

Favourite Places: Garry Beach

"...every time you go it's different...it's just a magical place!"

Coming to Lewis

Explore the spirit of community life on the Hebridean Isle of Lewis through the experiences of artist and retired head teacher Gill Thompson.

In Focus: A Lewis Potter

Join Charly Hamlyn as shares the broad strokes of the creative process behind the creation of her ceramics and finding inspiration of the Isle of Lewis.

Plan your visit

Places to Stay

Things to Do

Food and Drink