About Stornoway

Due to its sheltered location, the ferry to Ullapool is a regular visitor to Stornoway harbour. The sheltered harbour is the reason for Stornoway’s existence and was named by the visiting Vikings “Steering Bay” which, when phonetically translated, became the name Stornoway.

Stornoway offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, pubs, and shops making it a buzzing centre point of the island. Many of the restaurants use locally sourced ingredients and delicacies to offer a true reflection on island food. A plentiful number of shops offer local goods, sourced and produced on the island, including the world-famous Harris Tweed. Also, famous for the renowned Stornoway black pudding, islanders are spoilt for choice by butchers offering the local delicacy.

Lews Castle and Grounds

The most famous attraction to the town is the iconic Lews Castle which has recently undergone refurbishment.

The historic castle now offers luxury self-catering accommodation, a heritage museum complimented by a cafe. The Lews Castle Grounds were originally laid out in the 1850’s by Sir James Matheson and have been in community ownership since 1923.