




Planning a trip to Stornoway and wondering where to lay your head after a day exploring Lews Castle or enjoying a local dram? eDreams has rounded up everything you need to know about finding the perfect place to stay, from cosy guesthouses to hotels with stunning harbour views.
Discover Stornoway, the bustling capital of the Outer Hebrides, a town rich in maritime heritage and local culture. Situated on the Isle of Lewis, it serves as the main gateway to the Western Isles, offering a convenient base for exploring the region's dramatic landscapes. Delve into the island’s history at Lews Castle, a magnificent Victorian edifice set within extensive grounds, and explore its Museum nan Eilean to understand more about local life and the Harris Tweed industry.
Stornoway is famous for its vibrant working harbour, where fishing boats arrive with their daily catch, and for its connection to the renowned Harris Tweed. You can find opportunities to learn about this traditional craft and purchase authentic products. While staying in Stornoway, enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries or stroll along the quayside. The town provides a comfortable hub for visitors, with everything you need for a memorable island experience.
Most visitors choose to book their accommodation in the town centre of Stornoway, as it offers convenient access to amenities and attractions. This central area provides a good base for exploring the town on foot.
The town centre itself, particularly around the harbour and Church Street, features a mix of guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. These properties often occupy traditional stone buildings. Key landmarks here include Lews Castle, a grand Victorian mansion set in extensive grounds, and the Museum nan Eilean, located within the castle grounds, which tells the story of the Outer Hebrides. The harbour is a working port, and you can often see fishing boats coming and going.
Heading slightly west from the main centre, you find areas like Goathill and Manor Park. These residential zones offer quieter guesthouses and self-catering options, often with views over the town or surrounding countryside. They provide a more relaxed atmosphere while still being within a reasonable walking distance of the town centre's facilities.
For those looking for a more secluded experience, areas slightly further out, such as along the A866 towards Tong or the A857 towards Barvas, provide cottages and larger self-catering properties. These options are ideal for exploring the wider Isle of Lewis and offer a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing.
When considering your hotel booking, proximity to Stornoway Airport (SYY) is a factor for many. The airport is located just over 2 miles east of the town centre, making transfers straightforward. Public buses operate, and taxis are readily available. Stornoway is the primary transport hub for the Isle of Lewis, offering good road connections across the island.
Planning your trip to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis? You can find more affordable hotel stays by booking your accommodation well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the summer months or around events like the Hebridean Celtic Festival. Consider travelling outside of peak season, such as late autumn or early spring, when hotel prices are generally lower and you'll still experience the island's distinctive charm without the crowds. Looking for deals can save you money, allowing you to spend more on experiences like exploring the historic Lews Castle and its grounds.
To secure the best rates, think about booking a hotel slightly outside the town centre. For example, staying a few miles out offers a quieter experience and can significantly reduce costs. You might even find guesthouses or B&Bs that offer a traditional full Scottish breakfast, perfect before a day of exploring the Callanish Standing Stones, a truly unique Stornoway experience. Compare options and amenities carefully to find a deal that suits your budget.
Book your next hotel stay in Stornoway with eDreams and secure a great deal for your Hebridean adventure.