Stornoway , United Kingdom

Stornoway: Private Tour Isle of Lewis

Active

(13 reviews)

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Arriving by Air or Cruise Ship? Enjoy a private tour of Lewis and Harris in comfort and luxury in our air conditioned Minivan, with space for up to 6 adults. All tours are fully customisable. Keep the dialogue open prior to your trip and build a custom itinerary with us, so that you accomplish all that you want to during your visit or leave the planning to us!

Available options

Stornoway: Private Tour Isle of Lewis

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Snacks

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We head to Callanish Stone Circle, an extraordinary cross-shaped setting of stones erected over 5000 years ago! Entrance to the visitor centre is £4/head if you wish to learn more, while getting up close with the stones is free!

Stop 2

A unique structure to Scotland, the Broch at Carloway was probably built around 200BC. This Iron Age structure was likely a home for important members of the community.

Step back in time and experience authentic island life at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. A glimpse into a bygone era! You can see traditional activities including the weaving of Harris Tweed..

A stunning little cove with white shell sands and turquoise waters. Formerly the Outer Hebrides' northerly most landing for cargo, it was used until the 1960's due to lack of road infrastructure. The base of a crane remains next to a storage building built from the same red brick as Butt of Lewis Lighthouse.

Stop 5

Often described as the windiest place in the UK, the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse built in the 1860's to aid shipping is unusual in that it is one of few built in red brick shipped into nearby Port Stoth. Watch waves crash against the magnificent cliffs and spot soaring seabirds and seals swimming below.

Explore the grounds and interior of stunning Lews Castle, built in the mid 19th Century as a country home for James Matheson who had made his fortune in the opium trade. Visit the attached Museum N'an Eilean a bilingual heritage and cultural centre.

Head to Stornoway to browse gifts and mementos from local makers and craftspeople and sample the local tipple / sit down to a meal before heading back to your Cruise Ship, Hotel or Airbnb.

What's not included

Lunch

Dinner

Gratuities

Gearranan Blackhouse Village & Museum

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The attraction Callanish Standing Stones can be visited free of charge, but there is a visitors centre which you can pay to enter.

Travel time is added to the total time duration.

About Stornoway

Stornoway is the largest town on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland's Outer Hebrides. Known for its rich Gaelic culture, stunning landscapes, and historic sites, it offers a unique blend of traditional Scottish heritage and natural beauty. The town is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK, including white-sand beaches and ancient standing stones.

Top Attractions

Callanish Standing Stones

One of Scotland's most iconic prehistoric sites, the Callanish Stones are a mysterious stone circle dating back over 5,000 years. They are often compared to Stonehenge and offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient Celtic culture.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

Blackhouse Museum

This museum showcases traditional Hebridean blackhouses, which were the primary form of housing in the area until the mid-20th century. The museum offers a glimpse into the daily life and history of the island's inhabitants.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Lews Castle

Built in the 19th century, Lews Castle is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. The castle now houses a museum, art gallery, and a golf course, offering a mix of history and leisure activities.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some exhibits may have a small fee)

Dun Carloway Broch

This well-preserved Iron Age broch is one of the best examples of its kind in Scotland. The broch is a circular stone structure that dates back over 2,000 years and offers a fascinating look into the island's ancient past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Luskentyre Beach

Known for its stunning white sand and turquoise waters, Luskentyre Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Scotland. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful walk, a picnic, or even a swim on a warm day.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties

A traditional Scottish dish made with haggis (a savory pudding containing sheep's heart, liver, and lungs mixed with oatmeal), mashed turnips (neeps), and mashed potatoes (tatties).

Dinner Contains meat and offal.

Fresh Seafood

The Isle of Lewis is known for its fresh seafood, including langoustines, scallops, and mussels. These are often served grilled, steamed, or in chowders.

Dinner Seafood, some dishes may contain shellfish.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup that is a staple in Scottish cuisine. It's often served with bread or oatcakes.

Lunch Contains fish and dairy.

Stornoway Black Pudding

A type of blood sausage made with pork blood, oatmeal, and spices. It's a traditional breakfast item in Scotland.

Breakfast Contains pork and blood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Cycling Beachcombing Scenic drives Whisky tasting Visiting museums Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The summer months offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is the busiest tourist season.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Stornoway is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas.
• Be aware of changing weather conditions and dress appropriately.

Getting there

By air

Stornoway Airport • 3 km from city center

By bus

Stornoway Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are a reliable and affordable way to get around. Services are frequent to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Stornoway Town Center Sandwick

Day trips

Ullapool

100 km (by ferry) • Full day

Ullapool is a picturesque town on the Scottish mainland known for its stunning coastal views, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great destination for a day trip from Stornoway.

Harris

50 km • Full day

The Isle of Harris is known for its stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and traditional Harris Tweed weaving. It's a perfect destination for a day trip from Stornoway.

Festivals

HebCelt Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit the Callanish Standing Stones at sunset for a magical experience.
Try local dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, and fresh seafood.
Explore the island's rugged coastline and white-sand beaches for stunning views and outdoor activities.
Attend local festivals and events to experience the island's rich cultural heritage.
Stay in a traditional blackhouse for a unique and authentic experience of island life.