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Stornoway is often the first choice of places to stay on the Isle of Lewis with Stornoway guest house accommodation being the most popular. Although there are many other places to stay on Lewis many prefer the benefits that Stornoway has to offer. The Outer Hebrides are some of the most remote islands in the United Kingdom but contain many important historical sites and some of the most spectacular scenery. While the most dramatic scenes can be found on the west side of Lewis Stornoway can be found on the east coast. As this side is far more sheltered it is the natural place in which to have a port and airport and therefore Stornoway is also the most accessible place in the Outer Hebrides.

The Isle of Lewis is widely known to consist mainly of barren moor land but ask anybody in your Stornoway guest house and they will be eager to tell you of some of the most beautiful places to be found in the whole of Scotland and some say the UK & Europe too. For several miles along the south west coast of the Isle of Lewis spectacular shell sand beaches punctuate the otherwise rocky coastline. Large stretches of outstanding beaches are there to be enjoyed, often they are all to yourself. So, if you are planning to visit the Outer Hebrides remember to allow time to visit this lovely area.

The town of Stornoway grew up around it’s sheltered harbor during the eighteenth century and, by the beginning of the twentieth century it had one of the busiest herring ports in Europe. Unfortunately, following the First World War the herring industry collapsed as the areas around the Baltic had developed their own herring fleets. Today the town still has a small fishing fleet and the harbor still plays a vital role in the town.

Across the harbor to the other side can be seen Lews Castle which is surrounded by the most incredible grounds that are well worth an hour or two of your time. If you are staying in a Stornoway guest house it will be unlikely that you will be any great distance from the castle grounds. If you can find the time it is strongly advised that you take the time to wander around the grounds which have some really interesting aspects such as the Creed, a small but very pretty river.

Obviously, when choosing which accommodation you would like to stay in, you choice is dictated by your own personal preferences. If you like to be close to the action with amenities close to hand and do not mind plenty of people around then staying in a Stornoway guest house will be perfect for you. However if you prefer a more sedate experience and do not like crowds then I suggest that a more rural location would be best. We shall suggest two guest houses, one in the town and one just outside.

Within just a few minutes drive of the center of Stornoway can be found the Holm View Guest House. Sat within the wonderful Isle of Lewis countryside Holm View has some amazing views (hence the name), especially out to sea. Of course being out in the countryside means you are away from the crowds and the light pollution so you can thoroughly enjoy the most gorgeous sunset and clear star lit skies. Holm View has some of the most comfortable accommodation offered by Lewis guest houses.

In stark contrast to Holm View Guest House the Thorlee Guest House is right in the very center of Stornoway. In fact it is as central as you can get and this means that, virtually, everything is within a minute or two’s walk. Just across the road is the sea but, more importantly, this is where you will find the ferry terminal and bus station. Furthermore the Thorlee is excellently placed to enjoy the town’s nightlife.

Many who stay in a Stornoway guest house find themselves impressed at the level of service offered, the warm reception given and the helpful friendliness of their hosts. Most people who visit the islands of the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles comment on the hospitality of the area and most leave wishing to return again some day soon.

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