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.

At the start of the twentieth century Stornoway appeared to have a bright future ahead. There had been much investment in the town, which had a number of fine buildings including several large banks, and business was booming. However the local economy was dependant upon the herring fishing and, with Stornoway being one of the largest herring fishing ports in Europe, most other businesses where ancillary to the fishing industry. Sadly the herring industry fell into extreme decline following World War One and the town faced hardship. Today the harbor still has an active fishing fleet which helps to create a most wonderful atmosphere, especially when the boats are landing their catch.

Over on the other side of the harbor can be seen the wonderful Lews Castle. The castle grounds are a most relaxing visit and well worth taking time out for. The castle grounds are rather extensive and are heavily wooded but following one of the walks you will discover various places of interest including the relatively new Woodland Centre.

Choosing accommodation can be problematic, this can also be true when visiting the Isle of Lewis. Do you prefer to stay in a central location so that you get the many benefits of being in a modern town or do you choose to stay in a more rural location so that you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery (while still being close to amenities). With this in mind we have chosen two properties to look at, on Stornoway guest house and one set in the countryside only a few minutes from the town.

Holm View Guest House can be found within five minutes drive of the town of Stornoway in the Isle of Lewis. Although it is pretty close to the town the area is, most definitely, rural with some of the most amazing views across Lewis and out across the sea. The views will be most appreciated if you experience one of the areas incredible sunsets. The bed and breakfast accommodation here is of the highest standard which makes Holm View one of the most popular guest houses on the Isle of Lewis.

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.