46 Fantastic Things to Do in Lewis (2026)
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Looking for the best things to do in Lewis? Then you have come to the right place.
With so much to see, discover and explore it can be quite overwhelming to work out where to start.
That is why I have put together this guide on the top things to do in Isle of Lewis. Whether you are an outdoor adventurer, a history buff or someone who just loves to explore new places, there is something for everyone on Lewis.
The list is split into Isle of Lewis attractions and Isle of Lewis activities to help you plan what you want to do. At the end of the post there is also a section listing the top 10 things to do on Isle of Lewis on a rainy day.
Because let’s face it, this is Scotland and if you are renting a cottage for a week it will rain at some point. But don’t worry – there are plenty of must-see indoor activities for both adults and families to keep everyone entertained whatever the weather.
Things to do in Lewis – Tourist Attractions
1. Calanais Standing Stones (Callanish Stones)
Book a private guided tour of the Callanish Stones
One of the top attractions on Lewis is the Calanish stones. They are 5,000 years old and predate Stonehenge. They are even nearly 2,000 years older than the pyramids in Egypt!
Local folklore says that giants were turned into stones since they refused to convert to Christianity. The legends go on to say that by visiting at dawn on midsummer you might meet a ghost who wanders around the stones.
The truth is that nobody knows why the stones were put here or how they were erected. There are many theories of what the site might once have been. One is that it was an astronomical observatory. Another is that it was used for certain rituals.
What is special here is that you can walk amongst the stones and gaze in amazement and wonder what they might once have been used for.
Not many places in the Outer Hebrides can be called touristy but this is as close as it gets. This site gets busy. Going early or late makes it more likely you will have the site to yourself.
Insider Tip: Close by is the Callanish standing stones 2 and 3. They are much smaller but worth the short walk.
Please note that the visitor centre is closed until 2025 for a redevelopment. You can still see the stone and the sight is still worth visiting!
Book a day trip to the Callanish Stones
2. See the Lewis Chessmen at Museum nan Eilean
Of all the things to do in Stornoway the one not to miss is Museum nan Eilean. It is at the back of Lews Castle and has artifacts and information on life in the Outer Hebrides.
The exhibits are well laid out and informative but the main reason to come here is to see the Isle of Lewis chessmen that are on display. The chessmen are believed to be from the Viking area when there was a strong connection between the Island of Lewis and Norway.
Each piece has detailed carvings and are made from walrus tusk.
The chessmen set is often called the Uig chessmen because they are believed to have been found by a farmer in the sand in Uig bay. However, there is some uncertainty whether this is true or not.
Little is known about the discovery which only came to light when they were exhibited in Edinburgh in 1831 and sold to private collectors and the British Museum.
Today most of the chessmen are on display in London at the British Museum and Edinburgh at Museum of Scotland. A small selection is on loan to the museum in Stornoway until 2026.
Exactly which pieces are on display varies. When a Lewis chessmen queen was added to the collection it even got its own seat on the plane from London!
3. Go Beach Hopping
Of all the things to see and do on Lewis my favourite is the beaches.
The beaches in the Outer Hebrides are fantastic with white sand and turquoise waters. Harris might have the most well-known beaches but Lewis’ beaches are underrated.
Compared to the other Outer Hebrides islands there is much more variety in how the beaches look on Lewis with dramatic cliffs, large waves crashing in and at low tide whole bays of sparkling white sand.
Since Lewis is larger it also has more beaches than the islands further south. The best beaches on Lewis are:
- Ardroil beach (also called Uig Sands)
- Garry beach
- Bosta beach
- Dalmore beach
- Swainbost beach
To read more about the beaches on Lewis read my post on the best beaches in Lewis.
Or even better, book a luxury cottage overlooking Ardroil Beach
4. Mangersta Sea Stacks
The Mangersta sea stacks look like a miniature version of the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road in Australia – minus the heat and the sunshine.
It is easy to assume that they must be close to Mangersta village but they are actually further along the main road going south. Some maps show the sea stacks in the wrong location so use Goolge Maps to find it.
There is no signage along the road so to help you with the location where it is best to park the what3word is slippery.stopwatch.hypnotist.
Don’t park in the passing bays but find somewhere along the road where it is flat enough to drive onto the grassy verge. There is only room for a couple of cars to park but most likely you will be here on your own.
The sea stacks are not visible from the road so walk out on the headland and look back for the views in the photo above.
Insider tip: If the sun is out photos are best taken in the afternoon. This is also somewhere that is great to visit when the tide is in and the wind is blowing to see impressive waves crashing against the rocks.
5. Explore St Kilda Island
St Kilda is well known both for its bird life and the history of the villagers who once lived there. People first came to live on these remote islands 4,000 – 5,000 years ago.
Given the location and the harsh weather life here was hard. That is why the 36 last islanders voted to leave in 1930. Since then it has become a UNESCO site and a popular day trip.
Many companies operate day trips to St Kilda and advance bookings are essential.
Insider tip: If you get seasick you might want to reconsider a trip to St Kilda. The boat journey is 3 hours each way and the seas are very often rough.
6. Take a Boat Trip to the Shiants Isles
4 miles off the coast of Lewis are the Shiants islands which is one of the best places to see seals in Scotland. Sightings are pretty much guaranteed on every trip.
In season (May to mid-July) you can also see puffins. The Shiants is an important breeding colony for puffins with 10% of the UK’s puffins coming here to breed.
To protect the birds you will not be able to go on land to see them but they can be seen on the water or land from the boat. For up-close views of puffins Mingulay island is the best place in the Outer Hebrides.
There is also plenty of other bird life such as white-tailed sea eagles, great skuas, guillemots, shags and razorbills.
7. Gearranen Blackhouse Village
Traditional stone houses with thatched roofs built in Ireland, the Hebrides and the Scottish Highlands are called blackhouses. Lewis is a great place to see examples with several having been turned into accommodation and museums.
On this list of things to do on the Isle of Lewis are two listing of blackhouses. Gearranen is a village of houses whilst the one at Arnol is a single house.
Although the blackhouses at Gearranen look ancient they are only about 150 years old. In fact, it was inhabited until the 1970s when the last residents left in favour of houses that didn’t need the annual maintenance of the stonework and thatched roofs.
One of the first buildings you come to is a museum where you can see Harris Tweed being woven. There is also a shop and a café. Opening times are Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm from the end of March to October (Sunday closed).
Most of the other houses have been turned into holiday accommodation. There is also a small hostel. Both can be booked at the Gearranen website.
Insider tip: Even though the museum is closed on Sunday you can still wander amongst the houses in the village.
8. Have Dinner at Uig Sands Restaurant
The most unexpected of the things to do in Uig is having dinner at a top end restaurant. The panoramic views out over Uig Sands below are as impressive as the food. Make sure you try their homemade smoked salmon.
Uig Sands Restaurant is not cheap but it if you only go out for one meal while staying on Lewis this should be it.
Advance bookings are essential, as many weeks in advance as you can to be sure of getting the date of your choice.
Insider Tip: The restaurant opens at 4pm for dinner. This might not seem like the best time for dinner but going early you are likely to get one of the window seats.
Book a stay next door at Uig Sands Rooms
9. Dun Carloway Broch
There are many historic things to do, Isle of Lewis must once have been an important settlement.
Little is known about why these roundhouses were built or who started building these fort-like stone structures. The one in Carloway is believed to be from 200 BC.
One theory is that it was for defence. Another is that they were stately homes.
By the mid-19th Century locals started taking the stones from the roundhouses to use for other buildings. To protect the structure this was one of the first officially protected monuments in Scotland back in 1882.
Book a day trip to Dun Carloway Broch
10. Learn About Whisky at Abhainn Dearg Distillery
This small whisky producer close to Uig Sands is the only Isle of Lewis distillery. It was established in 2008.
You are unlikely to find a bottle of Abhainn Dearg whisky sold in any whisky bar or shop around the world. But that is also exactly why it is such an interesting distillery to visit. The tours are intimate and the guides are passionate about whisky.
Tours must be booked in advance through their website and include a tasting of two whiskys. The drinks come in small plastic cups with a lid so that drivers can bring theirs home to enjoy later.
11. Lews Castle
Wondering what to do in Stornoway? Luckily the top two Stornoway things to do are right next to each other – Lews Castle and Museum Nan Eilean.
When getting the ferry to Ullapool, Stornoway castle can be seen majestically overlooking the town. The building is from the Victorian area and was built around 1850 by Sir Matheson. He made his fortune in opium and bought the whole of Lewis a few years earlier.
At the time when he acquired the island many crofter families lived at this location in Stornoway. Lews Castle could only be built after 500 families were cleared off the land and Matheson arranged for them to emigrate to Canada.
The castle was closed for 25 years before the local council took over the building. Before re-opening it had £14 million worth of renovation work done adding the museum next door, the grand ballroom, and a café.
Lews Castle is the best hotel in Stornoway. Accommodation is in modern double rooms or self-catering apartments. To check availability and prices click here.
12. Harris Tweed Factory at Carloway Mill
The name Harris tweed might suggest that it can only be made on the Isle of Harris but that is not the case. It can be made anywhere in the Outer Hebrides and still be called Harris tweed.
There is nothing called Lewis tweed although it would seem to make sense to name it after the island where it was produced.
One factory that is open for visitors to learn more about this old tradition is on the west coast of Lewis in Carloway. Harris tweed has been made here since 1892.
This is the only Harris tweed factory on Lewis that is open to visitors. Tours run during the week from 10am to 4pm. There is no need to book in advance.
Insider tip: Make sure you have enough cash to pay for the tour. Credit cards don’t seem to be accepted for tours and it is a long drive to the closest ATM!
Book a Tweed Tour with Viator
13. Bosta Village
At the tip of Great Bernera island is Bosta beach. The beach itself is worth a visit and what makes it even more intriguing is its history. After a winter storm in 1993 substantial stonework was revealed beneath the sands.
As the team of archaeologists started digging they discovered a village with 4 houses believed to have been inhabited in the 6-9th Centuries. Since they had been protected by the sand they were virtually intact.
To preserve the delicate structures they have been buried again and the house you see today is a replica. During the summer months (May- Sep) the house is open for visitors from 12 – 4pm Monday to Friday. During June, July and August it is also open on Saturdays.
To guarantee that there will be someone there contact Bernera Museum before going. It takes 30 minutes to look around the house with a guide.
To plan your visit read my guide to Bosta beach.
Book a day trip to Bosta beach and Iron Age house
14. Butt of Lewis
Its main claim to fame is being the windiest place in the UK but it is also the northern most point in the Outer Hebrides. Storms and heavy swells often batter the exposed coastline.
A road goes all the way out to the lighthouse and there is a small car park at the end of the road. You can also walk from the nearby village of Eoropie along the coast.
On a calm day it is a pleasant and relatively short walk along the cliffs. Seals can often be seen bobbing around below the cliffs.
15. Have Coffee and Cake in a Pod
After watching the eagles at Aird Uig (number 36 on this list) stop at The Edge Café for coffee and cake. The Isle of Lewis has many small community cafes but this is the most interesting one.
The name is very suitable since you really are at the edge of Lewis with fantastic views out to sea. Since its nearly always a bit windy here the pods are a great idea allowing you to sit outside and appreciate the views whatever the weather.
Opening hours are limited. Online it states 11-4.15 most days (closed Friday and Saturday) but they often close earlier to prepare for dinner.
Insider tip: Opening time is shown as 6.15-6:30 in the evening but this is to represent the fact there is a single seating for dinner. It must be booked in advance since all food is prepared to order on the day.
16. See the Waterlilies at Dailbeag Beach
Opposite the parking to Dailbeag beach there is a pond full of waterlilies. Depending on the weather they might come out as early as June and remain into August.
From the car park either walk back along the road or cross the small bridge on the left, away from the beach. After you have admired the waterlilies make sure to stop by the beach.
17. Arnol Blackhouse Museum
Arnol blackhouse museum is smaller than Gearranen but gives a better illustration of how crofting families lived on the Isle of Lewis. Blackhouses were the way of life for many people until the 1960-70s.
The family who lived in this house only moved out in 1966. Imagine sharing this small space with your family and all your animals.
Arnol has a visitor’s centre with a shop and exhibition area that is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30 to 5pm from April to September (closed on Sunday). For the rest of the year the museum is open every day except Wednesday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
The last entry is one hour before closing and it is closed for lunch from 12-1pm.
Book a day trip to Arnol Blackhouse
18. St Columba’s Church (Eaglais na h-Aoidhe)
Close to Stornoway this atmospheric ruin is worth a stop on your way to or from Tiumpan Head Lighthouse (number 35).
The site is believed to have been occupied since the 6th Century but the oldest part of the church dates from the 13th Century.
It is the burial place for many prominent locals such as the Macleod Chiefs of Isle of Lewis. Things to do here also include Braighe beach which is next to the ruins.
19. Walk Across the Bridge to Nowhere
Past Gerry beach the road continues for a few hundred metres before petering out shortly after the Bridge to Nowhere. Lewis has a good road network but from here to Port of Ness the only way along the eastern coast is on foot.
After the bridge the ground turns boggy making for a hard walk to Ness. The difficult terrain is likely the reason why the planned road along here never happened.
20. Explore Great Bernera
Great Bernera is a small island west of Lewis, connected by a bridge. The island has good walks, a nice beach (number 13 on this list) and a standing stone that are all worth exploring.
The island is owned by the grandson of the late Count Robin de la Lanne-Mirrlees who is said to have been the inspiration for James Bond. Unfortunately the Count is less popular thank James Bond with the locals.
In recent years the school and post office has closed and the number of inhabitants continues to decline.
The Count lives in Germany and the community are trying to buy the island from him. They have been trying since 2015 without success but hopefully they can in any case reverse the trend and create a thriving community.
It is easy to do, but don’t confuse Bernera with the island of Berneray which is further south.
21. Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln
One of the best places to visit in Shawbost is the Norse Mill and Kiln.
Since the Iron Age until the 1930s the mill and kiln was used for drying and grinding barley. Lewis used to have 200 such mills but gradually they fell into decline. This is the only example that remains.
As you approach the building on your right is the kiln. This is where the grain was prepared for milling by drying it using a fire pit. In the mill you can see the two stones that would rotate to grind the grain. It was operated using water from the nearby lake.
Insider tip: Take a torch to be able to fully appreciate the inside of the buildings. It is often dark inside even in the middle of the day.
22. Take a Day Trip to Harris
It is unusual how the Isle of Lewis and Harris is one landmass but is talked about as two islands. On the plus side it means that Harris is a short drive away with no need to take a ferry to get there.
Harris is much smaller than Isle of Lewis and the main sights can be explored on a day trip. In addition to having some of the best beaches in the Outer Hebrides stop by Temple Café in Northton, Rodel church and drive the Golden Road on the eastern side of the island or out to Huisinis beach.
This post has pictures of the amazing beaches on Harris.
Or stay overnight on Harris to see even more. I recommend booking top rated Dunarain B&B
23. An Lanntair Gallery
There are many galleries on Lewis from small local exhibitions to the An Lanntair Gallery in Stornoway. An Lanntair Art Centre has a cinema and an art gallery and is located close to the ferry port.
It also hosts a wide range of other cultural events from pantomimes to comedy to folk music and workshops.
24. Visit the Local Galleries
Other local galleries to stop by are the Blue Pig Studio in Carloway, The Beach House Gallery in Dalbeg, the Island Darkroom in Achmore and the Harbour View Gallery in Port of Ness.
25. Stornoway Harbour
Inner Stornoway harbour is a marina for small yachts. The street facing the marina is lined with colourful houses with cafes, restaurants and shops. This is the prettiest and most interesting part of Stornoway to explore and several of Stornoway’s hotels are in this area.
For the best views of the marina walk down to the sea by Lews Castle.
26. Uig Museum
Several of the villages on Lewis have small museums providing a fascinating overview of the history of these communities and what it is like to live here. Opening times are often limited so make sure you check in advance.
Uig Museum is run by a group of volunteers and in addition to exhibits about life in the area and the Uig chessmen there is a small café next door.
From April to October the museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 12 – 4pm (closed on Sunday and Monday).
27. Ness Historical Society (Comunn Eachdraidh Nis)
The museum details life in northern Lewis.
The museum, exhibition gallery and gift shop are open Monday to Friday 10am – 4.30pm (closed Saturday and Sunday).
During the summer months the café is open at the same times, as well as Saturdays in July and August. From November to March the café is open from 11am to 4.30pm.
28. Kinloch Historical Society
The museum covers the southeastern part of Lewis.
Opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 10am – 4pm (closed on Sunday).
29. Machair
Machair is Gaelic for low-lying grassland but the term is normally used when talking about the wildflowers that grow along the beaches in late spring. Depending on the weather the western side of Lewis erupts in colourful wildflowers from mid-May to end of July.
The flowers you will find are daisies, buttercups, bird’s-foot trefoil and red clover. There are also rarer species such as marsh orchids and Hebridean spotted orchid, but these are more difficult to find.
30. Port of Ness
At the northern end of Lewis is the small fishing village of Port of Ness. The Isle of Lewis has several small villages and this is the most interesting to explore.
Port of Ness is on the top of a cliff and from the Breakwater Café you get panoramic views down to the harbour and Port of Ness beach on the other side.
The café is also the best place in the village to stop for lunch or coffee and cake.
Close by is the Harbour View Gallery which sells paintings and prints by the local artist Anthony Barber.130. St Moulag’s Church
The church is at the northern end of Lewis in a village called Eoropie. There has been a church here since the 12th or 13th Century. Even today the building does not have electricity or heating. It is lit by candle light and oil lamps.
31. Lewis Chessman Statue by Ardroil Beach
Close to Ardoil beach and campsite in Uig Sands is a large wooden statue of a Lewis chessman king.
It is meant to represent the place where the Lewis chess set was found but there must be some guesswork involved here since so little is known about the discovery of the chess pieces.
Things to do on Lewis – Activities
32. Climb a Mountain
The most scenic Isle of Lewis walks are in the hills around Uig and they have varying degrees of difficulty.
For a relatively easy walk with fantastic views over Uig Sands consider climbing Suineabhal. For a longer route climb Mealisbhal and Cracabhal.
Hiking on Lewis is suited for walkers who are comfortable walking using landmarks or a map for directions since paths are often non-existent.
Buy the Cicerone Guide to Walking on Harris and Lewis
33. Horse Riding on Traigh Mhor
For one of the more unusual Isle of Lewis activities try horse riding with Traigh Mhor Pony Trekking based in North Tolsta. They offer horse rides and pony experiences for everyone from complete beginners to experienced riders.
There are several different packages but the one to go for is the ride on Traigh Mhor (also called Tolsta beach) in Tolsta.
Traigh Mhor is Gaelic for big beach and it lives up to its name. This is the most impressive beach close to Stornoway and there is no better way to see it than on the back of a horse.
For rides longer than two hours you can meet, groom and tack your horse.
Rides are offered every day except for Sundays.
34. Look for Seals
The Shiants (number 6 on this list) is the best place in the area to see seals but they can also be found around the Butt of Lewis lighthouse and at the beach opposite the airport.
My post on Stornoway beaches has all the information you need to find this beach.
At the Butt of Lewis seals can be found all along the coastline. When walking the cliffs between Eoropie beach and the lighthouse keep an eye out for something shiny in the sea below.
On sunny days the easiest way to spot them is by the sun glittering on the glossy coats.
35. Look for Whales From the Tiumpan Head Lighthouse
Travelling to Lewis on one of the ferries from Ullapool you can often see dolphins and humpback whales in the summer months.
From land your highest chance of seeing these mammals is by the Tiumpan Head Lighthouse. However, keep in mind that they are very difficult to spot and you’ll need to be extremely patient for the best chances of a sighting.
For good views of the lighthouse climb the small hill behind. It is a bit strange but the lighthouse is now a kennels and the loud dog barking slightly detracts from the experience.
Insider tip: This is one of the areas on Lewis with the highest concentration of ticks so make sure you check yourself after walking the paths in the area.
36. Look for Eagles at Aird Uig
A short but exposed cliff top walk takes visitors to a closed down Royal air force base. Golden Eagles and Sea Eagles often circle overhead and whales can sometimes be seen in the distance.
Basic concrete bunkers are available to shelter against the wind which seems to always blow in this area. Plans were approved to open a visitor’s centre, gallery and observatory but work has not started.
37. Eoropie Dune Park (Playground)
At the northern end of Lewis is one of the best places to go with children – a playground that is open all year round. It is free to enter and there are activities for all ages. The park has everything from a traditional climbing frame to a cycle and skateboarding zone, swings, slides and a maze.
38. Lewis Sport Centre
The Isle of Lewis sport centre is in Stornoway. It has a pool that is open to everyone (for a fee). It is a great rainy-day activity for kids.
In addition to a kids pool and a slide there is a jacuzzi, steam room and spa.
In a separate area there is a gym, squash courts, a soft play area for younger kids and a climbing wall for older ones. To use the climbing wall you must book an induction on their website.
39. Go Bowling at SporsNis
SporsNis is in the village of Port of Ness. They have bowling, gym, sauna and a soft play area. The soft play area is only open to pre-school aged children.
40. Walk or Cycle a Stage of the Hebridean Way
The Hebridean Way goes from Vatersay in the south to Lewis in the North.
The walking route is 156 miles and ends in Stornoway, close to Lews Castle. The cycling route is 185 miles and ends at the Butt of Lewis.
The whole route is normally walked over 12-14 days or cycled in 6 days. If you don’t have time to do the whole thing it is possible to do one of the stages.
Or you can try to compete with the record for cycling the Hebridean Way. It is held by Mark Beaumont who cycled the whole route in 12 hours!
41. Surfing
Most days the waves come crashing in on many of the beaches on Lewis making them perfect for surfing. Some of the beaches with the biggest swells are Mangersta, Dailbeg, Cliff and Eoropie beach.
There are two companies that offers lessons. Hebridean Surf take customers to a secluded beach. Surf Lewis is another provider that offers all the water sports described below from surfing to stand-up paddleboarding and snorkelling lessons. They also rent out equipment.
Another beach in the area that is good for surfing is Scarista beach on Isle of Harris.
42. Kayak or Stand-up Paddleboard
Surf Lewis offers lessons and rents out stand-up paddleboards. Grey Goose in Stornoway also rents out paddleboards and kayaks. They will deliver and collect in certain circumstances so contact them to see what is possible.
43. Snorkeling
For a more surprising activity for Scotland – try snorkeling.
Surf Lewis offers snorkeling trips at Reef beach. The beach is in a sheltered bay and as the name indicates has several reefs which means it is home to a variety of marine animals.
A full wetsuit and snorkelling equipment will be provided.
Participants must be able to swim and be over 10 years of age.
44. Salmon or Trout Fishing
Between June and September Lewis is one of the top destinations in Scotland for salmon or trout fishing. With 2,000 lochs and many rivers there are plenty of places to try your luck.
The River Creed is renowned for its fishing opportunities and at Eishken, 15 miles south of Stornoway, there is a new community centre for fishing. It has 6 lochs with salmon, sea trout and brown trout. Day passes can be purchased from early May to late August.
In addition to a day fishing you also support the local community with profits going to run local activities.
45. Play Golf at Stornoway Golf Course
Close to Lews Castle in Stornoway is an 18-hole golf course at Stornoway Golf Club. It is open to visitors but tee times must be booked in advance on their website.
It is a short but difficult course through woodland. It has good variety of up and down hill holes, blind greens and holes that change direction (doglegs).
46. Listen to Music by Local Bands at the HebCelt Festival
HebCelt stands for Hebridean Celtic Festival and is a music festival mixing local Scottish talent with household names. It is held in the middle of July every year.
The festival is in the grounds of Lews Castle in Stornoway. Tickets must be bought in advance at the HebCelt website.
What to Do in Lewis in the Rain?
- See the Lewis Chessmen at Museum nan Eilean
- Learn about whisky at Abhainn Dearg Distillery
- Explore Lews Castle
- Learn how Harris Tweed is made at the Carloway Mill
- Go bowling at SporsNis
- Visit Arnold Blackhouse Museum
- Attend an exhibition at Ann Lanntair Gallery or one of the many local galleries
- Go swimming or climbing at Lewis Sport Centre
- Have cake and coffe in a pod at The Edge Cafe in Aird Uig
- Go to a local museum
LOOKING FOR MORE ON THE OUTER HEBRIDES?
