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Lewis

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About Lewis

A small, picturesque island off the west coast of Scotland, Lewis is a wonderful destination for a romantic break or family holiday. With beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs and an abundance of wildlife, it’s the perfect place to go for an outdoorsy adventure. There are also some fascinating archaeological sites on the island, including the Callanish Stones and the Iron Age Broch of Carloway. The best places to stay in Lewis tend to be rural B&Bs, but there are also a few great hotels if you’re looking for something a bit larger.

Stornoway, Lewis' main town, is very pretty, with whitewashed houses and narrow streets lined with colourful flowers. There are also some stunning beaches to be discovered, including Callanish Beach and Barvas Beach.

The Lewis Chessmen are one of the island’s most famous attractions. These 12th century chess pieces were discovered in 1831 in a sand dune on Uig beach, and are now housed in the British Museum in London. You can see replicas at the Lews Castle Museum in Stornoway, which also has an excellent collection of artefacts from the island’s past.

Don't forget that if you're planning to visit between May and September, you'll need to book well ahead as the best places to stay in Lewis get quickly booked up.

The best places to stay in Lewis

For a traditional stay

  • The Royal Hotel is Lewis's most historic hotel and it enjoys a harbour front location with lovely views over to Lew Castle. Rooms are traditional in style, the best with marina views. The Boatshed Restaurant is a smart modern space where you can expect menus featuring the best local seafood. A charming stay in centre of town.

For a boutique stay

  • SEAcroft is a cool boutique B&B boasting a spectacular clifftop location and epic views. Choose between rooms in the main house or SEApods for something unique. Enjoy a rugged location and a real taste of Scotland's Hebrides.

For families

  • Lews Castle is the perfect option if you're travelling with kids in tow. Who wouldn't want to stay in a castle? And this one provides a range of suitably grand self catering apartments and suites which are ideal for larger groups (the largest can sleep 6). You'll also find a whisky bar and cafe on site and you can bring the dog along too!

For a holiday cottage

  • If you think that you'd prefer a self-catering option, check out the range with our online partner, Booking.com

Travel Information

  • Catch the ferry from Ullapool, Skye or Oban or fly in to Stornoway from either Edinburgh or Glasgow.
  • If you wish to hire a car, check out the options with our partner Rentalcars
  • The best time of year to visit Lewis is the summer. However this is also peak season and very busy. For fewer tourists and cheaper accommodation, plan your trip for either spring or autumn.

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Best Hotels in Lewis

  • Lews Castle Stornoway, Lewis 23 rooms from CA$185

    Families  -  The deluxe apartments offer plenty of living space for a family; kids love the novelty of staying in the castle grounds
    Local exploring  -  Located in the heart of Stornoway, this hotel is a great base for local exploring on the Isle of Lewis
    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the luxury finish to the hotel's suites and the pretty views over the castle gardens
    Great walks  -  Explore the verdant grounds of the castle on a long walk, and enjoy unbeatable views over the Stornoway waters
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This hotel offers luxury accommodation in Lews Castle on the Isle of Lewis. The interior design respects the Victorian property while adding a contemporary finish; locally sourced soft furnishings complete the look. Book a deluxe apartment for chic, self-contained living. A unique heritage hotel. See More

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  • SEAcroft Scotland, Lewis 5 rooms from CA$228

    Back to Nature  -  Wild and rugged, with accommodation that is perfectly placed to enjoy the views, this is the perfect escape to nature
    Self catering  -  The Longhouse has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a lounge and kitchen. The SEApods have compact kitchens too
    Families  -  The self-catering Longhouse is ideal for families looking for an independent stay
    Great walks  -  There is a vast selection of walks to choose from including coastal routes, wildlife spotting and historic sites
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    A cool boutique hotel boasting a spectacular clifftop location on the Isle of Lewis. SEApods boast epic views, minimalist design, and even compact kitchens. A two-bedroom self-catered house is ideal for families. With local cuisine on offer too, this is a very comfortable escape to nature. See More

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  • The Royal Hotel Scotland, Lewis 26 rooms from CA$246

    Local exploring  -  Well positioned on the marina with the town centre on the doorstep and the local beaches and attractions just a short drive away
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Callanish Standing Stones, one of the most complete stone circles in Europe
    Restaurant  -  The Boatshed restaurant serves Scottish cuisine made using local produce
    Traditional
    RestaurantViewsParking

    A historic hotel well positioned overlooking Stornoway's harbour. Light and airy rooms are traditionally dressed with large sash windows, tartan throws, and chintz curtains. The restaurant, which boasts views of Lews Castle, serves regional dishes. A charming base to explore the area from. See More

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