Lewis, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

(Above image is of Stornoway)

My blog tonight reports on the Isle of Lewis ("Lewis") which comprises the northernmost section of the chain of islands known as the Outer Hebrides which lie off Scotland's N.W. Coast.

Like the rest of the Outer Hebrides, Lewis has been occupied for at least 5000 years with such time span covering the Neolithic, Iron Age and Early Medieval (Norse) period through to modern times.

Summary information on Lewis:
  • Area: 683 sq miles.
  • Population: 18,500.
  • Gaelic speakers: Approx.60 pct. of population.
  • Religion: Predominantly Presbyterian with strong respect for the Sabbath on which day little commercial activity takes place.
  • Transport links with mainland: Air services from Stornoway and ferry services from Stornoway.
  • Principal town: Stornoway.
Ferry at Stornoway

Principal historic sites:
  • Callanish Stones (Neolithic).
  • Carloway Broch (Iron Age)
  • Norse Mill (Viking period) when Lewis was ruled from Norway.
  • Gearrannan Blackhouses (Traditional thatched, island houses still in use for vacations.)
 Callanish Stones

Carloway Broch

Norse Mill and Kiln

Gearrannan Blackhouses


Other sightseeing and information:
  • Butt of Lewis with lighthouse and Port Nis at northern end of Lewis.
  • Dun Eistean, the traditional power base of Clan Morrison.
  • Lews Castle and grounds at Stornoway. Here there us a museum with some of the famous Lewis Chessmen on display.
  • Loch na Muilne nature Reserve at Arnol. Main attraction here is bird life.
  • Arnish Lighthouse
  • Lewis has abundant peat resources which are available to the local population for fuel.
  • Abhain Dearg Whisky Distillery.
  • 18 hole golf course at Stornoway.
  • Production of Harris Tweed cloth is an important economic activity.

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

Dun Eistean

Arnish Lighthouse

Peat Cutting


 Abhain Dearg Whisky Distillery

© Nigel P Cole/Catswhiskerstours Limited

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