Outer Hebrides

Travel Guide

Outer Hebrides
Outer Hebrides
Outer Hebrides
Outer Hebrides
Outer Hebrides

Journey into the ancient past, venture across wild landscapes and discover island cultures when you travel to this Scottish archipelago.

Embark on outdoor adventures, discover native wildlife and explore thousands of years of history in the Outer Hebrides. This island chain is also known as the Western Isles and sits off the west coast of Scotland. It enthralls with its rugged beauty, monuments, museums and ancient past.

More than 100 islands make up the archipelago although only a handful are inhabited. Each one has its own character and charm. Head to ​the western side of the island of Lewis to discover some of the island chain's history and heritage. Visit the Callanish Stones, a prehistoric formation that dates back more than 5,000 years. Learn about the Iron Age inhabitants of the island at Dun Carloway Broch, a well-preserved ancient fortification. Make your way over to the other side of Lewis to explore its capital, Stornoway.

From here travel south by road to the Isle of Harris, part of the same land mass as Lewis. Hike along signposted trails in the north and browse traditional Harris tweed clothing outlets in the south. Take a guided tour of the Isle of Harris Distillery, makers of gin and single malt whisky. Enjoy a "wee dram", a convivial glass to stir the spirits.

If you are looking for wildlife go on the Bird of Prey Trail. This self-guided route links 13 viewing locations covering the length of the archipelago from Lewis in the north to the Isle of Barra in the south. There are interpretation signs at each location and among the birds you may see are golden eagles, merlins and short-eared owls.

The Outer Hebrides is easy to get to by plane or ferry. There are no direct international flights, but planes depart from five U.K. airports including Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Alternatively, travel by sea from the Scottish mainland on the Western Isles ferry service. Get around to the many scenic and historical attractions by car or public transportation. Some of the islands are connected by causeways and bridges. Those that aren’t can be reached by inter-island ferries.

Caladh Inn

Caladh Inn

3 out of 5
11 James Street, Isle Lewis, Stornoway, Scotland
The price is €242 per night from 5 Aug to 6 Aug
€242
5 Aug - 6 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Stornoway. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (287 reviews)
"Very comfortable and convenient. The only drawback is the rooms get hot and stuffy. No fans."

Reviewed on 19 Jul 2025

Caladh Inn
The Royal Hotel

The Royal Hotel

3 out of 5
Cromwell Street, Stornoway, Scotland
The price is €329 per night from 5 Aug to 6 Aug
€329
5 Aug - 6 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Stornoway. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (223 reviews)
"Hotel was cute and in a great location. Our only negative was that although our bed was large it was uncomfortable and could use an updating. Staff were very friendly!"

Reviewed on 22 May 2025

The Royal Hotel
Hebridean Guest House

Hebridean Guest House

4 out of 5
61 Bayhead Street, Stornoway, Scotland
The price is €183 per night from 6 Aug to 7 Aug
€183
6 Aug - 7 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star guesthouse in Stornoway. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and a meeting room. Popular attractions Lewis Loom Centre and An Lanntair ...
9/10 Wonderful! (208 reviews)
"Well located accross from a beautiful Park but along a somewhat busy road."

Reviewed on 15 Jul 2025

Hebridean Guest House
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Magnificent views from our 2 Bedroom well appointed, comfortable family home

Magnificent views from our 2 Bedroom well appointed, comfortable family home

Northton
Stay at this chalet in Harris. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions MacGillivray Centre and Seallam are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (92 reviews)
"Gorgeous family home, very well equipped with fantastic views. Northton beach and Ceapabhal hill are literally on your door step, as is Croft 36 a craft bakery who make amazing food. The location is also great for reaching Leverburgh approx 3 miles which has a brewery, restaurant (great food) deli ..."

Reviewed on 14 Jul 2025

Magnificent views from our 2 Bedroom well appointed, comfortable family home
Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist

Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist

Isle of North Uist, Outer Hebrides
Stay at this cottage in Isle of North Uist. Enjoy laundry facilities. Popular attractions Traigh nam Faoghailean and Balranald RSPB Reserve are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (100 reviews)
Great Week on North Uist
"Had a great week in the superb Kettle Cottage, great location with open views to the sea - great sunsets. The kitchen was fully equipped, the bedroom had loads of space and bed very comfortable. Great walks from the cottage door or short drive away. All round great week and would hope to return"

Reviewed on 2 Jul 2025

Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist
Taigh Ciorstaidh family & pet friendly self-catering Isle of Barra Scotland

Taigh Ciorstaidh family & pet friendly self-catering Isle of Barra Scotland

Isle of Barra
Stay at this cottage in Isle of Barra. Enjoy laundry facilities and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Fuiay and Kisimul Castle are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"The house was comfortable and warm, with lovely views and perfectly good facilities (4g signal is good so didn't miss wifi). It was nice to come back to during those days when the weather was wild. Everything I needed in a place to stay. Not too far from Castlebay so easy to get food and fuel. Will ..."

Reviewed on 15 Jun 2025

Taigh Ciorstaidh family & pet friendly self-catering Isle of Barra Scotland
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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