Stornoway Hotels

Top reasons to visit Stornoway

• Scenic Coastal Beauty: Stornoway boasts stunning coastal landscapes, perfect for relaxing beach days and picturesque views.
• Cultural Heritage: The town is rich in history, featuring attractions like the impressive Lews Castle and fascinating museums.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy scenic hiking trails and local golf courses, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
• Vibrant Local Scene: Experience a lively live music scene and unique shopping opportunities that highlight local craftsmanship.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of options, from charming guesthouses to hotels, catering to varied traveller needs.

Find great hotels in Stornoway

Stornoway offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming guesthouses to well-appointed hotels. Many establishments cater to diverse needs, with a focus on pet-friendly amenities, business travel facilities, and an inclusive atmosphere for LGBTQIA travellers. Whether you're considering the renowned Cabarfeidh Hotel or exploring the cosy Westview accommodation, you'll find a variety of reviews and options to ensure a memorable stay in this picturesque Scottish town.

• Caladh Inn: Nestled in the heart of Stornoway, Caladh Inn is a welcoming 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, ideal for both business travellers and those seeking a pet-friendly getaway. This hotel offers a range of amenities tailored for comfort, including food and water bowls for pets, and a pet policy that permits dogs and cats. With its convenient location, guests can easily access local attractions while enjoying the modern hospitality and warm atmosphere that Caladh Inn provides.
• County Hotel: A step above with a 3.5-star rating, County Hotel offers a delightful experience for visitors in Stornoway. This hotel features a variety of dining options, including a restaurant that caters to children's meals and serves breakfast and lunch. Entertainment is readily available with multiple television screens throughout the hotel. Surrounded by a vibrant entertainment district and near the city centre and sea, County Hotel is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
• The Royal Hotel: With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, The Royal Hotel is a charming 3-star establishment in Stornoway, known for its pet-friendly policies. This hotel permits dogs and offers essential amenities such as food and water bowls for your furry companions. Ideal for leisure travellers, The Royal Hotel combines traditional Scottish hospitality with modern comforts, making it a suitable base for exploring the scenic surroundings of the Isle of Lewis.

Where to stay near Stornoway

Stornoway, the charming capital of the Isle of Lewis, offers a delightful blend of culture and stunning coastal scenery. Explore its historical sites, such as the impressive Lews Castle, or unwind on the nearby pristine beaches. The friendly atmosphere and rich heritage make it a perfect romantic getaway. Don't miss the chance to discover the breathtaking Scottish islands around, ideal for leisurely holidays and unique wedding venues, ensuring a memorable experience in this enchanting region.

• Outer Hebrides: The Outer Hebrides, situated a mere 161m from Stornoway, is an archipelago celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This island destination attracts travellers year-round, peaking during the summer months of June and July, as well as in December. Visitors flock here for the pristine beaches, outdoor adventures, and romantic escapades. Popular activities include hiking along scenic trails and accessing ferries to explore nearby islands. Notable landmarks include breathtaking beaches, rolling dunes, and historical castles, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
• Sandwick: Located just 1.6km from Stornoway, Sandwick is a welcoming village known for its friendly atmosphere. The village experiences a moderate influx of visitors, particularly in May and during the summer months of July and August. Sandwick is ideal for those seeking a vibrant local experience, with highlights such as charming stores and opportunities for kitesurfing. Local attractions include the impressive castle, picturesque islands, and a quaint marina, providing ample options for exploration and relaxation.
• Coll: Approximately 8.0km from Stornoway lies Coll, a picturesque village perfect for eco-conscious families and outdoor enthusiasts. The visitor numbers here peak in May and the summer months of July and August, drawing those eager to experience its natural beauty. Popular activities include surfing and accessing local stores and ferries. Highlights of Coll include its serene parks, enchanting islands, and historical castles, making it an excellent destination for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy quality time together.

Things to do in Stornoway

Shopping

In Stornoway, visit the Stornoway Shopping Centre for a range of local shops and boutiques offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Isle of Lewis, about 19.3km away, where you can explore charming local markets and craft shops for authentic treasures.

Recreation

In Stornoway, the Uig Sands Wellness Centre offers a serene environment with holistic therapies and yoga classes, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature. Nearby, the Harris Hotel features a tranquil spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and enjoy views of the beautiful landscape.

Adventure

In Stornoway, explore the rugged beauty of the Outer Hebrides by hiking the scenic trails of the nearby Lewis and Harris. Experience kayaking in the tranquil waters of the lochs, or embark on a thrilling boat trip to spot seals and seabirds along the dramatic coastline.

Nightlife

Visit The Crown Inn on Francis Street for a lively atmosphere and a selection of ales. For a more relaxed vibe, check out the Hebridean Whisky Company, where you can savour their impressive whisky collection while enjoying the local ambience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stornoway

To save money on your trip to Stornoway, consider visiting during the off-peak months of November to January for lower accommodation prices. Booking your hotel three months in advance can help secure the best rates, while Mondays generally offer the cheapest stays. Use Expedia to find deals, especially last-minute offers highlighted in green, and refine your search by budget and hotel type. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also lead to significant savings. Walking is an excellent way to explore Stornoway without additional transport costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Stornoway are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Stornoway about 3+ months out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Stornoway is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Stornoway is Friday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your Stornoway hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Stornoway

Stornoway is an ideal destination for beach, culture, and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including historic castles, beautiful beaches, and fascinating museums. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach holiday or a cultural experience steeped in history, Stornoway offers a captivating selection of points of interest to suit every traveler's desires.

• An Lanntair: This vibrant arts centre in Stornoway offers a unique blend of contemporary and traditional art. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibitions, film screenings, and live performances, all while embracing the local culture and community spirit.
• Lews Castle: Situated just 644m from Stornoway, Lews Castle is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. Surrounded by picturesque gardens, it provides a romantic setting, and you can explore its history and enjoy breathtaking views of Stornoway and the Outer Hebrides.
• Museum Nan Eilean: Located in Stornoway, this history museum showcases the rich heritage of the Outer Hebrides. Through engaging exhibits, visitors can learn about local traditions, archaeology, and the fascinating stories that shaped the islands.

Best time to go to Stornoway

The best time to visit Stornoway is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
May	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
June	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Stornoway

Reaching Stornoway is straightforward with Stornoway Airport (SYY) situated 3.2km from the town centre. It serves several airlines, making it a convenient entry point. Nearby accommodation options include the 4-star Cabarfeidh Hotel and the Stornoway Bed and Breakfast, both located within 3.2km of the airport. The Hebridean Guest House also offers a comfortable stay nearby. If travelling from Benbecula Airport (BEB), located 99.8km away, consider the 3-star Orasay Inn or Swan View Lodge. For those flying into Castlebay Airport (BRR), 146.4km from Stornoway, Brae Lea Guest House and Borrodale Hotel are excellent choices for lodging.