sign in sign up
<<
Home , Aird Uig, Allasdale, Amhuinnsuidhe, Ardroil, Ardveenish, Ardvourlie Castle

The Western Isles of Lewis, Harris, , and

1 SEATREK is based in Uig on 5 UIG SANDS RESTAURANT is a newly Let the adventure begin! Lewis, one of the most beautiful opened licensed restaurant with spectacular locations in Britain. We offer views across the beach. Open for lunches unforgettable boat trips around and evening meals. Booking essential. the . All welcome, relaxed atmosphere and family Try any of our trips for a great friendly. , HS2 9ET. family experience with the Tel: 01851 672334. opportunity of seeing seals, Email: [email protected] basking sharks, dolphins and www.uigsands.co.uk many species of birds. DOUNE BRAES HOTEL: A warm welcome awaits you. We especially 6 Leaving from Miavaig Seatrek RIB Short Trips cater for ‘The Hebridean Way’ for cyclists, walkers and motorcyclists. Harbour, Uig, Isle of Lewis. We have safe overnight storage for bicycles. We offer comfortable Tel: 01851 672469. Sea Eagles & Lagoon Trip ...... 2 hours accommodation, light meals served through the day and our full www.seatrek.co.uk Island Excursion ...... 3 hours evening menu in the evening. Locally sourced produce including Email: [email protected] Customised Trips ...... 4 hours our own beef raised on our , shellfi sh and local lamb. There’s a Trip ...... 2 hours Gallan Head Trip ...... 2 hours good selection of Malt in the Lounge Bar or coffees to go Sea Stacks Trip ...... 2 hours whilst you explore the West Side of the Island. Tel: 01851 643252. Email: [email protected] www.doune-braes.co.uk

2 SEA LEWIS BOAT TRIPS: Explore the 7 BLUE PIG CREATIVE SPACE: coastline North and South of ’s unique working studio and in our 8.5m Rib. Comfortably seating 8 gallery of Jane and Peter Harlington. Collage, passengers, we can provide sightseeing printmaking and mixed media originals. and sea-fi shing trips, take a trip to the Shiant Bespoke workshops by appointment. Blue Isles and its abundance of wildlife including Bothy accommodation. Visit our new branch puffi ns, sea eagles and occasional sightings of dolphins and porpoises. Leaving by in Stornoway: Blue Pig in Town (7a). prior arrangement from Stornoway area, contact Charles or Joe on 01851 702303/ Email: [email protected] 07900 605405. www.sealewis.co.uk Email: [email protected] (Map Grid: B3) Tel: 01851 643225. Visit us on Facebook!

STORNOWAY SEAFARI: The Western Isles boast some of the 3 THE BEACH HOUSE GALLERY: 8 most dramatic coastlines in . We are a professional A beautiful little gallery situated next to the beach at sea tour operator offering wildlife/coastal tours running from Dalbeg (HS2 9AE) on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis. 1st May to 30th Oct. Trips from 1.5 hour coastal tours to 5 hour Paintings, prints and pretty things, all handmade by shiant isles trips. Our vessels - “Our Lilly” and “Azula” are fully Lesley & Alisdair Wiseman. MCA coded and ready to take you on your Seafari adventure. Open most afternoons but phone if you want to make To fi nd out more, Freephone: 0800 246 5609. Or book online. sure we’re in or if you want to visit at a different time. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01851 710549 or 07500 117832. www.stornowayseafari.com (Map Grid: B3) www.thebeachhousegallery.co.uk

4 CALANAIS VISITOR CENTRE provides a range of 9 GEARRANNAN VILLAGE facilities, incl. Cafe, Gift Shop, Art Gallery & toilets. Sited in an environment of outstanding natural We also promote a greater understanding of the beauty at Carloway on the Atlantic coast of the majestic and enigmatic, world famous Calanais Isle of Lewis, this unique group of restored Standing Stones site via an interpretive display thatched cottages should be included in the called the Story of the Stones. Open: April, May, itinerary of all visitors to the island. Step back Sept & Oct - Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm; June, July & in time, learn about and experience the way August: 9.30am-8pm, Mon-Sat of life in a typical township of the last Nov-Mar - Tues-Sat: 10am-4pm. Tel: 01851 621422. century. See traditional activities, including www.callanishvisitorcentre.co.uk The weaving of the famous Harris . Buy some mementoes of your visit in the village shop STANDING STONES One of the most and relax in the cafeteria where you can enjoy signifi cant and important megalithic complexes in the best of home - made fare. Europe. The most impressive set of stones is called Open from Monday to Saturday 9.30am to Callanish 1 and the circle can be seen clearly from 5.30pm throughout the summer season, but feel the main road (A858). It consists of rows of large free to visit at any time. Admission charges and pieces of Lewisian arranged in a cross further information. HS2 9AL. shape. At the centre of the cross is a monolith and a Tel: 01851 643416. Email: [email protected] small chambered . Visitor Centre. www.gearrannan.com

Explore the © is part of a network of guides, web sites and social media that 1 Places Shops and Sport and Eating provides the local’s advice on the area of Scotland. For more information go to www.explorescotland.net. to Visit Services Recreation Out To advertise in this guide contact [email protected] Tel: 01688 302075 Isle of Lewis - see map on page 5

10 THE KINLOCH HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Based at the 16 THE WEAVING SHED: Western Isles Designs and Kinloch Community Hub, the Society exhibits the social, Discover the Harris tweed story, from the raw military and clan history of Kinloch, as well as holding sheeps wool and traditional spinning techniques to the current archive and genealogy material. Facilities include: a café, yarns. See (and hear!) the 80 year old loom as I hand weave this charity shop, launderette, gift shop, on site carpark, iconic fabric. The studio shop is a treasure trove of handcrafted electric car charge points & disabled access. Open Tues goods ranging from Harris tweed clothing, bags and accessories - Sat, 10am - 4pm. Kinloch Community Hub, , Isle to seashore jewellery and original watercolours. 22a Crossbost, of Lewis, HS2 9PN. Email: [email protected] Lochs, HS2 9NP. Email: [email protected] Facebook: @kinlochhistoricalsociety. Tel: 01851 830778. Tel: 07833 335186. www.westernislesdesigns.co.uk

LOCH CROISTEAN COFFEE SHOP & RESTAURANT Situated 11 HARBOUR VIEW GALLERY: Original paintings, prints 17 in the hills of Uig. An ideal place to stop for some home cooking and cards by Anthony J Barber, capturing the moods in cosy surroundings. Have a relaxing cup of tea with home baking and colours of the Islands. Work can be viewed at or choose from the all day menu, featuring a ‘Menu of the Day’ & Harbour View studio gallery, , Isle of Lewis. light meals incl. vegetarian, vegan & children’s choices. Popular The artist exhibits throughout UK, including RSA and with locals & visitors alike, music night on Wednesdays, and 4 RSW () and RSMA (). Work in private course dinners on Fri & Sat evenings - Booking by phone essential. collections in the UK, Europe, USA & . Summer hours: Tues to Sat.12noon to 8pm. Fri & Sat. Buffet dinner Email: [email protected]. from 7:30pm. Tel: 01851 672772. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01851 810735. www.abarber.co.uk

12 CARLOWAY TO NESS Just north of Carloway is Leathad 18 POTTERY CRAFT CENTRE: Working craft centre garden (12), a hidden oasis of colour and open to the public, with and tearoom (free wifi ), with blacksmith, glass, ceramics and donations to charity. See what can be done, even in an exposed jewellery. Also two retail galleries and viewing area. We offer location. Other points of interest are the Whale Bone Arch in short courses and tuition, ideal for a rainy day. Booking and the village of , the Trussel Stone, just north of and other info on our website www.collpottery.co.uk Steinacleit Stone Sets north of Shader. At the far north of Lewis Open mid-March to Christmas, 7 days. Please check FB are a range of attractions: the Ness Heritage Centre (13) at North (Coll Pottery Craft Centre) for exact opening times. Coaches Dell, the Lighthouse, the Port of Ness harbour and welcome with 24hrs notice. Tel: 01851 820475. beach, Harbour View Gallery (17) and a large play park. Email: [email protected]

COMUNN EACHDRAIDH NIS is a visitor centre 13 SEA IN DESIGN: 19 situated in on the main A857. It houses Ships lamps, telescopes, compasses, an accredited , local history archive and oil lamps, militaria, maritime curiosities genealogical records for the North Lewis area. and Hebridean artefacts. 20 minutes The newly refurbished centre also offers a cafe from Stornoway on the way to The and gift shop supporting local producers. Butt of Lewis. Open year round. Exhibitions vary throughout the year. Open Mon Tues - Sat or by appointment. - Fri 10am-5pm throughout the tourist season. Tel: 01851 850242. Tel: 01851 810377. Email: offi [email protected] We are also on Facebook!

14 ST. ’S UI CHURCH (Eaglais na h-Aoidhe) was 20 UIG LODGE is a fi shing lodge, B&B and built in the 14th century on the site of a cell fi rst occupied by award winning salmon smokery based St Catan, a contemporary of St Columba, in the 6th century. on the beautiful west coast of Lewis. It Situated within its own graveyard, overlooking Broad Bay, overlooks the dramatic white sands of Uig the church is the burial place of the Macleod Chiefs of Bay. Visitors welcome all year round. Lewis and contains two carved grave slabs commemorating Open Monday - Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm. Roderick Macleod VII (d.1498) and his daughter Margaret Tel: 01851 672396. Mackinnon (d.1503). It is only a 10 minute drive from Visit our online shop - www.uiglodge.co.uk Stornoway and on a bus route. www.uichurch.co.uk. Email: [email protected]

The PORT OF NESS is a picturesque fi shing village, with a 15 ALBANNACH GUIDED TOURS AND TAXI: Executive Taxi 21 good beach. Other attractions include a wonderful play park service Lewis & Harris. Your personalised Guided Tours for the children and The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse. The Play Lewis to Barra & ALL of Scotland (Walks & Drives) with a Park at Ness can only be described as ‘world class’! On a fully qualifi ed & insured Scottish Tourist Guide. Pick ups scale of one to ten, this is eleven. Set up by the community, Edinburgh, , Stornoway, etc. Your own friendly, this park is set close to the shore on the ‘’ (sand informative Guide shows you the sights, wildlife and historical based grassland) and dunes. The park covers a large area attractions, many off the beaten track! Tel: 01851 830433. and has just about every imaginative activity that you could Mobile: 07747 117870. Email: [email protected] ever wish to take part in (The kids will love it too!). www.albannachtours.co.uk Stornoway - see map on Page 3

22 MUSEUM & TASGLANN NAN EILEAN: Discover the history and 25 THE HARRIS & LEWIS SMOKEHOUSE culture of the Outer Hebrides. Learn about our distinctive lives shaped RESTAURANT offers the warmest welcome by the land and the sea. Enjoy a wealth of engaging displays including and the fi nest food on the Western Isles. six of the famed . Find out about island life from the Every dish is designed to shine a light on our earliest human occupation to the present. Research the history of the incredible local produce – with our Native Outer Hebrides through the archive collections. Hebridean and Harris & Lewis Smoked Museum Open Tue-Sat: Apr-Sep, 10am-5pm & Oct-Mar,1pm-4pm. Salmon hand cured and smoked right here. Archive: by appointment. Tel: 01851 822746. (Map Grid: A3) Visit us at www.harrisandlewis.co.uk Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Tel: 01851 619238.

HARRIS TWEED HEBRIDES is an award-winning cloth 23 THE STORNOWAY SMOKEHOUSE is the oldest in all the 26 manufacturer based in on the west coast of the islands and has one of the last brick kilns remaining anywhere. Isle of Lewis. Our shop in Stornoway stocks a wide range Seasoned by decades of use, we cure in it our fl agship product, of Harris Tweed by the metre, garments and accessories. Stornoway Double Smoked Salmon, which we export widely. OPEN throughout the year from Monday to Saturday, 10am - In our shop, we also sell our Famous Stornoway Kippers and 5.30pm. Visit us to see the fi nest Harris Tweed products and a wide range of other smoked delicacies. We look forward to to fi nd out more about our beautiful cloth! 25 North Beach, welcoming you to the Smokehouse in the coming season. Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, HS1 2XQ. Tel: 01851 700046. Email: [email protected]. (Map Grid: C4) Email: [email protected] (Map Grid: B4) Tel: 01851 702723. www.stornowaysmokehouse.co.uk

24 HEBRIDEAN JEWELLERY SHOP at 63 Cromwell 27 ENGEBRET LTD FILLING STATION St. Stornoway selling a wide variety of jewellery, giftware Open 7 days: Monday to Saturday 6am to 11pm, and books of quality and good value for money. This Sunday 10am to 4pm. Licensed convenience quality hand crafted jewellery is manufactured on store, Calor gas, hot and cold food, ATM. Also South in the Outer Hebrides. If you are unable to selling outdoor equipment and footwear, maps visit our shop, please visit us on our and GPS, sea and freshwater fi shing equipment. online store. Tel: 01851 702372. Firearms dealership. www.hebrideanjewellery.co.uk Email: [email protected] (Map Grid: D4) 2 (Map Grid: B3) HS1 2DD Tel: 01851 702303. www.engebret.co.uk

www.isle-of-lewis.com | www.explore-harris.com | www.isle-of-north-uist.co.uk | www.isle-of-benbecula.co.uk | www.isle-of-south-uist.co.uk | www.explore-isle-of-barra.co.uk Stornoway, capital town of the Isle of Lewis

A B C D

STORNOWAY is the main town on Hospital the Isle of Lewis. Just over 7,500 people live in the town, which is about a third of the total population of the island. Stornoway Stornoway A857 was named “Steering Bay” by the visiting War Memorial , which, phonetically translated, became Stornoway. It exists mainly due to its sheltered location, with the 1 A859 from a regular visitor. 1

Water Mill

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Tourist Information Offi ce 01851 703088 Information 01851 702256 29 Caledonian MacBrayne MACLEOD & MACLEOD 01851 307470 Golf Course STORNOWAY Bus Station South Beach St. 01851 704327 Police Station Church St. Supermarket 101 Hospital Macaulay Rd. 29 01851 704704 Council Offi ces Sandwick Rd. 0845 600 7090 Albannach Tours and Taxi 2 01851 830433 21 2 Blue Badge Scottish Tour Guide Crazy Golf 01851 621404 Tennis Courts Play Park

28 WOODLANDS College CAFÉ

22 MUSEUM AND ARCHIVE

Walking Route 30 30 TECH MOBILE MOBILE PHONE ACCESSORIES

22 28 3 3 2 SEA LEWIS

Woodland BOAT TRIPS Walks 3 STORNOWAY Police 25 SEAFARI 2 HARRIS & LEWIS Lifeboat SMOKEHOUSE 3 RESTAURANT 24 HEBRIDEAN 24 29 Sports JEWELLERY Centre and Swimming Pool 29 MACLEOD & MACLEOD £ Nicholson Institute Western Isles STORNOWAY BLACK PUDDING 31 Council

23 Library £ 25 27 7a £ Takeaway Food £ 7a Bus 27 BLUE PIG Station ENGEBRETS 4 IN TOWN FUEL & 4 26 Supermarket TAKEAWAY FOOD Ferry Terminal 31 HEBRIDEAN 26 TEA STORE THE STORNOWAY SMOKEHOUSE 23 HARRIS TWEED HEBRIDES Isles FM 103 A B C D

3 Places Shops and Sport and Eating to Visit Services Recreation Out ALBANNACH TOURS & TAXI • 01851 830433 • 07747 117870 Isle of Harris - see map on page 5

32 GLASS AND ARTS: 39 SEA HARRIS: Specialise in fast, comfortable Home of The Hebridean Design Company: day trips from to St. Kilda on our Handmade Glass and Embroidered Art – purpose built vessel Enchanted Isle. These designed and created here in our Open dramatic volcanic islands are owned and Studios & inspired by the colours and managed by the National Trust for Scotland landscapes around us. Glass workshops and are one of 39 sites in the world listed as a held throughout the year – contact us for UNESCO Dual World Heritage Site. They boast more details and how to book.. the highest sea cliffs in the UK as well as being the single most important sea bird breeding 2 miles North of and on The Hebridean station in North West Europe - an amazing Way – at Ardhasaig, Isle of Harris, HS3 3AJ. experience! We also offer shorter boat trips to the many other islands around the coast of Harris on our Rib Pabbay, with our Shiants trip from Tarbert being a fi rm OPEN ALL YEAR. favourite with bird and nature lovers and often referred to as a ‘mini St. Kilda’. Teas, coffees and restroom facilities. Disabled access and parking. Tel: 01859 502007 Mob: 07760 216555 Tel: 01859 502644. Email: [email protected] Book online at Website: www.thehebrideandesigncompany.com www.seaharris.com

33 HOLMASAIG STUDIO GALLERY: Quidinish 40 SCARISTA HOUSE RESTAURANT Isle of Harris: Good S.E. Harris. Fine Art by resident artist Margarita Hotel Guide César Award winner. Featured in The Good Williams DA awarded the CRMacintosh/Assoc/ Food Guide, The Michelin Guide, Scotland the Best and France residency in Collioure 2014. Watercolour Alastair Sawdays’s Eat Slow Britian. Elegant, licensed, candle- paintings, cards Japanese woodblock prints, mixed lit restaurant open for dinner to non-residents every evening media work refl ecting the unique landscape, birds serving fresh Island fi sh, shellfi sh, lamb, beef and game. Scottish and wild fl owers. St Kilda also inspires her varied cheeses. Interesting and varied wine list. Booking essential. work 200 + originals. Open: 11am - 5pm Mon - Sat. Tel: 01859 550238. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01859 530401. www.holmasaiggallery.com www.scaristahouse.com

ISLE OF HARRIS DISTILLERY: 34 HOTEL HEBRIDES: With a high level of design 41 We are open from 10.00am - 5.00pm, Monday to throughout, this 4 star boutique hotel incorporates Saturday throughout the year. A warm welcome stylish and contemporary dining in the modern awaits with hearty soups and home baking available Pierhouse Seafood Restaurant and at its heart a in the canteen (closes at 4.30pm). Come in to say great bar, the Mote lounge, with a fi ne selection of hello, buy something special in our shop or simply , great food, live music and a brilliant buzz. have a seat by the fi re. Tours of the distillery are Tel: 01859 502364. available, please call to book in advance. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01859 502212. www.harrisdistillery.com www.hotel-hebrides.com

35 ESSENCE OF HARRIS captures the spirit of the 42 Hebrides with natural soy wax candles and home fragrance products. Come and fi nd our shop in central Tarbert and take home more than a memory with our hand-poured Hebridean scents. Inspired by the island, crafted with love. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter! Shop online at www.essenceofharris.co.uk. Awarded 5 Stars by ‘Visit Scotland’ in 2012, this Email: [email protected] Tel: 01859 421032. beautiful shop is situated at Grosebay, seven miles Visitor information point located within our shop. from Tarbert and well signed off the main A859 to Leverburgh. HEBSCAPE GALLERY AND GIFTS is located on the A369, 36 Dedicated to provide tailored clothing of the highest in Ardhasaig, Isle of Harris. Home to resident award-winning quality, our Harris Tweed is woven by Donald John landscape photographer Darren Cole l.p.r.s. Stunning views over Mackay MBE of the Harris Tweed Co. We West Tarbert, and the North Harris mountains. are exclusive stockists of Mario-Barutti and Atelier- Fresh barista coffees, Hebridean leaf teas and homemade cakes. Torino jackets, waistcoats and topcoats. For Ladies, Fine art photography and books, bespoke ceramic mugs/framed we offer a stunning collection of clothing designed tiles, pottery, exclusive greeting cards and many island related gifts. especially for us in ‘Superfi ne’ Harris Tweed. Open: Mon - Fri 10.30 - 4.30 April - Sept. Tel: 01859 502363. Tel: 01859 511108. Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.hebscapegallery.co.uk www.harristweedco.co.uk

37 HARRIS TWEED AND KNITWEAR: 43 HARRIS TWEED ISLE Situated 5 miles from Tarbert on OF HARRIS: Situated the Golden Road in the beautiful in Tarbert, Harris at the Bays of Harris. Here in the village far end of the bay near of Drinishader at the Old School the main junction A859. you will fi nd a wide range of Harris A large selection of Tweed: Jackets, Coats, Bags, Shoes, Harris Tweed Clothing accessories, gifts, knitwear and local for Ladies, Gents and knitting wool. Children. Superb range Come along and view the purpose built of bags, hats, shoes, Harris Tweed “Clo Mor” Exhibition. boots, purses and many more accessories, all Experience the past and present day in Harris Tweed. We also have a large Tweed process of Harris Tweed. A unique store opposite the shop with exciting display of old and new pictures, artefacts to choose from as well as yarn and wool. and present day designer productions We offer weaving demonstrations upon and a view of Marion Campbell’s request. Coach Parties welcome. exhibition. Coach parties welcome, toilet Tel: 01859 502040/502505. facilities available. Tel: 01859 511189. Email: [email protected] www.harristweedandknitwear.co.uk www.harristweedisleofharris.co.uk

38 ARDBUIDHE COTTAGE GALLERY: A warm welcome ISLE OF HARRIS is actually joined to the Isle of Lewis, and awaits at the Studio/Gallery of Willie and Moira Fulton, has a short border, shown by a ‘dashed’ line on the map the only 5 star arts venue in the Hebrides. The gallery is (page 5). Harris has a wide range of landscapes, all of which located in the Bays area of Harris along the Golden Road have their own charm and interest. On the west coast lie at Drinishader. Both are graduates of Edinburgh College some of the most spectacular beaches of Britain (marked of Art and the studio sits in one of the islands most scenic on the map) with large open machair areas. In the north, the spots. Willie has exhibited nationally and worldwide. He terrain is rugged, mountainous and has a Lunar feel to it, is also an artist member of The Paisley Art Institute. with huge boulders littered around. The east coast is more Tel: 01859 511218. www.williefulton.com isolated and has some of the oldest rocks in the world.

4 USEFUL TELEPHONE Tourist Information Stornoway Caledonian MacBrayne Tarbert Police Station Tarbert NHS 24 NUMBERS 01851 703088 01859 570 376 01859 502 002 or 101 111 Isles of Harris and Lewis

Butt of Lewis Hebridean Way Lighthouse 44 48 Cycle Route 780 17 HOUSE Harbour View Gallery MANGURSTADH ENDS here 17 ARTS & CRAFTS GALLERY 15 Port of Ness HARRIS TWEED GIFTS Ness Megga PORT NESS 15 Play Park 13 Ness Historical Centre 8 49 ISLAND ARTS 19 THE BEACH Sea in Design GALLERY & HOUSE GALLERY 13 8 The Beach House Gallery COFFEE SHOP NORTH DELL 45 9 Gearrannan Blackhouse Village CORNET’S 50 RAVENSPOINT BORVE 7 Blue Pig Creative Space CRAFT, WOODEN HOSTEL, SHOP, Steinacleit ART & GIFTS TEAROOM & FUEL Stone Sets Ness 6 Doune Braes Hotel 12 4 LEATHAD ARD SHADER Callanish Visitor Centre OPEN GARDEN A857 11 Loch Croistean Coffee Shop FOR CHARITY Clach an Trushel Bridge to Standing Stone 1 Seatrek 47 Nowhere THE SCALLOP 5 Uig Sands Restaurant SHACK Whalebone 44 19 Isle of Lewis Arch 20 Uig Lodge Traigh Mhor BARVAS Beach 18 Coll Pottery Craft Centre 45 14 St. Columba’s Ui Church 8 SHABOST TOLSTA 16 BRAGAR The Weaving Shed DALBEG DALMORE B895 10 Norse Mill A857 Kinloch Historical Society 9 and Kiln Back 12 A858 GEARRANNAN 7 CARLOWAY West Side COL 18 Carloway Bosta Beach & Iron Age Village 6 VALTOS TOLSTACHAOLAIS Tiumpan £ UPPER COLL Head Lighthouse

MIAVAIG PORTNAGIURAN Uig Beach CALLANISH St Columba’s 5 1 47 STORNOWAY Church 4 14 SHESHADER 20 TIMSGARRY A859 A866 B8059 Point CARISHADER A858 2 BAYABLE B897 KNOCK 11 ACHAMORE MANGERSTA £ To Ullapool 48 SCALISCRO Uig Hebridean Way See Page 3 20 21 22 23 ISLIVIG GISLA Cycle Route 780 for more detailed map 24 25 26 27 B8011 CROSSBOST LAXAY 10 KEOSE 16 36 Hebscape Gallery & Gifts BALALLAN 32 The Hebridean Design Company 49 50 35 Essence of Harris 43 KERSHADER Harris Tweed Isle of Harris 34 Isle of Harris Distillery A859 B8060 41 Hotel Hebrides Scarp 38 Ardbuidhe Cottage Gallery 37 Harris Tweed and Knitwear EISHKEN LEMREWAY North 42 The Harris Tweed Co. Grosebay BOWGLAS Seaforth Island 33 Harris South LOCHS Holmasaig Studio Gallery B887 ARDVOURLIE Lochs 39 Sea Harris 40 Scarista House Restaurant MAARUIG

BUNAVONEADER 51 See inset SKOON Wildlife Site map for of Special GALLERY more details ARDHASAIG 36 Interest 34 35 43 41 52 32 RHENIGIDALE FINSBAY URGHA GALLERY Taransay KYLES 39 2 TARBERT SCALPAY 53 39 LUSKENTYRE £ CARNACH ANCHORAGE RESTAURANT

SEILEBOST MEAVAG Scalpay 54 A859 HARRIS ART DRINISHADER HORGABOST 38 GALLERY Harris Walkway 37 Hebridean Way PLOCKRAPOOL BORVE GEOCRAB 42 Cycle Route 780 SCADABAY GROSEBAY Tarbert Street Map SCARISTA South ARDSLAVE Police CLUER Surgery 40 MANISH Harris 51 STOCKINISH 54 Essence FLODABAY NORTHTON 35 of Harris Seallam! ARDVEY Community Visitor Centre 33 School FINSBAY QUIDINISH Sports War Memorial Centre To on 53 52 Centre & To St Kilda LEVERBURGH Soft Play Shops Area Hotel £ 39 Church of St. Clement To Uig on Skye 43 Hebrides Harris Tweed 34 41 Church Isle of Harris Distillery CalMac To North Uist

ELIZABETH MCKENZIE Local fully qualified, experienced, insured Blue Badge Scottish Tourist Guide 5 01851 621404 or 07879 221 888 | www.lewisandharristourguide.com Isle of North Uist and Isle of - see map on Page 8

BEACHES are a huge attraction on North Uist and 56 THE ISLE OF BERNERAY lies at the northern Berneray. Traigh has a huge expanse of pure end of the Uists, and has a very active white shell sand, crystal clear waters and a safe shallow community with some signifi cant attractions, sandy bay suitable for swimming and snorkelling. There mainly cultural, and related to the wonderful are also picnic tables and benches. The West Beach scenery. The landscape is mostly agricultural, on Berneray is a three mile stretch of wide, clean and with corn fi elds on the western side of the often deserted sand. Behind all of the beaches is the island on the Machair (sand based grassland). machair - green grassy plains covered in a mass of Corncrakes and other long grass nesting birds amazing wild fl owers in the spring and summer. are common in early summer.

TRINITY TEMPLE is a historic ruin listed as of 55 The village has a shop and café, Berneray European signifi cance and possibly Scotland’s Shop and Bistro (57) (page 8) a picturesque oldest University. The building is the remains fi shing harbour, a post offi ce and the Caledonian of a medieval monastery and college founded MacBrayne pier for the connection to the Isle of by Beathag, daughter of . The Harris. On the north of Berneray is a very scenic building has been extended up to the 16th walk, with views towards the hills of Harris. century but destroyed after the . For more information about Berneray and its Again restored in the 16th Century by Dotair history, the island has a very good museum and Ban and recently renovated in 2011. historical centre (see picture on the right).

NORTH UIST is a landscape of fresh and salt water 58 R.S.P.B. NATURE RESERVE at Balranald. lochs, with miles of sandy beaches, and cultivated crofts, Balranald is famous for its corncrakes, now popular with walkers, bird watchers, motor homers and one of Europe’s most endangered species. cyclists. On the west side of the island, the road follows The circular nature trail through the croft land the machair (fertile coastal grassland bordering the of the reserves is 3 miles (4.5 km) and takes sand dunes) and passes the Balranald R.S.P.B Nature 2-3 hours. The trail goes through wildfl ower- Reserve. The eastern side is mainly a water world, and is rich machair and round a bird-rich headland. A a fi sherman’s and bird watcher’s paradise. Beaches are wide selection of wildlife can been seen, from a huge attraction on North Uist and Berneray. wading birds to the elusive otter.

LOCHMADDY is the largest village in North Uist and is BAYHEAD SHOP AND FUEL: 59 also the port where the ferry arrives from Uig on Skye. Licensed convenience store with Post Offi ce & The Loch itself is designated a European marine site petrol station. Our wide range of fresh foods & (special area of conservation) giving recognition to groceries features local products. the wonderful marine landscapes and diverse wildlife. Newspapers & fresh baking available daily. Facilities in the village include a very good museum Open Monday - Saturday 8.00am - 6.00pm. and heritage centre called Taigh Chearsabhagh. The You can fi nd us on Facebook for any updates. village also has a number of serviced accommodation Tel: 01876 510257. providers and places to eat. On B865 at Bayhead, HS6 5DS. Isle of Benbecula - see map on Page 8

60 CHARLIE’S HEBRIDEAN BISTRO: Exciting new venue in Benbecula for fi ne food and MacLeans wine, promoting healthy eating and the freshest Bakery & local products and ingredients. Fresh, local shellfi sh Butchers and seafood. Open Mon – Fri: 9.00am – late and 62 GRAMSDALE Saturdays 10.00am – late. Closed on Sundays. £ Balivanich, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5LA. Uist Community Tel: 01870 603242. Further details on Facebook. Riding Centre Web: charlies-hebridean-bistro.business.site 61 The Stepping THE STEPPING STONE RESTAURANT: Stone 60 61 Restaurant Charlie’s Ruabhal Serving snacks and hot meals throughout Hebridean the day, using fresh local produce where NUNTON Bistro possible. Evening meals available from 6.30 to 9pm daily. GRIMINISH Opening times: Monday to Saturday 11.00am - 9.00pm, Sunday 12.00 - 8.00pm. Dinner reservations are recommended. Isle of Tel: 01870 603377. Hebridean Way 62 MACLEANS BAKERY & BUTCHERS: Run by Cycle Route 780 Benbecula the MacLean brothers since 1987, we are a small LINICLATE independent bakery based in , Benbecula, just off the main A865. Our delicious breads, rolls, Museum, pastries, savouries, oatcakes & biscuits are freshly Library & 63 made every day using traditional methods. Sports Centre Shop open: Mon 9.30-1pm, Tues-Fri 9.30-5.30pm CREAGORRY & Sat 9.30-1pm. Tel: 01870 602659. Email: [email protected]

BENBECULA in Gaelic is Beinn na Faoghla MUSEUM NAN EILEAN (UIBHIST & BARRAIGH): 63 which means Mountain of the Ford. This is a Discover the history and culture of the Outer Hebrides. very apt name for the island and its solitary Always something new to see! Enjoy engaging hill, Rueval, which is in fact a stepping stone temporary displays including island heritage and national between North and . The islands are touring exhibitions. Next door to the Public Library within connected by a series of causeways, but once Sgoil Lionacleit Community School. Museum Open upon a time crossing to the Uists would mean Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm. Late fording the dangerous stretches of tidal sands. night opening on Tuesday till 7pm. Tel: 01870 603692. The temptation to bypass most of Benbecula Email: [email protected] by taking the direct road through the island is always there; however, Balivanich and the coast THE HEBRIDEAN WAY is a classic 185 mile road is worth the detour. The main town is called cycle route, starting at to the south of BALIVANICH, and is situated on the north west of Barra, and fi nishing at the Butt of Lewis, crossing the island. The airport is located in Balivanich, as is 10 islands, linked by and causeways. the military base, hospital, fuel station, post offi ce Following the offi cial National Cycle route 780, and a selection of shops, housing and businesses. it provides spectacular scenery and awesome Benbecula is one of the best locations to shop, with coastlines. Along the west side of Benbecula, supermarkets, a bakery, and good places to eat and the cafes, restaurant and supermarket make it 6 have cups of coffee. an ideal staging point. See maps on page 5 & 8.

www.isle-of-lewis.com | www.explore-harris.com | www.isle-of-north-uist.co.uk | www.isle-of-benbecula.co.uk | www.isle-of-south-uist.co.uk | www.explore-isle-of-barra.co.uk Isle of South Uist - see map on Page 8

64 SOUTH UIST is a stunningly beautiful island of 67 crystal clear waters with white powder beaches to the west, and heather uplands dominated by Beinn Mhor to the east. The 20 miles of machair that runs alongside the sand dunes provides a marvellous habitat for the rare corncrake. Golden eagles, and red can be seen on the mountain slopes to the east. , once a major herring port, is the main settlement and ferry terminal on the island with a population of approximately Visit the HEBRIDEAN JEWELLERY shop and 300. A new marina has opened, and is located at the end of the breakwater with workshop at , selling a wide variety of facilities for visiting yachts. Also newly opened Visitor jewellery, giftware and books of quality and Information Offi ce in the village. The island is one of good value for money. This quality hand crafted the last surviving strongholds of the Gaelic language jewellery is manufactured on South Uist in the in Scotland and the crofting industries of cutting Outer Hebrides. and seaweed gathering are still an important part of The shop in South Uist has a coffee shop close by everyday life. The Kildonan Museum has artefacts the beach, where light snacks are served. If you from this period. GOLF COURSE is the are unable to visit our shop, please visit us on our oldest golf course in the Western Isles and is a unique online store. Tel: 01870 610288. HS8 5QX. test for any grade of golfer. www.hebrideanjewellery.co.uk

65 SOUTH UIST is a wildlife wonderland, 68 SALAR SMOKEHOUSE: archeologists paradise and historians dream. Award winning fl aky hot smoked salmon is a It is also the birthplace of Flora MacDonald speciality. Online ordering available. and just outside the village of Kildonan, is a Visitors are very welcome for our tastings at memorial to her. Flora gained immortality by our shop which is set in a very scenic location her assistance to Bonnie Prince Charlie in with an abundance of wild life, including sea the Outer Hebrides after his fl ight from the eagles, otters, and wild deer. mainland following defeat at Culloden in 1746. Locally produced gifts. Tel: 01870 610324. WALKING is a key part of the South Uist www.salarsmokehouse.co.uk experience with walks at all levels. Ben Mhor, Ben Corodale and Hecla are the three highest peaks on South Uist, and for the keen and experienced hillwalkers, UIST GIFTS AND INFORMATION: Based on Pier Road in 68 there is a good horseshoe walk to the hills Lochboisdale, Uist Gifts and Info is a friendly Information direct from hostel. The route leads centre for visitors to the islands. Selling Harris Tweed, local into the most spectacular and interesting of arts, crafts, gifts, books and clothing from the Outer Hebrides. the South Uist landscapes. Providing shipping agent facilities and land services for is one of the best places in the Hebrides visiting boats. Local tours, information on walks, cycling to see the full range of island wildlife and routes, archaeology and wildlife spotting in the local area. habitats. The loch is situated to the east of Pier Road, Lochboisdale. South Uist HS8 5TH. the A865, close to Stilligarry. Tel: 01878 700777. Email: [email protected]

66 In the far south is the ISLE OF with its famous 70 THE KILDONAN MUSEUM lies on the main north, ponies. The ponies are semi wild and often seen in the vicinity south road in South Uist. A museum, with arts and of the village. Eriskay is also home to famous wreck the S.S. a cafe (80), serving lots of freshly prepared dishes Politician. The wreck was the inspiration for the Compton using locally sourced ingredients, as well as amazing Mackenzie book and fi lm, . The SS Politician home baking. Car parking and facilities available. was an 8000-tonne cargo ship which left on the A good pit stop on the Hebridean Cycle way. 3rd February 1941 laden with amongst other things 260,000 Open: April – October, 7 days a week, 10am – 5pm. bottles of whisky, bound for Kingston in Jamaica and New HS8 5RZ. Tel: 01878 710343. Orleans. She went aground off the coast of Eriskay. kildonanmuseum.co.uk Isle of Barra - see map on Page 8

WALKING ON BARRA AND VATERSAY is particularly 71 interesting as very rarely do you lose sight of the sea and the main hills. One particularly good walk is to ascend Isle of Dùn Sgurribhal , the highest hill and view the surrounding islands. ELIOGARRY On a clear day, you can view the isles to the South and as far as the . Sea kayaking, wind surfi ng, power Barra Compton School kiting, rock climbing are all developing around these islands Mackenzies House as interest grows in outdoor activities. Remote islands are accessible with boat trips, running on a regular basis, to see the Ferry 72 birds, marine wildlife and spectacular cliffs off the Traigh Mhòr Islands. Vatersay Walk: This walk is approximately 3 hours of easy to medium going with one short, fairly steep climb to Golf Course CLEAT Ferry crossing to Eriskay Vatersay. The walk begins at the small car park across the road

Seal Bay Grean from the ‘Annie Jane’ monument. It is a circular walk of about 4 Cemetary miles, taking in Bagh Siar (West Bay), Bagh a Deas (South Bay), CUITHIR Dun Cuithir Woodland Walk Play Park Barratlantic Fish Factory Eorisdale and Baigh Bhatarsaigh (Vatersay Bay). The machair Hebridean Way BRUERNISH land running along the entire west coast of Barra and Vatersay Cycle Route 780 Loch na Ob is fringed with beautiful beaches and is also carpeted with wild Dun Bharpa Old School Deserted Village fl owers throughout the spring and summer months.

Tangasdale Beach BORVE BARRA HERITAGE CENTRE located close to the centre 73

EARSARY of , Dualchas is placed in a prime location looking out over the bay to the southern islands. It is a 71 treasure trove of historical documents, artefacts and BREVIG photographs relating the story of the Herring fi shing Castlebay Castlebay industry, the Clearances and the emigration which ensued War Memorial Standing Stone after The Clearances. The centre is a visible commitment Archaeological Street Map Monuments made by the community towards preserving Barra heritage and sharing their stories with people worldwide. Allt Chrysal Barra Bùth Heritage 73 77 Bharraigh Centre Ferry VATERSAY CASTLEBAY SPORTS CENTRE is situated next to Castlebay School and 74 UIDH Swimming Pool School and includes a swimming pool (20 metres by 9 metres) Catalina Plane (crash site) with Sauna which can be used in term time after 4pm and in Annie Jane 72 Supermarket £ Monument Vatersay Hall TOILETS and Cafe the holidays from 2pm. Also available is a fi tness suite area in summer months VATERSAY Play Park with Technogym equipment. For general enquiries or to book Dun CalMac Ferry Cafe Kisimul a gym induction please contact 01871 810129. For games hall Hebridean Way 78 bookings please contact Castlebay School on 01871 810100. Standing Stone Cycle Route 780 Hospital STARTS here 80 Kisimul Castle For the latest information check our Facebook page - ‘Castlebay Sports Centre’. www.cne-siar.gov.uk/csc/index.asp 7 www.isle-of-lewis.com | www.explore-harris.com | www.isle-of-north-uist.co.uk | www.isle-of-benbecula.co.uk | www.isle-of-south-uist.co.uk | www.explore-isle-of-barra.co.uk Map of the Uists, Benbecula and Barra

Explore The Outer Hebrides is part of EXPLORE SCOTLAND, a network of Guides, websites, social media and advice throughout Isle of Harris Scotland. Each area is managed by a separate organisation, all working together to provide consistent accurate tips and advice. 56 For more information go to: www.explorescotland.net Berneray BAILE Mull & www.isle-of-mull.net The Outer Hebrides www.explore-western-isles.com 57 BORVE and Surrounding Areas www.explore-oban.com To South Harris

SOLLAS Hebridean Way Cycle Route 780

The Uists & 59 North BAYHEAD 58 Uist £ To Skye LOCHMADDY Benbecula Taigh Chearsabhagh BOWGLAS Museum & Arts Centre LOCHEPORT USEFUL TELEPHONE 55 NUMBERS Golf Course See Page 6 62 for more NORTH UIST £ detailed map BALIVANICH Caledonian MacBrayne Hebridean Way 60 61 62 63 Lochmaddy Cycle Route 780 01876 522509 NUNTON Benbecula Police Station Lochmaddy GRIMINISH 101 57 63 CREAGORRY BERNERAY SHOP LINICLATE AND BISTRO

BENBECULA EOCHAR 62 79 Police Station Balivanich MACLEAN’S 101 BAKERY & 67 LOCHCARNAN Uist & Barra BUTCHERS Hospital Balivanich SANDWICK 01870 603603 60 CHARLIE’S 68 HEBRIDEAN (flight enquiries) LOCHSKIPPORT 01870 602310 BISTRO STILLIGARY

63 MUSEUM NAN HOWMORE EILEAN (UIBHIST South 68 SOUTH UIST & BARRAIGH) SALAR Visitor Information SMOKEHOUSE Uist Lochboisdale 61 THE STEPPING 01878 700777 STONE 79 ORASAY INN Caledonian MacBrayne RESTAURANT Hebridean Way HOTEL & Lochboisdale RESTAURANT 01878 700254 67 HEBRIDEAN Cycle Route 780 70 80 Police Station Lochboisdale JEWELLERY Kildonan 80 101 & CAFÉ 65 Museum KILDONAN Golf Course CAFÉ 75 £ POLOCHAR INN 69 BARRA 64 69 UIST GIFTS AND Bùth Bharraigh £ LOCHBOISDALE INFORMATION Visitor Information 76 KILBRIDE CAFE, Castlebay HOSTEL AND 01871 817948 CAMPSITE SOUTH LOCHBOISDALE Caledonian MacBrayne SMERCLATE Castlebay To Oban & Barra 01871 200504 76 75 Police Station Castlebay BAILLE 101 66 St Brendan’s Hospital Castlebay Eriskay 01871 812021 EOLIGARRY Loganair (flight enquiries) Barra Golf Course 01871 890283 BAYHERIVAGH Barra, Barra BRUERNISH £ BALNABODACH CASTLEBAY Eriskay 71 77 72 81 Hebridean Way 73 Cycle Route 780Vatersay 74 STARTS here & Vatersay 77 BÙTH 78 BHARRAIGH CASTLEBAY

78 To Oban CAFÉ KISIMUL CASTLEBAY

81 KISIMUL CASTLE sits on a rocky island just off Castlebay and was built around 1039. Since that time, Kisimul has been the stronghold of Clan MacNeil. It is completely surrounded by water and has never fallen to an enemy. Kisimul was abandoned in 1838 when the island was sold, and the castle’s condition deteriorated. 78 CAFE KISIMUL: (Castlebay) A family run licensed restaurant The castle remains, were purchased by the chief of Clan MacNeil specialising in Indian and Italian cuisine & local seafood. in 1937, who in 2001 leased Kisimul Casle to for Open Daily for lunches and evening meals. Booking advisable 1000 years for the annual sum of £1 and a bottle of whisky. The (evenings). Tel: 01871 810645. www.cafekisimul.co.uk boat trip from Castlebay jetty to the castle takes 5 minutes.

8 Explore the Outer Hebrides© is part of a network of guides, web sites and social media that Places Shops and Sport and Eating provides the local’s advice on the area of Scotland. For more information go to www.explorescotland.net. to Visit Services Recreation Out To advertise in this guide contact [email protected] Tel: 01688 302075