Visit Outer Hebrides Tourist Information Centre
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
The Visit Outer Hebrides Tourist Information Centre is your gateway to exploring the stunning and culturally rich Outer Hebrides archipelago off Scotland’s northwest coast. Located in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, this centre provides essential travel guidance, accommodation options, and insights into the islands’ Gaelic heritage, natural beauty, and unique landscapes. Open weekdays with extended hours on Fridays, it serves as a valuable resource for visitors planning their island adventures.
A brief summary to Visit Outer Hebrides
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Fridays for extended opening hours until 7 pm to get extra time for planning your trip.
- Pick up free printed guides available at the centre to help navigate the islands’ attractions and accommodations.
- Ask staff about local events and festivals to experience authentic Gaelic culture during your visit.
- Use the centre’s advice on sustainable travel practices to minimize your environmental impact on the islands.
- Plan your accommodation early, especially in peak seasons, as options range from luxury hotels to traditional croft houses.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Regular local bus services connect Stornoway with key points across Lewis and Harris, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on destination. Tickets cost approximately £3–£10. Buses run frequently Monday to Saturday but with limited service on Sundays.
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Ferry
Caledonian MacBrayne ferries link Stornoway to mainland Scotland and nearby islands. Ferry crossings vary from 2 to 5 hours, with fares from £20 to £50 depending on route and vehicle carriage. Advance booking is recommended during peak seasons.
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Car Rental
Car hire is available in Stornoway, allowing flexible exploration of the islands. Rental costs start around £40 per day. Roads are generally single-track with passing places; driving experience on rural roads is advised.
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Walking
Stornoway town and the tourist centre are easily walkable with flat terrain and good pavements, suitable for all fitness levels. Walking tours can be arranged to explore local heritage sites nearby.
Visit Outer Hebrides location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Visit Outer Hebrides
A Hub for Discovering the Outer Hebrides
Nestled in Stornoway, the largest town in the Outer Hebrides, the Visit Outer Hebrides Tourist Information Centre stands as an essential starting point for travelers eager to explore this remote archipelago. The Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles, stretch over 130 miles off Scotland’s northwest coast, comprising over 100 islands, with 15 inhabited. The centre offers comprehensive information on these islands, including Lewis and Harris, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, and Barra, helping visitors navigate their journey through this Gaelic heartland.Connecting Visitors with Local Culture and Heritage
The Outer Hebrides are renowned for their vibrant Gaelic culture, traditional crafts such as Harris Tweed weaving, and ancient historical sites like the Callanish standing stones. The information centre provides insights into these cultural treasures, enabling visitors to appreciate the islands’ unique identity shaped by centuries of isolation and tradition. It also highlights local events, festivals, and heritage sites that enrich the visitor experience.Practical Resources and Accommodation Guidance
Visitors can access a wealth of practical resources here, including detailed maps, accommodation listings ranging from boutique hotels and traditional blackhouses to campsites and self-catering cottages, and advice on local transport options. The centre’s knowledgeable staff assist with planning itineraries that suit varied interests, whether wildlife watching, beachcombing, hiking, or cultural tours. The centre is open Monday to Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm and offers extended hours on Fridays until 7 pm, ensuring ample time for visitor assistance.Embracing the Natural Beauty and Scenic Landscapes
The Outer Hebrides boast some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, from white sandy beaches and rugged coastlines to mountainous terrains and freshwater lochs. The centre provides information on the three national scenic areas within the islands, including South Lewis, Harris, and North Uist, helping visitors discover the best spots for panoramic views, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventures.Supporting Sustainable and Authentic Travel
With a focus on sustainable tourism, the centre encourages visitors to respect the fragile environment and local communities. It promotes eco-friendly travel options and highlights protected areas, ensuring that the natural and cultural heritage of the Outer Hebrides is preserved for future generations. Visitors are guided on how to minimize their impact while enjoying the islands’ unique offerings.A Welcoming Gateway to Island Exploration
More than just an information point, the Visit Outer Hebrides Tourist Information Centre embodies the warm hospitality of the islands. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the spirit of the Hebrides, gain inspiration, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of Scotland’s most enchanting and remote regions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit Outer Hebrides
0.0 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
18.3 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Temple Harris
19.8 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Sound of Harris
23.9 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Harris House
26.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
36.5 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
55.3 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Ardmore Arches
57.0 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
historic scotland
57.3 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
64.2 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and historic charm of Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Old Ruins
64.2 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Neist Point Lighthouse
64.8 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
68.1 km
Explore the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens on the Isle of Skye, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
Dun Osdale
70.1 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
75.0 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Huisinis Gateway
9.3 km
Gateway to the wild machair and serene beaches of Huisinis, offering essential facilities and sustainable visitor management on the Isle of Harris.
Traigh Mheilein
10.6 km
Discover the secluded turquoise waters and white sands of Traigh Mheilein, a tranquil Hebridean beach framed by rugged cliffs and panoramic island views.
Cravadale
12.1 km
Discover Cravadale’s wild coastal beauty and serene beaches on the Isle of Harris, a tranquil haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate
13.5 km
A grand 19th-century baronial castle on the Isle of Harris, offering exclusive-use luxury, world-class fishing, stalking, and breathtaking Hebridean scenery.
Power Station Walk
14.5 km
Explore the scenic 6.6 km Power Station Walk on the Isle of Harris, blending coastal beauty with historic maritime heritage.
Clach Mhic Leoid,standing stone
17.3 km
Discover the ancient mystery and breathtaking coastal beauty of Clach Mhic Leoid, a towering Neolithic standing stone on the Isle of Harris.
MacLeod´s Stone
17.3 km
Discover the towering Neolithic mystery of MacLeod's Stone on Harris, where ancient legend meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
Nisabost Beach
17.5 km
Golden sands and wild Atlantic horizons on Harris's most accessible beach.
Traigh Rosamol
17.6 km
Discover the tranquil white sands and sweeping coastal views of Traigh Rosamol, a serene beach gem on Scotland’s Isle of Harris.
Talla na Mara Gift Shop
17.7 km
Discover authentic island crafts and community spirit at Talla na Mara Gift Shop, a cultural gem on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Muladal Hill
17.8 km
A rugged 454m summit on North Harris offering wild landscapes, panoramic views, and a challenging hiking adventure.
The Isle of Harris Golf Club
18.0 km
Experience a stunning 9-hole links course with breathtaking coastal views and rich Hebridean heritage on the Isle of Harris.
Ulabhal Hill
18.0 km
Discover the rugged beauty and panoramic vistas atop Ulabhal Hill, a scenic gem on the Isle of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.
Luskentyre Beach
18.0 km
A vast, white-sand beach with turquoise waters and dramatic views across the Sound of Taransay on the Isle of Harris.
Sgarasta Mhòr Beach
18.0 km
Discover the wild golden sands and Atlantic waves of Sgarasta Mhòr Beach, a breathtaking coastal escape on the Isle of Harris.
Essential places to dine
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
14.2 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
Talla na Mara Restaurant
17.7 km
Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.
Òran na Mara
18.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.
Scarista House
18.4 km
Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.
Butty Bus
24.3 km
A cozy, no-nonsense café at Leverburgh ferry terminal serving fresh local fish and chips with charming harbor views.
The Anchorage Restaurant, Cafe & Bar
24.3 km
Fresh seafood and local flavors served with stunning harbour views in a relaxed, welcoming setting on Leverburgh’s pier.
Lingay House
24.4 km
Experience warm hospitality, modern comfort, and stunning loch views at Lingay House, a charming B&B and restaurant on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Hotel
25.8 km
Experience authentic island charm, warm hospitality, and local flavors at Harris Hotel, your cozy retreat in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Hotel Hebrides
26.3 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.
Pierhouse Cafe And Restaurant
26.3 km
A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.
Bays Of Harris Community Centre
26.7 km
A welcoming cultural hub on the Isle of Harris offering hearty local fare, lively ceilidhs, and vibrant community spirit in a scenic coastal setting.
Flavour
26.9 km
Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
Uig Sands Restaurant
29.2 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
North Harbour Bistro
32.7 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
Loch Erisort Hotel
38.9 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Luskentyre Beach Hut
18.4 km
A charming trust-based gift hut offering local crafts and refreshments with stunning views over Luskentyre Bay on the Isle of Harris.
Woven & Wild
18.6 km
Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.
Taobh Tuath Tweeds
20.8 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed weaving and island heritage at Taobh Tuath Tweeds in Northton, Isle of Harris.
The Hebridean Mustard Company
23.0 km
Discover artisanal mustards crafted with passion and natural ingredients at the iconic Hebridean Mustard hut in Leverburgh, Isle of Harris.
Harris Community Shop (An Clachan)
24.3 km
A well-stocked, community-owned shop serving as the essential retail and social hub in Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris Shop
25.9 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Blamire at Harris
26.2 km
A split-level gift shop in Tarbert showcasing handcrafted ceramics, original oil paintings, and authentic souvenirs from the Isle of Harris.
Akrams General Store
26.2 km
Akrams General Store offers authentic local goods and essentials in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris, blending convenience with Hebridean charm.
John Morrisons Newsagents
26.2 km
A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.
Tarbert charity shop
26.3 km
Explore Tarbert Charity Shop, a unique thrift store on the Isle of Harris, where every purchase supports local charities and sustainability.
Essence of Harris
26.3 km
Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
The Wee Croft Shop - Isle of Harris
27.0 km
Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.
Grannie Annie's
27.1 km
Discover the quirky charm and authentic Hebridean spirit at Grannie Annie's, a beloved gift shop on the Isle of Harris.
David's sausages
28.5 km
Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
29.7 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
22.8 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
23.7 km
A cozy pub and café in Leverburgh offering local ales, hearty meals, and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Harris.
Isle of Harris Brewery
24.4 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
Westford Inn
44.0 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
THE HARBOUR BAR
56.8 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
The Criterion Bar
56.8 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
56.9 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
56.9 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Artizan
57.0 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
57.2 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
The Stein Inn
62.7 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The Ferry Inn
65.9 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Rip
71.1 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
Cross Inn
79.8 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Old Barn Bar
79.9 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scaladale Centre
27.9 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Number 5
29.5 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
85.5 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
