Comunn Eachdraidh Nis: Preserving the Heritage of North Lewis
Explore North Lewis heritage through museum exhibits, archives, and local crafts at Comunn Eachdraidh Nis in North Dell.
Comunn Eachdraidh Nis, located in North Dell on the Isle of Lewis, is a vibrant historical society and museum dedicated to preserving the rich history, language, and culture of North Lewis. Housed in the former Cross Primary School, it features an accredited museum with artefacts like the iconic St Ronan Cross, extensive archives, a cozy café, and a gift shop offering local crafts and publications. Open weekdays, it offers a deep dive into island life and heritage.
A brief summary to Comunn Eachdraidh Nis
- A857, Isle of Lewis, North Dell, HS2 0SN, GB
- +441851810377
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday to enjoy full museum and archive access, as weekends are closed.
- Try the café’s homemade baking and specialty teas to experience local hospitality.
- Allow time to explore the extensive genealogical archives if researching family history.
- Check for seasonal exhibitions which change twice yearly to see fresh displays.
- Support the museum with a small donation, as entry is free but contributions help maintain the centre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Stornoway, take the A857 north for approximately 24 miles to North Dell. The journey typically takes 35 to 45 minutes. Parking is available on-site, including coach parking, but spaces may be limited during peak times.
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Public Transport
Lochs Motor Transport operates bus services to North Dell from Stornoway, with journey times around 50 to 65 minutes depending on the route. Service frequency varies seasonally, so check current timetables. The stop is a short walk from the museum.
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Walking
For visitors staying nearby in Ness or North Dell, the museum is accessible on foot via well-maintained village roads. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your location, with generally flat terrain suitable for most abilities.
Comunn Eachdraidh Nis location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Comunn Eachdraidh Nis
A Living Archive of North Lewis Culture and History
Comunn Eachdraidh Nis, established in 1977, is the first historical society in the Outer Hebrides and serves as a vital guardian of the heritage of North Lewis. Situated in the former Cross Primary School building in North Dell, the society preserves and promotes the history, language, and culture of the Ness district and surrounding areas. Its mission is to benefit both local residents and global communities interested in this unique island culture.Immersive Museum Exhibits and Artefacts
The accredited museum within Comunn Eachdraidh Nis showcases a rural island community’s way of life through carefully curated displays. Among its most treasured artefacts is the St Ronan Cross, dating from the 10th or 11th century CE, prominently displayed on a bespoke stand in the museum’s center. Exhibitions cover crofting, wool working, domestic life, and other aspects of traditional island living, with displays refreshed approximately twice a year to offer new insights.Extensive Archives and Genealogical Resources
Beyond the museum, the society maintains a vast archive of photographs, documents, audio recordings, and genealogical records that chronicle the lives and histories of local families and communities. Collections include croft histories, records of local schools, churches, wartime experiences, and oral histories. This archive is an invaluable resource for researchers and those tracing family roots in North Lewis.A Welcoming Space for Community and Visitors
Comunn Eachdraidh Nis also features a café serving light lunches, homemade baking, and specialty teas and coffees, with a strong presence of the Gaelic language among staff and visitors. The gift shop offers locally made items such as Harris Tweed merchandise, skincare products, candles inspired by local stories, and a range of publications on Gaelic culture and history. The portraits on the café walls, donated by local families, add a personal touch to the atmosphere.Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
The centre is fully accessible, with wheelchair access, accessible toilets, and parking facilities including coach parking. Free WiFi is available, and the museum welcomes visitors with a suggested donation to support its work. Dogs are not permitted inside except for guide dogs, ensuring a comfortable environment for all guests.Engaging with North Lewis Heritage Year-Round
Open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, with the café operating Tuesday to Friday midday to 4pm, Comunn Eachdraidh Nis offers a year-round destination for those interested in the cultural heritage of the Outer Hebrides. The society also runs events and exhibitions that engage all ages, promoting social health and well-being through connection to local history and language.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
5.2 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
historic scotland
22.6 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Stoer Lighthouse
57.7 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Harris House
70.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
71.4 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.
Luskentyre Beach
75.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Luskentyre Beach, where soft sands meet turquoise waters on the picturesque Isle of Harris.
MacLeod´s Stone
79.0 km
A solitary Neolithic standing stone on a white-sand beach in South Harris, steeped in myth and facing the wild Atlantic.
Nisabost Beach
79.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nisabost Beach on the Isle of Harris, where white sands meet turquoise waters in a stunning Scottish paradise.
Visit Outer Hebrides
79.5 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
80.8 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
North West Sutherland National Scenic Area
81.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of North West Sutherland National Scenic Area, a true Scottish Highlands treasure.
Ardvreck Castle
82.8 km
Discover Ardvreck Castle, a historical jewel in the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and steeped in rich heritage.
Rubha Hunish
85.7 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Temple Harris
87.6 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.
Old Ruins
87.8 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ness Historical Society
0.0 km
Explore the rich heritage of North Lewis through immersive exhibits, extensive archives, and local culture at the Ness Historical Society.
Swainbost Beach
2.3 km
Discover the peaceful sands and scenic west-facing shores of Swainbost Beach, a tranquil retreat on the Isle of Lewis.
Eoropie Beach
3.1 km
Discover the wild, layered rock formations and tranquil Atlantic vistas of Eoropie Beach, a serene coastal gem on the Isle of Lewis.
St Moluag's Church [Scottish Episcopalian]
4.0 km
Discover the ancient spiritual sanctuary of St Moluag's Church, a historic healing site nestled in the serene landscapes of the Isle of Lewis.
Port of Ness Beach
4.1 km
A remote northern beach on the Isle of Lewis blending rugged harbour charm with serene sandy shores and rich maritime heritage.
Port of Ness Slipway and Breakwater
4.5 km
Historic harbour and breakwater on the Isle of Lewis, blending maritime heritage with stunning coastal scenery and traditional fishing culture.
Dùn Èistean
4.9 km
Discover Dùn Èistean, the dramatic tidal island fortress and ancestral home of Clan Morrison on the Isle of Lewis, steeped in history and stunning coastal views.
Port Stoth
4.9 km
A serene sheltered inlet steeped in maritime history, nature, and the legacy of the iconic Butt of Lewis Lighthouse.
Traigh Ghearadha (Gary Beach)
12.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Traigh Ghearadha with its golden sands, dramatic sea stacks, and peaceful coastal trails on the Isle of Lewis.
Steinacleit
12.8 km
Explore Steinacleit, a captivating prehistoric site on the Isle of Lewis blending ancient stone structures with early farmstead history.
Traigh Mhòr
12.9 km
A breathtaking mile-long beach on the Isle of Lewis, offering powerful waves, historic ruins, and stunning views across the Minch.
Clach An Truishal Standing Stone
14.7 km
Scotland’s tallest standing stone, Clach An Truishal, towers nearly 6 meters high on the Isle of Lewis, steeped in ancient mystery and legend.
Gress Corn Mill
19.6 km
Discover the historic 19th-century water-powered Gress Corn Mill, a rustic relic of Isle of Lewis’s agricultural heritage and rural life.
Gress beach
19.8 km
Discover the serene golden sands and rich wildlife of Gress Beach, a tranquil coastal gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Traditional Shieling
21.5 km
Discover the enduring heritage of the Isle of Lewis through its traditional summer shielings—simple stone huts that echo centuries of pastoral life.
Essential places to dine
Wobbly Dog of Lewis
3.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly tearoom at the Isle of Lewis’ northwestern tip, blending homemade treats with local crafts and warm island hospitality.
The Breakwater
4.3 km
Coastal café with stunning harbour views, fresh homemade fare, and warm hospitality in the heart of Port of Ness, Isle of Lewis.
Borve Country House Hotel
10.4 km
A welcoming 4-star retreat in Borve blending Hebridean charm, hearty local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cabarfeidh Hotel
28.6 km
Experience modern comfort and authentic Hebridean hospitality just steps from Stornoway’s historic Lews Castle.
Bridge Centre Cafe
29.3 km
Cozy cafe in Stornoway’s Bayhead serving fresh, hearty meals and local treats daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
HS-1 Cafe Bar
29.6 km
Lively café-bar in Stornoway serving fresh local dishes with stunning marina and Lews Castle views in a relaxed, friendly setting.
The Boatshed Restaurant
29.6 km
Savor fresh Hebridean seafood with stunning marina views in Stornoway’s acclaimed Boatshed Restaurant.
La Balena - Italian Restaurant
29.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh Hebridean seafood in a warm, family-run setting at La Balena in Stornoway.
The Park Guest House & Restaurant
29.7 km
Charming central guest house in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, local dining, and easy access to Isle of Lewis attractions.
Caladh Inn
29.7 km
Comfortable and welcoming inn in central Stornoway, blending local charm with convenient access to the Isle of Lewis’s highlights.
Eleven Restaurant & Bar
29.7 km
A welcoming bar and grill in Stornoway offering classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a cozy atmosphere from morning till night.
Harbour Kitchen
29.8 km
Experience the freshest Outer Hebrides seafood in a cozy, open-kitchen setting at Harbour Kitchen, Stornoway’s celebrated culinary gem.
No.9 By The Harbour
29.8 km
A cozy coffee shop and cocktail bar in Stornoway blending great brews, creative drinks, and a welcoming community vibe by the harbor.
Blake’s Bar & Kitchen
29.8 km
A vibrant blend of local flavors and lively atmosphere in the heart of Stornoway’s dining scene.
Crown Hotel
29.8 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, hearty Scottish fare, and a lively bar with a wide whiskey selection.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cross Stores
0.5 km
Island butcher and grocer serving the Hebridean community with fresh provisions and artisanal prepared foods.
Sea in Design
14.4 km
Discover maritime heritage and vintage treasures at Sea in Design, a unique antique shop celebrating the Isle of Lewis’s seafaring traditions.
West Side Furniture Store
26.1 km
Explore exceptional handcrafted furniture and home decor at West Side Furniture Store in the charming Bragar, Isle of Lewis.
Amor Weavers
27.9 km
Discover authentic handwoven treasures celebrating the rich textile heritage of the Isle of Lewis at Amor Weavers in Shawbost.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Stornoway)
28.9 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, beauty, and homeware all under one roof in Stornoway’s popular department store.
Bayhead Gift House
29.2 km
Explore the charming Bayhead Gift House in Stornoway for unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate the rich heritage of the Hebrides.
Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock
29.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and exquisite SeaGlass jewellery inspired by the Isle of Lewis at Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock.
Celtic Clothing
29.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish heritage with bespoke kilts and Harris Tweed craftsmanship at Celtic Clothing in Stornoway.
The Hebridean Hobby Centre
29.5 km
A cozy craft shop in Stornoway showcasing handmade Hebridean crafts, textiles, and local art – perfect for unique island souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Sardar & Sons
29.7 km
Discover quality clothing and distinctive hats for special occasions at Sardar & Sons, Stornoway’s trusted local fashion destination.
Influence Clothing
29.7 km
A stylish boutique in Stornoway offering curated women’s fashion and elegant homeware in the heart of the Outer Hebrides.
Nicolson & Co Ltd
29.7 km
Stornoway's trusted newsagent serving the Isle of Lewis since 1978.
Bonmarché
29.7 km
Bonmarché Stornoway offers stylish, affordable women's fashion in sizes 10-28, conveniently located on Cromwell Street in the town centre.
Peacocks
29.7 km
Affordable fashion for the whole family in the heart of Stornoway’s shopping district.
Tweedtastic
29.8 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cross Inn
0.4 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Old Barn Bar
0.4 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
The Rip
16.5 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.
Artizan
29.6 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
McNeills
29.8 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
The Criterion Bar
29.8 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
29.8 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
THE HARBOUR BAR
29.8 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
30.0 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
69.2 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
88.8 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
89.5 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
The Badachro Inn
92.1 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
The Ferry Inn
97.9 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scaladale Centre
59.8 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
74.3 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Isle of Harris Golf Club
83.6 km
Discover the beauty of The Isle of Harris Golf Club, where stunning landscapes meet unforgettable golfing experiences in the heart of the Hebrides.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly