Port Stoth: The Historic Sheltered Inlet of the Isle of Lewis

A serene sheltered inlet steeped in maritime history, nature, and the legacy of the iconic Butt of Lewis Lighthouse.

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Port Stoth is a sheltered inlet located just southeast of the Butt of Lewis on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. Known locally as Stoth (pronounced 'Stow'), this small bay played a crucial role in the construction and supply of the iconic Butt of Lewis Lighthouse. Its white shell beach, calm waters, and scenic surroundings make it a tranquil spot for seal watching, fishing, and quiet coastal walks.

A brief summary to Port Stoth

Butt of Lewis, Isle of Lewis, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit early morning or late evening for the best chance to see seals and enjoy peaceful coastal walks.
Bring fishing gear to try your luck on the rocky outcrops near the inlet.
Explore the nearby Butt of Lewis Lighthouse and learn about its unique red brick construction.
Wear sturdy footwear for walking along uneven coastal terrain and rocky areas.
Check weather conditions before visiting, as the Outer Hebrides can be windy and changeable.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Stornoway, the main town on the Isle of Lewis, takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The route follows the A857 north towards Ness village, then continues on local roads leading to the Butt of Lewis and Port Stoth. Parking is limited near the inlet, so plan to arrive early during peak seasons. No parking fees apply.
Bus

Local bus services operate from Stornoway to Ness village with a journey time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Ness, a 20 to 30-minute walk or taxi ride is needed to reach Port Stoth. Bus frequency is limited, especially on weekends, so check schedules in advance. A single fare costs approximately £4 to £6.
Walking

For adventurous walkers, a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour hike from Ness village to Port Stoth follows coastal paths and minor roads. The terrain is uneven in places and may be challenging in wet or windy weather. Suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Port Stoth location weather suitability

Any Weather
Windy Conditions
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Port Stoth

A Vital Maritime Gateway for the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

Port Stoth is a small, sheltered inlet lying just southeast of the Butt of Lewis, the northernmost tip of the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. This inlet was historically significant as the landing point for all materials used in the construction of the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse between 1859 and 1862. Due to the island’s poor road infrastructure at the time, supplies and fuel for the lighthouse were regularly brought in by small cargo vessels and offloaded here by crane well into the 1960s. Today, remnants such as the concrete base for the crane and a brick storage building still stand as silent witnesses to this maritime heritage.

Natural Beauty and Coastal Wildlife

The beach at Port Stoth is a delightful stretch of white shell sand, offering a peaceful retreat framed by the rugged coastline. Its relatively sheltered waters make it ideal for sunrise or sunset swims, and the rocky outcrops nearby serve as excellent fishing spots. Seal sightings are common here, adding to the location’s appeal for wildlife enthusiasts. The surrounding landscape includes low-growing plants with delicate white flowers, contributing to the area's natural charm.

Connection to the Wider Hebridean Landscape

Port Stoth’s proximity to the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse places it within a dramatic coastal environment marked by cliffs rising 60 to 80 feet high. The lighthouse itself is a striking red brick structure, unusual in Scotland where white-painted lighthouses are more common. The inlet also lies near other notable Hebridean landmarks, including the natural arch called the "Eye of the Butt" and the ancient ruins of St Moluag’s Church. This area is rich in history and natural heritage, making it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in culture and nature.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors to Port Stoth can enjoy tranquil walks along the beach and coastline, with opportunities to spot seals and seabirds that frequent the area. The peaceful ambience is perfect for reflection and quiet enjoyment of the Hebridean seascape. The inlet’s sheltered nature provides a calm contrast to the often wild and windy conditions experienced at the nearby Butt of Lewis headland. This makes Port Stoth a favored spot for those seeking a serene coastal experience.

Preservation and Accessibility

While Port Stoth remains a relatively untouched natural spot, its historical significance and ecological value are recognized locally. The area is accessible via the road leading to the Butt of Lewis in the village of Ness, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the northern reaches of Lewis. The inlet’s calm waters and beach are ideal for casual visits, nature observation, and photography, with minimal infrastructure to maintain its pristine character.

Legacy of the Stevenson Family’s Engineering

The construction of the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, closely tied to Port Stoth, was overseen by the renowned Stevenson family of lighthouse engineers, David and Thomas Stevenson. Their work here is emblematic of 19th-century maritime engineering challenges, including the logistical feat of transporting all building materials by sea to this remote inlet. The lighthouse’s continued operation, now automated, and the enduring presence of Port Stoth highlight the lasting legacy of their craftsmanship and the importance of this location in Scotland’s navigational history.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

0.7 km

Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.

historic scotland

27.0 km

Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.

Stoer Lighthouse

58.0 km

Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.

Harris House

75.1 km

Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.

Eilean Glas Lighthouse

76.3 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.

North West Sutherland National Scenic Area

80.1 km

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of North West Sutherland National Scenic Area, a true Scottish Highlands treasure.

Luskentyre Beach

80.1 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Luskentyre Beach, where soft sands meet turquoise waters on the picturesque Isle of Harris.

Ardvreck Castle

82.9 km

Discover Ardvreck Castle, a historical jewel in the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and steeped in rich heritage.

MacLeod´s Stone

83.9 km

A solitary Neolithic standing stone on a white-sand beach in South Harris, steeped in myth and facing the wild Atlantic.

Visit Outer Hebrides

84.1 km

Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.

Nisabost Beach

84.1 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Nisabost Beach on the Isle of Harris, where white sands meet turquoise waters in a stunning Scottish paradise.

Pairc an t-Srath Guest House

85.6 km

Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.

Durness Beach

88.1 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Durness Beach, a hidden gem on Scotland's rugged north coast, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Rubha Hunish

90.2 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.

Old Ruins

92.3 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

St Moluag's Church [Scottish Episcopalian]

0.9 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.

St Moluag's Church [Scottish Episcopalian]

Dùn Èistean

1.5 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.

Eoropie Beach

1.8 km

Discover the wild, layered rock formations and tranquil Atlantic vistas of Eoropie Beach, a serene coastal gem on the Isle of Lewis.

Port of Ness Slipway and Breakwater

2.6 km

Historic harbour and breakwater on the Isle of Lewis, blending maritime heritage with stunning coastal scenery and traditional fishing culture.

Port of Ness Beach

2.7 km

A remote northern beach on the Isle of Lewis blending rugged harbour charm with serene sandy shores and rich maritime heritage.

Swainbost Beach

2.8 km

Discover the peaceful sands and scenic west-facing shores of Swainbost Beach, a tranquil retreat on the Isle of Lewis.

Comunn Eachdraidh Nis

4.9 km

Explore North Lewis heritage through museum exhibits, archives, and local crafts at Comunn Eachdraidh Nis in North Dell.

Ness Historical Society

4.9 km

Explore the rich heritage of North Lewis through immersive exhibits, extensive archives, and local culture at the Ness Historical Society.

Traigh Ghearadha (Gary Beach)

16.1 km

Discover the serene beauty of Traigh Ghearadha with its golden sands, dramatic sea stacks, and peaceful coastal trails on the Isle of Lewis.

Traigh Mhòr

16.8 km

A breathtaking mile-long beach on the Isle of Lewis, offering powerful waves, historic ruins, and stunning views across the Minch.

Steinacleit

17.4 km

Explore Steinacleit, a captivating prehistoric site on the Isle of Lewis blending ancient stone structures with early farmstead history.

Clach An Truishal Standing Stone

19.1 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

24.1 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

24.3 km

Discover the serene golden sands and rich wildlife of Gress Beach, a tranquil coastal gem on the Isle of Lewis.

Traditional Shieling

26.0 km

Discover the enduring heritage of the Isle of Lewis through its traditional summer shielings—simple stone huts that echo centuries of pastoral life.

A welcoming harbourside inn in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, hearty Scottish fare, and a lively bar with a wide whiskey selection.

Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Cross Inn

4.6 km

A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.

Old Barn Bar

4.6 km

Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.

The Rip

20.7 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

34.4 km

Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.

McNeills

34.5 km

Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.

Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank

34.6 km

Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.

The Criterion Bar

34.6 km

A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.

THE HARBOUR BAR

34.6 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

34.7 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

74.1 km

A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.

Isle of Harris Distillery

75.5 km

Discover the Isle of Harris Distillery, where tradition meets artistry in every sip of exquisite whisky on Scotland's breathtaking shores.

The Bothy

93.6 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

94.3 km

Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.

The Badachro Inn

95.6 km

Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Scaladale Centre

64.6 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

79.2 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

88.4 km

Discover the beauty of The Isle of Harris Golf Club, where stunning landscapes meet unforgettable golfing experiences in the heart of the Hebrides.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Port Stoth with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Port Stoth: The Historic Sheltered Inlet of the Isle of Lewis

A brief summary to Port Stoth

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus

Walking

Port Stoth location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Port Stoth

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Port Stoth

A Vital Maritime Gateway for the Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

Natural Beauty and Coastal Wildlife

Connection to the Wider Hebridean Landscape

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Preservation and Accessibility

Legacy of the Stevenson Family’s Engineering

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

historic scotland

Stoer Lighthouse

Harris House

Eilean Glas Lighthouse

North West Sutherland National Scenic Area

Luskentyre Beach

Ardvreck Castle

MacLeod´s Stone

Visit Outer Hebrides

Nisabost Beach

Pairc an t-Srath Guest House

Durness Beach

Rubha Hunish

Old Ruins

Unmissable attractions to see

St Moluag's Church [Scottish Episcopalian]

Dùn Èistean

Eoropie Beach

Port of Ness Slipway and Breakwater

Port of Ness Beach

Swainbost Beach

Comunn Eachdraidh Nis

Ness Historical Society

Traigh Ghearadha (Gary Beach)

Traigh Mhòr

Steinacleit

Clach An Truishal Standing Stone

Gress Corn Mill

Gress beach

Traditional Shieling

Essential places to dine

The Breakwater

Wobbly Dog of Lewis

Borve Country House Hotel

Cabarfeidh Hotel

Bridge Centre Cafe

HS-1 Cafe Bar

The Boatshed Restaurant

The Park Guest House & Restaurant

La Balena - Italian Restaurant

Caladh Inn

Eleven Restaurant & Bar

Harbour Kitchen

No.9 By The Harbour

Blake’s Bar & Kitchen

Crown Hotel

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Cross Stores

Sea in Design

West Side Furniture Store

Amor Weavers

The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Stornoway)

Bayhead Gift House

Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock

Celtic Clothing

The Hebridean Hobby Centre

Sardar & Sons

Influence Clothing