The Hebridean Hobby Centre
A cozy craft shop in Stornoway showcasing handmade Hebridean crafts, textiles, and local art – perfect for unique island souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Tucked away on Cromwell Street in Stornoway, The Hebridean Hobby Centre is a charming craft shop celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the Outer Hebrides. Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of handmade crafts, local artwork, textiles, and traditional Hebridean gifts. From Harris Tweed accessories to hand-knitted woolens and island-inspired ceramics, each piece reflects the islands’ rugged beauty and deep-rooted creativity. It’s a perfect stop for those seeking authentic, locally made souvenirs and a warm, personal shopping experience in the heart of Lewis.
A brief summary to The Hebridean Hobby Centre
- 97 Cromwell St, Stornoway, HS1 2DG, GB
- +441851703366
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning for a quieter browsing experience and more time to chat with the staff about local makers and techniques.
- Ask about craft kits or materials if you’d like to try knitting, embroidery, or other traditional skills after your trip.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Stornoway waterfront and nearby independent shops for a full afternoon of local crafts and island charm.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Hebridean Hobby Centre location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Hebridean Hobby Centre
A Craft Lover’s Corner in Stornoway
Tucked away on Cromwell Street in Stornoway, The Hebridean Hobby Centre is a charming craft shop celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the Outer Hebrides. Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of handmade crafts, local artwork, textiles, and traditional Hebridean gifts. From Harris Tweed accessories to hand-knitted woolens and island-inspired ceramics, each piece reflects the islands’ rugged beauty and deep-rooted creativity. It’s a perfect stop for those seeking authentic, locally made souvenirs and a warm, personal shopping experience in the heart of Lewis. The shop’s relaxed, welcoming atmosphere invites you to browse at your own pace, with shelves and displays thoughtfully arranged to showcase the best of local talent. Whether you’re drawn to intricate needlework, hand-painted cards, or small decorative items made from driftwood and wool, there’s a sense that everything here has been made with care and connection to place.Rooted in Hebridean Craft Traditions
The Outer Hebrides have long been renowned for their crafts, especially Harris Tweed, which is woven in homes and mills across the islands. The Hebridean Hobby Centre draws on this legacy, offering not only finished products but also materials and kits for those who want to try their hand at knitting, embroidery, or other crafts. Many of the items on sale are made by islanders, often using wool from local sheep and dyes inspired by the moorland, sea, and sky. Beyond textiles, the shop features a range of other locally produced crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and artwork that captures the dramatic landscapes of Lewis and Harris. These pieces often incorporate Gaelic motifs, maritime themes, and natural elements like shells, pebbles, and seaweed, making them both beautiful and deeply connected to the islands’ culture and environment.More Than Just a Shop
The Hebridean Hobby Centre is more than a retail space; it’s a small hub of local creativity and community. The staff are often happy to chat about the makers behind the products, share stories about traditional techniques, and offer tips on where else to find crafts and galleries around the islands. For visitors, this personal touch adds real value, turning a simple purchase into a meaningful encounter with Hebridean life. Occasionally, the shop may host or promote small workshops or craft demonstrations, giving visitors a chance to learn directly from local artisans. Even if no formal event is running, the atmosphere encourages slowing down, appreciating handmade work, and taking a moment to connect with the slower, more thoughtful pace of island life.Planning Your Visit
The shop is open weekdays and Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00, making it easy to fit into a day exploring Stornoway. It’s located in the town centre, close to other independent shops, cafés, and the harbour, so it works well as part of a broader stroll through the town. Because it’s a small, independent shop, opening hours can vary slightly, especially around holidays, so it’s worth checking locally if you’re making a special trip. There’s no entrance fee, and browsing is free, so you can take your time deciding what to buy. The shop is compact but well-organized, and the staff are generally happy to help with questions about materials, care, or gift ideas. If you’re looking for a truly local, non-touristy souvenir from the Outer Hebrides, this is one of the best places in Stornoway to find it.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
historic scotland
19.6 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
34.6 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
42.2 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.
Harris House
42.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
MacLeod´s Stone
52.4 km
A solitary Neolithic standing stone on a white-sand beach in South Harris, steeped in myth and facing the wild Atlantic.
Nisabost Beach
52.6 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
53.9 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Rubha Hunish
56.8 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.
Visit Outer Hebrides
57.0 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Stoer Lighthouse
57.8 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Old Ruins
59.3 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Temple Harris
60.9 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.
Hebrides People Visitor Centre
61.0 km
Explore the rich heritage of the Isle of Harris at the Hebrides People Visitor Centre, where history, genealogy, and local literature come alive.
Borrisdale Tweed
61.2 km
Discover exquisite craftsmanship at Borrisdale Tweed, a unique homewares shop offering authentic Scottish tweed products in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
Clachtoll Broch
61.3 km
Discover Clachtoll Broch, an iconic Iron Age structure on the stunning Scottish coast, blending history and natural beauty in one captivating site.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Good Food Boutique
0.2 km
A charming Stornoway deli offering fresh sandwiches, local jams, and a delightful taste of Hebridean flavors in a cozy boutique setting.
Woodlands Centre
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and vibrant culture of the Woodlands Centre, a welcoming gem nestled in Stornoway’s historic Castle Grounds.
The Blue Lobster
0.2 km
Cozy harborfront café in Stornoway serving exceptional coffee, delightful cakes, and unique gifts with scenic waterfront views.
Perceval Square
0.2 km
A tranquil urban park steeped in Stornoway’s maritime heritage, perfect for relaxation and local market experiences.
Lews Castle
0.3 km
Historic Gothic Revival castle with museum, café, luxury apartments, and scenic grounds overlooking Stornoway harbour on the Isle of Lewis.
South Beach
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of South Beach, Stornoway’s tranquil coastal haven on the Isle of Lewis.
An Lanntair
0.4 km
A vibrant arts centre and cinema in Stornoway, offering exhibitions, live events, and a welcoming café bar in the heart of the Outer Hebrides.
Harris & Lewis Smokehouse
0.6 km
Experience authentic Outer Hebrides smoked seafood crafted with tradition and passion at Harris & Lewis Smokehouse in Stornoway.
Lews Castle Grounds
1.4 km
Explore the historic Victorian Lews Castle Grounds, a vast scenic parkland blending heritage, nature trails, and stunning views on the Isle of Lewis.
Arnish Point Lighthouse
2.5 km
Historic iron lighthouse on Isle of Lewis offering stunning coastal views and rich maritime heritage since 1852.
Creed Park
3.1 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Creed Park on the Isle of Lewis, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and peace seekers.
Red fox
4.3 km
Historic and modern, The Nicolson Institute stands as the educational heart of the Isle of Lewis, blending heritage with academic excellence.
Braighe Beach
5.5 km
Discover the tranquil sandy shores and rich heritage of Braighe Beach, a serene coastal escape on the Isle of Lewis.
The Crafty Weaver
5.9 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and island heritage at The Crafty Weaver in Upper Coll, Isle of Lewis.
loch Airidh na Mhean
7.6 km
Discover tranquil hiking and untouched natural beauty at Loch Airidh na Mhean on the Isle of Lewis.
Essential places to dine
HS-1 Cafe Bar
0.1 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
0.1 km
Savor fresh Hebridean seafood with stunning marina views in Stornoway’s acclaimed Boatshed Restaurant.
Bridge Centre Cafe
0.2 km
Cozy cafe in Stornoway’s Bayhead serving fresh, hearty meals and local treats daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Harbour Kitchen
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
A vibrant blend of local flavors and lively atmosphere in the heart of Stornoway’s dining scene.
Crown Hotel
0.3 km
A welcoming harbourside inn in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, hearty Scottish fare, and a lively bar with a wide whiskey selection.
La Balena - Italian Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh Hebridean seafood in a warm, family-run setting at La Balena in Stornoway.
The New Lewis Bar
0.4 km
Experience the warmth of Hebridean hospitality at The New Lewis Bar—your family-friendly pub with great drinks and live music in Stornoway.
Star Inn
0.4 km
Discover the cozy charm of Star Inn in Stornoway - your perfect pub getaway with local flavors and warm hospitality.
The Park Guest House & Restaurant
0.5 km
Charming central guest house in Stornoway offering cozy rooms, local dining, and easy access to Isle of Lewis attractions.
Caladh Inn
0.5 km
Comfortable and welcoming inn in central Stornoway, blending local charm with convenient access to the Isle of Lewis’s highlights.
Eleven Restaurant & Bar
0.5 km
A welcoming bar and grill in Stornoway offering classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a cozy atmosphere from morning till night.
Cabarfeidh Hotel
0.9 km
Experience modern comfort and authentic Hebridean hospitality just steps from Stornoway’s historic Lews Castle.
Loch Erisort Hotel
19.6 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
The Hebridean Hobby Centre
0.0 km
A cozy craft shop in Stornoway showcasing handmade Hebridean crafts, textiles, and local art – perfect for unique island souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Celtic Clothing
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish heritage with bespoke kilts and Harris Tweed craftsmanship at Celtic Clothing in Stornoway.
Sardar & Sons
0.2 km
Discover quality clothing and distinctive hats for special occasions at Sardar & Sons, Stornoway’s trusted local fashion destination.
Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock
0.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and exquisite SeaGlass jewellery inspired by the Isle of Lewis at Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock.
Influence Clothing
0.2 km
A stylish boutique in Stornoway offering curated women’s fashion and elegant homeware in the heart of the Outer Hebrides.
Nicolson & Co Ltd
0.2 km
Stornoway's trusted newsagent serving the Isle of Lewis since 1978.
Bonmarché
0.3 km
Bonmarché Stornoway offers stylish, affordable women's fashion in sizes 10-28, conveniently located on Cromwell Street in the town centre.
Peacocks
0.3 km
Affordable fashion for the whole family in the heart of Stornoway’s shopping district.
Bayhead Gift House
0.3 km
Explore the charming Bayhead Gift House in Stornoway for unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate the rich heritage of the Hebrides.
Tweedtastic
0.3 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.
Harris Tweed Hebrides
0.3 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and heritage at Harris Tweed Hebrides in Stornoway, the heart of Scottish island weaving tradition.
Hebridean Gifts
0.3 km
Discover authentic Hebridean crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant artisan scene.
Empty House Traders
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and handcrafted art at Empty House Traders, Stornoway’s beloved boutique on South Beach.
Lewis Revival
0.3 km
Discover unique Hebridean antiques and homewares at Lewis Revival, a cozy gift shop in the heart of Stornoway, Isle of Lewis.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Stornoway)
0.6 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, beauty, and homeware all under one roof in Stornoway’s popular department store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Artizan
0.1 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
McNeills
0.3 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
The Criterion Bar
0.3 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
THE HARBOUR BAR
0.3 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
0.3 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
0.8 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
The Rip
15.3 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.
Old Barn Bar
29.8 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
29.8 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
41.9 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
61.4 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
62.0 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
The Ferry Inn
69.0 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Badachro Inn
69.2 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
The Stein Inn
78.1 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scaladale Centre
32.5 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
45.7 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
56.9 km
Discover the beauty of The Isle of Harris Golf Club, where stunning landscapes meet unforgettable golfing experiences in the heart of the Hebrides.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
89.4 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
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
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
