The Lump: Portree’s Scenic Hilltop and Historic Beacon
Discover The Lump, a scenic hilltop in Portree with historic tower, panoramic views, and a rich Highland Games heritage.
The Lump is a charming wooded promontory in Portree, Isle of Skye, offering panoramic views of Portree Harbour, Loch Portree, and the Cuillin mountains. This gentle hill features the historic 19th-century Apothecary’s Tower, a grassy amphitheatre hosting the Isle of Skye Highland Games, and peaceful walking paths that reveal the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. Easily accessible from the town center, The Lump is a beloved spot for scenic strolls, photography, and local history.
A brief summary to The Lump
- 6 Bayfield Rd, Portree, IV51 9EW, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 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
- Climb the Apothecary’s Tower for the best panoramic views of Portree Harbour and the surrounding mountains.
- Wear sturdy shoes as some paths around The Lump have uneven surfaces and steep steps.
- Visit in August to experience the Isle of Skye Highland Games held in the natural amphitheatre.
- Bring a camera to capture stunning vistas, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk around The Lump’s wooded paths to escape the town’s bustle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to The Lump from anywhere on the Isle of Skye involves heading to Portree via the A87 and then the A851. Parking is available along Bayfield Road and nearby streets. The Lump is a short walk from parking, making it easily accessible by car. Expect travel times of 15 to 45 minutes depending on your starting point. Parking is free but can be limited during peak times.
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Walking
If you are already in Portree, The Lump is easily reached on foot. From the town center, a scenic 10-15 minute walk along Bayfield Road leads directly to the entrance opposite the Portree Medical Centre. The path is well-marked but includes some uneven terrain and steps.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Portree with other parts of Skye. From the bus stop in Portree town center, The Lump is a 10-15 minute walk. Bus frequencies vary seasonally, so check local timetables. A single fare typically costs between £3 and £6.
The Lump 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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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Lump
A Natural Overlook with Panoramic Vistas
Nestled on the western shore of Loch Portree, The Lump is a small, wooded hill rising behind Portree’s marina. Its elevated position provides sweeping panoramic views over the colorful boats of Portree Harbour, the tranquil waters of Loch Portree, and the dramatic peaks of the Black Cuillin mountains to the south. From the summit and surrounding paths, visitors can also glimpse Ben Tianavaig and the Old Man of Storr, making it a prime vantage point for capturing the essence of Skye’s rugged landscape.The Apothecary’s Tower: A Beacon of History
At the highest point of The Lump stands the 19th-century Apothecary’s Tower, an octagonal neoclassical structure commissioned in the 1830s by Dr. Alisdair Ban MacLeod, a local physician, land steward, and philanthropist. Originally intended as a beacon or ornamental folly, the tower was part of a broader vision to enhance Portree’s landscape and possibly serve as a signal to passing ships that medical aid was available. Though its colored glass windows are long gone, the tower’s steel spiral staircase allows visitors to climb to the battlements for unrivaled views of the harbor and village.The Highland Games Amphitheatre and Cultural Legacy
Below the tower lies a natural amphitheatre, a grassy clearing surrounded by Scots pine and rhododendrons. This site has hosted the Isle of Skye Highland Games since the late 19th century, a vibrant celebration of traditional Scottish sports and culture held every August. When not in use for the games, the amphitheatre offers a peaceful spot for picnics, relaxation, and reflection amid the scenic surroundings.Walking Trails and Flora
The Lump features a gentle circular walking path that meanders through woodland and around the promontory’s base. The route is lined with native trees and seasonal wildflowers, providing a tranquil escape from the bustle of Portree. The path includes some uneven surfaces and a few steep steps, rewarding walkers with varied perspectives of the landscape and glimpses of a small nearby church. The walk typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on pace and stops for photography or rest.Integration with Portree’s Village Life
The Lump is conveniently located opposite the Portree Medical Centre on Bayfield Road, making it easily accessible on foot from the town center. Its proximity to Portree’s shops, eateries, and harbor adds to its appeal as a leisurely destination. The site’s historical and natural features combine to offer visitors a layered experience of Skye’s heritage, culture, and breathtaking scenery.Preservation and Visitor Experience
Managed as a public green space, The Lump invites visitors to enjoy its serene environment and rich history responsibly. The tower and grounds have undergone restoration to preserve their structural and aesthetic qualities, ensuring that future generations can appreciate this unique landmark. Whether for a short stroll, a moment of contemplation, or panoramic photography, The Lump remains a treasured gem of the Isle of Skye.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
5.7 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
18.5 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
Dun Osdale
24.3 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Old Ruins
30.6 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Ardmore Arches
31.5 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
32.1 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Neist Point Lighthouse
35.8 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Kylerhea Minor Lighthouse
37.0 km
Historic 19th-century octagonal lighthouse overlooking the narrow Kyle Rhea strait, offering stunning coastal views and maritime heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Eilean Donan Castle
43.3 km
Discover Scotland’s most iconic castle set on a tranquil island where history, nature, and legend converge in breathtaking Highland scenery.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
56.4 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.
Harris House
65.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Sound of Harris
66.9 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Temple Harris
68.0 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.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
68.4 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
75.0 km
Explore the enchanting Glenfinnan Viaduct, a marvel of engineering surrounded by stunning Scottish landscapes and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Uig/Portree Isle of Sky
0.1 km
Portree, Isle of Skye’s charming harbour town, blends vibrant local culture with breathtaking mountain and sea views.
Colour House Viewpoint
0.3 km
Experience the iconic, colorful harbour views of Portree from the vibrant and lively Colour House Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
1.1 km
Discover artisan candles, delicious pizza, and cultural events at Portree’s vibrant Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
Loch Fada
5.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Loch Fada, a serene freshwater loch framed by the iconic Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye.
St. Columba’s Isle
8.3 km
Explore St. Columba’s Isle, a sacred burial ground and historic ecclesiastical site embodying centuries of Skye’s spiritual heritage.
Bearreaig Bay
10.2 km
Secluded Jurassic fossil bay with dramatic cliffs, peaceful pebble beach, and rich natural and industrial heritage on the Isle of Skye.
Allt Dubh View Point
11.6 km
Discover breathtaking mountain and river views framed by a historic stone bridge at Allt Dubh View Point on the Isle of Skye.
Sligachan Old Bridge
13.4 km
Historic 19th-century stone bridge with stunning Cuillin mountain views and legendary enchanted waters on the Isle of Skye.
Amar River Viewpoint
14.4 km
Discover tranquil vistas and natural beauty at Amar River Viewpoint, a serene Highland escape on the Isle of Skye.
Gesto Bay Viewpoint
14.6 km
Discover sweeping coastal panoramas and tranquil natural beauty at Gesto Bay Viewpoint, a serene gem on the Isle of Skye.
Rigg Viewpoint
14.9 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Scotland’s rugged coastline and islands from the tranquil Rigg Viewpoint on the Isle of Skye.
Bruach Na Frithe junction cairn
15.7 km
Serene gateway to the Black Cuillin’s rugged peaks, offering accessible hiking and breathtaking Highland panoramas.
Lou Lou Designs on Skye
16.2 km
Discover unique, handmade Harris Tweed handbags and accessories crafted with passion on the Isle of Skye’s scenic Carbostbeg.
Carbost Burn Waterfall
16.5 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Carbost Burn Waterfall, a serene and accessible natural cascade on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Ardtreck
16.6 km
Explore Dun Ardtreck, a striking Iron Age fort perched on Skye’s rugged coast, blending ancient history with breathtaking Highland vistas.
Essential places to dine
Sea Breezes
0.1 km
Intimate harbourfront seafood restaurant showcasing Skye's finest local catches with contemporary technique
Tianavaig Restaurant
0.3 km
A friendly, casual restaurant in Portree serving classic Scottish dishes with fresh local ingredients and warm hospitality.
The Caledonian Cafe
0.3 km
Cozy cafe in Portree offering hearty local breakfast and lunch with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Skye.
Scorrybreac Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant small plates and innovative Scottish cuisine with a French twist, set above Portree harbour on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Antlers Bar and Grill
0.3 km
A welcoming Highland pub and grill in Portree, serving fresh local seafood, Highland beef, and inclusive menus with lively live music.
Cuchullin Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the freshest Scottish seafood in the heart of Portree’s lively Somerled Square at Cuchullin Restaurant.
The View Restaurant
0.8 km
Savor exquisite Scottish cuisine with breathtaking harbor views at The View Restaurant, Portree’s premier dining destination on the Isle of Skye.
Gasta Port Righ
1.1 km
A vibrant pizzeria and artisan candle hub blending local flavors, crafts, and culture in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
The Noost
11.8 km
Charming waterside takeaway café in Sconser offering superb coffee, homemade cakes, and scenic outdoor seating by the Raasay ferry terminal.
Seumas' Bar
13.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at Seumas' Bar on the Isle of Skye—where local flavors meet stunning views.
North Harbour Bistro and Tearoom
20.8 km
Exceptional seafood dining with stunning harbour views on the tranquil Isle of Scalpay, blending local flavors and warm hospitality.
Old School Restaurant
23.0 km
Historic family-run restaurant in Dunvegan serving fresh local seafood and Scottish fare with warm hospitality and a cozy atmosphere.
The Bistro at Atholl House Skye
23.0 km
Cozy dining with seasonal Scottish fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
The Dunvegan, Isle of Skye
23.5 km
Cozy Argentinian-inspired fire-cooked dining and charming lodging in the heart of Dunvegan, Isle of Skye.
Cafe Sia & Siaway
24.9 km
Charming island café serving fresh pizzas and quality coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting on the Isle of Skye.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Isle of Skye Crafts @ Over the Rainbow
0.2 km
Discover authentic Isle of Skye crafts and unique handmade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant harbour town.
Tippecanoe
0.3 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and fair-trade treasures in the heart of Portree’s vibrant main street.
Cuillin Crafts
0.3 km
Authentic island craftsmanship and locally made treasures in the heart of Portree.
Skye Batiks
0.3 km
Discover vibrant Celtic batiks and handloomed textiles crafted with passion in the heart of Portree on the Isle of Skye.
ÒR
0.3 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery inspired by Skye’s heritage at ÒR, a charming boutique in the heart of Portree.
Isle of Skye Distillers
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Skye’s craft spirits with Misty Isle Gin, immersive gin-making, and a vibrant shop in Portree’s center.
Skye souvenirs
0.3 km
Authentic Isle of Skye souvenirs in a traditional black house setting, celebrating local craftsmanship and heritage in Portree.
Home in the Highlands Portree
0.3 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and souvenirs at Home in the Highlands Portree, a cozy gift shop nestled in the heart of Isle of Skye’s vibrant town center.
Isle of Skye Aromatics
13.9 km
Discover authentic Highland scents and handmade gifts at Isle of Skye Aromatics in charming Carbost.
Carbost Community Shop
15.5 km
A welcoming community-run shop offering local and vegan delights in the heart of Carbost, Isle of Skye’s charming village life.
Anna Eastwood Jewellery
17.7 km
Discover handcrafted jewellery inspired by the rugged beauty and heritage of the Isle of Skye at Anna Eastwood Jewellery in Fiscavaig.
Hendersons World
22.6 km
Explore Hendersons World in Uig for unique gifts, toys, and games that capture the spirit of Scotland.
Fasgadh Stores
23.4 km
Your friendly village shop in Dunvegan, offering local produce, essentials, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Skye.
Buzy Vee
25.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and quality sewing supplies in Broadford’s welcoming Buzy Vee gift shop.
The Blue Skye gift co.
25.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and enjoy great coffee in the heart of Broadford, Isle of Skye’s charming local treasure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
An Talla Mòr Eighteen Twenty
0.2 km
Historic church-turned-pub in Portree offering local ales, live music, and authentic Scottish hospitality in a charming, lively setting.
Merchant Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
West Highlands Bar
0.3 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
The Bar at Scorrybreac
0.3 km
An intimate cocktail and whisky bar with stunning Portree Harbour views, blending classic recipes with Hebridean flavors on the Isle of Skye.
The Isles Inn
0.4 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
The Auld Bridge Inn
3.4 km
A cozy Highland bar on Skye offering local drinks and scenic views, perfect for relaxing after exploring the island’s stunning landscapes.
The Old Inn & Waterfront Bunkhouse
15.5 km
Charming Scottish inn with stunning Loch Harport views, local cuisine, live traditional music, and cozy accommodation on the Isle of Skye.
The Ferry Inn
22.4 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Gabbro Bar
25.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly local pub in Broadford serving Skye-inspired drinks, hearty snacks, and lively entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Stein Inn
25.6 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The King Haakon Bar
31.7 km
A lively Scottish pub in Kyleakin offering fresh seafood, malt whiskies, live traditional music, and stunning views of the Skye Bridge.
Nanny's
34.5 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Bar Am Praban
37.7 km
Cozy up with hearty Highland fare and fresh seafood in a welcoming pub setting on the scenic Isle of Skye.
Beinn Bar
41.8 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
42.4 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Skye Camanachd Social Club
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
Number 5
60.1 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
73.3 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Roobarb
92.7 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Red fox
93.2 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
