5 Things to do on Lewis after your Calanais visit

1 Dun Carloway Broch

Just 6.4miles from the Calanais Stones (only a 12min drive) the Dun Carloway Broch is well worth a visit. At 9m tall, the walls of this well-preserved Iron Age fort sit dramatically on the top of a mound of rock. The broch was likely constructed around AD100 and is entered by a single low heavily defended doorway after which you enter the circular structure with stone staircases and chambers to imagine its eventful past.

2 Lews Castle Museum (Museum nan Eilean)

Located in Stornoway, be sure to make Lews Castle part of your heritage exploration. Not only can you walk around the grand ballroom but once you have lived your castle dream, you must take the time to visit the Museum and Archive.   Filled with interactive exhibitions, shop and cafe – there is something for everyone. Follow your visit with a walk to explore the beautiful Castle Grounds.

3 Ardroil Beach – Lewis Chessmen

While a bit off the beaten track, visit Uig and walk along Ardroil Beach (one of Uig’s many beaches) where the famous Lewis Chessmen were found in the sand dunes in 1831.  Local man, Malcolm MacLeod, was tending to his cattle when one of his animals wandered down to the sands of Uig Bay. While following the beast to retrieve it, Malcolm noticed a small stone chamber, in which was a wooden box…and the rest is history!

4 Harris Tweed Story Room

Immerse yourself in the the world of Harris Tweed. The Harris Tweed Story Room in Stornoway, will guide you through the history of our islands iconic industry and give you the opportunity to watch a live demonstration with a Harris Tweed weaver… you may even get a chance to be a weaver yourself!

5 Gearrannan Blackhouse Village

Located in the village of Carloway, and only 8.9miles from the Calanais stones, this Blackhouse village offers a unique glimpse into the heritage of crofting life in Lewis.  Visit or stay in this historic village, where generations of crofting families lived and worked. The village remained inhabited by its last resident until the early 1970s. Each Blackhouse has its own character, named after the family who once lived there. Step back in time, find out about village life and see traditional activities, including Harris Tweed weaving and enjoy the small shop and cafe.