Tucked away on the Isle of Lewis, Stornoway is a destination where Scotland’s wild landscapes and rich cultural heritage come together. As the largest town in the Outer Hebrides, it is both a thriving community and a gateway to some of the most dramatic and unspoilt scenery in our country. For travellers seeking an authentic Hebridean experience, Stornoway accommodation offers a wonderful balance: comfortable, characterful places to stay alongside easy access to history and nature.
Whether you are pausing here on a wider Scotland multi-day tour or making Stornoway the focal point of your Hebridean adventure, the town provides excellent hotel options. From luxury castle apartments to boutique hideaways, the best Stornoway hotels ensure your stay is both memorable and refined.
Below, we have shared our favourite recommendations for the best Stornoway accommodation. Scroll down to find out more. And please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
Stornoway lies on the Isle of Lewis, the most northerly of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. Despite its remote setting, it is more accessible than many first-time visitors expect. The town has its own airport, with regular flights from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, as well as a busy ferry terminal connecting directly to Ullapool on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands.
Geographically, Stornoway is an ideal starting point for exploring the Hebrides. To the south, the Isle of Harris is just a short drive away, offering some of the most spectacular beaches in Europe. Inland, you’ll find wild moorland dotted with lochs, while historic treasures such as the Callanish Standing Stones add depth to any visit.
It’s worth noting that Lewis and Harris share the same landmass. The single island (the largest in Scotland) is named the Isle of Lewis and Harris. However, mountains divide the island into two; Lewis covers the two-thirds to the north, while Harris occupies the southern third. Despite sharing an island, Lewis and Harris have many linguistic and cultural differences, making both unique to explore.
For many travellers, Stornoway becomes a highlight of a longer journey. Our Highland and Hebridean Luxury Scotland Holiday includes time in Stornoway (and the Isle of Harris), combining the island’s unique culture with the grandeur of the Highlands. Alternatively, if you prefer a tailor-made itinerary, Stornoway can be seamlessly included in one of our bespoke tours of Scotland to suit your travel style.
Despite its modest size, Stornoway offers a pleasing variety of accommodation. Whether you are drawn to luxury, boutique elegance, or practical comfort, the following Stornoway hotels stand out for their quality and character.
Together, these properties represent the best places to stay in Stornoway, catering to different travel preferences while maintaining the warm Hebridean welcome for which the Scottish islands are known.
Are you planning to explore more of this incredible region? Be sure to read our Guide to the Scottish Islands when you have finished here.
Stornoway is more than a stopping point; it is a destination in its own right, offering a unique cultural and natural experience. The Isle of Lewis and Harris is a hub of Gaelic culture, with Stornoway at the heart of Hebridean traditions. The annual HebCelt Festival brings world-class musicians to the town, while throughout the year you can hear Gaelic spoken in shops, cafés, and music venues.
If you’re a history enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of landmarks and attractions to capture your imagination, too. Lews Castle not only offers striking architecture but also houses a museum and archive that tells the story of the islands, including the famed Lewis Chessmen. You can also find various Blackhouses, including the Arnol Blackhouse, Carloway Broch, and the Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln. Looking to pick up some authentic tweed during your trip? The town of Shawbost is famous for producing the world-renowned Harris Tweed.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, the local cuisine will see you right. Stornoway is famous for its black pudding, recognised internationally as one of Scotland’s finest delicacies. Add some of the freshest local seafood you can imagine and you have a true taste of the islands.
Stornoway is also a gateway to exploration. From the town, it is easy to reach some of the Outer Hebrides’ most extraordinary sights. Harris is home to the stunning Luskentyre Beach, a vast stretch of white sand lapped by turquoise waters. To the west, the prehistoric Callanish Standing Stones offer a glimpse into ancient life on the islands. For lovers of the outdoors, the moors, lochs, and coastline provide endless opportunities for walking, photography, and wildlife watching.
Put simply, Stornoway blends convenience with authenticity. It allows you to stay in comfort while being fully immersed in Hebridean life. This corner of Scotland is a joy to explore, so it’s perhaps no surprise that we included the Isle of Lewis in our picks for the best Scottish Islands to visit.
With its combination of cultural vibrancy, natural beauty, and a range of high-quality hotels, Stornoway is a superb base for exploring the Outer Hebrides. Whether you choose the grandeur of Lews Castle, the comfort of the Royal Hotel, or the charm of a boutique stay, Stornoway accommodation offers something for every discerning traveller.
If you wish to experience Stornoway as part of a wider journey, our 10-day Highland and Hebridean Luxury Scotland Tour provides the perfect introduction. Alternatively, we can create a bespoke Scotland tour with a custom itinerary, ensuring your Scottish adventure is tailored entirely to you.
Explore our full Accommodation Guide for more inspiration, or get in touch to begin planning your private tour.