Port
Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland, United Kingdom
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$120
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
On foot, you'll skirt the Stornoway seafront and admire the colorful fishing boats. Cross the bridge and follow the pathway along the coastline. Listen to fascinating local stories and learn about Stornoway's rich history.
Climb through the grounds that were originally laid out as part of Lews Castle's formal gardens, built on the foundations of an estate house dating back to 1680. Here, grazing land was transformed into extensive woodlands, large gardens, and a conservatory complex to house a wide range of native and exotic plant species.
Finally, you'll reach the impressive mock Tudor castle. Lavishly appointed, Lews Castle is a Victorian-era home built on the back of opium money by the island's one-time owner, Sir James Matheson. Enjoy an exclusive tour of the castle and learn about its service during the Second World War, when the house was used as a naval hospital. The castle has now been restored with a multi-million-dollar renovation that provides exclusive hotel accommodation and a state-of-the-art museum and interpretative center. Your tour is followed by refreshments.
Stepping outside, you'll wander among the groomed woodlands which fell into a wild state during the war. The fantastic glasshouses that were here also slipped into dilapidation, and those have been replaced by the custom-built Museum for the Hebrides. Your time in the museum will expand your understanding of ancient life on these windswept isles.
Notes: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Tour requires approximately two hours of walking. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, inclines, gravel, grass, and steps.