Lewis and Harris
The isles of Lewis and Harris lie 30 miles off the North-West coast of Scotland. Lewis has a population of over 20,000 and Harris a population over 2,000. The main centre of population is the town of Stornoway in Lewis. Lewis is mainly rolling moorland and low-lying hills with numerous fresh water lochs. The adjoining isle of Harris is mountainous, a challenge for climbers, walkers and mountain-bikers. The rocky, knarly, jagged east coast is in stark contrast to the west coast with its miles of unadulterated sandy beaches.
Sunset across Broad Bay
This island group, at one time much more densely populated than it is today, was once vital to European commercial shipping which took advantage of the Trade winds and the Drift current in the north Atlantic in order to circumnavigate the Globe under sail. The Hebrides, encouraged by their geographic significance of the time, have a rich and absorbing recent history with an abundance of colourful characters.
With the advent of the steam and diesel engine the area became marginalised economically, as it remains today - the north west frontier of Europe.
Sundays in Lewis and Harris are quiet with no public transport running. There are flights to and from the island on Sunday and the ferry link also operates on Sunday. Shops are closed on Sunday with the exception of one convenience store and petrol station in the town of Stornoway. Hotels are open for teas/coffee, meals, etc, with some bars open to the public for part of the day and evening.
A walk in the woods - Stornoway
Things to do
Pubs and clubs There are a number of public and lounge bars throughout the islands with the main entertainments focused in Stornoway. There are establishments in Stornoway which are peaceful, friendly and quiet. There are some which are not so quiet and a few that are totally bonkers at weekends. Entertainments range from discos and clubs to ceilidhs and events for those of a more traditional taste who may wish to experience earlier and current island culture.
Places to eat There are a variety of places to eat out - various restaurants of different nationalities, cafes, tea-rooms and hotel restaurant/dining rooms. There are a surprising number of take-aways, including Thai, Indian deli, Indian Balti, Chinese, Peking cuisine, traditional fish and chips, pizza's and burgers.
Local wild-life walks, talks and exhibitions - ornithology, archeology - ask at the Tourist Information Centre for current event timetable. During the summer months there are various events in Stornoway such as Fish Festival, Sailing Regatta, Rowing Regatta, Raft races, Carnival, Music Festivals, Arts Festivals, Athletics, Agricultural Shows, etc.
