Lews Castle & Museum nan Eilean
Caisteal Leòdhais
A Victorian castle across the bay from Stornoway harbour, housing the Museum nan Eilean. It displays genuine examples of the six Lewis chessmen.
Lews Castle was built in the mid-19th century by James Matheson, a merchant who had made his fortune in the opium trade. The museum inside, the Museum nan Eilean, tells the story of the Outer Hebrides and Gaelic culture. Some of the 12th-century Lewis chessmen are on display on a long-term basis, on loan from the British Museum and the National Museum of Scotland. Admission is free. Around the castle is a large wooded park with walking paths, cycle routes, and a golf course, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Stornoway
- HMY Iolaire Memorial
- St Columba's Church, Ui
- Clach an Truiseil
- Bridge to Nowhere & Garry Beach
- Arnol Blackhouse
- Tiumpan Head
- St Moluag's Church (Teampull Mholuaidh)