Today we woke up early, as we docked at the brand new Stornoway Cruise Terminal. The Captain claims (incorrectly) that Island Princess is the first ship ever to dock there, which is pretty cool, although the locals decided not to lay on a marching band.
The main body of the new dock is complete, but work is ongoing to finish the surface. We would also expect to see some more ‘permanent’ Stornoway Cruise Terminal buildings at some point in the future.
One thing to note is that the terminal is really close to Stornoway town centre – as the crow flies. But actually getting there means skirting the old inner harbour. Walking through the nearby Lews Castle estate will take around 45 minutes each way.
The good news is that the local tourism association has laid on free transfer buses into town – a 15 minute journey from the Stornoway Cruise Terminal into the town centre. There’s also a special ‘space’ on board for mobility scooters and wheelchairs – and Linda is invited to jump the line to take advantage of it.
Lovely Lews Castle
Once off the bus, we head north towards Lews Castle. The terrain is bumpy and steep, but the estate is pretty. Much of the castle is apparently a luxury hotel, although the ground floor is open to the public – for free.
It’s a nice enough stately home, but Lews Castle appears to be missing many of its original features. The roof beams in the ballroom retain mere fragments of the original gold paintwork for instance. There’s a café if you want to stop for a coffee, and the sloping lawns behind the castle provide a great view across the town – and the new Stornoway Cruise Terminal at Cuddy Point.
Trundling in town
Heading back down the hill, we decide to take a loop of the town centre, grabbing a few geocaches (GC3H8NW, GC36HF6, GC3H8PQ) on the way. Stornoway has several sculptures commemorating the fishing trade and most have an accompanying geocache. Thankfully none of them are too difficult to find.
Top tip: The pavements (sidewalks) are uniformly rough, making for a very uncomfortable ride around town. It may be worth packing a spare cushion for your trip.
Shops-wise, Stornoway is an odd mix. Banks, estate agents and charity shops rub shoulders with high-end gift shops and lower-tier tourist tat shops touting Harris Tweed knick knacks and highland cow toys. There’s something for everyone – and every budget.
Back on board Island Princess, we notice three seals lazing on a rock just beyond our balcony. None of them seem remotely bothered by our enormous cruise ship.
The sail out of Stornaway Cruise Terminal is impressive, allowing us to admire the Isle of Lewis coastline. The landscape can easily rival any of the other countries we have visited in the last three weeks and I feel maybe I have underrated Scotland in the past…
Accessibility info
Batteries required: 2
Battery rating: -133%
Things to do in Stornoway
So you’ve made it into port. Now what? Here are the top rated excursions for Stornoway:
1. Day Tour of the Isle of Lewis
Your adventure begins at the dramatic Butt of Lewis, the northernmost tip of the island, where towering cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean and seabirds soar above in their thousands. Keep an eye out for gannets, Arctic terns, and shags as you breathe in the fresh sea air at what is officially the windiest spot in the UK—a true taste of the Outer Hebrides’ wild spirit.
From here, the tour sweeps westward across the island, where history and heritage come alive. Step back in time at the Arnol Blackhouse, a beautifully preserved croft dwelling that shows how families once lived alongside their animals. Continue on to the impressive Carloway Broch, a striking Iron Age stone tower offering glimpses into ancient island life.
The grand finale awaits at the awe-inspiring Calanais Standing Stones. Rising proudly from the Lewis landscape for more than 5,000 years, this mysterious stone circle rivals Stonehenge with its majesty and mystery. Surrounded by sweeping views of moorland and sea, it’s the perfect ending to a journey rich in both natural wonder and ancient history.
Learn more
2. Harris Tweed Story Room with Guide
Step into the timeless world of Harris Tweed with an immersive experience that brings this iconic fabric’s history and heritage vividly to life. Discover how this globally renowned cloth, handwoven exclusively in the Outer Hebrides, has journeyed from humble island beginnings to international acclaim.
Your guided tour unveils the extraordinary story behind Harris Tweed, from its industrial roots to the traditions still upheld today. Gain a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the mills, where centuries of skill and strict regulations ensure every piece of tweed carries its famous Orb mark of authenticity.
The highlight is a live demonstration on a working loom, where you’ll watch a master weaver at their craft. Feel the rhythm of the loom, hear the clatter of the shuttle, and witness the meticulous care that goes into every thread. More than just a tour, this is an unforgettable encounter with living island heritage—woven into the very fabric of Lewis and Harris.
Learn more
Article continues after the jump…
Please note that we use sponsored links on this blog. Although we may earn a referral fee or bonus points on some of these products and services mentioned, we never recommend anything we wouldn’t use ourselves.
Check out our full Affiliate Disclosure Policy for more info.
