Port
Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland, United Kingdom
Activity Level
Moderate
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$89.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
2½ 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.
Pass 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. During the Second World War, the house was used as a naval hospital, the groomed woodlands fell into a wild state, and the fantastic glasshouses slipped into dilapidation. On the former site of the glasshouses, you'll find the custom-built Museum for the Hebrides. The castle has been restored with a multi-million-dollar renovation that provides exclusive hotel accommodation and a state-of-the-art museum and interpretative center.
Visit the museum before exploring the castle and returning the ship independently.
Notes:
Tour does not operate on Sundays. Museum is closed on Mondays. Participants must be able to walk and stand for 2.5 hours. Walking distance is 1.5 miles. The inside visit is unguided. The excursion ends at the castle. Guests wishing to stay in town to shop or explore independently are welcome to do so but must make their own way back to the ship.