Introducing Stornoway (Steornabhagh)

Stornoway is the bustling ‘capital’ of the Outer Hebrides and the only real town in the whole archipelago. It’s a surprisingly busy little place, with cars and people swamping the centre on weekdays. Though set on a beautiful natural harbour, the town isn’t going to win any prizes for beauty or atmosphere, but it’s a pleasant enough introduction to this remote corner of the country.

Stornoway is the Outer Hebrides’ administrative and commercial centre, home to the Western Isles Council (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar) and the islands’ Gaelic TV and radio stations. It turns into a bit of a ghost town on Sundays, especially between 11am and 12.30pm when almost everyone is at church.