Entirely unpretentious, the town exists mainly as a supply point for the 20,000 island population, as a ferry port, as a fishing port and as an administrative centre.

There is an eclectic mix of architecture, ranging from traditional Scottish style gentlemens' residences, the ultra modern new arts and sports centres to brightly painted new mews houses.

While the industrial area at the edge of the town is grey and uninteresting, the town centre is bright, cheerful and bustling.

The shops are mostly privately owned, so the range of products on offer is much more individual than you find on the multiple store dominated high streets of the mainland. There are book and record shops, a locally owned department store, a fabulous jewellery and gift shop, packed with island crafted silver, an excellent tourist information office and much more. Above all, our experience of shopping here is that it's a much friendlier activity than on the mainland. Stornoway is also the main centre for eating out in the area. More information on the shopping page and on the eating out page.

At the harbour, fishing boats unload their catches, pleasure yachts and small cruise ships visit and the ferry brings vistors and essential lorry loads of supplies.

When you tire of mooching around the streets and quay sides, take refreshment, perhaps at the excellent library coffee shop, which offers a choice to rival any you'd find in a fashionable capital, or at the Woodland Centre - just a stroll from the town centre - where you can sit out in the sun and enjoy the views. While there, you can enjoy a walk in the grounds of Lews Castle, a large house built for Lord Leverhulme, which is surrounded by extensive woodland and parkland.

While the spring and summer weather here can be much sunnier and drier than some people expect, if it does rain during your stay, why not take the opportunity to visit the interesting local museum, enjoy activities at the new sports centre?