Lewis Art & Culture: Top 5 Spots You Absolutely Can’t Miss

The Isle of Lewis, found way out in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, is that special place almost overflowing with wild beauty and a really deep-rooted culture. From standing stones that are very old to art that is really quite modern, Lewis offers some striking experiences for any culture lover. So, here’s a close look at five must-see spots that do a lot to display the real heart of Lewis’ art and culture. You know, those special places that will really stick with you. Ready to check out the cultural highlights of the Isle of Lewis? Then, Isle of Lewis: More Details Here.

1. Calanais Standing Stones: Whispers of the Ancients

Of course, no tour looking at the art and culture of Lewis would even start without stopping at the Calanais Standing Stones. Or Callanish, as they’re often called. These stones are not just a group of rocks; rather they’re almost like voices from the past. Thought to have been put there around 3000 BC, which is really long ago, they stand there on that rugged land, so overlooking everything, and make us think about all the ancient people who lived on this island. I mean, it’s almost mystical, right?

Visiting Calanais is really very much more than a history lesson; it’s sort of a really emotional thing. Standing among these old stones, I found myself thinking about the lives, the ceremonies, and the beliefs of the people who set them up way back when. It is that kind of experience which kinda gets you. The main stone circle, with its long rows coming off it, creates a space that’s almost mysterious and just perfect for anyone wanting to feel close to Scotland’s really rich past. To maybe find out even more, you can See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Calanais Stones). It seems that it makes the past seem not that far away. Read our full review: Calanais Standing Stones Full Review and Details.

2. Lews Castle Museum & Archive: Stories Etched in Stone and Time

Perched overlooking Stornoway Harbour is that really stately Lews Castle, which now is home to the Lews Castle Museum & Archive. The museum does a lot to show the story of the Isle of Lewis, taking in everything from its really geologic roots to its maritime adventures and really social changes over the years. Basically it’s an overlook on how Lewis has developed. You see that?

The exhibits inside Lews Castle Museum give us those great insights into island life; I mean those exhibits almost cover every subject you can imagine! You have stuff there about the sea and tweed and religion. It really paints a detailed view of the cultural background that forms the island. The museum does have an archive with a really huge collection of records, documents and photographs that tell the many stories of the islanders themselves. Walking through the halls and looking at everything on show made me really aware of how strong a tie the people have to the land, along with their determination over the years. For prices and visiting hours, you can See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lews Castle Museum). Read our full review: Lews Castle Museum Full Review and Details.

3. Gearrannan Blackhouse Village: A Step Back in Time

To know just how people actually used to live, one place you just must visit is Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. It is that nicely preserved collection of traditional blackhouses that does give us an awesome view into the rough, yet real, lifestyle of crofters in Lewis. It’s one thing to read about it and a totally different thing to almost step into the old ways.

Each blackhouse is almost a personal window into what life used to be like. They show that special bond between those families and the landscape that really defined the Isle of Lewis. These old stone buildings, complete with thatched roofs, show how inventive people were when using what was available to hand to build lasting houses. Taking a stroll around the village, you know, made me appreciate how resourceful people needed to be, and also just how important the idea of having a community was, in handling what Mother Nature threw at them every day. It gets you thinking a little. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Gearrannan Village). Read our full review: Gearrannan Blackhouse Village Full Review and Details.

4. An Lanntair Arts Centre: Contemporary Creativity

An Lanntair Arts Centre, smack dab in Stornoway, that place serves as the modern heart of the island’s creative output. It is not just a building; actually, it is almost a really vibrant community space, putting on anything from cool art shows and gigs to films and theatrical productions. All this showcases a commitment to really promote the local artists as well as bringing culture from around the world to Lewis. Isn’t that cool?

During my visit to An Lanntair, I did find that the diverse program of events was really engaging, you know? The exhibitions push people to consider a variety of different viewpoints, while that performance calendar gives a platform for both fresh, new talent and more established artists. Catching a show here gave me a sense of what modern Lewis culture really looked like—a vibrant blend of the past and present, with a strong emphasis put on creativity. Find what exhibitions they are displaying today when you See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (An Lanntair Arts Centre). Read our full review: An Lanntair Arts Centre Full Review and Details.

5. Uig Museum: Stories from the Westside

Way off on the west coast of Lewis is the little gem called the Uig Museum. While it may be kinda smaller than some other spots, it offers that incredibly unique, focused look at the history and traditions of the Uig area. And you’ll probably see that.

One thing that I discovered was, the museum is all about preserving stories that you might never get to hear otherwise. One of those stories is the really world famous Lewis Chessmen, which are some cool medieval chess pieces that they actually found in Uig. That story about those chess pieces does capture your imagination. That museum also features a variety of cool exhibits showing the social history, the crafts, and of course, the stories about the locals, all of which bring a personal touch to that experience. Taking that time to go to the Uig Museum really enhanced the awareness and the respect I had for that area’s unique cultural traditions. If you want to know when this beautiful museum is open, then See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Uig Museum). Read our full review: Uig Museum Full Review and Details.

The Isle of Lewis isn’t just a pretty place; almost all the time, it gives you experiences. Getting close to all the art and culture really does uncover that spirit of this place. Getting around those old stones at Callanish or stepping into the old blackhouses at Gearrannan or feeling what the buzz is over at An Lanntair you get a nice, real experience that digs down deep. So I suggest that you take that tour to Lewis; actually, it would probably change the way you see the world.

Read our full review: Isle of Lewis: Travel and Accommodations