A Visitor's Guide to Getting Around Stornoway

Nestled in the heart of Scotland's wind-swept Outer Hebrides, Stornoway beckons with its unique blend of serene landscapes and vibrant local culture. As you step off the plane at Stornoway airport or disembark from the Stornoway ferry, the crisp, salty air of the Atlantic greets you, promising adventure and tranquillity.

Welcome to Stornoway

Upon arriving, you'll find that getting around Stornoway and other areas of The Hebrides offers a variety of scenic pleasures and things to do along the way. The modes of transport available cater to different preferences and needs, providing each visitor with a bespoke experience of this charming town.

Learn more about Stornoway in our short guide to the harbour town here.

A World of Options: Local Transport

Car Hire Stornoway

For those eager to explore at their own pace, hiring a car is a convenient option. Car hire services in Stornoway allow you the freedom to navigate the rolling hills and coastal roads. Experience the lush, rugged landscapes that define the Isle of Lewis with the independence that only a personal vehicle can offer. 

It’s worth noting that while the roads are generally well-maintained, some rural stretches can be narrow and winding, often shared with local wildlife and livestock, adding to the rustic charm of your drive.

There are numerous car rental choices available, such as Carhire Hebrides, which is the sole provider of car hire from Stornoway Airport, Stornoway Car Hire, offering a wide range of vehicles from compact models to larger, multi-seater options, and Stornoway Vehicle Hire, unique in that it allows for pickup on the mainland and drop-off on the islands, or the other way around.

Taxi

For a more relaxed mode of transportation, Stornoway offers a reliable taxi service. The taxi drivers you’ll encounter are friendly and helpful, often eager to highlight notable sights and landmarks along your route while sharing valuable local knowledge and tips.

Taxis are readily available throughout the main town and on most islands. There are many taxi services to choose from, Stornoway Taxi & Courier Services being the longest serving taxi service in the Western Isles and also provides tours around the area.

Bus

Travelling by bus offers not just a ride, but a window to the daily lives of the islanders, accompanied by views of quaint villages and expansive moors that stretch out to the horizon.

If you're arriving by ferry or plane to Stornoway, you can usually continue your journey through the Outer Hebrides by bus, as timetables are designed to accommodate visitors. However, checking the Stornoway bus timetable before arrival is recommended for seamless connections.

Travelling by bus in the Outer Hebrides is cost-effective, but ensure you check bus timetables since some routes don't run daily and may require passengers to inform the driver of their destinations in advance.

Walking and Biking

Stornoway is also friendly for pedestrians and cyclists. The town’s compact size makes it ideal for walking, and there are several scenic trails for those who prefer to explore on two wheels. Cycling along the harbour, you might catch sight of local fishermen unloading their daily catch, framed by the stunning backdrop of the harbour. 

Planning your visit around the summer months will offer the most daylight and generally milder weather, which is perfect for making the most of your trip and means fewer disruptions in getting around Stornoway.

Inter-Island Flights

For those looking to expand their journey beyond Stornoway or are travelling from elsewhere to reach the scenic town, Hebridean Air Services, a proud member of the Airtask Group, offers scheduled inter-island flights between Stornoway and Benbecula.

Our passenger flights provide greater connectivity to surrounding areas, allowing you to visit more of the beautiful landscapes and unique destinations these remote areas have to offer. These flights also provide breathtaking aerial views of the Outer Hebrides, making your journey as scenic as it is convenient.

These flights can be booked directly with Hebridean Air Services here.

You can also get in touch by calling 0845 805 7465 or emailing enquiries@hebridean.com.

Connect with Stornoway

As you plan your trip to Stornoway, consider how you might want to explore. Whether it’s the autonomy of a hired car, witnessing breathtaking aerial views on inter-island flights, living like a local with the use of public transport, or the intimate experience of walking or cycling, each option offers a unique perspective of this enchanting town. 

How will you carve your path through the Hebridean charm?