Attractions and Places To See around Back - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Back encompass a range of historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic routes on the island of Lewis and Harris. This region, situated in the Outer Hebrides, features dramatic coastal landscapes and extensive moorland. Stornoway, the main town, provides cultural landmarks and facilities. Visitors can explore a mix of man-made structures and natural formations.
Best attractions and places to see around Back
- The most popular attractions is Lews Castle, a castle that is…
Last updated: June 18, 2026
Lews Castle
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Traigh Ghioradail Arch
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Mòinteach Leòdhais Road
Highlight • Cycleway
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Stornoway Town Hall
Highlight • Historical Site
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Fisherwoman Statue at Stornoway Harbour
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful castle with impressive rooms and gardens. The souvenir shop is worth a visit and there‘s also a Starbucks café inside!
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When you stop by don‘t miss the Harris Tweed exhibition on 1st floor by the Harris Tweed Authority!
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Lews Castle is a very impressive former stately home that now boasts function rooms, a cafe and accommodation too. Designed by architect Charles Wilson, the building dates back to 1851. The modern annex is the Museum nan Eilean Stornoway, where you can learn more about the archipelago's rich culture.
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I wouldn't have been able to complete this challenging route in rubber boots, but even now, in the dry height of summer, it was very wet. The Goretex hiking boots were sufficient. Otherwise, you'd get pretty dirty. The view down to the archway is irresistible 🩵
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A tip doesn't get any better if you keep writing the same words for about 40 "highlights" and add a lot of wrong pictures.
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The castle is now a hotel/holiday apartments, so you CANNOT tour it in its entirety! Non-residents, however, have access to the ground floor during the café's opening hours. Storehouse Cafe - Lews Castle https://share.google/fTN7Xzmct2DlACoXl Also located here is the highly recommended Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean https://share.google/hN2uyRJPYXvdC3RT3 Currently featuring 6 "Lewis Chessman" pieces as a special exhibition, highly recommended! There's also a souvenir shop with lots of Harris Tweed (prices like everywhere else), and you can admire the ballroom from the outside. That's it - I still found it extremely worthwhile!
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The route is very wet and muddy after rain. Rubber boots are recommended.
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Lews Castle is beautifully situated in parkland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Back?
Yes, Lews Castle is a great option for families. It's a Victorian-era castle set within manicured parkland, offering a museum, cultural centre, and a cafe. The grounds are perfect for a stroll, and the museum provides an educational experience about the Outer Hebrides' culture.
What historical sites can I visit in the Back area?
The region offers several historical sites. Lews Castle, built in 1851, is a prominent Victorian-era landmark now housing a museum. In Stornoway, you can also visit Stornoway Town Hall, dating from 1903, which remains the administrative seat of the town.
Where can I experience the natural beauty of the Back region?
For dramatic natural scenery, head to Traigh Ghioradail Arch, where you'll find impressive clifftops with views down to sea stacks and natural arches. Another option is the Mòinteach Leòdhais Road, which traverses the expansive Black Moor, offering wide-open views of the natural landscape.
What cycling opportunities are available near Back's attractions?
The Mòinteach Leòdhais Road is a notable cycle way traversing the Black Moor, known for its long, exposed stretches and expansive views. For more cycling routes, including options for touring and road cycling, you can explore the dedicated guides like Cycling around Back and Road Cycling Routes around Back.
Are there hiking trails near these attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The parkland surrounding Lews Castle offers pleasant walking paths. For more extensive options, explore the Hiking around Back guide, which includes trails like the moderate 'View of Stornoway – Lews Castle loop' and the 'Tràigh Mhòr Beach – Mangurstadh Natural Arch loop'.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Back?
Yes, several attractions in the area are wheelchair-accessible. The Fisherwoman Statue at Stornoway Harbour and Stornoway Town Hall are both noted as accessible. The grounds of Lews Castle also offer accessible pathways.
What can I see and do in Stornoway, the main town?
Stornoway, as the main town on Lewis and Harris, offers cultural landmarks and facilities. You can visit the historic Stornoway Town Hall and the Fisherwoman Statue at Stornoway Harbour. Lews Castle, with its museum and parkland, is also located nearby and easily accessible from Stornoway.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Back?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and dramatic natural landscapes. The impressive architecture and cultural insights at Lews Castle are highly rated, as are the expansive, wild views along the Mòinteach Leòdhais Road and the stunning coastal formations at Traigh Ghioradail Arch.
Are there any cafes or facilities available at the attractions?
Yes, Lews Castle features a cafe within its cultural centre, making it a convenient stop for refreshments. Stornoway, being the main town, also offers various cafes and facilities close to attractions like the Fisherwoman Statue and Stornoway Town Hall.
What kind of natural monuments can I expect to see?
The region is home to striking natural monuments, such as the Traigh Ghioradail Arch. This site features dramatic clifftops and offers views of sea stacks and natural arches formed by the powerful Atlantic. The expansive moorland traversed by the Mòinteach Leòdhais Road also provides a sense of untouched natural grandeur.
Is the area suitable for intermediate-level outdoor activities?
Yes, several attractions and routes are suitable for intermediate levels. The Mòinteach Leòdhais Road is an intermediate-level cycle way, and the path to Traigh Ghioradail Arch is also rated as intermediate, sometimes being wet and muddy. The nearby hiking and cycling guides also feature a range of routes, including moderate and difficult options.
Most popular attractions around Back
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