Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean

The Museum & Tasglann nan Eilean in Stornoway features background and history of the culture of the Outer Hebrides. It also features artefacts dating from prehistory to the present day, and a public archive. It is situated in the grounds of Lews Castle, in a building inspired by the former glasshouses. The museum introduces life in the Outer Hebrides from prehistory to the present including archaeological finds on loan from National Museum Scotland. The gift shop has a small range of individual replicas of the Lewis Chessman available for purchase.

I do really loved the place. So much to get to know about people themselves (Islanders). Eeach person = one story. If you have some time to spare, definitely worth going there. Btw no need to follow google maps route to the roundabout when walking, there is a direct shortcut with signs straight to the castle museum few meters before.

Very interesting to visit, very friendly volunteers, i especially did like the room where you can see the island trough the seasons, mòran taing, thig mi air ais gu cinnteach.

Fairly small but very well presented museum with lots of multimedia exhibits telling the fascinating story of island life, the highlight being some of the famous Lewis chessmen. Entry is free and includes access to the downstairs rooms of the adjacent Lews Castle. There’s also a cafe. Staff are super friendly and welcoming. If you have time, the castle grounds make for a lovely walk - climb up to Gallows Hill for some nice views over the water to Stornoway town and port.

A wonderful, quiet and insightful muesum focusing on the way of life of Gaelic people in the Isle of Lewis. It focuses mostly on the people themselves, and their way of life during a transitionary period in history. It was insightful, but I personally found the lack of coverage on historical events and other time periods a bit lacking. If you are, however, interested in the Gaelic way of life and language then this is the best place in Stornoway for it!

Not a large museum but a "boutique" exhibition that shows a snapshot of life on Harris and Lewis. The individual rooms are well put together with both visual and audio information. The Lewis Chessmen were,of course,a highlight. The background information on their discovery was well presented. Guides are on hand for any questions.There is a small gift shop and admission is by donation,a suggested £5. There is also a cafe.

We went in Sunday when the museum is closed. The ground floor of the grand house was open and we had lunch there. I was told there were no more eggs but later discovered someone receiving scrambled eggs. Disappointing. Food was fine but not exciting. You order and it arrives at your table. Staff are young and enthusiastic. Coffee was ok but not great. But I guess it was good it was open on a Sunday.

We had a lovely time at the museum and loved how immersive the experience was, especially the film at the beginning. It was also brilliant to see and hear so much Gaelic all around - chòrd sin rinn glan! Would absolutely recommend a visit, followed by some coffee and cake in the castle.

Museum nan Eilean is the only museum on the Island. It is easy to find and get to buy foot or car. It is a 5 minute walk from the town centre or there is ample parking around should you drive. It's not a big museum like the ones on the mainland but even so it is still packed with fascinating displays and artefacts. The main display is usually upstairs with one or two members of staff there for help. The displays are always labelled well with lots of information. There is plenty space to move around without bumping into others whilst still being able to see the display. It is usually opened all day during the summer and reduced hours/closed over winter. Opening hours can usually be found on their website.