Which town on the Isle of Lewis has an airport?

Air Travel

By Kristy Tolley

The Isle of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis is the largest island in the Outer Hebrides, an archipelago located off the west coast of Scotland. It is a popular destination for tourists who are attracted by its rugged coastline, stunning beaches, and ancient history. The island has a rich cultural heritage, with Gaelic being the main language spoken by many of its inhabitants.

The Geography of the Isle of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis is about 80 miles long, with a surface area of approximately 683 square miles. It is mostly flat in the north but becomes more mountainous in the south. The coastline is dotted with numerous bays and inlets, providing ample opportunities for water-based activities. The island is connected to the mainland by a series of causeways and ferries, making it easily accessible to visitors.

Airports on the Isle of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis has two airports, both of which are located in the north of the island. The larger of the two is Stornoway Airport, which is situated just outside the town of Stornoway. The other airport is located in the village of Balivanich on the nearby island of Benbecula.

The Towns of the Isle of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis has several towns and villages, each with its own distinct character and history. The largest town is Stornoway, which is also the administrative center of the island. Other notable towns include Carloway, Ness, and Barvas.

The Towns with Airports on the Isle of Lewis

As previously mentioned, Stornoway and Balivanich are the two towns on the Isle of Lewis that have airports. Of the two, Stornoway is the larger and more developed, with a wider range of amenities and attractions for visitors.

Stornoway: The Largest Town on the Isle of Lewis

Stornoway is the largest town on the Isle of Lewis, with a population of approximately 8,000 people. It is a bustling port town that serves as the commercial and cultural center of the island. Stornoway has a rich history, with many historical sites and landmarks that are popular with tourists.

The Stornoway Airport

Stornoway Airport is a small regional airport that serves the Outer Hebrides. It is located approximately three miles east of the town of Stornoway and has a single runway. The airport is owned and operated by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), which is a public corporation that manages several airports in Scotland.

The Capacity and Facilities of the Stornoway Airport

Stornoway Airport has a maximum capacity of approximately 300,000 passengers per year. It has a small terminal building that offers basic amenities such as a café, a shop, and public restrooms. The airport is serviced by several airlines, including British Airways, Eastern Airways, and Loganair.

Other Airports on the Isle of Lewis

In addition to Stornoway Airport, the Isle of Lewis also has a smaller airport located in the village of Balivanich on the nearby island of Benbecula. This airport is serviced by Loganair and offers flights to several destinations in Scotland and the Western Isles.

The Accessibility of the Towns on the Isle of Lewis

Despite being a relatively remote destination, the towns on the Isle of Lewis are easily accessible by air, road, and sea. Visitors can fly into Stornoway Airport or take a ferry from the mainland. Once on the island, there are several bus services and car rental companies that provide transportation to the various towns and villages.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Town on the Isle of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis is a beautiful and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there is plenty to see and do on this rugged and scenic island. For those who are planning a visit, choosing the right town can make all the difference. Stornoway is the largest and most developed town on the island, with the most amenities and attractions for visitors. However, each of the other towns and villages has its own unique character and charm, and visitors are encouraged to explore them all.

References: Sources for Further Information

  • Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL)
  • Visit Outer Hebrides
  • Undiscovered Scotland: Isle of Lewis
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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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