Stornoway Historical Society

We hope you enjoy exploring our features and gallery, whether you’re a Stornoway local or just curious about our island. If you have memories to share or questions for us, please reach out. You might even help us correct any inaccuracies!

In local parlance, we say “haoidh coves and blones – any yarns down the vile?”

The Name Stornoway

The name Stornoway, or ‘Steornabhagh’ in Scottish Gaelic, comes from ‘Sjornavagr’, the Old Norse for ‘steering bay’. Settled since Viking times, Stornoway also shows evidence of Neolithic activity nearby. Discover the rich history and community spirit that define our town, where every street tells a story.