Places to visitIsle of LewisAttractions

Butt of Lewis Lighthouse

4.7
(1497)
•
4.5
(427)
4.7
(1497)
•
4.5
(427)
•#42 on "Top 50 things to do and attractions in Stornoway"
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Hiking area
Lighthouses

About

The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse, a striking red brick structure built in 1862, is perched on a windswept cliff offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Visitors can explore various routes ranging from leisurely strolls to extensive wilderness hikes, encompassing historical landmarks like the ancient stone circles of Calanais and the iconic lighthouse itself. The guide provides detailed maps and captivating photography, covering distances from 4km to 22km and including prominent summits and points of interest.
Why you should go
    1
  1. Enjoy glorious views on sunny days
    2. 2
  2. Opportunity for birdspotting including Fulmars and European Shags
    3. 3
  3. Impressive Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
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Highlighted reviews

Slide 1 of 3
Amazing place, views all round. Small cliffs covered mostly seagulls. Cliff edges looking down on small rocky coves. Chairs for sitting, picnicking and gazing out over the sea. Highly worth a visit a truly magical place. And there is a real working lighthouse
Feel the mighty power of the Atlantic ocean as it crashes into the millennial rocks here, as a variety of seabirds swoop and soar before settling on the cliffs below. There are no facilities other than community-funded toilets which are just fine, but pack a lunch and some waterproofs for a satisfying wander over the machair tracing the northwestern tip of the British Isles.
Amazing scenery looking out from the lighthouse area. Not sure if the lighthouse open to public as well were there on a Sunday. Stunning beach on left as you leave on exit road
Amazing place, views all round. Small cliffs covered mostly seagulls. Cliff edges looking down on small rocky coves. Chairs for sitting, picnicking and gazing out over the sea. Highly worth a visit a truly magical place. And there is a real working lighthouse
Feel the mighty power of the Atlantic ocean as it crashes into the millennial rocks here, as a variety of seabirds swoop and soar before settling on the cliffs below. There are no facilities other than community-funded toilets which are just fine, but pack a lunch and some waterproofs for a satisfying wander over the machair tracing the northwestern tip of the British Isles.
Amazing scenery looking out from the lighthouse area. Not sure if the lighthouse open to public as well were there on a Sunday. Stunning beach on left as you leave on exit road
See all reviews
Map
Address
Lewis and Harris, HS2 0XH, United Kingdom
Website
https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/butt-of-lewis/
Lewis and Harris, HS2 0XH, United Kingdom
People typically spend 15 min to 45 min here
https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/butt-of-lewis/

Know before you go

  • Be cautious of unstable cliff edges as there are no barriers in some areas
  • Visit during low tide for more dramatic views
  • Keep children and pets safe due to dangerous spots around
  • Limited parking available so plan accordingly or consider alternative transportation options

Reviews

The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse is a beautiful spot with glorious views, especially on sunny days. Visitors caution about the unstable cliff edges but appreciate the lovely place to watch crashing waves and birdspotting opportunities. The lighthouse impresses many, along with the habitat for sea birds like Fulmars and European Shags. Some mention the lack of barriers at cliff edges adding an element of thrill while emphasizing safety precautions. The location offers fantastic views, particularly when the tide is out, making it a dramatic sight. Reviewers highlight that children and dogs need to be kept safe due to dangerous spots around. Overall, visitors find it a must-see destination on the island with breathtaking views from all angles despite being really windy in some instances.
Review score
4.7
out of 5
Exceptional
1497 reviews
From Google
Review score
4.5
out of 5
Wonderful
427 reviews
From Tripadvisor
5 stars
1137
4 stars
295
3 stars
55
2 stars
8
1 star
2
5/5Andrew B
•
May 28, 2025 from
Google
Amazing place, views all round. Small cliffs covered mostly seagulls. Cliff edges looking down on small rocky coves. Chairs for sitting, picnicking and gazing out over the sea. Highly worth a visit a truly magical place. And there is a real working lighthouse
5/5Linda
•
Jul 22, 2025 from
Google
Feel the mighty power of the Atlantic ocean as it crashes into the millennial rocks here, as a variety of seabirds swoop and soar before settling on the cliffs below. There are no facilities other than community-funded toilets which are just fine, but pack a lunch and some waterproofs for a satisfying wander over the machair tracing the northwestern tip of the British Isles.
4/5Ajay G
•
Sep 9, 2025 from
Google
Amazing scenery looking out from the lighthouse area. Not sure if the lighthouse open to public as well were there on a Sunday. Stunning beach on left as you leave on exit road
5/5Mac W
•
Sep 29, 2025 from
Google
Brilliant place. Be careful of the sheer drops over the cliff edges. No protection and little warning so if you have kids be extra careful.
5/5Jana M
•
Jul 17, 2025 from
Google
This is a spectacular place which should be visited . It's free of charge including car parking. It is also easy to access for wheelchair and elderly people. The seagulls are everywhere and now with their little ones🤩🤩🤩🤩 you can also see some shags, gannet and Atlantíc grey seals 🦭 Additionally, bench with wooden table is here for picnic if you want to bring your own food and public bathroom. I am highly recommending visiting this fabulous beautiful place. And the sheep are all around walking freely.
All Google Maps reviews
All Tripadvisor reviews
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Map
Address
Lewis and Harris, HS2 0XH, United Kingdom
Website
https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/butt-of-lewis/
Lewis and Harris, HS2 0XH, United Kingdom
People typically spend 15 min to 45 min here
https://www.nlb.org.uk/lighthouses/butt-of-lewis/
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