Stornoway, the largest town in the Hebrides, offers a unique blend of rich Scottish history, stunning natural scenery, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Nestled on the eastern shores of Lewis, Stornoway has a range of residential areas suitable for various lifestyles, from urban conveniences to serene rural experiences. This article provides a detailed overview of the best residential areas in Stornoway, highlighting their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Town Centre
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
The Town Centre of Stornoway is bustling with life, offering a mix of shops, cafes, and services. Residents enjoy the convenience of being close to key amenities and community activities.
Characteristics of the Town Centre
* Culture: Rich local culture with artisanal shops and historical sites
* Transportation: Well-connected by bus and walking-friendly
* Services: Grocery stores, restaurants, health services, and leisure facilities
* Environment: Vibrant and sociable
Housing Options in the Town Centre
Flats, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Town Centre
* Buying: £150,000 – £250,000
* Renting: £600 – £800/month
Sandwick
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Sandwick is a picturesque suburb just south of the town, known for its stunning coastal views and family-friendly atmosphere. It is perfect for those who enjoy a quieter environment while still being close to the town center.
Characteristics of the Sandwick
* Culture: Community-driven culture with access to local events
* Transportation: Buses available; walking paths to the town
* Services: Local shops, schools, and parks
* Environment: Family-oriented and peaceful
Housing Options in the Sandwick
Detached homes, Semi-detached properties
Average Home Prices in the Sandwick
* Buying: £200,000 – £300,000
* Renting: £700 – £1,000/month
Bayhead
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Located on the western edge of Stornoway, Bayhead offers stunning views of the landscape and proximity to the shore. This area is characterized by its picturesque setting and vibrant community.
Characteristics of the Bayhead
* Culture: Artistic community with a focus on local crafts
* Transportation: Good connections to the town via footpaths
* Services: Close to the marina and recreational facilities
* Environment: Scenic and creative
Housing Options in the Bayhead
Cottages, Bungalows
Average Home Prices in the Bayhead
* Buying: £175,000 – £275,000
* Renting: £650 – £900/month
Laxdale
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Laxdale is a suburban area to the north of Stornoway, known for its spacious homes and family-friendly environment. It offers a great balance of urban and rural living.
Characteristics of the Laxdale
* Culture: Community spirit with regular local events
* Transportation: Buses operate frequently, and it's close to bike paths
* Services: Schools, small shops, and recreational spaces
* Environment: Relaxed and welcoming
Housing Options in the Laxdale
Family homes, Larger apartments
Average Home Prices in the Laxdale
* Buying: £230,000 – £350,000
* Renting: £700 – £1,000/month
Marybank
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Marybank is a small village located a short distance from Stornoway, ideal for those interested in rural living with easy access to the town’s amenities. It is known for its friendly community and scenic surroundings.
Characteristics of the Marybank
* Culture: Strong community culture with village events and activities
* Transportation: Requires a car for full access; limited bus service
* Services: Basic amenities, with more options available in Stornoway
* Environment: Tranquil and community-focused
Housing Options in the Marybank
Villas, Traditional houses
Average Home Prices in the Marybank
* Buying: £150,000 – £225,000
* Renting: £600 – £800/month
Stornoway East
(Image for illustration purposes only.)
Stornoway East features a mix of both residential and commercial properties, making it ideal for individuals and families looking for convenience and access to various services.
Characteristics of the Stornoway East
* Culture: Diverse cultural backdrop with local businesses
* Transportation: Excellent public transport connections
* Services: Variety of shops, schools, and recreational facilities
* Environment: Dynamic and convenient
Housing Options in the Stornoway East
Apartments, Townhouses
Average Home Prices in the Stornoway East
* Buying: £175,000 – £250,000
* Renting: £650 – £900/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Stornoway:
The best residential areas include the Town Centre, Sandwick, Bayhead, Laxdale, Marybank, and Stornoway East, each offering unique characteristics and amenities.
Sandwick and Laxdale are both highly regarded for their family-friendly environments, with access to schools and parks.
The average cost of buying a home varies by area, ranging from £150,000 to £350,000, depending on location and property type.
Yes, Stornoway is served by several schools, including primary and secondary institutions, particularly in family-oriented areas like Sandwick and Laxdale.
Stornoway has a good transport network with bus services connecting various parts of the town and surrounding areas. Walking and biking are also popular.
Stornoway is considered a safe place to live, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community.
The Town Centre offers a wide range of amenities, including grocery stores, cafes, restaurants, health services, and recreational facilities.
Areas like Bayhead and Marybank provide great access to nature, with stunning coastal views and walking paths.
Yes, there are various rental options available, particularly in the Town Centre and Sandwick, with prices varying by type and location.
Stornoway has a vibrant cultural scene, with local festivals, markets, and community events that reflect the rich Gaelic heritage of the area.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Stornoway:
Stornoway boasts a variety of residential areas catering to different lifestyles and needs. Whether you prefer the vibrancy of the Town Centre, the tranquility of Sandwick, or the family-friendly environments of Laxdale and Marybank, there is something for everyone. With its strong sense of community, access to nature, and rich cultural heritage, Stornoway presents an attractive option for homebuyers and renters alike. Understanding what each district offers will help you make an informed decision about your ideal living situation.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in property. I combine technology and analysis to help you discover the best places to live.