Ardroil, at the head of Uig Sands (Traigh Uige) on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis, is the largest expanse of beach in the Outer Hebrides. At low tide the sand runs out for the better part of a mile and the sea disappears almost entirely, leaving a pale plain crossed by the river channel.
The Lewis Chessmen
This is where the Lewis Chessmen were found in 1831: ninety-three walrus ivory gaming pieces, carved in Norway in the twelfth century, uncovered in the dunes at Uig. Most are in the British Museum and Museum nan Eilean at Lews Castle in Stornoway holds six of them. A large wooden chessman stands near the beach as a marker.
Getting there
Uig is around 35 miles west of Stornoway and the last stretch is single track, so allow well over an hour. There is a campsite and parking at Ardroil near the shore. Uig Sands Restaurant at Timsgarry is the nearest place to eat. Check the tide times below, because the sands are at their most striking within an hour or two of low water and the incoming tide moves fast across flat ground.
In short
Ardroil at Uig Sands is the largest beach in the Outer Hebrides, on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis about 35 miles from Stornoway on largely single track road. The Lewis Chessmen were found in the dunes here in 1831. There is a campsite and parking near the shore, and the sands are at their best around low tide.
Frequently asked questions
Where were the Lewis Chessmen found?
In the dunes at Uig Sands, beside Ardroil beach on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis, in 1831. There were ninety-three pieces, carved from walrus ivory in Norway in the twelfth century. Most are held by the British Museum, and Museum nan Eilean at Lews Castle in Stornoway displays six of them.
How far is Ardroil Beach from Stornoway?
Around 35 miles west, and much of the final stretch is single track road. Allow well over an hour each way, and longer in summer when there is traffic in the passing places.
Can you camp at Ardroil?
Yes, there is a campsite near the shore at Ardroil with parking. It is a popular base for people walking and surfing on this stretch of coast.
When is the best time to see Uig Sands?
Within an hour or two either side of low tide, when the sand is at its widest and the light runs right across it. Check the tide times before you drive out, because it is a long way to come and find the sea in.