Gearrannan Blackhouse Village stands on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis near Carloway, a group of restored thatched blackhouses on a headland above the Atlantic. A blackhouse is a traditional Hebridean dwelling with double drystone walls packed with earth, a thatched roof weighted with stones, and originally no chimney, so peat smoke filtered out through the thatch.
People lived in the Gearrannan houses until 1974. The village was restored in the 1990s and now works as a museum with a cafe, with several of the houses let as self-catering and hostel accommodation.
Gearrannan Blackhouse Village is a historic village located on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis. It is a popular tourist destination and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the way of life in the past.
The village consists of a collection of restored traditional blackhouses, which are stone-built crofters’ cottages with thatched roofs. These houses were once the typical dwelling of the Western Isles, but they have since been replaced by more modern buildings. The blackhouses at Gearrannan are preserved as a living museum, and visitors can explore the interiors to get a sense of what life was like in the past.
In addition to the blackhouses, there is also a visitor centre that provides information about the history and culture of the village. There is also a cafe on site where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, as well as traditional Scottish dishes.
One of the most unique experiences at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village is the opportunity to stay in one of the traditional blackhouses. The blackhouses have been renovated to include modern amenities such as heating, electricity, and running water, but they still retain their original character and charm. Staying in a blackhouse is a truly unique experience and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the village.
Overall, Gearrannan Blackhouse Village is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in Scottish history and culture. Whether you choose to stay in a blackhouse or simply explore the village and its surroundings, you are sure to be enchanted by the beauty and charm of this historic site.
In short
Gearrannan Blackhouse Village near Carloway on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis is a group of restored thatched blackhouses on a headland above the Atlantic. Blackhouses have double drystone walls packed with earth, stone-weighted thatch and originally no chimney. People lived here until 1974; the village was restored in the 1990s and now runs as a museum with a cafe and self-catering and hostel accommodation.
Frequently asked questions
What is a blackhouse?
A traditional Hebridean house built with double drystone walls packed with earth for insulation, a thatched roof held down by ropes and stones, and a central peat fire with no chimney. Smoke escaped through the thatch, which is where the name is usually said to come from.
When did people stop living in the Gearrannan blackhouses?
The last residents left in 1974. The village was restored in the 1990s and is now open as a museum, with some of the houses let as accommodation.
Where is Gearrannan Blackhouse Village?
Near Carloway on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis, signposted off the A858 about twenty miles from Stornoway. It is close to the Callanish Standing Stones and Dun Carloway broch, so the three combine well in one day.
Can you stay at Gearrannan?
Yes. Several of the restored blackhouses are let as self-catering cottages and one runs as a hostel, which is an unusual way to experience the village once the day visitors have gone.