The Blackhouse in Arnol, on the Isle of Lewis, is a preserved crofting home that shows how people lived alongside their animals in a traditional Hebridean house. The family who lived here moved out in the 1960s, and the interior remains furnished with everyday objects. Look for the peat fire in the hearth and the exhibits explaining island life and the shift from blackhouses to newer homes. Cross the road to see the White House for a second view of how homes changed.
A crofting home preserved
The Blackhouse in Arnol preserves a traditional Hebridean home on the north-west coast of Lewis. It was occupied until the 1960s, and the family who lived here moved out in 1966. The house has been kept in its original form, with furnishings and objects that help explain everyday life in the past.
Blackhouses were home to many people in the islands until the 1960s and 1970s. At Arnol, exhibits and information boards add context to the rooms and the transition to newer homes.
The peat hearth and the White House
A peat fire in the main blackhouse gives a sense of how the hearth was used. The interior has no chimney, so smoke is part of the experience and can leave a smell on clothing.
For another perspective on changing living conditions, cross the road to the White House. The site also has a visitor and gift shop. It is a compact visit, with two houses to explore.
FAQ
How long do you need at The Blackhouse, Arnol?
The site has two houses and a gift shop, but the available information does not specify a typical visit length.
Is there a peat fire inside the blackhouse?
A peat fire burns in the main blackhouse at times. Check whether it is lit during your visit; smoke can linger on clothes.
Can you visit the White House from The Blackhouse?
Yes. The White House is across the road and gives a broader perspective on historical living conditions.
How can you get to The Blackhouse from Stornoway?
You can travel on an organized tour or use the West Side Circular bus service.
