History and Heritage

The Cabarfeidh Hotel proudly stands on the grounds of the former Manor Farm in Stornoway, Isle of Lewis. Deeply connected to the island’s landscape and heritage, the hotel takes its name from the Gaelic term Cabar Feidh, meaning “stag antlers” — a powerful symbol of the wild beauty and enduring spirit of the Outer Hebrides. In keeping with this tradition, two impressive stag shoulder mounts welcome guests at the entrance, offering a memorable first impression and a strong link to local culture.

Set within beautifully maintained gardens, the Cabarfeidh Hotel enjoys a peaceful natural setting that flows seamlessly into the Lews Castle Grounds, nearby golf course and scenic walking routes. Despite this tranquil environment, the hotel remains just minutes from Stornoway town centre, harbour and marina. Guests benefit from easy access to local shops, cafés and cultural attractions, as well as convenient transport links to Stornoway Airport and the Calmac ferry terminal.

As one of the largest hospitality employers in Stornoway, the Cabarfeidh Hotel plays an important role in the local community. Around 50 staff work at the hotel throughout the year, forming a diverse and dedicated team. While many team members originate from the islands, others have chosen to make the island their home, bringing international experience and perspectives from across the globe. Together, they deliver the warm, friendly and professional service that defines the famous Hebridean welcome.

For generations, the Cabarfeidh Hotel has served as a trusted gathering place for visitors and locals alike. Guests continue to choose the hotel for weddings, family celebrations, business stays, conferences and relaxing island breaks. Our restaurant, bar and function spaces have hosted countless special moments, while travellers rely on the hotel as a comfortable base from which to explore the Outer Hebrides. Although we continue to modernise through ongoing room refurbishments, menu development and sustainability improvements, our commitment to authentic hospitality remains unchanged.

From Manor Farm to Landmark Hotel

Before becoming one of Stornoway’s best-known hotels, the site operated as Manor Farm, also known historically as Home Farm. Established in 1851, the farm once occupied a large stretch of land extending north of Stornoway Burgh. From 1851 – 1888, proprietors Sir James and Lady Matheson played a central role engaging grieves/ managers to farm the lands.

During the 1888 Aignish Farm Riot, Manor Farm housed 80 Royal Scots soldiers called to action by the farm bell, dated AD1631. Alongside Police and Royal Marines, they faced islanders demanding that Aignish and Melbost Farms be divided into crofts. The historic bell, once at St Lennan’s Church on North Beach, now hangs in St Peter’s belfry on Francis Street.

Over time, ownership and use of Manor Farm evolved. By the early twentieth century, the land had been subdivided with Mrs Mary Kennedy, James Mason (Merchant) and Hugh Matheson (Baker) the tenants.

By 1922–23, under Lord Leverhulme, half of Manor Farm was managed by the Lewis & Harris Welfare & Development (LAHWAD), with the Lewis Agricultural Section as tenant. This followed Leverhulme’s 1923 gift of the estate to the Parish, which led to the creation of the Stornoway Trust Agricultural Section.

Lord Leverhulme, the last private owner of the Isle of Lewis, had bought the island from Sir James Matheson in 1918. He was co-founder of Lever Brothers, who in 1929 merged with the Dutch company Margarine Unie to become Unilever.

Following the closure of Manor Farm, local entrepreneur Norman Mackenzie recognised the potential of the site and led the development of what would become the Cabarfeidh Hotel in 1970 - 71. His vision transformed the former farmland into a purpose-built hotel that could serve both island residents and growing tourism demand. The Mackenzie family continues to own and operate the hotel today, ensuring strong local stewardship and long-term commitment to the community.

Glen House and the Surrounding Estate

Directly across from the Cabarfeidh Hotel stands Glen House, another historic property closely linked to the wider estate surrounding Lews Castle. The origins of Glen House are speculative, but it is most likely that Sir James Matheson had a role in its development in the mid-1800s.

Sir James Matheson, who made his fortune as an opium trader in China, purchased the Isle of Lewis in 1844 and built Lews Castle between 1844–51. He also founded Jardine Matheson & Co., now the multinational Jardine Matheson Holdings.

In 1857, his friend Henry Caunter moved to Lewis to exploit the island’s peat for paraffin production, living at Glen House until his death in 1881. Later, Glen House housed Thomas Mackay, the Mathesons’ piper, estate staff, and later the family of baker Hugh Matheson.

From 1963, the Stornoway Trust used it as the Estate Factor’s residence, and in 2020 it reopened as the Hub, offering bike rental, repair services and a popular cafe.

A Hebridean Welcome — Then and Now

Today, the Cabarfeidh Hotel combines heritage character with contemporary comfort. Guests enjoy refurbished bedrooms, modern amenities, locally inspired dining and improved sustainability features, all while experiencing the warmth and friendliness that define Hebridean hospitality.

Whether you are visiting Stornoway for business, leisure, adventure or celebration, the Cabarfeidh Hotel offers a welcoming base in the heart of the Isle of Lewis. Rooted in history yet focused on the future, we continue to welcome guests with the same genuine care and island spirit that has defined the Cabarfeidh experience for generations.

Photos with kind permission of Stornoway Historical Society.