Skip to main content
Museum

Arnol Black House

42 Arnol, Arnol

View on Google Maps

Photo: The Blackhouse, Arnol

About Arnol Black House

Step back in time at this preserved traditional Hebridean thatched dwelling, where you'll discover how island crofters lived and worked under one roof with their animals and peat fire.

What's nearby

  • RSPB Loch na Muilne 200m away

Distances as the crow flies, via Google

Good to know

Parking

  • ✓Free car park

Accessibility

  • ✓Accessible parking

Payment

  • ✓Credit cards
  • ✓Debit cards
  • ✓Contactless

Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.

Photos

Photos via Google

Opening hours

Monday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday
Closed

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What visitors say

Alison Kiraly

Reserved a time slot ahead of time (free using the explorer pass). Not to be confused with the Gearrannan Blackhouse. This site was very quiet and no one visiting but us in the last time slot of the day. We explored all of the different buildings and sites of past buildings. There was peat burning in the main blackhouse. Interesting to see how people lived in this remote place.

· via Google

Jennifer Angelosanto

Honestly this was one of the highlights of our holiday! It was wee but so Interesting and brilliant to see reality of how we used to live. I have to add the lady on the ticket desk (sorry i never caught her name) was absolutely wonderful and kind to us and my two children. She took the time to tell us story's and answer our questions, just an all round beautiful soul :) Definitely recommend this stop on your travels!

· via Google

Those2 NomadVegans

Carrying on south from the most northerly point of the Isle of Lewis, our next stop was the fascinating Arnol Blackhouse 🏡✨ Step inside and you'll feel like you've travelled back in time! ⏳ The traditional blackhouse has been carefully preserved to show exactly how crofting families lived in the Highlands and Islands right up until the mid-20th century. 🌾 With its thick stone walls, low doorways, peat-fired hearth 🔥, and that unmistakable smell of history, it's easy to imagine family life here many decades ago. The thatched roof was originally weighted down with ropes and stones to withstand the fierce Atlantic winds 🌬️🌊, even during the harsh winter months. Inside you'll find traditional furniture, box beds, old cooking equipment, spinning tools, and all the little details that bring the past to life. It's surprisingly cosy despite its simple design! 😊 Whether you're interested in history, photography 📸, or simply seeing how life used to be in these remote islands, Arnol Blackhouse is well worth a visit. ❤️

· via Google

Jonatan Almanza V.

Interesting to know the history of how this houses where shared by not only people but also the animals.

· via Google

See all reviews on Google →

Visitors say this historical site offers a fascinating and authentic look into traditional crofting life, with a preserved blackhouse featuring a burning peat fire. They also highlight the informative exhibits and the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
42 Arnol, Bragar, Isle of Lewis, HS2 9DB Get directions
Category
Historic Houses & Gardens
Guest rating
4.5 / 5 (700 reviews)
Suitable for
All Ages
Setting
Indoor
Good for children
Yes
Toilets on site
Yes
Destination
Isle of Lewis