Five stars in their eyes

The owners of the only five-star bed and breakfast in the Outer Hebrides are celebrating after receiving top marks from VisitScotland, less than a year after taking over the business.

Sue and Tom Reid became new owners of the Broad Bay Guest House in January last year after moving to the Isle of Lewis from their home in the Cotswolds in England.

The couple hit the ground running and within 12 months retained the business’ five-star status in the national tourism organisation’s Quality Assurance (QA) scheme.

VisitScotland’s QA scheme acts as a benchmark for high-standards across the tourism industry including in accommodation, visitor attraction and food sectors. 

Broad Bay Guest House is situated in a small working crofting coastal community about seven miles north of Stornoway, with the beach only 60 feet from the property, affording stunning views across the Minch to the mountains on the Scottish mainland.

Open between March and October, the winter break has allowed the pair to put their own stamp on the property and “completely refurbish” it in time for the new season.

Broad Bay Guest House is a popular haunt for visitors from across Europe and as far flung as Australia and Canada, with one in ten guests returning to visit the islands.

To give guests a truly authentic Hebridean experience, the couple are proud to use local artists and craftspeople to decorate the property.

“We’re very proud to have achieved five stars from VisitScotland. We’re all about putting the customer first and delighted to continue to be the only bed and breakfast with five stars in the Outer Hebrides.”

“Our Quality Assurance scheme sets a benchmark for the industry, helping local businesses to develop and thrive and is essential in making Scotland a must-visit destination.”

To learn more about VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance and other schemes visit: https://www.visitscotland.org

For more information on Broad Bay Guest House, visit: https://www.broadbayhouse.co.uk/

ENDS