Grand Tours of the Scottish Islands

Paul Murton immerses himself in island life on Harris and Lewis, where he tries his hand at weaving the iconic Harris Tweed, learning the techniques used by local artisans. He also spends time with the family behind the famous Stornoway black pudding, discovering how the traditional sausage is made.

West Is Best – Lewis to Harris is a television programme presented as an episode‑length feature. It falls within the broader genre of travel‑focused series, offering viewers a glimpse into life on Scotland’s Outer Hebrides. The title signals the journey from the island of Lewis down to its neighbour, Harris, and sets the tone for a regional exploration. The episode follows presenter Paul Murton as he spends time living on the islands, immersing himself in the everyday rhythms of the local community. He experiences the distinctive pace of island life, moving from one tradition to another while gaining a first‑hand feel for the culture that defines these remote locales. During his stay, Murton tries his hand at weaving Harris Tweed, a craft that has long been synonymous with the area’s heritage. He also visits the family responsible for producing the famed Stornoway black pudding, learning about the preparation and the generations behind the recipe. These encounters give him a practical insight into the skills and foods that shape the islands’ identity. Overall, the programme captures Murton’s hands‑on participation in two iconic aspects of the islands – the textile art of tweed weaving and the culinary tradition of black pudding – highlighting how deeply intertwined the residents are with their cultural practices.