FAQ's

A few of the most frequent questions asked.
If you have any further questions just Contact Carole

  • Where are you?
  • We are based in Shawbost, Isle of Lewis. About 17miles from Stornoway in one of the most spectacular parts of Scotland. The area is steeped in musical tradition and culture and Gaelic is still spoken and sung locally. There are regular Cèilidhs where people meet dance and sing and Strupags where people gather for lunch and a 'chin wag'.

  • What time do the classes start?
  • The course starts on the Thursday and sessions begin at 10am each morning and finish about 3pm in the afternoon, with breaks for coffee, tea, hot chocolate and fruit tea - and extremely yummy homemade bakes to go with them - with a tasty lunch in the middle of the day to sustain the brain for the afternoon session.

  • Where do I stay? What accommodation is available?
  • Unfortunately, we can't provide any accommodation during the courses. However there is a great choice of accommodation in B&Bs, Hotels, Caravans and Self-catering Cottages as well as a caravan site in Shawbost itself. It is very important to book your accommodation early, as the summer season can be quite busy on the island. Get in touch for personal recommendations.

  • I am bringing my family with me. What can they do while I'm playing the harp?
  • There is a huge amount to do during the day for non-harp playing family members. Further activities and places of interest are within easy reach. Callanish Stones, the broch at Carloway, Boat Rides, Wood Turner, golf courses, fishing, sailing, historic houses, Museums and spectacular countryside to explore.

Can I rent a harp?

Yes, you can rent a harp but there is only have a limited number available. They are good quality instruments with 31 or 34 strings. The cost to rent a harp is £10 a day - this is to cover the instrument's insurance for the course.

  • How much does the course cost?
  • The cost of the course is £185, which includes all tuition, all snacks and lunches. Locally produced food, which is therefore organic in nature, will be used wherever possible and vegetarians and special diets are welcome with prior notice. (email Carole for further details).

  • When is the harp Course? What dates?
  • 2022 - Thursday 4th – Saturday 6th August

  • How do I get to the Harp Course?
  • By far the easiest and most striking way to get here is by car - especially when travelling with a Harp. By Road: From Inverness follow the A835 Ullapool Road all the way to Ullapool where you will board the Loch Seaforth Ferry to Stornoway.

    The Harp Course will be held at Raebhat House, North Shawbost. Take the road to Barvas and on reaching Barvas take the turning left to Garrynahine. Shawbost is about 6 miles along the road. Horshader Community Development which operates out of Raebhat House is in the first part of Shawbost on the main road with clear Signage.

  • I have special dietary requirements.
  • The bulk of our food is grown locally and organically. Having our own caterer allows us to provide for most dietary needs including gluten-free or diary-free. Please let us know at the time of booking if you would like us to provide for a special diet.