I’d highly recommend Dalston Hall in Carlisle for a stay, although, it’s probably more suited to a romantic stay for two.
Despite having toured about in the west several times a year, I’ve yet to explore the western Isles, it’s just too time consuming for a day trip from the east where I live. I doubt I could convince my dearly beloved to join an organised tour, but I might manage an overnighter together if I entice her with a nice, country house hotel. We both quite like Harris tweed, I’m sure I could bribe her with something while there too.
With regards to the weather, the only time I didn’t enjoy the west was when the visibility was poor with low cloud, if you can’t see the scenery, you might as well stay at home. Cold, wind, rain and snow are all fine as long as you can see into the distance.
