About Back Football & Recreation Club
Back Football & Recreation Club is a volunteer‐run community sports hub and recreation centre serving Back (Upper Coll) on the Isle of Lewis, roughly 6 miles west of Stornoway (sportscotland.org.uk). Housed in a modern, multi-purpose building, it offers a **large indoor hall** and gym, an indoor 9-a-side 3G football pitch, a full-size grass football pitch, a driving range, a games room and a fully-equipped kitchen (pitchbooking.com) (sportscotland.org.uk). The club is a registered Scottish charity (SC032761, active since 2004) dedicated to “promoting the benefit of the inhabitants of Back… by providing facilities for recreation and leisure” (www.oscr.org.uk). Founded in 1933, Back FC plays a central role here, with youth and senior teams using the facilities (pitchbooking.com). Signature features include the multi-sport gymnasium and football pitches set against the rugged Hebridean landscape, plus the strong community spirit – the club is proud of its volunteer ethos and Gaelic heritage. This hall matters to locals as the heart of Broadbay’s social and athletic life, offering everything from toddlers’ groups to the annual Christmas fair (pitchbooking.com).Events and Programming
Back Football & Recreation Club hosts year-round community events and sports programs. On any given week you might find junior football training through Back FC, senior league matches on the grass pitch, and indoor 5-a-side or 9-a-side games in the all-weather hall. In addition to football, the centre runs a wide range of clubs and classes: badminton, bowls, netball, fitness and aerobics, youth clubs, “boogie bounce” fitness for kids, and a weekly toddlers’ playgroup (pitchbooking.com). Seasonal and special events are popular – for example the centre organises an annual Christmas fair and fun family days (like inflatable Nerf battles and obstacle courses) when visiting activity companies come to Lewis (www.ticketfairy.com). Local societies may book it for community meetings, and external programmes (Gaelic creative arts workshops or island archery lessons) also use the hall (pitchbooking.com). Most activities are geared to residents and families. Because it’s community-run, many sporting clubs operate on a membership or donation basis, and community events may be free or low-cost to encourage participation.Tickets and Booking
There is no traditional box office – this is largely a community hub, not a commercial theatre. Most events and classes at Back are organised by local clubs, with entry via advance sign-up or on-the-door. Football teams and classes typically run on membership fees or small session charges. For special events (like music or dance nights), the centre will publicise details via local posters or social media. Interested visitors or groups should contact the club directly (phone or email) for bookings. Hall and pitch hire is offered (e.g. indoor hall bookings are listed around £25–£30 per hour (backfootballandrecreationclub.setmore.com) (backfootballandrecreationclub.setmore.com)), so local teams book through the club’s facility coordinator. Ticket prices for one-off events vary widely depending on the event organiser; fundraisers and fairs often request a modest path or ticket purchase on entry. There is usually no official online ticketing; check in advance by phoning the club or dropping in to see notices on the noticeboard. For popular events, it’s wise to arrive early – seating is usually unreserved and first-come, first-served.Seating and Layout
The club has a **games hall** (five badminton-court size) and an adjoining foyer/meeting wing. The hall floor is smooth and open – there are no fixed spectator seats, but folding chairs can be arranged along the sides. For sports you stand or sit on the sidelines; for performances, rows of chairs or benches are set up facing a temporary stage or projection area. The viewing in the hall is generally good from anywhere along the sides or back, as the space is rectangular. The best “front” seats (for seeing a stage) would be down the middle facing the far wall; however, for fitness classes or matches you can watch from all around. Acoustics are typical of a wood-floored gym: sound carries, so it’s fairly loud during busy events. The centre provides its own PA system and simple lighting for announcements, but large concerts would typically bring in extra equipment. VIP areas or boxes are not applicable here – it’s mostly general admission community space. Avoid the far corners if viewing a broadcast or screen (sightlines are limited at angles). Overall, the layout is flat and accessible: there are wide entrances and clear aisles, and the hall can be partitioned if needed. There is also a smaller games room/gamehall accessible from the foyer for card games or table sports. A view of the interior hall and meeting rooms. Large events use portable chairs and tables.Getting There and Parking
Back Football & Recreation Club is located at *Back Community Centre, Upper Coll, Isle of Lewis, HS2 0LS* (www.oscr.org.uk). This sits on the B895 road (Broadbay Main Road) in the village of Upper Coll. From Stornoway (the island’s main town, HS1 postcodes), drive about 6–7 miles west along the A866 and B895 – a journey of roughly 15 minutes by car (sportscotland.org.uk). Drivers will find a car park onsite; the facility includes off-street parking for visitors (commons.wikimedia.org). Parking is free, public and on a first-come basis (it fills up during large events). There are no public garages or parking charges, but note the area is rural so off-street parking is limited to the centre’s lot and roadside laybys. Public transport to Back is very limited. The local Hebridean Transport bus network has a route W2 between Stornoway and South Shawbost, which serves Broadbay villages; a stop at “Upper Coll, B895” is a short walk to the hall (check current timetables). Buses run infrequently (usually a few times a day) and not late into the evening. In practice most visitors drive. Taxi services can be booked from Stornoway if needed. Rideshare apps may not be reliable here. If walking from nearby, note Upper Coll is on a main road but pedestrian crossings are sparse – use caution and walk from the Upper Coll Free Church turn.
Inside the Venue
Expect a friendly, community-centre atmosphere. Entrances have simple security (occasionally bag checks at large events), and visitors usually sign in at reception for classes or shows. On one side of the foyer is the lounge area and meeting rooms, and on the other side is the main sports hall. The building is bright (large windows and high ceilings in the hall; natural light in rooms). Walls often display local memorabilia or notices of upcoming events. The main hall floor is polished wood, clean and ready for sports or dancing. Facilities include a fully-equipped kitchen and servery (pitchbooking.com), used for cafe sales at events or for catering local functions. (You won’t find a normal concession stand like a cinema – refreshments are usually homemade cakes, tea and coffee served from this kitchen area during events.) There are restrooms on both floors; accessible toilets are provided with baby-change facilities and disabled access (commons.wikimedia.org). Internet/Wi-Fi may not be available to visitors, as service can be spotty; mobile coverage (4G) is generally okay through EE/O2, but don’t count on fast data. The club often sells little merchandise (kits, water bottles, etc.) during back-to-school events or fundraisers, but there is no formal shop. Coat racks are available in the lobby, and the floor is kept clear of clutter except for gym gear. When indoors, the atmosphere is casual: shorts, trainers and sports gear are common, even for non-athletes. You may hear Gaelic in conversation, reflecting the strong local culture. Volunteers and staff are often on hand to show you around or answer questions – it feels very local and welcoming. The hall has good ventilation and even heating for the cooler months. You are free to take photos at most events (unless it’s a licensed youth activity), but please be respectful of local privacy.Nearby Amenities
If you arrive early or need a break, there are a few choices close by – though the area remains rural. In Upper Coll itself there are a couple of small snack vans or pop-up coffee stands on occasion, but **permanent eateries are limited**. The nearest full café/restaurant is the *Bumblebee Farm Shop & Cafe* (about 2½ miles towards Carloway), offering simple meals and the local Hebridean fare. In Carloway village (1–2 miles southwest, HS2 0LY) you’ll find the Doune Braes Hotel – a bar/restaurant where locals gather for drinks and lunches (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). The Doune Braes has a cosy pub area and often has live music events. Another option is to head into Stornoway (about 6 miles east) after your visit: there are restaurants, fish-and-chip shops, and pubs like *The Lews Castle Hotel* or *Western Isles Hotel* for dinner or a pint. Note that many restaurants in Lewis do not open very late, so if you have an evening event, check closing times (most pubs serve until 10-11pm). For shopping or hotels, Stornoway has the closest amenities: grocery stores, petrol stations and several hotels (from the castle‐based Lews Hotel to smaller inns). If you need overnight accommodation, booking in Stornoway is recommended. If you prefer staying in the countryside, self-catering cottages and B&Bs can be found in the Broadbay area (for example Carloway Cottages or B&Bs in neighboring Tolsta or Gress). Late-night transport from Back is sparse: after a late event, your best bet is a pre-booked taxi from Stornoway or a lift from a local (taxis are available, but may require advance booking).What Makes This Venue Special
Back Football & Recreation Club is special mainly for its **community spirit and history**. It’s far more than a gym or sports complex – it’s been the social heart of Broadbay for generations. Artists and athletes alike appreciate its **low-key charm**; it’s the sort of place where a Gaelic music rehearsal, a Highland games meeting, a toddler dance class and a football match can all happen under one roof. The volunteer-run nature, with so many local coaches and parents pitching in, gives it a warm, family feel. Architecturally it’s modest – a plain hall – but it’s the activities inside that count. Historically, this site has roots back to the 1930s when Back FC was formed. Over the decades the centre has expanded (with lottery and sports grants) into a multi-sport club. It even houses island archery and bowls clubs – unusual for a village. Culturally, Back FRC integrates Gaelic traditions: you’ll often hear announcements in Gaelic, and local folk nights (“ceilidhs”) have been held here. Famous local sports moments happen here too: youth players who trained in this hall recall going on to play for Lewis and Harris representative teams. For travellers, it’s unique because it’s truly local – you won’t find a chain gym or flashy arena in the Hebrides, just down-to-earth community life and spectacular vistas out the windows. For performers (bands, circus acts, traveling theatre), this club is loved because the audience is enthusiastic and close-knit – the crowd feels like family. For athletes, the quality 3G pitch and the availability of indoor space (essential in rainy Hebrides) is a big draw. And everyone appreciates the location: with wild moors and seascapes all around, even a quick walk from the center is scenic. In short, it’s a special place where both sports and social bonds thrive in one humble venue.Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** Yes, the centre is wheelchair-friendly. There are ramps at the main entrance, wide doors and disabled toilets with grab rails (commons.wikimedia.org). Finding a level path from the parking lot to the door is straightforward. If you require assistance (e.g. sign language or large print materials), contact the club in advance and they can often accommodate. **What to Bring:** Since it’s a sports hall, bring sturdy, flat-soled shoes (trainers) indoors – outdoor shoes may be restricted on the playing surface. For sporting sessions, wear appropriate kit and bring a water bottle. For social events, dress is informal: jumpers or t-shirts are fine. Bring some cash even though many events are free or volunteer-run. Occasionally local groups sell raffle tickets or refreshments. A light jacket might be useful: although the hall is heated, the foyer can be chilly in winter. And don’t forget a raincoat for outside; Scottish weather can be wet even if you’re heading indoors. **Common Pitfalls:** Don’t expect public transport at late hours (bring return travel arrangements if staying late). Don’t assume you can step out to a café – options are limited (plan ahead if you need snacks or meals). Also, the postcode HS2 0LS pinpoints Upper Coll, not the village of Back in Harris – just use the full address. Locals often call Bagshaw or Coll (the nearby villages) as landmarks. **Age Restrictions:** Most events are family-friendly, and children are welcome (in fact there’s a lively toddler group and youth club). There is no strict age minimum for spectators – it’s a local open hall. Only special events (like licensed evening concerts) might be 18+; check posters. Youth football practices require parental consent forms, but kids can come to watch games free of charge. **Bag and Security Policy:** There is a standard small-bag check at the door during big events (no alcohol or glass bottles from outside). Backpacks and handbags are fine; they may be checked for safety. Cameras and phones are allowed, but please be courteous about flash photography or filming. There is no formal dress code – come as you are. **Weather:** The venue is fully indoors, so shows and classes run rain or shine. In winter, the building stays warm, but arrive just in case – sometimes experiments with the heating can make it cooler on the floors. On sunny days, you might want to open a window for fresh air as the hall can get stuffy with many people. **Tips:** Arrive about 15 minutes early for popular classes or games, as the changing rooms and gear room may become busy. If you’re watching a match, bring a cushion or jacket for folding chairs if you want extra comfort. If you have extra time, the village hall (Back Hall) next door often has local baked goodies for sale during big weekends – worth a try. Finally, chat with the volunteers: they’re friendly and proud of their centre and can give insider tips (like which bench to watch dragon boat races on the nearby loch, or shout out a local Gaelic phrase to impress a coach).Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get tickets for an event at Back Football & Recreation Club?
There’s no central ticket office. For most events, simply pay at the door or join a club beforehand. Local sports teams and classes often register participants directly (no ticket needed). For special shows (dance, music or theatre), organizers post details locally or on social media – usually you buy tickets from the organizer in advance or at the entrance. Call the club (01851-820745) to check if an event needs pre-booking.
What is the capacity and layout of the hall?
The indoor hall can hold around 150–200 people standing, or roughly 80–100 seated on folding chairs. There are no fixed seats – seating is set up as needed along the walls or center. The room is about five badminton courts in size, with clear sightlines from the sides. Also on site is a smaller games room (for casual gatherings) and meeting rooms in the foyer. The layout is flat and open, making it easy to reconfigure for sports, shows or fairs.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The centre has step-free access through wide double doors at the main entrance. It provides a lift between floors, an accessible toilet and disabled parking space close to the door (commons.wikimedia.org). All areas used by the public (hall, games room, foyer) are on one level, and there are ramps to get over any small steps. Disabled visitors should have no problem getting around.
What public transport options are there?
Public transport is limited. The local bus (Hebridean Transport, route W2) runs from Stornoway and stops at Upper Coll (Broadbay) on weekdays (moovitapp.com). However, services are infrequent and do not run late. The nearest bus stop is about 0.5 mile away. Most people drive or get driven. A taxi can be hired from Stornoway for the return trip. There is no train or tram; Stornoway Airport is 5 miles away for flights to Inverness.
Where can I park, and is it free?
There’s a dedicated car park at the club (off-street parking) which is free of charge (commons.wikimedia.org). During big events it can fill up, but nearby roadside parking is also available along Upper Coll Road. The parking area is flat and right by the front entrance. In Celtic style, there is no enforced parking fee – it’s free public parking managed by the club.
Are there seating tiers or good viewing spots?
The hall floor is level, so there are no tiered stands. Chairs are set up on the flat floor. For a performance or game, sit or stand along the long walls for the best view of the center. If a stage is set up (usually down the short wall), pickup front-row seating in the middle. Otherwise, any side of the hall works fine. You won’t have an obstruction due to pillars or stairs – it’s wide open.
Is there food or drink available inside?
No permanent canteen, but there is a kitchen and servery for events (pitchbooking.com). For large events (tournaments, fairs), the club usually sells tea, coffee, snacks and homemade bakes from the kitchen area. Outside catering vans sometimes show up on weekends. Otherwise, bring your own drinks or buy at nearby cafes (2–3 miles away). Alcoholic beverages from outside are not allowed inside, but beer/wine may be sold at licensed events.
What is the typical ticket price range?
There’s huge variation because events are community-run. Many sports sessions and club activities are free or covered by a low membership fee. Community events (e.g. a school play or dance night) typically cost £2–£5. Bigger shows or fundraisers might be around £5–£10. If you see an event advertised, check locally for pricing; often it’s nominal, used for fundraising. Essentially, nothing here is priced like a commercial gig hall – it’s kept cheap.
Can I reserve a private viewing area?
No. Seating is always general admission. The facility is too small to have private boxes or VIP areas. For events, chairs are communal. If you need special seating (for example a table space for equipment or a large group), you should arrive early and ask staff; they may accommodate at the front if space allows. Otherwise, everyone watches together.
Is the venue inside or outside?
All core activities at Back Football & Recreation Club are indoors, in a large sports hall and adjoining rooms. The main hall has a roof and walls, so events continue regardless of weather. Some outdoor football and archery takes place on adjacent grass and 3G pitches when the weather is good, but things like classes, meetings and concerts are indoors.
What items should I bring or avoid?
Bring sportswear or comfortable clothes depending on activity – you’ll be standing or active. Trainers with non-marking soles are recommended for the hall floor. It’s wise to bring water – a dispenser may not always be on. Since it’s a community centre, refreshments aren’t guaranteed unless an event specifies them. Don’t bring alcohol, illegal substances, or large suitcases. Avoid high heels on the sports floor. If it’s cold outside, indoor heating is on but you may still want a jacket.
Are dogs or pets allowed?
No, only service animals (guide dogs) are allowed inside. It’s not a pet-friendly venue. This is for hygiene and safety (you wouldn’t want a football flying near a pet). Outside the building there’s no fenced area to contain pets either. If you have a guide dog, the staff will be happy to accommodate.
Is there reliable phone signal or Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi for guests is not provided; it’s primarily a sports centre, so public internet is not guaranteed. Mobile reception is decent inside on major carriers (Vodafone/EE and O2 usually work). If you need internet, plan to use your own data or wait until you step outside. The center’s equipment has Wi-Fi (for staff), but no guest login is offered.
What kind of sound and lighting equipment does the venue have?
The club hall has a basic public address (PA) system for announcements and probably a few fixed spotlights. It is not equipped like a professional concert hall. For a big performance, event organizers often bring in extra speakers and stage lights. In short, expect decent microphone speakers and hall lights, but not elaborate rigging or a large dimming console. The hall’s acoustics are live, so it can be noisy when full.
Can I tour the venue ahead of an event?
If the centre is open (8am weekdays (backfootballandrecreationclub.setmore.com)), you can drop by and ask a staff member or volunteer to show you around. They are usually very helpful. Outside those hours, someone is often still around on weekends. Always call ahead (01851-820745) to be sure someone is there, especially on Saturday mornings, as it’s run by volunteers. It’s not locked like a museum, so entry is by checking in with the responsible person on duty.
Is Back Football & Rec Club used for cultural events?
Yes. In addition to sports, the hall hosts ceilidhs, Gaelic music practices, school concerts and art workshops. Local cultural groups rent it for exhibitions or mod (Gaelic festival) practices. For example, island archers and traditional dancers have held community shows here. It’s essentially the biggest indoor venue in Broadbay, so any community group needing space often chooses it. Keep an eye on local listings – sometimes a pipe band or folk group will be playing here.
Where exactly is the postcode HS2 0LS?
HS2 0LS is the postcode for Upper Coll, where Back Community Centre is located (www.oscr.org.uk). Don’t confuse it with any “Back” in Harris – this is on Lewis. If using a SatNav or map app, entering Back Community Centre or HS2 0LS will take you to the sports hall. It’s at grid coordinates roughly NB 410 378. The hall signage is clear once you’re in Upper Coll on the B895 road.
Are children allowed unaccompanied?
For open community events (like matches or fairs) kids are welcome but must be supervised by an adult. Club youth sessions (football training, toddler groups, etc.) require parental consent but often allow a parent to step out of the hall while supervising. Under-16s are not usually admitted to late-night adult-only events unless accompanied. It’s best to check with organizers of any specific event or class for their policy, but in general Back FRC is family-oriented.
What items should I not bring to the venue?
Do not bring large balls (they interfere with games), outside alcohol, or glass containers. Pets (other than service dogs) are not allowed inside. You should leave valuables in your car or at home; there is no staffed cloakroom. Also avoid wearing muddy shoes on the sports floor. If you have special equipment (like photography or AV gear), check in advance for their policy.
Is there a designated smoking area?
Like all public buildings in Scotland, the centre is completely smoke-free inside. Visitors must step outside to smoke (cigarettes or vaping). There are no official smoking shelters on site, but you can use any outdoor area away from doors and open windows. Please dispose of cigarette butts in the bins outside, and be mindful of neighbors in this quiet village.
Does the club have a WiFi network for guests?
No public Wi-Fi is provided. This is primarily a sports facility, so there’s no guest wireless network. You should expect to use your own mobile data. (Staff can access Wi-Fi, but guest access isn’t set up.) The good news is mobile coverage inside is decent on the main UK networks. So if you need internet, bring your smartphone or pocket Wi-Fi.
Who owns or manages the venue?
Back Football & Recreation Club is owned and run by a volunteer community association (registered charity SC032761) made up of local trustees. There is no single private owner – it’s held in trust for the community. Day-to-day management is by local volunteers and a small paid caretaker. The council (Comhairle nan Eilean Siar) and SportScotland occasionally provide funding, but the club is self-managed and any profits are reinvested locally (www.oscr.org.uk) (pitchbooking.com).
Is photography allowed?
Yes, casual photography is generally allowed for personal use. Many people snap photos at sporting and community events. However, professional shoots (video or paid photography) may need prior approval from organisers or the club. At children’s events you should get consent from parents first. No-money-making photos (like selling prints) without permission. In short: brought your camera, but be respectful and discreet.
What are the venue’s opening hours?
The centre is generally open Monday to Friday from about 8:00am (backfootballandrecreationclub.setmore.com) and for scheduled events on weekends (as posted on the noticeboard). For example, weekday sports classes often use it mornings, evenings and weekends. There is not a fixed public entrance time – it depends on bookings. It’s safe to plan that it opens at 08:00 on weekdays and may be closed Sunday unless an event is arranged. Always check or call ahead if you need to enter outside normal club hours.
Can I bring a bicycle inside?
No. Bicycles and scooters must be left outside. There are bike stands at the entrance for security. This is to keep the floors and hallways clear. Walk your bike in, park it at the rack, and then enter on foot. Helmets/gear can be carried in once you’ve parked the bike outside.
Are outside events (like a marquee) allowed on site?
Possibly, by special arrangement. The grounds have an open field, so some groups put up small tents or gazebos for club events. However, any outdoor setup must be approved by the club (due to weather risks). The car park could accommodate a fairground stall or tent on grass. It’s best to ask the facilities manager in advance if you plan an outdoor function at the centre.
Why is it called “Back Football & Recreation Club”?
“Back” simply refers to the local place name (Baile a’ Chab in Scots Gaelic), which covers Upper Coll and Broadbay areas. Originally it began as the local football club for Back. Over time it expanded to include other sports and community activities, hence “Recreation Club”. It retains the historic name “Back” because it has served that community since the 1930s. It’s essentially the Back village’s community sports club.
Is smoking allowed in the parking area?
Yes, you may smoke in the parking lot or roadside outside the building. All smoking must be outdoors. Just keep clear of the entrance (no smoking within a few metres of doors as per signage). Dispose of cigarette butts in bins, not on the grass. No open fires or burning of any kind are allowed on site.