Events at Back Football & Recreation Club, Isle of Lewis, Scotland

Question 1

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.

Answer

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.

Question 2

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.

Answer

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.

Question 3

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 . 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.

Answer

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 . 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.

Question 4

Public transport is limited. The local bus (Hebridean Transport, route W2) runs from Stornoway and stops at Upper Coll (Broadbay) on weekdays . 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.

Answer

Public transport is limited. The local bus (Hebridean Transport, route W2) runs from Stornoway and stops at Upper Coll (Broadbay) on weekdays . 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.

Question 5

There’s a dedicated car park at the club (off-street parking) which is free of charge . 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.

Answer

There’s a dedicated car park at the club (off-street parking) which is free of charge . 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.

Question 6

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.

Answer

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.

Question 7

No permanent canteen, but there is a kitchen and servery for events . 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.

Answer

No permanent canteen, but there is a kitchen and servery for events . 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.

Question 8

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.

Answer

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.

Question 9

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.

Answer

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.

Question 10

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.

Answer

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.

Question 11

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.

Answer

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.

Question 12

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.

Answer

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.

Question 13

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.

Answer

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.

Question 14

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.

Answer

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.

Question 15

If the centre is open (8am weekdays ), 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.

Answer

If the centre is open (8am weekdays ), 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.

Question 16

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.

Answer

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.

Question 17

HS2 0LS is the postcode for Upper Coll, where Back Community Centre is located . 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.

Answer

HS2 0LS is the postcode for Upper Coll, where Back Community Centre is located . 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.

Question 18

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.

Answer

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.

Question 19

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.

Answer

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.

Question 20

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.

Answer

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.

Question 21

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.

Answer

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.

Question 22

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 .

Answer

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 .

Question 23

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.

Answer

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.

Question 24

The centre is generally open Monday to Friday from about 8:00am 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.

Answer

The centre is generally open Monday to Friday from about 8:00am 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.

Question 25

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.

Answer

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.

Question 26

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.

Answer

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.

Question 27

“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.

Answer

“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.

Question 28

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.

Answer

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.

Events at Back Football & Recreation Club, Isle of Lewis, Scotland

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