On the windswept Isle of Lewis, in the town of Stornoway, sits a small but storied family butcher—Charles Macleod, affectionately known as Charlie Barleys. Since 1947, this proud local institution has been crafting what is widely acknowledged as one of Scotland’s most treasured culinary exports: Stornoway Black Pudding.
What makes this black pudding exceptional is both tradition and status. It’s produced daily using a family recipe that has been handed down through generations, capturing the authentic taste of the Hebrides. Beyond mere tradition, it carries the prestigious Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) mark—making it a genuine Stornoway product, not just a ‘Stornoway-style’ imitation.
The ingredient list is pure and unfussy: beef suet, pork blood, Scottish oatmeal, onions, salt, and spices. This careful balance creates a pudding that’s moist yet crumbly, rich yet clean on the palate. It’s earned multiple food industry awards, and it’s no surprise that plenty of black pudding aficionados will swear Charlie Barley’s is the best.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Looking for ideas on how to serve your black pudding and what to drink alongside it? The team at Charlie Barleys have you covered…
 | Try black pudding with poached eggs and home-made Hollandaise sauce for a decadent brunch |
For a classic approach try…
- A full Scottish Breakfast – Fry thick slices in a dry pan until crisp at the edges. Serve with tattie scones, fried eggs, and grilled tomatoes.
- With Scallops – Pan-seared scallops on discs of black pudding with a lemon-butter drizzle.
For a modern twist, experiment with…
- Black Pudding Bon Bons – Roll chilled pudding into balls, coat in panko, and deep fry. Serve with apple chutney.
- Salad Accent – Crumble over baby spinach with crispy bacon, poached eggs, and mustard vinaigrette.
 | Crumble black pudding over salads for a delicious lunch |
Try these drinks alongside your black pudding….
- Malty Scottish ale or stout for earthy depth.
- Isle of Harris whisky for a gently smoky complement.
- Dry Scottish cider for a crisp, fruity contrast.
Charles Macleod’s Stornoway Black Pudding isn’t just a food - it’s heritage you can taste, a slice of island life that travels from the Outer Hebrides straight to your plate.
To find out more visit charlesmacleod.co.uk or follow the team on socials: facebook.com/CharlieBarleys/ and @CharlieBarleys1947
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