The settlement of Borve, whose full name is Fivepenny Borve, is located to the west of the Borve River in the north of Lewis, and is thus distinct from Melbost Borve and High Borve on the far side of the river. There was a township here in the early years of the 19th century but the current village dates back to 1851, when 32 crofts were created. These were gradually added to over time. 

Borve should not be confused with Fivepenny Borve in Ness, at the northern tip of Lewis.