Calanais Standing Stones: Scotland’s Ancient Neolithic Monument
Discover the ancient mystery and powerful presence of the 5,000-year-old Calanais Standing Stones on the windswept Isle of Lewis.
The Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis are a remarkable Neolithic stone circle complex dating back 5,000 years. This cross-shaped arrangement of towering stones, centered around a massive monolith, is one of Scotland’s best-preserved prehistoric sites. Set amidst the windswept Hebridean landscape overlooking Loch Roag, the stones evoke mystery and awe, offering visitors a profound connection to ancient rituals, astronomy, and the island’s rich heritage.
A brief summary to Calanais Standing Stones
- 12m west of Stornoway off the A859 Isle of Lewis, Isle of Lewis, HS2 9DY, GB
- +441851621422
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the stones year-round as they are always open, but prepare for unpredictable Hebridean weather.
- Parking is very limited due to visitor centre redevelopment; park on the shore road and walk to the site.
- Bring sturdy footwear for the uphill walk from parking to the stones across uneven terrain.
- Check local bus schedules (W2 route) from Stornoway for convenient public transport access.
- Respect the site by staying on designated paths to help preserve this fragile archaeological monument.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the W2 bus route from Stornoway to Calanais village, a journey of approximately 30 minutes. The bus runs Monday to Saturday with no Sunday service. From the village stop, the stones are a short uphill walk following marked signs.
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Car
Drive from Stornoway via the A859 for about 30 minutes to Calanais. Due to visitor centre redevelopment, parking is not available at the site; limited roadside parking is available on the shore road with a 5-7 minute walk uphill to the stones. Coach parking is not available.
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Cycling
Cycle along the Hebridean Way Cycle Route to Calanais Standing Stones. The route offers scenic views but includes some hills; suitable for experienced cyclists. Secure bike parking is limited near the site.
Calanais Standing Stones location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Calanais Standing Stones
Enduring Mysteries of the Calanais Stones
The Calanais Standing Stones, erected around 3000 BCE, predate Stonehenge and remain one of the most enigmatic prehistoric monuments in Scotland. The site features a cruciform layout with a central stone circle dominated by a towering 4.8-meter monolith. Radiating rows of standing stones extend outward, forming a rough cross shape. These stones, carved from some of the oldest rock on Earth—Lewisian gneiss—were transported and positioned with remarkable precision by Neolithic communities using only primitive tools and immense skill.Landscape and Spiritual Significance
Perched on a ridge overlooking the fresh and saltwater lochs dotted with tiny islands, the stones command a dramatic and wild Hebridean setting. This location likely held spiritual or ceremonial importance, possibly serving as a lunar observatory. Archaeological theories suggest the stones align with lunar cycles, particularly an 18.6-year moon dance across the southern hills, which may have granted earthly authority to sky-watchers. The site’s power and mystery are heightened by the presence of at least 15 other nearby stone circles and standing stones, indicating a wider ritual landscape.Visitor Experience Amidst Transformation
While the Calanais Visitor Centre is currently closed for a major £10.1 million redevelopment project expected to complete in 2026, the stones themselves remain fully accessible year-round. Visitors can explore the site freely, absorbing the atmosphere of this ancient monument and the surrounding Hebridean wilderness. Limited roadside parking is available on the shore road, with a short uphill walk to the stones. The redevelopment aims to enhance interpretation, accessibility, and community engagement, promising a future state-of-the-art visitor experience.Archaeological Discoveries and Cultural Heritage
Excavations have revealed that the site was not only a ceremonial center but also part of a thriving Neolithic society engaged in trade and sophisticated cultural practices. Pottery and burial remains found nearby attest to its significance as a place of gathering and ritual. The stones’ precise placement and enduring presence continue to inspire awe and scholarly inquiry, linking visitors to the prehistoric past and the island’s deep cultural roots.Conservation and Community Stewardship
Managed by the local charity Urras Nan Tursachan, the Calanais Standing Stones benefit from ongoing conservation efforts to protect this fragile heritage site. The redevelopment of the visitor centre reflects a commitment to preserving the stones for future generations while enhancing educational and cultural opportunities for both locals and visitors worldwide.Immersive Natural Setting and Seasonal Access
The site’s exposed location on the Isle of Lewis means visitors experience the raw beauty of the Outer Hebrides, with strong winds, changing weather, and panoramic views of the surrounding lochs and islands. The stones are open all year, inviting exploration in every season, though visitors should be prepared for variable weather conditions typical of the region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
historic scotland
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Harris House
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Eilean Glas Lighthouse
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Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
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The temple
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Temple Harris
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Hebrides People Visitor Centre
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Borrisdale Tweed
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St Clement's Church : Rodel
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Sound of Harris
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Rubha Hunish
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Old Ruins
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Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
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Unmissable attractions to see
Callanish Alpacas
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Sgeir nan Gall (Skerry of the Foreigners)
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Isle of Lewis
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Island Darkroom
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A serene creative retreat on the Isle of Lewis offering black & white darkroom facilities and inspiring Hebridean landscapes.
Reef Beach
11.4 km
A breathtaking long white sandy beach with vibrant wildflower machair and tranquil turquoise waters on the Isle of Lewis.
Garenin Village Viewpoint
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Mcindoe stones
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Explore the ancient Mcindoe Stones on the Isle of Lewis, a mystical site rich in history and folklore amidst breathtaking scenery.
Mhiabhig Jetty
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Dalbeg Beach
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Norse Mill and Kiln
13.3 km
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Crust
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Shawbost Beach
15.2 km
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Uig Community Shop
15.5 km
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Uig Lodge viewpoint
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Mollans Takeaway
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Essential places to dine
Doune Braes Hotel
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Loch Erisort Hotel
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Uig Sands Restaurant
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Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
The New Lewis Bar
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Experience the warmth of Hebridean hospitality at The New Lewis Bar—your family-friendly pub with great drinks and live music in Stornoway.
Crown Hotel
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Star Inn
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Discover the cozy charm of Star Inn in Stornoway - your perfect pub getaway with local flavors and warm hospitality.
Blake’s Bar & Kitchen
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A vibrant blend of local flavors and lively atmosphere in the heart of Stornoway’s dining scene.
HS-1 Cafe Bar
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The Boatshed Restaurant
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Harbour Kitchen
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No.9 By The Harbour
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Bridge Centre Cafe
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Cabarfeidh Hotel
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La Balena - Italian Restaurant
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The Park Guest House & Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Garynahine Harris Tweed
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Islewear
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Broch Gift Shop
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Weaver
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Dancing Flower Crafts
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Amor Weavers
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West Side Furniture Store
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The Weaving Shed
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Empty House Traders
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Lewis Revival
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Influence Clothing
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Harris Tweed Hebrides
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Tweedtastic
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Sardar & Sons
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Nicolson & Co Ltd
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Stornoway's trusted newsagent serving the Isle of Lewis since 1978.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
THE HARBOUR BAR
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The Criterion Bar
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Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
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McNeills
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Artizan
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Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
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Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
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The Rip
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Old Barn Bar
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Cross Inn
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The Bothy
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Isle of Harris Brewery
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The Ferry Inn
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The Stein Inn
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Westford Inn
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Isle of Harris Golf Club
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Skye Camanachd Social Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
