Calanais Standing Stones

Just a Peat Bog in Callanish, Isle of Lewis

The most famous prehistoric stone monument in Scotland spent much of its life under the living blanket of peat which covers much of the islands.  By 1857 just the tips of a few stones peeped out of the bog when the island’s landowner Sir James Matheson decided to excavate. Nearly two metres of peat later - the Calanais (Callanish) Standing Stones - the wonderful and powerful monuments from 5000 years ago were exposed.

Stones Towering almost 5 Metres High

Four rows of ancient stones radiate outward from a stone circle, forming a rough cross shape. At the centre is a huge 4.8 metre tall monolith looking over a stone burial kist that nestles within the circle. Standing on a rise overlooking fresh and salt water lochs dotted with tiny islands, the site dominates its landscape.  

Calanais is Older than the Pyramids of Egypt

Long before the pyramids of Egypt were built, the northern and western isles of Scotland were a centre of sophisticated monumental building which radiated out and south to influence later monuments such as Stonehenge.  These stones of 300 million year old Lewisian gneiss - some of the oldest rock on the planet - were chosen, hauled, and precisely placed by our Neolithic ancestors using only stone tools, strength and great skill.  It is an awe-inspiring place. 

The Calanais Standing Stones are Shrouded in Mystery

The Calanais (Callanish) Standing Stones was, and is, a place of power, a very special place and one that must be experienced. The sense of its importance is increased when we realise that there are at least 15 other stone circles and standing stones nearby. We do not know why it was built or what rituals and activities went on there. Pottery and other finds show that this was a thriving and sophisticated society and that these islands have been the centre of a wider culture that traded by sea.  Perhaps it was a kind of a place to come close to the gods, a place of ceremony, a place to watch the movements of the moon and stars?  

These Calanais (Callanish) monuments will always be for the awe-struck visitor to ponder and dream. 

Visit the New Calanais Standing Stones Visitor Centre, Isle of Lewis

The newly redeveloped Calanais Standing Stones Visitor Centre has opened for a special preview season ahead of its official launch in late summer 2026. Located beside the world famous Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis, this exciting redevelopment combines cutting edge visitor facilities with one of Scotland's most significant prehistoric sites.

Designed to celebrate the rich heritage of the Outer Hebrides while creating an accessible and welcoming experience for all, the new centre offers visitors the opportunity to discover the story of the Calanais Standing Stones through a state of the art exhibition, enjoy locally sourced refreshments in the café, browse the gift shop, and learn more about this remarkable ancient landscape.

As part of the preview season, visitors are invited to share feedback and help shape the future visitor experience. Advance booking is recommended. For opening times, ticket information and visitor updates, please visit the official Calanais website.

How to Get to the Calanais Standing Stones and Visitor Centre

By Car

The Calanais Standing Stones are located on the west side of the Isle of Lewis, approximately 17 miles from Stornoway.

From Stornoway, follow the A859 south for around 7.5 miles before turning right onto the A858. Continue on the A858 for approximately 10 miles and follow the signs into Calanais Village. The visitor centre is situated beside the standing stones and is clearly signposted.

Parking

Free parking is available on site for the duration of your visit and does not require advance booking.

Facilities include:

• 33 standard parking spaces
• 4 accessible parking bays
• 6 electric vehicle charging points
• Cycle parking for up to 10 bicycles

Campervans and motorhomes are welcome during visiting hours. Please note that overnight parking is not permitted in accordance with local planning regulations. Visit the official Calanais website for full parking information and visitor guidelines.

Public Transport

Visitors travelling by public transport can take the W2 bus service from Stornoway Bus Station to Calanais.

Stornoway Bus Station is located near the ferry terminal. For the latest timetables and service updates, contact the bus station on 01851 704327 or visit Traveline Scotland before travelling.

As public transport services in the Outer Hebrides can be less frequent than in urban areas, visitors are encouraged to plan their journey in advance and allow extra time for connections.

A Must Visit Attraction in the Outer Hebrides

The Calanais Standing Stones are among Scotland's most important prehistoric monuments and one of the top attractions in the Outer Hebrides. Whether you are interested in archaeology, history, culture, photography or simply experiencing one of the most iconic landscapes in the Hebrides, the new visitor centre provides the perfect starting point for your visit.