Accessible Britain

130 Callanish Standing Stones, Western Isles
Address: Callanish, Isle of Lewis, HS2 9DY Web: www.callanishvisitorcentre.co.uk Tel: 01851 621422
Hours: June–Aug Mon–Sat 9.30am–8pm; Apr, May, Sept & Oct Mon–Sat 10am–6pm; Nov–Mar Tues–
Sat 10am–4pm Dates: Closed for two weeks over the Christmas period: call ahead to check exact days as
it varies from year to year Entry: Entry to the standing stones and visitor centre is free, but the following
charges apply to the “Story of the Stones” exhibition [D] £2.20 [C]£2.20 [A]£2.80 [Under 16s]£1.50
[Seniors & students]£2.20 [Fam] Families & groups get a discount of £2 per adult and £1.20 per child.
A Neolithic marvel in a wild island landscape, the Callanish Standing Stones on the
remote Isle of Lewis are as old as the Pyramids, and rival Stonehenge for historic and archeological
importance. Set in a wild lochside location, Callanish offers stunning views
across Loch Roag and the surrounding countryside, making a visit worthwhile for the
vistas alone.
Unlike many ancient monuments, you are encouraged to touch the stones and roam
around this atmospheric and mysterious place. The general shape of the stones is that
of a “Celtic” cross which only adds to the mystery of this ancient landmark, as it is
thousands of years older than Christianity. In use from the late Neolithic to the Bronze
Age, its original purpose is subject to debate, but experts’ best guess is that it was an
astronomical observatory. If you are lucky enough to visit during one of the solstices, an
unusual weather event like the Northern Lights, or planetary events like a blood moon
or eclipse, then the site assumes a very special atmosphere and can get busy.
There are no dedicated parking spaces, but disabled visitors can park in one of the
bus-bays near the visitor centre: otherwise the tarmac car park is on an incline, slightly
downhill a few metres from the visitor centre. There is ample space to drop-off too.
SCOTLAND
Callanish Standing Stones
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