Plan your visit
Chì sibh na Tursachan ann an sòlas dioffar a h-uile uair den latha agus oidhche
When should I visit?
The best thing about Calanais is that you catch the mystery and awe at any time of day, in any weather, and during any season.
May-September: Offers the longer daylight hours along with the milder weather.
October-March: Offers fewer daylight hours, fewer tourists, moody skies, and dramatic landscapes, but be prepared for the likelihood of strong wind and rain.
For the perfect photo opportunity, it’s undeniable that sunrise or sunset can make for both beautiful light and fewer people. The busiest times are during Solstice events, though you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
The stones remain accessible outside of the Centre’s operating hours via the access path from the Visitor Centre.
Use the below to help guide your planning.
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Celestial events
The Calanais Stones are famous for their celestial significance, as their layout appears deliberately aligned with the major movements of the Moon and the Sun. The mounment’s builders aligned the circle with the sun’s movements, focusing on the midwinter solstice. It seems the sun was a particular concern for Late Neolithic people. The sun’s gradual return after midwinter was a promise of warmth, fertility and successful harvests.
We are always delighted to welcome visitors who wish to celebrate lunar events with us at the stones.
Access to the stones will be permitted outside the Centre’s operating hours via the Visitor Centre access path.
Campervans & Motorhomes
Please note that there is currently no dedicated parking for campervans or motorhomes. For larger vehicles, we advise arriving early during busy periods.
Overnight camping is not currently permitted. For details of nearby campsites please see Outer Hebrides Tourism.
Visitor FAQs
Please see our frequently asked questions. Alternatively, if you require any further information, please contact us via our website and we’ll be happy to answer any queries.
It is anticipated that the Visitor Centre will be open all year; however, there are currently no plans to keep the toilet facilities open 24/7. We understand that there may be occasions or events where it would be beneficial for the toilets to be available for the public outside of opening hours and we will work to provide these facilities for such events.
We are working closely with Historic Environment Scotland to explore ways to accommodate special groups and have consulted with our audiences to understand the importance of access for special events and occasions. Please just get in touch if you have any questions. Access to the stones will be permitted outside the Centre’s operating hours via the Visitor Centre access path.
The Calanais Visitor Centre now features a range of modern facilities, including a welcoming reception, a well-stocked shop, and a café with seating for 70. Visitors can also access 16 toilets, a versatile multi-function space accommodating 60 seated guests, and an engaging exhibition showcasing the history and significance of the site.
Parking is available on site, including 6 EV charging spaces, 4 accessible (disabled) bays, 33 general parking spaces, and provision for 10 bicycles. Visitors to the Calanais Visitor Centre can enjoy free parking for the duration of their visit, with no booking required. An overflow parking is not available. Please respect our local residents and park in designated spaces. Overnight camping is not currently permitted.
A selection of takeaway items will be available for purchase.
The exhibition is included in the entry ticket price. It has been created with leading experts and academics from across the country to offer visitors a new and engaging experience. It brings to life over 5,000 years of history, stories, heritage, and culture through newly commissioned research, films, illustrations, artefacts, and interactive audiovisual displays.
The exhibition suitable for a wide range of visitors, including families with children and teenagers. It offers different ways to explore and enjoy the experience for all ages, with opportunities to take a deeper look into the research and history of Calanais. Visitors can explore the lives of the people who have lived alongside the stones for centuries, as well as the stories, folklore and culture that have grown around them.
The path leading from the Visitor Centre to the stones is steep and cannot be altered due to the landscape, though we are actively working to improve accessibility. Detailed access information for both the Visitor Centre and the standing stones will be available prior to our opening. Visitors with disabilities are welcome to bring an accompanying carer free of charge with the purchase of a full-price ticket. Please be prepared to provide proof of eligibility upon arrival.
