The Callanish IV stone circle is one of many megalithic structures around the better-known (and larger) Callanish Stones (I) on the west coast of the isle of Lewis. The stone circle forms a pronounced oval measuring 13.3 by 9.5 metres. Only five stones currently stand, but there could have been as many as thirteen. The stones range in size from 2 to 2.7 metres. In the centre is a dilapidated cairn. A small slab, 60 centimetres high, is set on edge within the cairn.

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Founded: 3000-2500 BC
Category: Prehistoric and archaeological sites in United Kingdom

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

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4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Valerie Hinchliffe (6 months ago)
This impressive stone circle is a must-see if you're visiting the Outer Hebrides. All the more awe-inspiring because it is over 5000 years old, predating Stonehenge, and was built by people working with the most primitive of tools. It took us about 40 minutes to get here from Stornoway, travelling along narrow roads. The visitor centre is being completely redeveloped (it's expected to reopen in 2026), but at the time of our visit in late October, there were a couple of portaloos at the entrance, and a van where we could get refreshments and souvenirs. It was only a short walk from here up a gravel path to the stones. There's no entrance charge, and you can wander freely among them. Interpretation boards told us a little about their history, and also the geology and wildlife of this area. The monoliths, of varying shapes and sizes, cover a surprisingly large area. Some of them look as though they might have lined a processional way. Be advised that you need sturdy footwear to get close to them; although we were walking on grass, the ground was very boggy and waterlogged. Nobody really knows why these stones were raised, but they are believed to have been a centre of religious activity in prehistoric times. Walking among them was an unforgettable experience, made all the more so by their stunning setting on a windswept hill, surrounded by moorland and peat bog, with wonderful views down to the loch. It was well worth coming to this special place; I'll definitely want to return!
Daniel Bateman (8 months ago)
The best stone circle in the UK. I'm hoping the visitor centre makes a good addition to the site in the future and that people are always allowed to traverse freely through the stones. My belief (not unique to me) is that the stones were at one time here to mark lunar precession on the landscape. So coming during moonrise was very enjoyable.
C Hill (8 months ago)
Busy place to visit. Lots of tour companies here. We met surveyors who are making a 3-D replica and will use a drone for aerial views. Visitor center is being rebuilt. Portable toilets. Standing stones were fantastic!
D&C Lambert (8 months ago)
We had limited time on the island as you have to work in with expensive accommodation, things being closed and ferry sailing times so unfortunately we got to the stones late in the day. They were fabulous to see but the lack of light made taking photos difficult. It is great you can still wander through them uninhibited but that also means you will have to be patient to get good photos. What a shame for me that it is so far away or I would visit this amazing place again.
Polly Wainwright (8 months ago)
5 plus stars !!! An absolute must to visit if on the island. Pre dating Stone Henge and almost completely intact. Currently lots of redevelopment work going on, so parking is a bit mishmash, we arrived about 4.00 and there was plenty of parking along the waterside wall - probably best place for campers. There's a little van selling gifts, porta loos, and a cafe (maybe - it was all locked up on our visit). A little walk up, but benches on the way. And the amazing stones. Stunning, with the backdrop of fantastic landscape. Free entry ( but visitor centre closed). It looks like there may be an easy access carpark nearer the stones, at the top, but we didn't see any signs for it ... a 'must' visit if you love stone circles. One of the best.
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