Our centre is closed for redevelopment, reopening in July 2026. There are no facilities - no coach parking, no toilets, limited car parking.

Calanais Conversations

Wonk

Delve deeper into ten episodes of Calanais Conversations, our mini-podcast series.

Hosted in collaboration with The Prehistoric Guys, the series feature archaeologists researchers, authors, and local experts sharing their insights, experiences, and discoveries connected to the Stones and the wider landscape of the Outer Hebrides.

Each episode offers an accessible look at topics ranging from archaeological research to astronomy, mythology, and the personal stories of those who have studied or worked at Calanais. Together, these conversations help deepen public understanding of this Neolithic landscape, helping listeners to uncover and interpret its history.
Credit: Ralph Tonge

Episodes

Calanais Conversations, Episode 1

Calanais Conversations will feature guests such as the Prehistory Guys, who will telling us all about their personal history with Calanais and why these Standing Stones are so unique.
Calanais Conversations, Episode 1

Calanais Conversations, Episode 2

This episode features Professor Duncan Garrow and his latest work on the Isle of Lewis, excavating Loch Bhorgastail. We hope you enjoy!!!
Calanais Conversations, Episode 2

Calanais Conversations, Episode 3

Dr Jo Hambly works for the SCAPE Trust who work with the public on the archaeology, history and past environments of the coastal zone of Scotland.

Calanais Conversations, Episode 3

Calanais Conversations, Episode 4

The Prehistory Guys have returned with another episode of Calanais Conversations with Dr Melanie Johnson! Melanie is a specialist in prehistoric pottery.
Calanais Conversations, Episode 4

Calanais Conversations, Episode 5

New light on a ceremonial landscape. Lecture by Alison Sheridan, research associate National Museums Scotland.
Calanais Conversations, Episode 5

Calanais Conversations, Episode 6

In this Calanais Conversation, The Prehistory Guys talk with Gerald Ponting. In the 1970s and 1980s, Gerald and Margaret Ponting (later Margaret Curtis, who died in 2022) carried out groundbreaking research at Calanais.
Calanais Conversations, Episode 6

Calanais Conversations, Episode 7

Dr Rebecca Rennell and Dr Emily Gal, archaeologists at the University of the Highlands & Islands Archaeology Institute, talk with the Prehistory Guys about their work on the archaeology of the Outer Hebrides.

Calanais Conversations, Episode 7

Calanais Conversations, Episode 8

Sue Clutterbuck& Peter Vallance spent many years involved with the archaeology and mythology surrounding Calanais, working over a 20-year period alongside the late Margaret Curtis.
Calanais Conversations, Episode 8

Calanais Conversations, Episode 9

Astrophysicist Roberto Trotta shares insights from his book ‘Starborn’ and his star gazing experiences at Calanais.
Calanais Conversations, Episode 9

Calanais Conversations, Episode 10

Professor Emeritus Dennis Harding, formerly of the University of Edinburgh, established the Callanish Archaeological Research Centre (CARC) at the Calanais Farmhouse near the standing stones in 1985.

Calanais Conversations, Episode 10