It’s one of the world’s most popular historical sites, but if you can’t fly halfway around the world to England to catch a glimpse of Stonehenge, there’s a full-scale replica deep in the heart of the Glen Innes Highlands in NSW. Known as the Australian Standing Stones, the rock formation pays homage to Australia’s Celtic people and while not quite as old as the real Stonehenge, the national monument is unique in its own way in the southern hemisphere. Made up of 38 standing stones, 3.5 metres in height, the megaliths acknowledge the contributions of people from the Celtic nations of Scotland, Ireland, Cornwall, Wales, the Isle of Man, Brittany, Asturias and Galicia.
Australian Standing Stones, Glen Innes
This hidden marvel is perched 1062 metres above sea level in the charming town of Glen Innes in the New England Region of NSW. The cool climate town is known as the Celtic capital of Australia and offers four distinct seasons and incredible national parks. While it’s not exactly within easy reach of Sydney, the country town offers plenty of reasons to plan a trip, especially if you’re keen to discover this iconic spot’s rich history and Celtic connections.
Things to do in Glen Innes
Australian Standing Stones
The first stone was raised in 1991 and the monument officially opened in 1992. Interestingly, the memorial is arranged as a calendar to mark the change of seasons and incorporates a Celtic Cross and the Southern Cross in its design. The stones are a remarkable sight to explore and especially beautiful at night under a starry sky due to minimal light pollution. There are plenty of fun things to do at the Australian Standing Stones including exploring the surrounding lookouts, restaurants and public areas.
Head to the Crofter’s Cottage, a replica taigh dubh or black cottage or challenge yourself to lift the Excalibur sword from the stone. To the north of the Stones, you’ll find the Hill of Tara, representing the ancient site of Irish Kings. You can also enjoy coffee and sweet treats at The Stone Cottage Cafe on site. Read more about the standing stones here.
Australian Celtic Festival
If you want more out of your trip, time your visit to coincide with the Australian Celtic Festival when the streets fill up with Celtic dancing, street parades, the sound of bagpipes, live music and a host of other activities. The festival takes place at the Australian Standing Stones monument adding to the atmosphere and includes pipe bands, markets, official ceremonies, live performances and children’s entertainment.
When is the best time to visit
Glen Innes enjoys four distinct seasons which means you can plan a trip based on your personal preference. The first weekend of May is the most popular time to visit when thousands of people from around the country come down for the Australian Celtic Festival. The town is particularly beautiful during autumn with trees of gold and orange lining the streets. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can head there from mid-December to early March for warm-weather activities. The coldest month of the year is July.
How to get there
Glen Innes is located in Northern NSW, 4.5 hours drive from Brisbane and about 7 hours from Sydney. The closest airport is in Armidale, and you can hire a car for the one-hour drive north to get to your destination. Find the Australian Standing Stones about 12 kilometres south of Glen Innes at Centennial Parklands via Watsons Drive.
Find accomodation options in and around Glen Innes here.