The Australian Standing Stones National Celtic Monument is in the town of Glen Innes on the Northern Tablelands of NSW. They have great cultural significance and pay tribute to the Celtic heritage of the early European settlers to the district. At 1075 metres above sea level and surrounded by lush green farmlands and World Heritage rainforest, it’s easy to see why the Celtic settlers were drawn here, as it reminded them of their homelands.
The Australian Standing Stones were erected in 1992, inspired by ancient stone circles in Scotland, Ireland and Wales. The 38 granite monoliths are arranged as a calendar incorporating the Celtic Cross and Southern Cross. The site is a cultural gathering place for people from the Celtic communities, the Scottish, Irish, Welsh, Cornish, Bretons and Manx. Every May, Glen Innes celebrates its Celtic history at the Australian Celtic Festival, which attracts National and International visitors.
Glen Innes was named in honour of Major Archibald Clunes Innes, the former owner of nearby Furracabad Station. The town was established in 1854 on the site of the old station after Innes fell into bankruptcy. The early Scottish settlers said the area reminded them of the Scottish Highlands. The Australian Standing Stones National Celtic Monument honours these early Celtic pioneers, and many travellers enjoy stopping to learn its history.
The annual Australian Celtic Festival is a ‘gathering of the clans’ held at the Australian Standing Stones in May. It’s a lively celebration of Celtic music and dancing, medieval re-enactments and highland games, attracting visitors from all corners of Australia.
Just a short walk from The Australian Standing Stones is the Glen Innes Visitor Information Centre. Here, visitors can pick up a brochure explaining the significance of the Standing Stones and information on the self-guided walking tour of the Standing Stones.
A town with a proud heritage, Glen Innes boasts beautifully preserved historic buildings, museums, galleries and quaint shops. It’s known as the ‘Land of the Beardies,’ a name that refers to the early pioneers who wore distinctive beards. Visit Land of the Beardies History House and Museum, a fascinating regional museum that opened in 1970.
Another attraction of Glen Innes is its natural beauty. The town is nestled amidst rolling hills, lush farmlands, and national parks with plenty of places to take off and explore. The pristine Washpool and Gibraltar Range National Parks offer serene walks through ancient rainforests and breathtaking mountain views, while Mann River Nature Reserve is a great spot for picnicking, camping, swimming and fishing.
Glen Innes is also a major destination along ‘Fossickers Way,’ a 379-kilometre touring route that acknowledges the region’s gold and gem rush history and holds an annual gem and jewellery show in March.
The monument is located in Glen Innes, in the New England region of New South Wales. It is known as the Celtic Capital of Australia and hosts the annual Celtic Festival.
The design of the Australian Standing Stones National Celtic Monument is inspired by ancient stone circles, similar to those found in Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.
The 38 granite stones have been arranged to reflect the connection between Celtic culture, astronomy, and the land. The stones also align with key celestial events, such as the solstice and equinox, and are a symbol of the deep connection between the land, sky, and ancient traditions.
The Standing Stones are open to the public at any time of the year. The most popular time to visit is during the annual Celtic Festival in May.
Yes, the site is interactive, and visitors are encouraged to walk among the stones, touch them and learn their significance.
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