STONE BOTHERING

Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, England, lies the quaint village of Winterbourne Monkton. While seemingly unassuming at first glance, this village holds a hidden charm – a collection of intriguing stones that whisper tales of a bygone era. Unlike the world-famous megaliths of nearby Avebury, Winterbourne Monkton's stones are shrouded in an air of mystery. Scattered throughout the village, these ancient sentinels stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, their origins and purpose a puzzle waiting to be unravelled. One captivating feature is the large recumbent stone resting in the grounds of the village church. Believed to have originated from the Mill Barrow, an ancient burial mound, this stone fuels speculation about its connection to past rituals and practices. Adding to the intrigue are the sarsen stones, a type of sandstone commonly found in the area. These stones, discovered during bridge repairs, were once part of the Mill Barrow's foundation. Today, they stand...

Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, England, Avebury is one of the most intriguing prehistoric sites in the world. While Stonehenge often steals the limelight, Avebury offers an expansive and fascinating landscape dotted with ancient stones, each steeped in history and legend. Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable features. DEVIL'S CHAIR The Devil's Chair is a striking formation within Avebury, shaped like a throne or seat. Legend has it that this stone was once used by the Devil himself to survey the surrounding landscape. The tale goes that the Devil would sit here, tempting passersby with mischief. This stone exudes an aura of mystery, drawing visitors to ponder its dark associations. Whether you believe in folklore or not, the imposing presence of the Devil's Chair is undeniable, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the site. RING STONE According to local legend, the Ring Stone was once whole and stood proudly as a pivotal part of the Avebury circle. However, ...

High on the dramatic moorlands of Shropshire, England, stands a silent sentinel to millennia past - Mitchell's Fold Stone Circle. This awe-inspiring monument, built over 3,000 years ago during the Bronze Age, is a powerful reminder of the rich history that lies beneath our feet. Originally comprised of some 30 stones, today Mitchell's Fold boasts 15 standing stones arranged in a rough circle. Though the reasons behind its construction remain shrouded in mystery, it likely served as a focal point for rituals and ceremonies for the Bronze Age communities who called this land home. Theories abound about the circle's purpose. Perhaps it was a celestial calendar, aligned with the movements of the sun and moon. Maybe it served as a sacred space for gatherings and celebrations. Or, it could have been a place of burial or ancestor worship. The whispers of the past ignite our imaginations. Adding to the intrigue is the local folklore surrounding Mitchell's Fold. Legend tells of ...

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales lies an ancient mystery: the Cerrig Duon Complex. This captivating collection of Bronze Age monuments, dating back to 2500-800 BC, offers a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our distant ancestors. The heart of the complex is the Cerrig Duon stone circle, aptly named "Black Stones" in Welsh. Unlike the perfect circles we often envision, this arrangement is oval-shaped, with roughly 20 small stones standing about 2 feet tall. While some believe additional stones were added later, the circle's true origins and purpose remain shrouded in the mists of time. Standing proudly north of the circle is Maen Mawr, meaning "Big Stone." This impressive monolith reaches a height of nearly 2 meters and dwarfs the surrounding stones. Adding to the intrigue are two smaller stones aligned with Maen Mawr, forming a short stone row. But the complex doesn't stop there. Further exploration reveals th...

Gloucestershire, a county rich in history and natural beauty, is home to a fascinating collection of ancient sites. Among these, the long barrows—prehistoric burial chambers—stand out as a remarkable testament to the region’s Neolithic past. These ancient structures, built thousands of years ago, provide a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices of early Britons. In this blog post, we’ll explore five of Gloucestershire’s most significant ancient sites. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of archaeology, or simply curious about the county’s past, these ancient sites offer a journey through time. BELLAS KNAP LONG BARROW: A MYSTERIOUS MONUMENT Located near the village of Woodmancote, Bellas Knap Long Barrow is one of Gloucestershire’s most impressive Neolithic burial sites. Dating back to around 3000 BC, this chambered long barrow features a series of burial chambers and is believed to have been used for communal burial practices. The barrow itself is a striking exa...

When you think of Wiltshire, the iconic Stonehenge often steals the spotlight, drawing millions of visitors eager to marvel at its prehistoric grandeur. However, this enchanting county is home to a treasure trove of lesser-known ancient sites that are equally steeped in history and mystery. From long barrows to stone circles, these hidden gems offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of our prehistoric past. Let’s embark on a journey to discover some of Wiltshire’s fascinating lesser-known sites. LANHILL LONG BARROW Tucked away near the village of Lanhill, this long barrow dates back to the Neolithic period. Measuring approximately 60 meters long, it features a large earthen mound that likely served as a burial site for early communities. The tranquility of the surrounding countryside adds to the site's allure, making it an ideal spot for contemplation and reflection. While the site may not attract the crowds of its more famous counterparts, its understated beauty and historical sign...

Exploring the Land of Sarsen Stones in Wiltshire: A Journey Through Ancient Landscapes Wiltshire, a county in the heart of southern England, is home to some of the most captivating and mysterious landscapes in the UK. Among its many wonders is the fascinating land of sarsen stones, a region filled with ancient stone features that have inspired curiosity and awe for centuries. The Mystique of Sarsen Stones Sarsen stones are a type of hard, sandstone that has played a significant role in the construction of many ancient monuments across southern England. Their origins are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed they were formed over millions of years during the last Ice Age. These stones are not only prominent in Wiltshire, but they also define the region's archaeological landscape, from prehistoric burial sites to stone circles. PIGGLEDENE Our journey begins in Piggledene, a quiet, unassuming area nestled in the rolling hills of Wiltshire. This is where the first sarsen stones were ...

Cornwall, located in the southwestern tip of England, is home to some of the most intriguing and well-preserved ancient sites in the United Kingdom. These landmarks, steeped in history, offer a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of the British Isles. From Neolithic stone circles to Bronze Age burial chambers, Cornwall’s ancient sites are a must-visit for history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and anyone interested in the mysteries of the past. In this blog post, we will take you through some of the most fascinating ancient sites in Cornwall. MEN-AN-TOL One of Cornwall’s most famous and enigmatic sites is Men-an-Tol. This prehistoric monument, believed to date back to the Bronze Age, consists of four upright stones, one of which has a large circular hole in the center. The exact purpose of Men-an-Tol is unknown, but it is thought to have had ritualistic significance, possibly related to fertility or healing. Many local legends surround Men-an-Tol, including the belief tha...

England's landscape is steeped in history, whispering tales of bygone eras. But beyond the majestic castles and crumbling ruins lie silent sentinels: stones imbued with a mysterious power – the power to heal. For millennia, cultures across the globe have attributed healing properties to various crystals and minerals. England is no exception. Evidence suggests our ancestors not only appreciated the beauty of these stones, but also believed they held the key to wellness. Rock Crystal: A Window to the Soul Unearthed at Dorstone Hill, Herefordshire, lie hundreds of rock crystal fragments – the largest such discovery in Britain. These translucent beauties weren't crafted into tools, but rather placed near burials, hinting at a deeper purpose. Perhaps the Neolithic people saw them as conduits to the spirit world, or maybe they valued their clarity for promoting clear thinking and inner peace. Stonehenge: More Than Just a Monument Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is shrouded...

Wiltshire, located in the heart of southern England, is renowned for its rich history and impressive prehistoric monuments. The region is home to some of the most iconic ancient sites in the world, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our ancient ancestors. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of archaeology, or simply someone intrigued by the mysteries of the past, Wiltshire has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the top ancient sites in Wiltshire. STONEHENGE: THE ICONIC MONUMENT No visit to Wiltshire is complete without experiencing Stonehenge, one of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world. Located near Amesbury, Stonehenge is a Neolithic stone circle that dates back to around 3000 BC. The monument consists of a ring of standing stones, some weighing as much as 40 tons, which were transported from as far as Wales. While the exact purpose of Stonehenge remains a mystery, it is widely believed to have been used for ...