STONE BOTHERING

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England, lies a fascinating relic of the past – Spinsters' Rock. This impressive dolmen, also known as a cromlech, is a testament to the ingenuity and beliefs of the Neolithic people who inhabited the region over 4,000 years ago. What is a Dolmen? The word "dolmen" comes from the Breton language and translates to "stone table." These megalithic structures typically consist of large, flat capstones supported by several upright stones. They were primarily used as burial chambers, serving as final resting places for the deceased. Spinsters' Rock: A Survivor of Time Spinsters' Rock is the most well-preserved dolmen in Devon. It comprises three granite supports, each reaching heights between 5.5 and 7.5 feet, holding aloft a massive capstone measuring an impressive 15 by 10 feet. Unfortunately, the surrounding barrow, which would have originally covered the dolmen with earth and stones, has

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

While the Devil's Pulpit technically sits on the English side of the River Wye, in the Forest of Dean district, its most iconic views are of the Welsh landscape across the water. This dramatic limestone outcrop offers a glimpse into history and folklore, making it a popular spot for walkers and photographers alike. A Panoramic Vista The most striking feature of the Devil's Pulpit is undoubtedly the view. From the flat plateau at the top of the rock, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramas of the Wye Valley. The majestic ruins of Tintern Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand proudly on the opposite bank in Wales, their gothic arches framed by rolling green hills. A Whispering Legend Adding to the intrigue of the Devil's Pulpit is the local legend associated with its name. The story goes that the devil, envious of the monks residing in Tintern Abbey, used this rocky outcrop as a pulpit to preach and tempt them away from their faith. While the legend is undoubt

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Preseli Mountains in Wales lies an unassuming rocky outcrop called Craig Rhos-y-felin. This seemingly ordinary sight, however, holds a hidden secret – it is believed to be the source of some of the stones used to construct the iconic Stonehenge monument. Craig Rhos-y-felin's claim to fame lies in its unique geological composition. The site is rich in a specific type of rock called foliated rhyolite, which is remarkably similar to the stones found in Stonehenge, particularly the "bluestones." This discovery, made in 2011, sent shockwaves through the archaeological world, potentially rewriting the narrative of Stonehenge's origins. The theory suggests that the prehistoric inhabitants of Wales quarried stones from Craig Rhos-y-felin around 3400 BC. These stones were then transported over 240 kilometers to their final resting place at Stonehenge, a feat that speaks volumes about the ingenuity and determination of these ancient peopl

High on Dinas Mountain in Wales lies Carn Enoch, an ancient settlement shrouded in mystery. Crumbling rock outcrops hint at a bygone era, while a possible ring cairn or hut circle sparks the imagination. But perhaps the most intriguing feature at Carn Enoch isn't a structure at all, but a single rock etched with a series of precise marks. These are no ordinary scratches. The rock at Carn Enoch boasts a collection of tally marks, their purpose a subject of much debate. Archaeologists and history buffs have been pondering their meaning for years, with various theories vying for explanation. Lunar Calendar or Ledger of Life? One theory suggests the tally marks represent a lunar calendar. The number of markings (around 28-32) aligns with the lunar cycle, and their position relative to a natural groove on the rock might indicate the phases of the moon. This would paint a fascinating picture of Carn Enoch's inhabitants – a people attuned to the rhythms of the cosmos. Another theory l

Nestled amidst the idyllic countryside of Wiltshire, England, lies Folly Wood Gorge – a hidden gem waiting to be explored. While it may not be the grandest canyon you'll encounter, its beauty lies in its intimacy and local legends. And nestled within the gorge's embrace is the intriguing Holy Man's Cave, shrouded in mystery. A Gorge with a Hidden Past Folly Wood Gorge is a short but captivating wonder. The highlight? The way the trees cling to the gorge's edges, their roots snaking picturesquely across the rock face. Look closely, and nestled amongst these roots, you'll find the Holy Man's Cave. The name itself sparks curiosity – who was this holy man, and why did he choose this spot? Unfortunately, the cave's history remains shrouded in the mists of time. There are whispers of a hermit who once resided there, a solitary figure seeking solace in the gorge's embrace. However, another tale suggests a less holy inhabitant – Quabb, a notorious poacher and p

Towering over the English countryside, Silbury Hill stands as a testament to a bygone era. This prehistoric mound, nestled near the famed Avebury stone circle, is a wonder in itself. But what truly sets Silbury Hill apart is its enigmatic purpose. Archaeologists have been grappling with this question for centuries, and despite numerous theories, the truth behind its creation remains shrouded in mystery. Standing at a staggering 39 meters (129 feet) tall, Silbury Hill is the largest prehistoric man-made mound in all of Europe. Its construction, estimated to have taken an astonishing 18 million man-hours, is a feat that speaks volumes about the ingenuity and organization of the people who built it. Radiocarbon dating places its origin around 2400 BC, making it roughly contemporary with the Egyptian pyramids. One might think that such a monumental structure must have served a grand purpose, perhaps as a burial chamber for a revered leader. However, excavations have revealed no human remai