Castlerigg Stone Circle

Castlerigg Stone Circle, Keswick, the Lake District, Cumbria. Thirty eight stones remain in the 30.5m outer ring of this impressive Neolithic Stone Circle and another ten form an unusual rectangular inner enclosure. Built around 3000 BC, Castlerigg is one of the oldest circles in Britain and is at least 1500 years older than the Druid stone circles. The stones are all composed of Borrowdale Volcanic Rock and were probably carried to the area by the huge Thirlmere Glaciers. No one is certain as to the origins of the circle but it is believed that local tribes met here for worship and trading. An unpolished stone axe (now in Keswick Museum) was found in 1875, but when the rectangular inner area was excavated, only charcoal was uncovered. Professor Thom believed the circle had been an astronomical observatory because the tallest stone aligns to the Samhain Sunrise on November 1st. In 1919 a Mr Singleton and friend are recorded to have seen white balls of light moving slowly around the stones. Whatever its mysteries, the circle situated amidst the grandeur and moodiness of the Lakeland fells, truly has a unique magical quality.