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Castlerigg Stone Circle
Lake District
Castlerigg stone circle is
also known as the Keswick Carles. This
is probably one of the best preserved stone circles in England, and is in
excellent condition and well maintained. It
is definitely one of the most well known circles in the Lake District.
Located in a dramatic setting, on a level stretch of ground on Chestnut
Hill, where the hills and mountainous scenery
form a natural ampitheatre surrounding the site. There are excellent views of both the circle and the
surrounding area from whichever direction you care to look. The nearly complete stone circle has a rectangular grouping
of stones to the east of the circle. Excavation
work has been carried out here, but the only remains to be found were charcoal,
although a stone axe was found in the circle.
The axe is now on display in Keswick Museum.
Of the 38 stones that form the circle, five of them have now fallen.
An unusual rectangular feature is attached to the main circle and known
as "The Cave". In the SE of the
circle stands a tall radial pillar approx 8ft in height, which is in alignment
with the November or Samhain sunrise. It is quite feasable the the circle was
the focus of seasonal cermonies that were determined with important risings and
settings of the sun and moon. Burl
speculates it may be one of the oldest stone circles still surviving.
Directions
On
the A66 approx. 2.5km east of Keswick the circle is well signposted.
A minor road leads to the circle where there is a small parking space by
the side of the road on the opposite side to the circle.
The site is cared for by the National Trust and English heritage.
Photos
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