A fellside mystery... (Castlerigg Stone Circle)

Member Name: anwar7

Product:	Castlerigg Stone Circle
Date:	26/10/08 (92 review reads)
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I am lucky enough to live within a short drive of the Lake District in Cumbria. It is an area I love and would not consider living anywhere else. One of the places I love to visit is the mysterious Castlerigg stone circle near Keswick.

The Castlerigg stone circle is a prehistoric stone circle built around 3200 BC. It consists of 38 stones with the largest being about 8 feet tall. The circle is over 100 feet in diameter. To the east of the circle is a small rectangle going into the main circle consisting of about 10 stones. Like other stone circles no one really knows why this one was built but there is speculation that it had something to do with astrology. Although the site was excavated in the 19th century nothing much was found here.

The setting of the Castlerigg stone circle is stunning. I have visited at all times of the year but have to say the winter is my favourite time to visit. In summer the place can be over run with tourists. On a cold winters day with snow on the ground there is nowhere quite like this magical place however. The circle is situated on a low hill with fantastic views of Helvellyn, Skiddaw and Blencathra.I am always struck by how the circle blends perfectly with its surroundings.

Getting there.
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It is not difficult to find the circle, as it is well signposted from Keswick. From Keswick you will need to take the track at the end of station road. It is sign posted to Threlkeld. It is an easy 11/2-mile walk to the top of the small hill where you will find the circle.

There is a train station in Penrith. From here the x 4/5 bus runs to Keswick.

Castlerigg stone circle is 16 miles from Penrith and 1 11/2 miles east of Keswick.

Castlerigg stone circle is open all year. The land is owned by the National Trust but the circle itself is owned by English heritage. It is free to enter.

If you are in the area then a visit to Castlerigg stone circle is well worth the effort. Even better if you can visit out of the busy summer season!

Summary: stone circle in Cumbria