Swinside, Ancient stone circle in Cumbria, England.
The stone circle spans 27 meters in diameter and contains 55 stones made of porphyritic slate, with several reaching heights of 3 meters.
Built between 3300 and 900 BCE during the Late Neolithic and Early Bronze Age periods, Swinside represents a significant megalithic construction in Britain.
The circle bears the alternative name Sunkenkirk due to local tales of the Devil preventing the construction of a church at the location.
Visitors must follow a farm track for approximately one mile from Crag Hall, where limited parking is available near Broughton-in-Furness.
Two large portal stones mark the south-eastern entrance, positioned to align with the midwinter sunrise for astronomical observations.
Location: Cumbria
GPS coordinates: 54.28248,-3.27385
Latest update: May 13, 2025 05:22
Stone circles are megalithic structures from prehistoric times. These monuments served as astronomical observation points and gathering places. The constructions demonstrate the technical abilities of early societies. The stones were placed and aligned with precision. Many of these circles connect to solstices and star constellations.
Cumbria features medieval churches, watermills, prehistoric stone circles and Roman ruins. The region houses historic mansions like Sizergh Castle and Hutton in the Forest. Nature enthusiasts can explore limestone formations, waterfalls and Ennerdale Lake. Literature fans can visit William Wordsworth's birthplace and residence.
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