Castlerigg stone circle

Castlerigg is an oval stone arrangement with 38 standing stones on a hill plateau in the Lake District, England. The formation measures between 29.5 and 32.6 meters across, with a rectangular group of ten stones set within the eastern section.

The circle was built around 3200 BCE during the Late Neolithic and served communities as a gathering place. The layout suggests use over several centuries before the tradition eventually faded.

The name comes from a nearby farm and points to the agricultural use of the surrounding land in later centuries. Visitors today can see how the local slate slabs reflect the geological character of the region.

The site lies near Keswick and remains open all year with no admission fees or closing times. The path from the parking area runs a short distance over firm ground.

The heaviest stone weighs around 16 tonnes and was likely hauled several kilometers using wooden rollers and ropes. The alignment of the stones suggests a connection with the nearby ridge of Threlkeld Knott.

Location: St John's Castlerigg and Wythburn

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/castlerigg-stone-circle

GPS coordinates: 54.60280,-3.09843

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:04