Nine Stones

Nine Stones is a stone circle located near Altarnun on Bodmin Moor in Cornwall, measuring approximately 49 feet (15 meters) across and comprising nine granite blocks. The arrangement centers around a central standing stone with the others positioned around it.

The stone circle dates to the Bronze Age and stands among many prehistoric monuments across Bodmin Moor. In 1889, it underwent restoration when only two stones remained standing, requiring the repositioning of the others.

This circle served as a gathering place where ancient communities likely performed ceremonies and observed the movements of stars and sun. The arrangement of stones suggests the site held both ritual and social importance for Bronze Age people.

The site sits on open moorland accessible on foot, with the final approach along rough terrain and tracks. Limited parking is available near a farm north of North Hill, reached by crossing a cattle grid on the signposted Bastreet road.

The stones in the circle lean at varying angles, creating an uneven arrangement particularly noticeable with the central granite post standing about 1.1 meters (3.6 feet) high. This tilting may reflect intentional placement by the builders or the result of natural settling over thousands of years.