How old?
c. 2500–1500 BC
It was already ancient before the Romans arrived in these islands.
What happened here?
Clues, not answers
The circle is about 22 metres across. Two taller standing stones nearby appear, from the south-west, to frame the distant Carn Menyn outcrop. Their relationship with the ring is visually compelling, although the date and purpose of the pairing are not certain.
Claims connect the two outliers with midwinter sunset or midsummer sunrise, but Cadw cautions that these are assumptions and may not relate directly to the circle. Whatever the intention, stone, horizon and movement through this marshy landscape were carefully composed.
The old story says
Folklore
One outlying monolith is sometimes called the Dreaming Stone, a modern name that suits the site's atmosphere but is not evidence for an ancient rite. Visitors may encounter contemporary pagan interest; respectful practice should leave no offerings, ribbons, candles or markings behind.
Remember: folklore tells us what later people believed about a place. It is not necessarily what its builders believed.
Try this
Five things to notice
- Which is the tallest stone?
- What can you see on the horizon?
- Do the stones look different from nearby rocks?
- Where does the sun rise and set?
- How does the place sound when everyone is quiet?
Stone detective mission
Evidence or story?
Choose one thing you can see and one idea people tell about the place. Sketch both, then label the first evidence and the second story. Could new evidence ever change the story?
Look closely, draw and ask questions—but never climb on stones, move anything or leave an offering. Stay with your adult and follow every access sign.