Pictures of Castlerigg

About Castlerigg

Castlerigg Stone Circles cast an eyrie atmospheric shadow over the sites soft grassy hill top landscape. It lies amidst awe-inspiring scenery, with views of some of Lakeland's most scenic fells, including Skiddaw, Blencathra and Lonscale Fell.

The circle, believed to date from the latter part of the Neolithic period is about 3,000 years old. Within the oval ring there are 38 stones and a further oblong space inside the ring has 10 magnificent standing stones, one reaching to a height of 2.3 metres. The origin of the circle remains unknown, but it is considered to be of ritual importance. It is also important for its megalithic astronomy, as the construction contains astronomical alignments. The circle, sometimes referred to as the Carles or Druids Circle is about 100 feet in diameter and belongs to the National Trust.

Castlerigg is a favoured destination for tourists, it is easily accessible from the market town of Keswick and is within easy reach of the snaking waters of the pretty River Greta, picturesque becks and fells.