Castlerigg Stone Circle

Overview

Castlerigg Stone Circle, a Neolithic monument close to Keswick in the Lake District, is one of the earliest stone circles in Great Britain. Erected around 3,000 BC, it also has one of the best locations of any prehistoric monument in the UK.

Surrounded by the fells of Helvellyn and High Seat, visitors to the stone circle at Castlerigg can enjoy 360-degree views of the stunning landscapes which the Lake District National Park in Cumbria is known for.

Castlerigg Stone Circle consists of 38 free-standing stones with some reaching up to 10 feet (3 metres) in height. Admission to the monument is free and it’s a great place to visit as a family with children, as a couple, or as a solo traveller.

What is the myth of Castlerigg Stone Circle?

The myth surrounding Castlerigg Stone Circle is that it was originally used as a place to exchange axes that had been produced nearby. During Neolithic times, it’s thought that a ritual was performed during the exchange to ensure its safety.

Is Castlerigg Stone Circle older than Stonehenge?

It is thought that Castlerigg Stone Circle is older than Stonehenge. Stonehenge dates back to 2,500 BC, whereas Castlerigg Stone Circle was built around 3,000 BC.

Can you walk from Keswick to Castlerigg Stone Circle?

Yes, you can walk to Castlerigg Stone Circle from the centre of Keswick. The walk should take around 30 minutes.

How long do you need to spend at Castlerigg Stone Circle?

You can spend as much or as little time as you like at Castlerigg Stone Circle. If you’re including it as a stop off during a longer hike, then you can spend a few minutes looking around the ancient monument.

You may wish to stay longer if you want to watch the sunset from here or if you’ve brought a picnic with you. Sit down, relax, and soak up the atmospheric surroundings.

Castlerigg Stone Circle walk

There’s an easy 4.5-mile (7.3-kilometre) circular walk from Keswick town centre to Castlerigg Stone Circle, starting at Moot Hall. The walk is on quiet lanes and field paths, and there is a slight ascent through woodland:

From Moot Hall, take the lane to the left of Greggs, keeping straight ahead on St John’s Street past the Alhambra
Take Spring Road on the right, and when it ends, continue through the woods. Just before a bridge over a beck, turn right following the path along the side of a gorge
When you reach a lane, turn left and then take the gate on the right. Cross two fields
After a gate, turn left and follow this path over several fields before emerging onto the A591
Cross the road and follow the lane opposite. At a T-junction, turn right, and then a gate on the right gives you access to Castlerigg Stone Circle
Go back to the road and turn left. Turn left at the next T-junction and then follow the pavement right by the A591
Go through a gate on the left to the Keswick Railway Path
Turn left and follow the path to its end at the former Keswick station, which is now a hotel
From the platform, bear left to walk around the side of Keswick Leisure Centre. Bear right at the road and go straight over at the crossroads. When the road bends sharply left, turn right and you’ll soon arrive back at Moot Hall

Walk from BBC Countryfile. Be sure to take a paper map with you and be aware of the weather conditions, which can change very quickly in the Lake District.

When to visit:

Castlerigg Stone Circle at sunset

Sunset is a fantastic time to visit Castlerigg Stone Circle. Enjoy the incredible natural show as the sky turns different shades of yellow and orange and the day ends. Why not pack some snacks and a flask with a hot drink to take with you?

Summer solstice at Castlerigg Stone Circle

The summer solstice takes place on the longest day of the year, which is either the 20th or 21st June. People gather at Castlerigg Stone Circle to celebrate with music and street performers. Celebrations start from around midday on the day of the solstice and continue until after dark.

How to get to Castlerigg Stone Circle from YHA Keswick

Castlerigg Stone Circle is around 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometres) from YHA Keswick. There are several ways to get there, including walking, driving, and taking public transport.

On foot: It’s around a half an hour walk from YHA Keswick to Castlerigg Stone Circle. You can also add a stop here as part of a longer walk.

By car: It takes approximately five minutes to drive from YHA Keswick to Castlerigg Stone Circle. There is limited on-road parking available on Castle Lane, near to the monument.

By public transport: Catch the 555 bus from Great Bank, a two-minute walk from the Youth Hostel. Alight at Castle Lane, and from here it’s a short walk to Castlerigg Stone Circle. The journey should take about 20 minutes.