The ancient mysteries of Dartmoor’s stone circles

Dartmoor's rugged landscapes are not only renowned for their natural beauty but also for their ancient stone circles, which have intrigued historians and archaeologists for centuries. These enigmatic structures, scattered across Dartmoor’s moors, offer a glimpse into the region’s distant past and its early inhabitants.

Stone circles are prehistoric monuments consisting of a ring or circular arrangement of upright stones. 

Often, these structures are thought to have held ceremonial, religious, or astronomical significance for the societies that built them. 

The purpose of these stone circles remains a subject of ongoing research, but they are generally believed to have served multiple functions, including ritualistic ceremonies, community gatherings, and astronomical observations.

One of the most notable prehistoric settlements on Dartmoor is Grimspound, which dates from the late Bronze Age (around 1500–800 BCE). 

Grimspound is renowned for its remains of 24 roundhouses, enclosed within a substantial stone wall, with additional houses situated outside the enclosure. 

Located in a fold in the hills about 450 metres above sea level, between Hookney and Hameldown tors, Grimspound represents a significant example of Bronze Age settlement. The roundhouses, also known as hut circles, were once clustered together, forming a sizable village. 

These structures are a defining feature of Dartmoor’s landscape, with some remaining as solitary features while others are grouped into larger settlements.

Despite its historical importance, the exact duration of Grimspound's use remains uncertain. By around 1000 BCE, changes in settlement patterns were evident.

The people living on Dartmoor had cleared surrounding forests, which led to soil erosion and reduced soil fertility on the moorland. 

As a result, the area could no longer support the same level of occupation, prompting a shift in settlement practices.

Another prominent site is Scorhill, located in the northern part of Dartmoor. 

This stone circle, composed of large granite stones, is thought to date back to around 2000 BCE. 

The arrangement of the stones suggests that the site may have held astronomical significance, possibly marking important celestial events like solstices and equinoxes.

Such stone circles are believed to have been used for aligning with solar and lunar cycles, indicating an advanced understanding of astronomy by the early inhabitants of Dartmoor.

The purposes and origins of Dartmoor’s stone circles are still subjects of ongoing research. While some historians believe these structures were used primarily for religious or ceremonial purposes, others suggest they served as markers for trade routes or territorial boundaries. 

The diversity in size and arrangement of the stone circles across Dartmoor indicates that they may have served multiple functions depending on the period and the community.

Local folklore adds another layer of intrigue to these ancient structures.

Legends speak of magical beings and ancient druids who are said to have frequented these sites, adding a mystical dimension to their historical significance.

In recent years, Dartmoor’s stone circles have become a focus for archaeological studies and heritage tourism. 

Preservation efforts are in place to protect these ancient sites from natural erosion and human impact. 

For visitors interested in Dartmoor’s ancient history, exploring these stone circles offers a fascinating journey through time and a chance to connect with the enduring legacy of prehistoric human ingenuity.

Here’s a list of some notable stone circles on Dartmoor:

• Grimspound - One of the most well-known prehistoric settlements, featuring an enclosed settlement with roundhouses and surrounding stone walls.
• Scorhill - A prominent stone circle in northern Dartmoor, known for its arrangement of large granite stones.
• Merrivale - A complex of stone circles and standing stones located near the River Walkham, including the notable Merrivale Circle.
• Standon - A less well-known but historically significant stone circle in the southwestern part of Dartmoor.
• Fernworthy - A stone circle situated near Fernworthy Reservoir, known for its well-preserved arrangement of stones.
• Circles at Hartland - Includes smaller, less well-preserved stone circles in the Hartland area of Dartmoor.