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SimpleViewer requires JavaScript and the Flash Player. Get Flash. Druid's Altar

Druid's Altar - information and guide

Site Type:

Stone Circle

Last Visit:
Friday 15th July 2005
Country:

England

Region:
Coordinates:
Latitude: 54.08333 Longitude: -2.07878
Site Ranking:
Directions:

Map
Heading north out of Skipton, follow the B6265 to Threshfield. Turn left onto Skirethorns Lane. This will be signposted for the Wood Nook caravan site. Follow this lane for a few miles until you eventually reach a metal gate blocking further progress. It will be possible to park up here. A wall leads off west across the moor, at a 45 degree angle to the lane. The circle is on the other side of the wall, a few hundred yards from the gate.

Druid's Altar is a four-poster type monument, described on OS maps as a burial chamber, but regarded by experts such as Aubrey Burl as a stone circle. It consists of four white limestone stones sitting atop a circular mound. The stones are up to a metre high, forming points on a circle measuring about 5 metres in diameter. Three of the stones remain standing, and one is recumbent.

The approach to this circle is a little torturous. At the start of the lane, you run the risk of encountering caravans being towed in the opposite direction. The lane is narrow, steep, and features few passing places. Further up, it deteriorates in places into little more than a bendy track. Nevertheless, this adds to the sense of adventure, which is all part of the pleasure when seeking out lesser-known sites such as Druid's Altar.

The surrounding landscape is beautiful. To your left, not long before you reach the metal gate, a cave can be seen gaping out from an escarpment, brooding darkly over the moors like the mouth of some fell creature. Sadly, a farmhouse is close by, and I had the impression that explorers wouldn't be very welcome.

The circle itself has been described as underwhelming, but it far exceeded my modest expectations. The location adds much to the ambience. The site is exposed, with striking views out over the bleak moors. On a warm summer's day, this makes Druid's Altar a tranquil and refreshing spot, wonderfully isolated and remote. I can imagine, however, that the experience would be a little different in poor weather. On a sunny day though, I'd highly recommend making the effort to find this little gem. Ideally, if you have the time, park up some distance away and make the effort to approach the site on foot. The scenery is wonderful and the walk would be highly enjoyable.