Hamer Hill, near Rochdale

 Hamer Hill: An Ancient Archaeological Site in Rochdale, Greater Manchester

Location: Bagden Hillocks, Rochdale, Greater Manchester
Grid Reference:  SD863184
Access: Grade 5 (Easily accessible near a bridleway)

Hamer Hill, located near Bagden Hillocks in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, is an intriguing archaeological site with possible origins dating back to the Bronze Age (2350 BC - 701 BC). This site is thought to be a Ring Cairn, a prehistoric structure often associated with burial rituals and ceremonial practices. Measuring approximately 10.2 meters in overall diameter, the site consists of a stone ring made up of large, flat slabs. These stones are arranged in a circular formation, with traces of a narrow ditch observed on the southern side.

It’s important to note that quarrying activity in the area may have removed some of the stones over time, making the site harder to identify. Additionally, the location can be difficult to locate due to other nearby features that can be visually misleading. As a result, the exact nature of the site remains ambiguous, but its historical significance is undeniable.

This information is sourced from the 2009 SMR report by the Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit.

A Mini-Stonehenge in Rochdale?

In a remarkable discovery, archaeologists have uncovered what could be considered a mini Stonehenge in the moorlands of Rochdale. These ancient monuments, located near Hamer Hill, include a collapsed stone oval and a 30-meter circle of rounded stones. Archaeologist Stuart Mendelsohn, who made the discovery in December, believes these sites could date back over 5,000 years, potentially marking them as ancient burial grounds.

"This site could be Rochdale's own version of Stonehenge," Mendelsohn remarked. A Swedish-based archaeologist originally from Middleton, Mendelsohn was astounded by the find, stating, "I never expected to discover such a significant site, and I'm shocked it hasn’t been uncovered before."

He went on to explain that the stones are clearly arranged with purpose, suggesting that the site was not randomly constructed. Mendelsohn further speculates that the site may have been used for lunar ceremonies or other significant calendar-based events, serving as a focal point for the community.

Archaeological Significance and Expert Visits

The discovery has gained significant attention, with experts from Lancashire County Council, English Heritage, and the Greater Manchester Archaeological Unit inspecting the site. Both sites have been entered into the official Greater Manchester archaeology database.

According to an English Heritage report, the sites are well-preserved and believed to be from the Bronze Age, dating back to around 3,000 BC. These monuments are constructed from local materials, distinguishing them from the more famous Stonehenge in Wiltshire.

The first site is a collapsed stone formation with an overall diameter of 10.2 meters, while the second site features a distinct stone circle located on the western slope of the hill. The circle’s strategic positioning suggests it was designed to be visible from the west, possibly from a great distance. This strategic placement hints at its ceremonial or symbolic significance.

A Treasure for Rochdale

The total area of the site spans about an acre, and so far, around 20 stones have been uncovered, with the largest measuring approximately 1.5 meters in height. This discovery is being celebrated by local archaeologists and the Rochdale community.

Stuart Mendelsohn highlights the site's potential as a major tourist attraction for Rochdale, adding, "This is an exciting moment for the town. While prehistoric flints have been found in Littleborough, this could be the most significant archaeological find in Rochdale in recent years."

This discovery opens the door to further exploration and research, revealing the deep historical roots of the area and its importance in prehistoric Britain.