Worsthorne Hill Stone Circle: A Mysterious Bronze Age Monument
The Worsthorne Hill Stone Circle is a notable archaeological site located on Slipper Hill, just southwest of Hell Clough. This ancient monument features a ring cairn, which once consisted of an oval arrangement of six stones. These stones, which formed part of a larger ring bank, are positioned in such a way as to enclose an area measuring approximately 11.7m in length from NNE-SSW and 10.4m in width from ENE-WSW. The largest stone in the circle measures 0.45m in width and 0.2m in height. Limited investigations of the site were carried out by antiquarians in 1887, during which calcined human bones were discovered.
Today, there is little left to see of the so-called stone circle. Only five recumbent stones remain, forming a loose circle-like shape. There may be a few more stones hidden beneath the grass, with estimates suggesting up to two or three additional stones may still be buried beneath the turf. The largest of the remaining stones is positioned on the eastern side and stands approximately 2 feet vertically. It is possible that this stone was once hidden beneath the grass, and some have speculated that it may feature tiny cup marks on its surface. These markings, which resemble circular lichen growths, could have been created either by natural processes or by human intervention.
A faint earthen circle can still be faintly detected on the site, though it has become increasingly difficult to distinguish in recent years. Some experts suggest that this earthen ring could have been part of an outer kerb surrounding the cairn. The approximate measurements of this feature are 15m by 12m.
While there is no evidence of a burial mound or any sign of one today, it is unlikely that the monument functioned as a cairn circle. Despite this, it remains a fascinating reminder of the past, and it is widely believed to date back to the Bronze Age.
Key Features of Worsthorne Hill Stone Circle:
- Location: Slipper Hill, southwest of Hell Clough
- Dimensions: 11.7m (NNE-SSW) by 10.4m (ENE-WSW)
- Remaining Stones: Five recumbent stones in a circular formation, possibly more hidden beneath grass
- Largest Stone: 0.45m wide by 0.2m high
- Discovery: Calcined human bones found during 1887 investigation
- Earthen Circle: Faint, measuring around 15m by 12m
- Era: Likely dates from the Bronze Age
The Worsthorne Hill Stone Circle remains an intriguing site for those interested in prehistoric monuments. Although it may not provide all the answers, it continues to captivate historians and archaeologists alike
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