Stannon Stone Circle

Cornwall Information & Accommodation Guide

Stannon Stone Circle is located in a remote position on open moorland on Dinnever Hill on Stannon Down between St Breward and Camelford.

It lies between two streams and adjacent to the Stannon china clay works.

Stannon Circle is one of the largest stone circles in Cornwall. It has 47 upright stones, 30 fallen and 2 which have been moved. Its diameter is between 131 ft (40 metres) and 141 ft (43 metres).

The average size of the stones is c. 1.6 ft (0.5 metres). The largest stone has a base width exceeding 3.9 ft (1.2 metres).

On the southwest part of the circle there are two larger stones with a flat stone between them which could indicate an entrance point to the circle.

The age of Stannon Circle is believed to be late Neolithic or early Bronze Age.

It has been suggested that the circle is part of a ceremonial site possibly aligned with Rough Tor and is constructed in such a way as to mark the sunrise at particular times of the year.

263 ft (80 metres) to the northwest of the main circle are a line of four outlying stones.

There are many archaeological remains in this area including a large settlement of possible Middle Bronze Age date with round houses and enclosures for livestock.

Location:
Stannon Stone Circle SX12578002

Line of four outlying stones SX12518007

Road directions to Stannon Stone Circle

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