Arbor Low Stone Circle
A unique prehistoric henge monument in the Peak District, featuring a circle of large, flat-lying limestone stones and an ancient burial mound.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Arbor Low Stone Circle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique prehistoric henge monument in the Peak District, featuring a circle of large, flat-lying limestone stones and an ancient burial mound.
"Intriguing site with amazing views, a unique stone arrangement, and a deep sense of ancient history."
🚗 Rough Access Lane
Be cautious on the lane to the car park; it has potholes.
💰 Honesty Box Contribution
A small fee is requested via an honesty box for access through farmland.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Stone Circle
Central area
A large circle of limestone blocks, most now lying flat, creating a unique and ancient atmosphere.
The Barrow
Adjacent to the stone circle
An ancient burial mound offering panoramic views and a sense of deep history.
Panoramic Views
Top of the barrow
Enjoy breathtaking, far-reaching views across the Peak District landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Parking
Understanding the Stones
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rough Access Lane
Be cautious on the lane to the car park; it has potholes.
💰 Honesty Box Contribution
A small fee is requested via an honesty box for access through farmland.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Vibe
The flat stones and surrounding landscape offer unique photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rough Access Lane
Be cautious on the lane to the car park; it has potholes.
💰 Honesty Box Contribution
A small fee is requested via an honesty box for access through farmland.
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Vibe
The flat stones and surrounding landscape offer unique photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Short Visit Time
Allow about 30 minutes to explore the circle and barrow.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Arbor Low is a fascinating prehistoric site with unique flat-lying stones and impressive views. Visitors appreciate its ancient atmosphere and the peaceful, unspoiled nature of the location. However, some find the stones' flat arrangement less visually striking than standing circles, and the access lane can be challenging.
"This is an intriguing site, with amazing views for miles. Walking where our ancestors did has always fascinated me and I wonder why the stones were laid flat. A minor note of caution, the lane into the car park is far from flat, the potholes would have defeated a lower slung vehicle than mine."
Martine
"It is what it says a stone circle however the stones are not standing. Very nice henge"
Pete Middlemiss
"A good example of a stone circle that still exists after thousands of years, we need to look after these ancient sacred places as it predates the modern paternalistic religions that we have now"
Sue Moakes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arbor Low is located in the Peak District. Access is typically via a single-track lane that can be rough and have potholes, so drive carefully. Parking is available nearby, and access is through farmland, often with a small honesty box contribution.
Public transport options to Arbor Low are limited. It's best reached by car. Check local bus routes for nearby villages, but expect a significant walk. :bus:
The most direct routes often involve rural lanes. Use a GPS, but be prepared for the final approach to be unpaved and potentially bumpy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no formal tickets. Access is usually granted through private farmland, and a small contribution is requested via an honesty box to help maintain the site.
A small contribution, typically around £1, is requested via an honesty box. This is considered very reasonable by visitors.
As an open-air prehistoric site, Arbor Low is generally accessible at all reasonable times. However, access is dependent on farmland and may be restricted during certain agricultural activities. :clock1:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Arbor Low features a unique stone circle with most stones lying flat, a large surrounding bank and ditch, and an ancient burial mound (barrow). The site offers expansive views of the surrounding Peak District.
The exact reason is unknown, but theories suggest they may have been deliberately laid flat or fallen over time. This makes it distinct from many standing stone circles.
Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring the stone circle and the barrow, enjoying the views.
Yes, Arbor Low is considered a sacred and ancient site, often visited by pagans and those interested in prehistoric history and energy work.
It's best to avoid walking directly on the stones to help preserve them. Stick to the paths and surrounding areas. :hiking_boot:
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the stones and landscape.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the site. Drone usage may be restricted. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit relatively short, as the site might not hold the attention of very young children for extended periods. Pack snacks and drinks, and ensure sturdy footwear for everyone. The honesty box contribution is a good way to teach children about respecting historical sites and supporting their upkeep. :child:
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Archaeologists
Consider researching the site's history and theories surrounding its construction and use before your visit. This will enhance your appreciation of its significance. The lack of standing stones, while visually different, presents a unique puzzle for archaeologists and historians to ponder. :scroll:
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Pagans
+3Be respectful of the site and any ongoing ceremonies. The flat stones and the barrow are considered sacred spaces. Many find the experience deeply moving and rejuvenating, making it a significant destination for spiritual exploration. :lotus_flower:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of the Flat Stones
This unusual arrangement contributes to Arbor Low's distinct atmosphere. Instead of towering monoliths, visitors encounter a more grounded, horizontal arrangement that invites contemplation. The stones are set within a large circular bank and ditch, a feature known as a henge, which further emphasizes the site's ancient ceremonial purpose. The visual impact of these flat stones, especially when viewed from the adjacent barrow, is quite profound and encourages speculation about the rituals and beliefs of the people who constructed this monument.
Connecting with the Land and Ancestors
+4This connection extends to a sense of communion with ancestors and the land itself. The long history of the site, predating many modern religions, makes it a powerful place for reflection and spiritual practice. The surrounding Peak District landscape adds to this, offering a sense of peace and natural beauty that enhances the experience. Whether you're drawn by history, spirituality, or simply the stunning views, Arbor Low offers a unique opportunity to engage with the past and the present.
+2
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit