Built of pebbles

River Eamont (Part 10)
 
Mayburgh Henge, which I have blipped before, is an amazing structure standing close to the south bank of the River Eamont, not far from where we saw the motorway bridge last time. As well as being close to the river, the other link Mayburgh has is that this great circular banked ring is made of water-washed stones, most likely from the Eamont. One can only wonder about how many stones were used and how the huge banks were built. It’s impossible to convey in a photograph just how big the place is, but if you consider that the stone in the centre is nine feet tall, it gives you some idea. I have also added an extra photo taken from the outside which gives an idea of the size of the banking. Early records suggest that there were four central standing stones, of which only the one remains. It is also thought that there were four stones set at the entrance to the circle.

An impressive structure, probably used as a meeting place or arena – who knows! When I blipped it previously I pointed out that the M6 runs very close to it and all the time you walk around there is a constant hum of traffic. This aerial photograph shows the full extent of the henge and its proximity to the motorway. You can also just see the river amongst the trees.
 
Despite the noise though, this remains a wondrous place.