There will be a celebration in Stanton Drew on the weekend of 22-23 July 2023, of the 300th anniversary of the visit of the celebrated antiquarian, William Stukeley.
Stanton Drew is the site of the most important stone circles in England, after Stonehenge and Avebury. There are three circles, of which the Great Circle is second only to Avebury in size, and a cove of three stones in the village.
William Stukeley was the leading antiquarian of the eighteenth century, and the first to perform a rigorous study of Avebury and Stonehenge. He visited Stanton Drew just once, on the 23rd July 1723, but in that short time he produced a detailed plan, made several accurate drawings, and wrote an account that was to bring Stanton Drew to national prominence.
On Sunday 23rd July 2023, the exact 300th anniversary, there will be a day of events in the village, including tours of the stones and an exhibition. Tour places are free but must be pre-booked. This day of celebrations will be family friendly.
The events are being organised by Stukeley 300, a group with representatives from Stanton Drew Parish Council, Bristol and Avon Archaeological Society, Bath and Counties Archaeological Society, Bristol and Gloucestershire Archaeological Society and English Heritage. For further information visit the website: www.stukeley300.org.uk. The website will be continually updated with information about the events and ticket information and sales.
Image credits:
Main image: Mark Hayward
Location
The Village Hall, Sandy Lane, Stanton Drew, Bath and NE Somerset, BS39 4EL, United Kingdom
Additional location/direction information
Guided tours of the stone circles, organised by English Heritage, will be available all day but should be pre-booked to avoid disappointment. The ground is grass pastureland - uneven and may be muddy - wear suitable footwear. This site may be unsuitable for those with impaired mobility, wheelchairs and buggies/prams. Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Dogs are not allowed in the stone circles' fields (except assistance dogs). The Village Hall will be open from 10.00 a.m. for light refreshments and an exhibition. Two informal lectures about the stone circles will be presented upstairs in the Village Hall. Unfortunately this area of the Hall is not accessible for people with impaired mobility. As seating for these lectures is limited, pre-booking is recommended. Parking is available in the field next to the Village Hall and will be signposted and supervised. A donation upon exit would be appreciated (proceeds to charity). We respectfully request that cars are not parked in the car park of the Druid's Arms (local pub) nor in the very narrow village lanes. The village lanes are not accessible for larger coaches. Both Days: WCs located in Village Hall (accessible), the Druid's Arms public house and the church.
Schedule
Sun, 23 Jul
10:30 AM
Duration of event
Each tour lasting approximately 60-90 minutes starting from 10.30 a.m. On the hour and half hour. Last tour starts at 5.00 p.m
Additional booking information
Tours start at the Village Hall and last an hour to an hour and a half. The first tour is at 10.30 and then at the following times: 12:00, 12:30, 13:00, 13:30, 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30, 17:00. Places on the tours must be booked in advance.
Additional fee information
Free, but a donation of £3 is suggested.