I visited this site last summer, after 'discovering' it in the book 'Ancient Stones of Dorset' by Peter Knight. I decided not to make an entry here, as it didn't seem right to 'advertise' this little known gem that is hidden away in the woods, from the passing droves of tourists on the adjacent road. Now I guess it makes no difference.
A friendly, homely feel coaxed me in from the road. The stones have been partly reclaimed by the forest, their roots distorting the circle and contourting the small (2-4ft high) stones. About half the circle remains, (ten stones). Despite the passing cars on the road (about ten feet away through a thin shield of trees) the main stone (to my feelings) nearest the road, has several holes and cracks into which coins have been left as offerings. A feeling of priveledge and true sanctity prevailed. Time seemed to stop and all my worries in the 'outer world' faded away. As eventually left, I felt that I really didn't want to go! If you go there, and I know you have as much right as I do, please keep it low profile and respect this treasure with the revernece it deserves. Thanx.
|
I first heard of Callanish after someone lent me a copy of Jehovahkill. It came at a time in my life that was bland and empty. After a few weeks of increasing pondering I decided to go there and experience it myself. I lived in Bournemouth and decided to cycle there. (I know. eveyone says I'm mad!) But I wanted to get there without contributing to the mayhem on the roads and in the atmosphere. I guess you could call it a pilgrimage of sorts.
I went through Wales and up the west coast of Scotland, Isle of Arran, Skye and eventually Outer Hebrides. I took about four three weeks to get there, and over 1000 miles of peddling!
When I got to the stones of Callanish it was worth every push of those peddles! What an awesome sight, atmosphere and island. I ended up camping in Callanish II (though at the time I didn't know it was called that, I stumbled upon it whilst looking for somewhere to camp). Overlooking Loch Roag the weather closed in, misty rain, it was July but it was cold!
It was so weird at Callanish I, a familiarity and calmness engulfed me, I didn't want to leave! I've posted a full account of my journey on my website:
http://www.keirle.freeserve.co.uk
|
I cycled there with a friend a few weeks ago, (from Bournemouth where I live its only anbout 10 miles). A glorious sunny day, I feel this place is very unique. Of all the sites I have visited, there's something intimate and homely about Knowlton.
We had a small picnick and a smoke (ran out of matched and had to ask two gentile mature artists painting watercolours on easels, for a light).
Two ancient Ewe trees that grow at a gap in the Henge, like living guardians either side an entrance. At the base of each, in little alcoves amongst the roots and undergrowth, were symetrical offerings of a fresh Strawberry, a Clover flower and a pretty stone.
We left with warm hearts!
|
|
Ronnie hasn't added a profile
|
|
Log in |
Register
Top of page