I, also, will add to this thread cos I reckon it'll get interesting when everyone's back from their solstice excursions (probably why it's been quiet!)

I visited Arbor Low last year on a meandering return visit from Yorkshire... We avoided as much motorway as we could and found ourselve in the vicinity, so couldn't resist!

Seconds before we arrived, 2 large car loads of "older" visitors turned up. They seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves, bless 'em! I think it has a very odd look to it - not really like anything I've been to before... In a good way, I think... It was difficult to enjoy the solitude of the place with the rampant oldies screaming with laughter every few seconds, but I think that really added in some way to the "happy" feel - they really were lapping up the atmosphere! As a complete contradiction to the happy bit, I also feel it was a bit sombre - almost as if it were saying "alright, you've had yer fun, but remember where you are!" I really would love to go back as it was only a flying visit (had to get back to Southampton and it was getting on a bit!)

I doubt that helps, but it's a start! Good luck and welcome...

G x

Thanks very much. I was afraid that no one would reply or that I had asked a silly question or something! I hope it turns into an interesting topic. I don't really know what the site could be for, that is why I am investigating it. There are many theories that sound plausible when someone who really believes in them justify them. Especially a proffessional archaeologist! One theory I am inclined to lean towards is that monuments such as this appeared when agriculture did and symbolize territory. This would also show the change in attitudes to the land eg it could be owned. Henges could therfore symbolize a great change in attitudes to nature and humanity eg how people saw themselves as separate from the land and animals, so in some peoples eyes, more human.