by Papa Bear Adventures
Some places demand to be found. Others? They wait, shrouded in mystery, revealing themselves only to those willing to seek them out.
That was exactly the case with Dudwood Stone Circle, one of the Peak District’s lesser-known prehistoric sites. While larger, more famous circles like Arbor Low and Nine Ladies draw in visitors, this one remains hidden—tucked away beyond well-trodden paths, waiting in silence for the right adventurer to stumble upon it.
I had read about it in passing, a fleeting mention in old records and hiking notes. No clear directions, no signposts—just a name and a vague idea of where it might be. And that was enough to spark my curiosity.
This is the story of how I found Dudwood Stone Circle—and why these ancient places matter more than ever.
“Some paths are well-trodden, others are whispered in the wind. The best adventures begin where the trail fades.”
The Journey Begins: Into the Heart of Harthill Moor
The morning was crisp, the kind of day where the Peak District air carries the scent of damp earth and distant fires from village chimneys. My journey started at Nine Stones Close, also known as the Grey Ladies Stone Circle, an awe-inspiring cluster of four massive standing stones.
Nine Stones Close once had more stones, but time, farming, and human interference have left just these four giants standing. Their presence is striking, their weathered surfaces whispering of centuries gone by. Some say they move at night, shifting under the moonlight. Others claim to have seen ghostly figures among them. Legends thrive around these ancient sites, adding layers of mystery to their already fascinating existence.
“Stone circles are more than ancient ruins; they are echoes of forgotten voices, standing strong against time.”
From there, I followed the winding trail past Hermit’s Cave, a medieval shelter carved into the rock beneath Cratcliffe Tor. The cave is small but filled with history—its walls still bearing crosses and markings from those who once sought refuge within its darkened embrace. Standing there, you can’t help but wonder about the hermits, monks, or wanderers who once sat in that very spot, gazing out at the rolling hills below.
But my true goal lay further ahead.
The Iconic Robin Hood’s Stride
If you’ve ever hiked in this part of the Peak District, you’ll know Robin Hood’s Stride is impossible to ignore. It’s a towering rock formation that dominates the skyline—a jagged, fortress-like ridge of gritstone that, according to legend, was once used as a lookout by Robin Hood himself.
The climb isn’t particularly difficult, but it does require a bit of scrambling, especially if you want to reach the top. And, of course, I couldn’t resist.
From up there, the landscape unfolded in a breathtaking panorama—rolling hills stretching endlessly toward the horizon, scattered with dry stone walls and ancient pathways. The Grey Ladies stood in the distance, their presence almost ghostly in the soft morning light. Somewhere beyond the trees lay Dudwood Stone Circle, waiting.
The only problem? There was no obvious path leading to it.
“Hiking isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about the hidden places, the silent stones, and the stories waiting to be found.”
The Search for Dudwood Stone Circle
Some stone circles are easy to find. Others make you work for it.
Dudwood Stone Circle falls into the latter category. Unlike Nine Ladies or Arbor Low, which have clear trails and signage, this site is truly hidden. No official markers, no footpaths leading straight to it—just hints, whispers, and the occasional reference in old archaeological records.
From Robin Hood’s Stride, I descended into the woodland below, following what seemed to be a faint track. It twisted through the trees, winding deeper into the undergrowth. The further I went, the quieter it became. No distant voices of hikers. No hum of passing cars. Just the rustle of leaves and the occasional bird call.
Then, through a break in the trees, I saw it.
A small clearing. Weathered stones, some standing, others toppled.
Dudwood Stone Circle.
I had found it.
Standing Among the Stones: The Power of Ancient Places
There’s something indescribable about standing in a stone circle—especially one that isn’t well-known or frequently visited. It’s a feeling of stepping outside of time, of standing in a place that has existed for thousands of years, unchanged, untouched.
Dudwood isn’t as grand as some of the more famous stone circles, but its presence is powerful. It’s a reminder that our ancestors left traces of their lives, their beliefs, and their rituals in the landscapes we now walk.
Who built it? What ceremonies took place here? Was it a meeting place, a site of worship, or something else entirely?
We may never know. But that’s part of the magic.
I spent a while there, taking it in—the silence, the energy, the quiet weight of history pressing against the air. Then, as the sun began to dip, I started my climb back toward Robin Hood’s Stride, determined to catch the sunset from the top.
“To walk among ancient stones is to step between worlds—the past, the present, and the mysteries that lie in between.”
The Grand Finale: Sunset Over Harthill Moor
By the time I reached the summit of Robin Hood’s Stride again, the sky had begun its transformation. The sun hung low, casting a golden glow over the landscape.
Ahead, the Grey Ladies stood like ancient sentinels. Behind me, Dudwood Stone Circle faded into the shadows, hidden once more.
The moment was perfect.
Watching the light shift across these ancient places, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection—not just to the landscape but to the past, to the people who had walked these trails long before me.
We often think of history as something distant, locked away in museums or buried in books. But out here, it’s alive. It’s beneath your feet, in the stones that have stood for millennia, in the whispers of the wind as it moves through the hills.
Why This Matters: The Importance of Exploring Forgotten Places
Dudwood Stone Circle isn’t a major tourist attraction. There are no visitor centers, no crowds, no easy paths leading to it. And that’s exactly why it’s special.
It’s a reminder that adventure isn’t always about reaching the highest peak or visiting the most famous landmark. Sometimes, it’s about seeking out the forgotten places—the ones hidden in the woods, waiting for those curious enough to find them.
It’s also a reminder that our landscapes are filled with history, woven into the very fabric of the earth. These sites deserve to be respected, preserved, and appreciated—not just as relics of the past, but as living connections to those who came before us.
So, if you ever find yourself wandering through the Peak District, take a moment to look beyond the obvious. Follow the faint trails, listen to the whispers of the land, and who knows? You might just find a hidden gem of your own.
“The land remembers what history forgets. Sometimes, all you need to do is follow the trail and listen.”
The Route to Dudwood Stone Circle – A Step-by-Step Itinerary
Step 1: Begin at Nine Stones Close (Grey Ladies Stone Circle)
Your journey starts at Nine Stones Close, known locally as the Grey Ladies Stone Circle. This cluster of four impressive standing stones is a perfect introduction to the region’s ancient landscape. Take a moment here to absorb the mystique and let the folklore inspire your journey ahead.
Pro Tip: Spend some time examining the stones—consider their size, shape, and the natural wear that hints at countless stories of yore.
Step 2: Explore Hermit’s Cave
Next, venture towards Hermit’s Cave, hidden beneath the rugged face of Cratcliffe Tor. This small, medieval shelter, adorned with ancient carvings, offers a quiet glimpse into the lives of past inhabitants. Imagine the solitude and reflection of those who once sought solace in its shadow.
Remember: Preserve the historical integrity of the site by observing quietly and avoiding any disruptive behavior.
Step 3: Ascend Robin Hood’s Stride
No adventure in the Peak District would be complete without a visit to Robin Hood’s Stride. This towering rock formation is not only an impressive natural structure but also steeped in legend. The climb is moderately challenging, but the panoramic views at the top are more than worth the effort.
From this vantage point, gaze out over the rolling hills and distant stone circles. Let the legend of Robin Hood himself, who is said to have once used this lookout, add an extra layer of magic to your ascent.
Step 4: Follow the Faint Trail to Dudwood Stone Circle
Departing from the well-trodden paths, begin your descent into a quieter part of the woodland. A barely visible track will lead you deeper into the moor, away from the familiar landmarks. As you progress, the surroundings become more secluded, and nature’s whispers grow louder.
Then, suddenly, through a break in the trees, a small clearing appears. There, nestled in the heart of nature, lies Dudwood Stone Circle—a hidden gem that rewards your persistence and curiosity.
Take a Moment: Before you rush to take pictures, pause to truly absorb the atmosphere. Feel the ancient energy that the stones exude and appreciate the solitude of this forgotten spot.
Step 5: Reflect and Return with the Sunset Finale
As the day draws to a close, retrace your steps back towards Robin Hood’s Stride. The final leg of your journey culminates in a stunning sunset view. From the summit, watch as the sun casts a golden glow over the landscape, with the Grey Ladies silhouetted in the distance and Dudwood Stone Circle fading into the twilight.
This reflective moment is the perfect conclusion to a day of exploration, offering a serene pause to appreciate the beauty of both the natural world and the echoes of history.
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