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Loupin' Stanes, Eskdalemuir. |
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Description
The Loupin' Stones or Loupin' Stanes consist of an irregular
circle of 12 stones, two of the largest stones reaching 1.60m,
forming a "gateway" to the south west. The circle is
constructed on a flat topped raised mound and overlooks the
River White Esk some 250m to the west. The circle is more oval
than circular and has an overall diameter of around 10.00m.
Directions
The stones are located off the B709 running south from
Eskdalemuir to Langholm, about 100m from the Hart Manor Hotel.
Cross the style and proceed across the field to the stones.
Parking
There is a small parking area just south of the above hotel, with
enough space for 2 or 3 cars. The stones are visible from here. A
style has to be crossed to reach the stones.
Fieldnotes
Of interest at this circle was what is presumably an offering,
composed of a 250mm diameter entwined circle of ivy, placed
between the two largest "gateway" stones. Placed
within the circle of ivy was a small wedge shaped piece of local
whinstone with a piece of red ribbon tied round it. Other
fragments of the same stone were also found nearby. A small
length of blue wool was also noticed along with a magpie tail
feather, although this latter item may be natural. Also of
interest are the many stones scattered around the main circle.
One group of stones can be seen towards the river with the other
towards the road. It has been suggested that both these may be
the remains of additional circles although this has yet to be investigated
fully.
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