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Stone Circle, Yadlee, Cranshaws. |
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Description
With a diameter of just over 9.00m and comprised of small stones
barely visible above the short grass, Yadlee Stone Circle is one
for the enthusiast and will disappoint those seeking anything
spectacular. There are seven stones in the circle none bigger
than 0.40m across and all less than 0.30m high. All but one are
earth fast. The circle is situated on a level area of ground in
otherwise undulating heather moorland and rough grazing. There
are four earth fast stones outside the northern arc of the
circle and a random group of five can be seen 10m to the west.
Their purpose is not known.
Directions
From the B6355 Gifford to Preston road, take the minor road just
north of Whiteadder Reservoir, heading for Gifford. Stop at the
footbridge before Johnscleugh. On foot, follow the well graded
track (Herring Road) keeping right when the track branches. The
circle is 10m from the track on the right.
Parking
Off road beside track leading to Yadlee.
Folklore
Little is known about this circle but of interest in the
area is the Witches' Cairn, across the valley formed by the
West Burn, on Crystal Rig. The cairn is hidden by forestry
but such evocative names hint at past meanings. I feel there
must be some connection?
Fieldnotes
Although far from being a spectacular stone circle, this setting
of small stones still has an air of mystery about it. Set in a
desolate patch of open and windswept moorland, Yadlee Stone
Circle makes you wonder about the people who took to time and
effort to construct it in the first place. What rituals took
place there? Why did they pick this location in the first place?
In the day of my first visit, the weather was overcast and dull.
The location is very bleak in mid-February and with only a lone
skylark singing and a few grouse for company, yet still I had a
great feeling of peace and solitude for the time I spend making
my notes both in and around the circle. Almost lost and almost
forgotten, this small and simple stone circle still has some
magic left.
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