Duloe Stone Circle consists of eight stones placed in an oval-shaped ring with alternating heights; large, small, large… It has the smallest circumference of all the stone circles in Cornwall (under 12m), but the largest stones (up to 2.6m). No other stone circle within Cornwall has a ring of stones so rich in quartz, with veins of translucent white running down the eight lichen-covered stones.
This ‘circle’ was first recorded in the 14th century, but was only fully recognised as an important ancient site in the early 19th century, prompting the removal of a more modern hedge which crossed it and the restoration of the original circle. Some believe that there was once a cairn, or stone mound within the circle, implying that it would have had ceremonial relevance when built in the Bronze Age. The existence of a ribboned urn containing human remains, unearthed during the restoration, backs this up. The 8 stones are aligned north to south and roughly represent the points of the compass, also possibly tying it to astronomical observation and ritual.
To visit, park on the B3254 and walk up where the signpost points (50°23’49.7″N 4°29’05.6″W)
