The Everyday Neolithic History of Thornborough Henges (Northern Henge)

The Neolithic people were extraordinary monument builders and this unique triple henge complex is an incredible example of their work. Thanks to later tree planting, the Northern Henge is the best preserved of the three. with banks over 3m high and ditches approx. 3.5m deep, near to how they would have looked when they were originally constructed. Unlike the central and southern henge which were more recently used for agricultural purposes, the northern henge was planted as managed woodland. The trees have helped preserve the henge and give it a unique feel. Visitors can admire the skill of our Neolithic ancestors who built the henges just using basic tools, learning how this was achieved. They will also find out about the lives of Neolithic people and why they built the henges here. The field to the north of the henge contains significant hidden archaeology and nearby important Iron Age features were found before they were quarried out. The tour explains the complexity of the area around the site, which includes two square barrows and a rare quadruple horse burial. This tour is run by English Heritage volunteers.

Timings

Sunday 13 September:

1100

Location & directions

Nosterfield Nature Reserve, Moor Lane, Nosterfield, Thornborough, West Tanfield, North Yorkshire, DL8 2QZ

Directions:

The tour will meet by the English Heritage information panel near the pedestrian gate at the entrance to the north henge site. Parking is at Nosterfield Nature Reserve, Moor Lane West Tanfield. What3words location: ///livid.caps.sailing . Follow the signposted path on the right as you enter the carpark, through the reserve to the last gate onto the road, cross the road and enter the North Henge field via pedestrian gate. Allow at least 15mins to walk from the reserve to the North Henge field.

Contact on day:

Christine Clarke - [email protected]

Telephone number:

+447990107393

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

Access: The Northern Henge is accessed via the main entrance gate off Nosterfield Lane, or via the pedestrian gate along the public footpath which runs between Nosterfield Lane up to the B6267 (Please take extra care to check for oncoming vehicles when crossing main roads). Footpaths around the site are relatively flat, but uneven and grassy. The Central and Southern henges are accessed through gates. Footpaths around the site are relatively flat, but uneven and grassy. Dogs: Livestock present. Dogs must be kept on short leads at all times and please keep to footpaths and desire lines. Plea

Additional information

Max number of people:

25

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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