Newbridge, Dumfries & Galloway
★
Venture into a large field sandwiched between a triangle of roads a few miles north of Dumfries, and you can explore mainland Scotland’s largest stone circle, at around 250 metres in circumference. The name relates the number of stones in the circle to Jesus Christ’s twelve apostles. Only 11 stones remain though, with the removed 12th sometimes associated with Judas Iscariot. A nice story, and this place sure needs it – the sheer size of the circle plus the wide open location means it lacks the atmosphere and certainly the intimacy of smaller stone circles. Unlike in the photos on this page, the best view is probably from the slightly raised, western side of the field, from where it’s easier to see the circular layout. Or from an aeroplane!
Location
O.S. Grid Reference: NX 947794
GPS coordinates: 55.097843,-3.651591
Bus stops on A76 at Holywood
Possibly enough space for small cars to park tight against the verge, otherwise verge parking at B729 junction just to the north – don’t block access / gates
Key info
Always open
Free
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