As part of our series of days out around Glastonbury this post is about a day trip to the Stone Circle at Stanton Drew.  Stanton Drew is around a 45 minute drive from us off of the A39 just outside of Bristol.  It is only a short drive off of the main road so very easy to find and could also be incorporated into a day trip to Bristol from us here at Middlewick.

We went on a snowy day in February.

One thing to note is that Dogs are not allowed on the field with the stone circle but there are plenty of dog walks around and the pub is dog friendly.

Discover Stanton Drew Stone Circle – One of England’s Hidden Prehistoric Treasures

Nestled in the quiet Somerset countryside, Stanton Drew Stone Circle is one of England’s largest and most mysterious prehistoric monuments. Despite its impressive scale and fascinating history, it remains a peaceful, lesser-known site — perfect for those seeking to explore ancient landscapes without the crowds.

A Monument of Remarkable Scale

The Great Circle at Stanton Drew measures an incredible 113 metres in diameter, making it the second-largest stone circle in England, after Avebury. Originally, it’s believed to have contained around 30 stones, though 26 uprights remain visible today. In addition to the Great Circle, there are two smaller adjacent circles — the North-East Circle and the South-West Circle — suggesting that Stanton Drew was once part of a much larger and more elaborate ritual complex.

Ancient Origins and Archaeological Discoveries

Though its exact purpose remains a mystery, Stanton Drew is thought to date back to the Late Neolithic or Early Bronze Age, over 4,000 years ago. In 1997, English Heritage commissioned a geophysical survey of the site. The results revealed that the visible stones are just part of a far greater monument — beneath the surface lie nine concentric rings of buried pits, likely used to hold timber posts or stones. This discovery suggests that Stanton Drew was once an important ceremonial site, possibly used for ritual gatherings, astronomical observation, or seasonal celebrations.

Legends and Folklore

Like many ancient sites, Stanton Drew is steeped in folklore. Local tales tell of a wedding party that defied the Sabbath by dancing into the night. The Devil, disguised as a musician, played for them — and as punishment for their revelry, he turned the entire group into stone. The large circle represents the dancers, while nearby stones known as “The Cove” and “The Quoit” are said to be the musicians.

Visiting Stanton Drew

Today, Stanton Drew Stone Circle is managed by English Heritage and remains open to visitors who wish to explore its tranquil beauty. Surrounded by rolling farmland and views of the Mendip Hills, it offers a truly atmospheric glimpse into Britain’s ancient past.

If you’re drawn to the mystery of Stonehenge or Avebury, but crave a quieter, more intimate experience, Stanton Drew is a perfect destination — a place to walk in the footsteps of ancient people and feel the timeless magic of Somerset’s sacred landscape.

Explore Stanton Drew and Enjoy a Visit to The Druid’s Arms

The tiny, picturesque village of Stanton Drew was first recorded in the Domesday Book as Stantone, meaning “the stone enclosure with an oak tree” in Old English — a fitting name for a place so rich in history and natural beauty.

Begin your visit with a stop at the charming village church, which has been a place of Christian worship for over 800 years. Its peaceful churchyard and timeless architecture offer a glimpse into centuries of local heritage. Then, take a gentle stroll through the village lanes to admire the beautiful stone cottages and traditional homes that make Stanton Drew such a delight to explore.

After soaking in the village’s history, head to The Druid’s Arms, the local country pub just a short walk from the stone circles. This welcoming inn is at the heart of village life and makes the perfect stop for a relaxed meal or refreshing drink after exploring the ancient site.

The Druid’s Arms serves hearty home-cooked pub food, featuring locally sourced Somerset ingredients and classic favourites such as pies, roasts, and seasonal specials. You’ll also find a great selection of local ales, ciders, and fine wines to enjoy by the fire in winter or out in the beer garden with countryside views in summer.

📅 Opening Hours:

• Monday–Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm

• Sunday: 12:00 pm – 10:30 pm
  🍽 Food Served: Typically from 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm and 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm (times may vary, so check ahead before your visit).

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A Pint with History and a Touch of Magic

The historic Druid’s Arms isn’t just any country pub — it even caught the eye of TV producers! It was transformed into the Rising Sun Pub for the hit ITV series Broadchurch, giving this quiet Somerset spot a moment in the spotlight.

But the real magic lies just beyond the beer garden. Here, you’ll find a few of Stanton Drew’s ancient stones, including The Cove, part of a mysterious prehistoric site steeped in legend. Local folklore tells of a wedding party who danced on the Sabbath, lured by the Devil’s music. As punishment, the revellers — along with their musicians — were turned to stone, becoming the circles we see today.

Enjoy a drink in the pub’s large garden, surrounded by this timeless landscape — and if you’ve got kids in tow, let them hunt for the hidden fairy door in the trees. ✨

For More Days Out around Glastonbury here is our Jill White-designed map. w atch out for our special offers page to come and stay here in Glastonbury.  Middlewick Holiday Cottages Special Offers