Explore this intriguing site with its landscape of sarsen stones
Lockeridge Dene is the location of a unique sarsen boulder stream which is a rich and diverse natural habitat for insects, birds, flower and lichens.
Sarsen stones, one of the most identifiable and well-known features of the North Wessex Downs, form the great stone circle and avenues at Avebury; they were also used in other constructions including burial chambers and barrows as well as in some of the later buildings in the area. It has now been demonstrated that it is sarsen stones from this area which were used in the construction of Stonehenge. Sarsens originate from a sandstone layer formed over 30 million years ago (during the Palaeogene era) which was broken up and then deposited during the last ice age.
The stones are sometimes called grey wethers because, from a distance, they can look like grazing sheep. Sarsens can also be seen at nearby Piggledene and Fyfield Down.
More information about Lockeridge Dene is available on the National Trust website including a walking route taking in the stones.
