Duddo Five Stones: Ancient Stone Circle of Northumberland

Ancient Bronze Age stone circle set on a windswept hill with panoramic views, steeped in legend and prehistoric mystery.

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Duddo Five Stones

The Duddo Five Stones is a prehistoric stone circle located near Duddo in Northumberland, England, dating back around 4,000 years to the Early Bronze Age. Originally comprising seven stones, five remain standing today, set on a grassy knoll with panoramic views of the Cheviot and Lammermuir Hills. This evocative site, steeped in legend and archaeological mystery, invites contemplation of ancient rituals and the region’s rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Duddo Five Stones

Berwick-upon-Tweed, Duddo, GB
+447775613733
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

Wear sturdy footwear as the path to the stones crosses uneven, sometimes muddy farmland.
Bring a seat or mat for resting and contemplation at the site, as there are no visitor facilities.
Visit during clear weather for the best panoramic views of the Cheviot and Lammermuir Hills.
Respect the private land by staying on the permissive path and closing gates behind you.
Allow time to walk around the stones and absorb the atmosphere, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Berwick-upon-Tweed takes about 15-20 minutes via the B6354 road. Parking is limited to roadside verges near the farm entrance; visitors should park considerately and avoid blocking access. The final approach is on foot across farmland with uneven terrain.
Bus and Walk

Take a local bus service from Berwick-upon-Tweed towards Duddo village, with a journey time of approximately 30-40 minutes. From Duddo, a 1.5 km walk over rural paths leads to the stones. The walk is on uneven ground and may be muddy after rain.
Walking

For experienced walkers, a scenic 5 km hike from Duddo village to the stones offers immersive countryside views. The route crosses farmland and requires sturdy footwear and good weather conditions.

Duddo Five Stones location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Rain / Wet Weather
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Duddo Five Stones

Origins and Archaeological Significance

The Duddo Five Stones are a remarkable prehistoric monument, believed to have been erected in the Early Bronze Age, approximately 4,000 years ago. Archaeological investigations have revealed that the circle originally consisted of seven standing stones, though only five survive today. The stones are composed of soft sandstone, which has weathered deeply over millennia, giving them a fissured, ancient appearance. Excavations in the late 19th century uncovered charcoal and bone fragments in a central pit, suggesting the site may have been used for cremation burials or ritual purposes. The circle’s alignment is thought by some to correspond with the winter solstice, indicating its possible role in ancient calendrical or ceremonial activities.

Legends and Local Folklore

Local tradition imbues the Duddo Five Stones with fascinating folklore. One enduring legend tells of five men who were turned to stone as divine punishment for working on the Sabbath, their trousers’ folds said to be visible as grooves on the stones. Another tale links the stones to a 16th-century skirmish at Grindonmarsh, commemorating fallen Scots warriors, though this conflicts with the archaeological dating. These stories reflect the cultural layers that have accumulated around the stones, blending myth with history and enriching the visitor experience.

Setting and Landscape Context

Perched on a low hillock, the stone circle commands sweeping views across the surrounding countryside. To the south lie the rolling Cheviot Hills, while the Lammermuir Hills stretch to the north, framing the site within a dramatic natural panorama. The stones stand on private farmland, with a permissive path maintained by the landowner to allow respectful access. The approach traverses uneven, sometimes challenging terrain, lending a sense of pilgrimage to the visit. The surrounding fields and open skies enhance the circle’s timeless and contemplative atmosphere.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visiting the Duddo Five Stones is a sensory and reflective experience. The weathered surfaces of the sandstone invite touch, while the wind sweeping across the knoll heightens the sense of ancient presence. The site is often solitary, fostering quiet contemplation amid the vast landscape. Visitors can walk around and between the stones, appreciating their scale and the craftsmanship of prehistoric builders. The changing light throughout the day and seasons adds to the site’s mystical quality, making each visit unique.

Conservation and Access Considerations

The stones are protected as a scheduled ancient monument, reflecting their national heritage importance. While located on private land, the landowner permits access via a designated path, which visitors are urged to respect by staying on the track and closing gates. There are no formal facilities on site, so visitors should come prepared for a rustic experience. The terrain can be uneven and slippery in wet conditions, requiring suitable footwear and care. The site’s preservation depends on responsible visitation and respect for its fragile environment.

Broader Cultural and Historical Importance

The Duddo Five Stones stand as a testament to the prehistoric peoples of Northumberland and the wider British Isles, representing ancient beliefs, social structures, and connections to the landscape. Their endurance through millennia links modern visitors to a distant past of ritual, remembrance, and community. The stones contribute to the rich tapestry of megalithic monuments in the region, offering insight into Bronze Age life and spirituality. As a cultural landmark, they continue to inspire curiosity, scholarship, and reverence.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Broad Shiel

8.7 km

Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.

Marjoribanks Monument

9.3 km

A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.

Berwick Town Walls

11.1 km

Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.

Berwick Bridge

11.1 km

A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Coxon's Tower

11.2 km

Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.

Royal Border Bridge

11.4 km

Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.

Town Hall

11.4 km

A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.

Royal Tweed Bridge

11.5 km

A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Cumberland Bastion

11.7 km

Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.

Berwick Lighthouse

11.8 km

Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.

Lord's Mount

12.0 km

Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.

Lamberton Skerrs

15.8 km

Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.

Berwickshire High School

18.1 km

Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.

Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort

20.8 km

Explore the ancient earthworks and panoramic views of Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort, a remarkable hillfort in the heart of Berwickshire's historic landscape.

Visit Berwickshire Coast

20.9 km

Explore the Berwickshire Coast: A stunning blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming coastal towns perfect for a memorable getaway.

Unmissable attractions to see

Etal Castle

4.4 km

Explore Etal Castle, a captivating 14th-century border fortress steeped in history and scenic Northumberland charm.

Norham Castle

4.6 km

Explore the dramatic ruins of Norham Castle, a historic 12th-century fortress guarding the River Tweed and inspiring centuries of border history.

Twizel Castle

4.8 km

Explore Twizel Castle, a captivating medieval fortress transformed by Gothic revival, echoing centuries of border history in Northumberland.

Twizel Viaduct

5.8 km

Historic 19th-century six-arch railway viaduct near Cornhill-on-Tweed, blending Victorian engineering with scenic Northumberland countryside.

Lady Waterford Hall

6.3 km

Discover the stunning Pre-Raphaelite murals and Victorian heritage of Lady Waterford Hall, a unique village school turned historic community hub.

Ford & Etal Estates

6.3 km

Explore historic villages, scenic countryside, and warm hospitality at Ford & Etal Estates near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Union Bridge

7.3 km

Walk or cycle across the world’s oldest vehicular suspension bridge, a stunning 1820 engineering landmark linking England and Scotland over the River Tweed.

Lazy Day Cottages

7.6 km

Luxury log cabins with private hot tubs and sauna, nestled in peaceful Scottish Borders countryside near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Paxton House

8.3 km

Discover the grandeur of Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite art, gardens, and riverside charm near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Coldstream Museum

9.6 km

Discover the rich border history and legendary Coldstream Guards regiment in the heart of Coldstream at this accessible, free-entry museum with vibrant exhibitions.

WALK THIS WAY ARMY SURPLUS, military antiques, collectibles & military museum

9.7 km

Discover authentic military antiques, collectibles, and a captivating museum in the heart of Coldstream’s historic army surplus shop.

WALK THIS WAY ARMY SURPLUS, military antiques, collectibles & military museum

The Ba' Green

9.9 km

Discover the Ba' Green, a unique Scottish meadow south of the Tweed, where tradition and border folklore shape a rare piece of Scotland.

The Hirsel Estate

10.2 km

Historic Scottish Borders estate with grand Georgian house, scenic gardens, craft workshops, and year-round walks near Coldstream.

Berwick Boat Trips

11.2 km

Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed from the water on scenic boat trips blending wildlife, history, and stunning river and sea views.

Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts

11.6 km

Walk the most complete Elizabethan ramparts in England, where medieval castle ruins meet panoramic views of Berwick and the River Tweed.

Essential places to dine

The Blue Bell Inn

5.8 km

A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.

The Black Bull Inn

9.1 km

A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.

The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen

9.3 km

A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

9.3 km

A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.

The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant

10.3 km

A charming blend of traditional Scottish hospitality, fine dining, and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Borders.

Audela

11.3 km

Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.

Limoncello

11.3 km

Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

11.4 km

A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Ivy 43

11.4 km

Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Amore Restaurant

11.4 km

Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.

The Castle Hotel & Restaurant

11.6 km

Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.

Allanton Inn

12.4 km

A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.

Restaurant 1782

13.8 km

Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Milan Restaurant

16.7 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.

The Potting Shed Restaurant

17.2 km

A cosy, family-friendly restaurant in Duns offering fresh, hearty meals and warm hospitality within The Cheeklaw Centre.

Discover unique handmade ceramics inspired by the Scottish Borders’ landscape at The Kelso Pottery, a charming artisan shop in Kelso.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

BEST PUBLIC BAR

9.7 km

A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.

The Radio Rooms

10.5 km

A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.

The Thatch

11.0 km

A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.

The Barrels

11.3 km

Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.

The Curfew Micropub

11.3 km

A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.

Leaping Salmon

11.4 km

A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.

The Lindisfarne Inn

12.4 km

Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.

The First & Last Inn

17.3 km

Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.

The Craw Inn

18.7 km

Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.

The Contented Sole

20.7 km

A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.

The Vibe

22.5 km

A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.

Schooner Inn

31.2 km

A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.

The Joiners Arms

35.5 km

A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.

Ancrum Cross Keys

35.7 km

A charming Scottish Borders pub offering warm hospitality, exceptional locally sourced food, and scenic riverside views in Ancrum village.

The Belter's Bar

36.4 km

Savor hearty meals and legendary burgers in Jedburgh’s lively and welcoming Belter's Bar.

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Duddo Five Stones: Ancient Stone Circle of Northumberland

A brief summary to Duddo Five Stones

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus and Walk

Walking

Duddo Five Stones location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Duddo Five Stones

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Duddo Five Stones

Origins and Archaeological Significance

Legends and Local Folklore

Setting and Landscape Context

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Conservation and Access Considerations

Broader Cultural and Historical Importance

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Broad Shiel

Marjoribanks Monument

Berwick Town Walls

Berwick Bridge

Coxon's Tower

Royal Border Bridge

Town Hall

Royal Tweed Bridge

Cumberland Bastion

Berwick Lighthouse

Lord's Mount

Lamberton Skerrs

Berwickshire High School

Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort

Visit Berwickshire Coast

Unmissable attractions to see

Etal Castle

Norham Castle

Twizel Castle

Twizel Viaduct

Lady Waterford Hall

Ford & Etal Estates

Union Bridge

Lazy Day Cottages

Paxton House

Coldstream Museum

WALK THIS WAY ARMY SURPLUS, military antiques, collectibles & military museum

The Ba' Green

The Hirsel Estate

Berwick Boat Trips

Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts

Essential places to dine

The Blue Bell Inn

The Black Bull Inn

The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

The Wheatsheaf Hotel and Restaurant

Audela

Limoncello

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

Ivy 43

Amore Restaurant

The Castle Hotel & Restaurant

Allanton Inn

Restaurant 1782

Milan Restaurant

The Potting Shed Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Granny's Keepsakes

Bijoux

Loop Emporium

Unique Antiques

Artisans at Serendipity

Derrants

The Seagull's Nest

No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store

ScotlandShop

Number 18 Shop

The National Trust Shop