The Druid's Temple: A 19th-Century Stone Circle Folly in Nidderdale
Explore a captivating 19th-century stone circle folly nestled in tranquil woodland, blending history, myth, and scenic Yorkshire landscapes.
Nestled within the tranquil pine woods of the Swinton Estate near Ripon, The Druid's Temple is a striking 19th-century folly inspired by prehistoric stone circles like Stonehenge. Built to provide work for local laborers, this atmospheric site features large standing stones, an altar, a sacrificial stone, and a tomb area. Surrounded by scenic woodland trails and close to the Swinton Bivouac café, it offers visitors a peaceful spot for picnics, gentle walks, and nature appreciation.
A brief summary to Druid's Temple
- Knowle Ln, Ripon, HG4 4JZ, GB
- +441765535020
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours only, as the estate restricts access to preserve the site and ensure visitor safety.
- Parking is available near Swinton Bivouac café with a £3 honesty box fee; refreshments and toilets are nearby.
- Combine your visit with woodland walks on the Jubilee Walk and Ripon Rowel footpaths for a fuller nature experience.
- Respect the marked trails and estate rules to help maintain the natural and cultural integrity of the site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Ripon or Masham, allow 15-25 minutes to reach Swinton Bivouac café parking near the Druid's Temple. Parking costs £3 via an honesty box or can be paid inside the café. Roads are rural but well maintained; parking is ample but limited during peak times.
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Bus and Walk
Take a regional bus to Masham or Ripon, then a taxi or local shuttle to Swinton Bivouac. From the café, the Druid's Temple is a 10-15 minute walk along well-marked public footpaths through woodland. Walking routes are easy terrain but may be muddy after rain.
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Walking
For experienced walkers, longer routes from nearby villages such as Fearby or Masham offer scenic 2-3 hour circular walks including the temple. Trails combine public footpaths and permissive paths with varied terrain; sturdy footwear recommended.
Druid's Temple location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Druid's Temple
A Folly Rooted in History and Local Heritage
The Druid's Temple is not an ancient monument but a carefully crafted folly dating back to the early 1800s. Commissioned by William Danby, a wealthy landowner, it was constructed to provide employment for local workers during a time of economic hardship. Designed to evoke the mystique of famous prehistoric sites such as Stonehenge, the temple features two large stone circles, a central altar, a sacrificial stone, and a tomb area. Despite its relatively recent origin, the site has accrued a rich tapestry of myths and stories, some hinting at mystical practices and eerie experiences, though these remain folklore.Architectural and Natural Features of the Temple
The temple’s layout includes a small stone altar just inside the entrance, surrounded by four imposing monolithic stones. Beyond this lies an antechamber with a flat sacrificial stone that resembles a picnic table, inviting visitors to pause and reflect. Behind the antechamber is a tomb area, softened in character by whimsical details such as red paw prints painted on the stones. Nearby, additional standing stones and columns are scattered throughout the surrounding woodland, enhancing the sense of mystery and connection to ancient traditions.Setting Within Swinton Estate’s Woodland and Landscape
Set amid the pine forests of the Swinton Estate, the temple is surrounded by well-marked walking trails including the Jubilee Walk and Ripon Rowel public footpaths. The woodland is a haven for walkers, bird watchers, and families seeking a peaceful nature escape. Not far from the temple lies the Druid's Viewpoint, which offers stunning panoramic views over Leighton Reservoir and the Yorkshire Dales beyond. The estate maintains the site and encourages visitors to respect the paths and daylight-only access to preserve the tranquil environment.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors typically approach the temple via a short, easy walk from the Swinton Bivouac café, which provides refreshments and parking facilities. Parking is managed via an honesty box system with a small fee contributing to the upkeep of the site. The temple grounds are open year-round during daylight hours, making it accessible for day trips and gentle strolls. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for picnics, photography, and quiet contemplation.Local Walking Routes and Extended Exploration
Beyond the temple itself, the Swinton Estate offers a network of walking routes of varying lengths and difficulties. Longer circular walks combine public and permissive paths, providing opportunities to explore the wider Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Walkers can extend their visit with routes from nearby villages such as Fearby or Masham. The estate requests visitors to stick to marked trails and avoid night visits to protect both the environment and visitor safety.Preservation and Cultural Significance
Though a folly, the Druid's Temple holds cultural significance as a symbol of local history and community resilience. It reflects early 19th-century social efforts to support unemployed laborers while also capturing the romantic fascination with ancient druidic and prehistoric monuments. Today, it stands as a unique blend of history, myth, and natural beauty, carefully preserved by the Swinton Estate for future generations to enjoy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Craven Arms Pub & Cruck Barn
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The Old Hall Inn
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Quirky Farm Bistro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Watershed Mill
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
