Something a bit different for this Sketch. Last year, I was asked by the staff at the Kendal Branch of the Cumbria Archives if I would write an article for their newsletter to explain how I use the archives for my research into local history.
This was published in their Winter 25 – 26 edition. I have been given permission to reproduce the article here.
If you have any questions about the process of researching local history I would be more than happy to try to answer them.
If you have written, or half written any Casterton related history articles you would like to include as a ‘Guest Sketch’, I would be delighted to include them.
Simon Drakeford
January 2026
Hi Simon, I have looked twice for the Casterton stone circle following directions from local people.
I walked up a straight track from the Fell Road starting at 54.208 -2.560, counted 5 fields, to the south of this track…nothing? There are many piles of stones which I take to be field clearance.
I then quartered the three fields south of the track, down to & past a wood (Rookery). Nothing.
Have you a Lat/Long reference of this illusive neolith? Is the track Roman?
Previously I had looked for the circle on the open fell, I’m told its not there.
I did climb to the pile of stones at the sumit 54.219 -2.542. The stone pile is huge, given to lack of stone in the surrounding area; a lot of effort to collect. 2, The vast number of vole holes. Refreshing! Neil
Hi Neil,
Thank you for your message. It’s quite hard to see the circle until you know where it is, and then easy to spot. The stones are only about 30cm high.
I’ve written about it on this sketch https://www.castertonparishcouncil.org.uk/a-sketch-of-castertons-prehistoric-stone-circle/
There is a map which shows you the location and a photograph that should help you pin the location down.
If you use what3words, the circle is here ///admits.pegs.trousers
Best viewing from around this spot ///screening.chicken.pitchers
Hope that helps!
Regards Simon