Simon Tomkinson (Member no: 79)

Knowlton Henge

Entering the henge in the summer at sunset is always a spine tingling experience as the dramatic shadows highlight the position of the site to the setting sun

Knowlton Ride 7.7.22

…in times of emotional turmoil, I find solace in my local ancient monument of Knowlton Henge (church).

Having visited the site from my teenage years (90’s after party chills), it has been used personally by myself and friends for celebrations, contemplations, mourning and just to stand in awe of its natural beauty and alignment with our celestial map of the world.

Today though, was a new experience, as I have found a new route from my parents home town of Verwood Dorset. The approach weaves through the short few miles of heathland and ancient Cranborne drove roads almost directly to the henge. Anyone interested in the bike/hike route from Verwood Central, the route is here on Komoot app.

Experience on 7.7.22 was an amazing sunset on an impromptu ride after an emotional day with my family. Knowlton has the oddity of a Norman church in the centre of a 2500BC earthworks. Tonnes of history and stories to be found about this site. Too many to mention here within these brief notes…

Entering the henge in the summer at sunset is always a spine tingling experience as the dramatic shadows highlight the position of the site to the setting sun. The Church casts a huge shadow over the henge and various positions around the outer ring give a dramatic view over the earthwork and surrounding Dorset countryside. One of my favourite places at KC is the yew trees. A very old pair of trees create a gateway view looking toward the centre of the henge. Used by locals and visitors alike as a place of contemplation and remembrance. It is adorned with various artefacts left by people in this special quiet space.

Also something to note, one of the largest tumulus in UK can be found 100m or so to the east of the henge, covered in trees and plants means there’s a little more effort required to visit, but it provides another angle for the henge that keeps giving (to me at least!)

Recommended all times of year. At its most dramatic on a clear summers evening.