24/06/2017: Midummer & Solstice 8 Stone Circles Walk & Ce
Celebate the Summer Solstice and Midsummer by walking through an ancient and ritual landscape on Dartmoor. Our intention is to engage and reconnect with the landscape – past, present, and future. And . . . to share the ancient art of conversation and storytelling around a fire together on a starlit night.
We have chosen to walk through the sacred arc of 8 stone circles, several stone rows, a pass through the Tolmen Stone in the River Teign, as well as by megaliths and monoliths on an auspicious day – a New Moon, near the Summer Solstice, and Midsummer. Let’s gather to honour these places, the time of year, each other, and this wild and ancient landscape that has succoured 1,000’s of men, women, children and animals throughout the centuries. And you are invited into to a fully immersive experience together by resting and recuperating afterwards by sharing food and stories around a fire with an overnight camp on private land just a stone’s throw from Scorhill. Chris Salisbury is Spindle Wayfarer and he is a storyteller of wonder, with tales of old lands and magic to weave together for your delectation.
Large 3-4 man dome tents (that can be sectioned off) and smaller 1-2 man tents will be set up and available for you to use overnight so no there is no need to bring/carry your own gear.
LEVEL: 4 out of 5. A good level of fitness (and enthusiasm) will be required for the group to keep a good pace and cover the approx 14 miles. We will stop and spend time at each stone circle. There are a few paths to follow on the route but also some rough open and occasionally boggy ground plus a couple of hills to hike up and down for good measure.
WHAT TO BRING: Sturdy hiking boots; sunscreen and warm layers; waterproof jacket and trousers (no matter the weather forecast); drinks, snacks, and picnic lunch. And bring a swimming costume as there maybe time for a dip in the river along the way.
You may also want your map and compass; guitar, drum, or other musical instrument (this can be left in a safe place at the beginning of the day so you don’t have to carry), poems/stories; dowsing rods if you have them, and questions/intution to see if we can divine answers together. If you choose to bring offerings to leave on the moor, please only bring swiftly bio-degradable and natural materials that are appropriate to this landscape that has grazing animals.
Tents will be provided and set up for you (please advise if you wish to share a 3-4 man big bell tent or 1-2 man tent). Your help to take them down after breakfast on Sunday morning would be welcome. Please bring a sleeping bag, ground mat & blanket/pillow etc.
Sorry no dogs
WHERE TO MEET: ‘Scorhill Farmhouse’ (not ‘Scorhill’) above Gidleigh village, near Chagford. Grid Reference: SX661877. Nearest postcode is TQ138HS but please don’t rely on your satnav to get you to the exact location. (Exact address and directions will be provided upon booking). Carsharing essential as parking very limited.
COST: £35 per adult. Older children 16+ years are welcome if they have sufficient walking experience and fitness. Group size is 20-25 so pre-booking is essential. Click here to book your place: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/summer-solstice-8-stone-circles-walk-experience-celebration-tickets-32156722623
CANCELLATION: The walk will go ahead come rain or shine. Sorry no refunds if you are unable to attend.
RISK: No liability accepted for accidents or incidents.
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