A small ring of stones in open fell country near Ennerdale Bridge. Also known as Kinniside Stone Circle, Blakeley Raise combines wide views with an intriguing history of dismantling and reconstruction.
Where: beside the minor fell road between Ennerdale Bridge and Calder Bridge.
Also known as: Kinniside Stone Circle, Blakely Raise or Blakely Rise.
OS grid reference: NY 060 140.
Our suggestion: allow 20–30 minutes for a short look around, longer for photography or a separately planned walk.
The circle visible today consists of eleven small standing stones. Its present appearance owes much to reconstruction in 1925, when stones were re-erected and secured with concrete.
Accounts describe stones being removed and reused as gateposts before that work. However, it is uncertain whether all the stones returned were original, or whether they were placed in their original positions. The site is commonly described as prehistoric, but the reconstructed layout should not be treated as an untouched survival or reliable proof of astronomical alignments.
The Megalithic Portal entry includes discussion and extracts from the former PastScape record explaining these uncertainties.
The stones stand on an open terrace below Blakeley Raise, close to the road. Their modest scale is part of the appeal: the surrounding fell landscape provides much of the drama.
On a clear day, views extend towards the western coast. Low cloud can transform the scene, so choose good visibility if photography or distant views are your main reason for visiting. The Britain Express site guide provides further background and location information.
Use OS grid reference NY 060 140 to locate the circle beside the fell road south of Ennerdale Bridge, heading towards Calder Bridge. Search for either Blakeley Raise or Kinniside Stone Circle when using a map.
There is no dedicated visitor car park described in the available site guides. Do not assume that a verge or passing place is suitable for parking. Stop only where it is lawful and safe, leaving the road, gateways, cattle grids and farm access clear. If there is no suitable space, continue rather than obstructing the road.
The stones are close to the road, but the approach crosses grass and uneven ground. Proximity to the road does not mean that there is a surfaced or step-free visitor route.
Use this map to locate the monument, then check road conditions and access on arrival.
Explore the stone circle and its open landscape in these photographs. Ground conditions and visibility will vary with the weather.
Plan this as a short outdoor stop. Wear footwear with grip for wet grass and uneven ground, and bring a waterproof layer for the exposed setting. Arrange refreshments and toilet stops elsewhere rather than relying on facilities at the circle.
Keep dogs under close control around livestock and follow signs on the ground. Leave the stones undisturbed: do not climb on them, move smaller stones or build cairns. Take litter home and give other visitors room to enjoy the site.
For a longer outing, consider the Ramblers’ Blakeley Raise route. Review its full directions, distance, terrain and parking arrangements before setting out; the short visit to the stone circle is a separate proposition from a fell walk.
For another stone-circle visit, see our Castlerigg Stone Circle guide. Comparing the settings is interesting, while remembering that Blakeley Raise’s present layout is reconstructed.
Look around Ennerdale Bridge for a base to explore the western Lakes. Compare accommodation for your dates, checking parking, food options and travel distances before reserving.
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