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Stones, Bothwell Water, Cranshaws. |
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Description
This large group of stones sits between Bothwell Water and a
farm track leading to Caldercleuch and comprises some sizeable
stones, the largest around 1.00m high. Some of the stones seem
to be set on edge and there are numerous smaller stones in and
around the setting. One of the larger slabs has a number of
"cup marks" although these are likely to be of natural
origin. The largest of the stones also has cup-marks but these
are much more advanced and have actually formed pockets in the
stone.
Directions
Take a minor road north of Cranshaws leading to Bothwell. Just
before Crichness a farm track heads up the Bothwell Water towards
Crystal Knowe. Leave vehicle as noted below and proceed on foot
upstream following the rough track. The stones are located just
beyond the rocky scarp face on the right.
Parking
At side of road on either side of bridge noted above. Please take
care not to block any farm access. Note the ground may be wet and
muddy, so be careful not to get your vehicle bogged down!
Fieldnotes
It was actually a posting by Martin on "The Modern
Antiquarian" that drew my attention to this site. I had
been in the area exploring Ragstone Rig, near Nine Stone Rig
Stone Circle and had time to check out Martin's cup and ring
marks. I'm fairly certain that the cup marks are due to natural
origin and while it has been suggested that the stones are
reminiscent of a stone circle, the setting is not in keeping
with similar circles in the area.
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