Thornborough Henges

Explore the remains of our Neolithic history at this idyllic spot in the countryside near Masham. The Thornborough henges were built around 4500 years ago and are thought to have become a centre for rituals and ceremonies in the area with people travelling great distances to visit them.

A site of national significance

Each of the three earth circles is about 250m wide, and together they are aligned with entrance gaps between them. Originally it is thought the banks of the henges would have been coated in locally mined Gypsum, making them bright white and visible for miles around.

The areas around the henges are rich in discarded artifacts, from those items we know that people visited thislocation from across the country, possibly on their way to Stonehenge via a connected network of significant sites that continues across the Vale of York and includes the Devil's Arrows at Boroughbridge.

Today the site is one of natural calm. All three circles are open to the public, though the northern henge which is in a small wood must be accessed separately from the others.  The central and southern henges sit among idyllic wildflower meadow, and are now a haven for wildlife with countless butterflies, insects and birds calling the site home.

Roadside parking is limited and visitors are asked to remember large agricultural vehicles that require access along the lane that is between the two circles.  The northern henge is accessible from the car park at Nosterfield Nature Reserve.