History of The Stone Circles & The Cove
The Stone Circles
Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Chew Valley, The Druids Arms has welcomed travellers, walkers, locals and history enthusiasts for generations. Standing just a few steps away from one of Britain's most remarkable prehistoric monuments, our pub owes both its name and character to the ancient Stanton Drew Stone Circles, creating a unique connection between village life and a history stretching back over 4500 years.
Long before the first pint was poured at The Druids Arms, the people of the Neolithic period chose Stanton Drew as the site of an extraordinary ceremonial monument. Around 2500BC they erected what is now recognised as the third largest complex of standing stones in England, surpassed by only Avebury and Stonehenge. The site consists of three stone circles, the mysterious cove, and several outlying stones, all of which continue to intrigue archaeologists and visitors alike.
Unlike many ancient monuments, the Stanton Drew circles remain peacefully woven into everyday village life. Fields, footpaths, cottages and even our pub all sit alongside these incredible reminders of Britain's prehistoric past.
The Cove
One of the most unique features of The Druids Arms is that the history doesn't stop at our doorstep. Our beer garden is home to The Cove - three enormous standing stones that form part of the wider complex. Thought to have been an important ceremonial structure aligned with the Great Circle, The Cove is a rare opportunity to enjoy a meal or drink while sitting beside a monument that has stood for over four millennia.
Like many ancient places, Stanton Drew has inspired countless stories over the centuries. Local folklore tells of wedding guests who were turned to stone for dancing on the Sabbath, while musicians were transformed into smaller stones nearby. These colourful legends, passed down through generations, have become an important part of the village's heritage, adding mystery to an already magical landscape.
The pub itself has its own local tale, with stories of a ghost named Grace, said to haunt the building after a tragic accident involving a horse-drawn carriage many years ago. Whether fact or folklore, these stories are part of the charm that has made The Druids Arms a favourite destination for visitors seeking more than just good food and drink.