Rollright Stones Circular Walk Route Guide

Route Description for Rollright Stones Circular Walk

Rollright Stones Circular Walk
The Rollright Stones Circular Walk is a fairly laidback adventure; however, there are some changes in terrain and small elevation gains that might make travel for young children or less mobile walkers more challenging. Make sure to wear proper footwear that is preferably water-resistant if you are setting out in the winter or spring, as some sections can become muddy. While dogs are allowed on the trail, remember to keep them on a leash, as there may be grazing animals nearby. Additionally, dogs are not permitted within the stone circles themselves, so exercise caution and plan accordingly.

If you enjoy ancient history paired with classic English countryside views, this walk is an excellent way to spend a relaxed afternoon in the Cotswolds. The route leads from the village of Salford to a group of three prehistoric monuments collectively known as the Rollright Stones, dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods. Along the way, you will walk through open farmland, quiet lanes, and small woodland sections that make the journey as enjoyable as the historic highlights.

Planning Your Rollright Stones Circular Walk

The Rollright Stones Circular Walk is best suited to walkers who are comfortable with gates, uneven paths, and a few short road sections. It is a popular route, particularly during weekends and school holidays, so starting earlier in the day can make for a quieter experience at the Rollright Stones themselves.

There is no formal café on the route, so bring water and snacks with you. In warmer months, open fields offer little shade, while in winter the exposed sections can feel chilly. Checking the weather forecast before setting out will help you prepare for conditions on the Rollright Stones Circular Walk.

Route Description

Setting out from the village of Salford, head to the northeast along Cooks Lane for 72 m and bear left onto Golden Lane, following it out of the village and into the countryside for 0.8 km. When the lane veers right, continue straight along the footpath for 0.4 km, enjoying wide views across open farmland. Turn right and follow the path for approximately 500ft toward the Salford Trout Lakes before joining another footpath on the left.

Continue northeast for 0.9 km, crossing the Little Rollright Brook and skirting the edge of a small woodland before reaching a road. Cross carefully and pick up the footpath opposite, heading across open ground for 0.2 km to a gate beside a line of trees. Pass through the gate and follow the treeline for 0.7 km, going through several gates as the path climbs gently toward Brighthill Farm.

Walk along the lane for 78 m and take the path on the left into a peaceful woodland section. After 0.2 km, turn right at the junction to reach the Whispering Knights, the oldest of the Rollright Stones monuments. This atmospheric group of stones is often quieter than the main circle and rewards a slower visit.

From the Whispering Knights, continue for 146 m and turn left along the road to reach the King’s Men stone circle, the most well-known of the Rollright Stones. According to legend, if you can count the same number of stones three times in a row, you will be granted a wish. After exploring the circle, follow the path north across the road to visit the King Stone, a solitary Bronze Age monolith that completes the trio of monuments.

To return, head back across the road and retrace your steps past the monuments to the earlier junction. Turn right and follow the trail southwest for 0.9 km, descending gently toward the village of Little Rollright. Continue straight, crossing Little Rollright Brook once more, then follow the footpath across open fields for 1.9 km to arrive back in Salford and complete the Rollright Stones Circular Walk.

What’s New at Rollright Stones Circular Walk in 2026

There are no major changes to access, route layout, or visitor guidelines for the Rollright Stones Circular Walk in 2026. The monuments, public footpaths, and surrounding farmland remain accessible under the same conditions as previous years. Visitors should continue to follow posted guidance, particularly around dog access and respecting the stone circles.

Trail Highlights

Rollright Stones

The Rollright Stones are a collection of limestone monuments located on the Oxfordshire and Warwickshire border. The Whispering Knights date to the Early or Middle Neolithic period, the King’s Men stone circle belongs to the Late Neolithic or Early Bronze Age, and the King Stone is thought to date from the Bronze Age. Together, the Rollright Stones offer a rare glimpse into prehistoric ritual landscapes in the Cotswolds.

Each Rollright Stones site has its own character, from the secluded feel of the Whispering Knights to the open setting of the King’s Men circle. Taking time to explore all three helps bring the long history of this area into focus.

Safety and Etiquette on the Rollright Stones Walk

The Rollright Stones Circular Walk passes through working farmland, so walkers should stick to marked paths, close gates behind them, and keep dogs under control. Near the stone circles, take care to avoid climbing on the stones, which helps preserve them for future visitors.

Road crossings are short but require attention, particularly if walking with children. Wearing visible clothing and remaining alert will help keep the experience safe and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Rollright Stones Circular Walk take?

Most walkers complete the Rollright Stones Circular Walk in around three to four hours, allowing extra time to explore the monuments and enjoy the scenery.

Is the Rollright Stones Circular Walk suitable for families?

The route is suitable for families with older children who are comfortable walking on uneven ground. Due to gates, fields, and narrow paths, it is not well suited to pushchairs.

Can you count the Rollright Stones?

Local tradition says the stones in the King’s Men circle cannot be counted accurately. If you do manage to count the same number three times in a row, legend claims you will be granted a wish.

Can you take dogs to the Rollright Stones?

Dogs are welcome on the walk but must remain on a leash near livestock and the monuments. Dogs are not permitted inside the stone circles themselves.

What county are the Rollright Stones in?

The Rollright Stones sit on the border of Oxfordshire and Warwickshire. The Whispering Knights and King’s Men are in Oxfordshire, while the King Stone lies in Warwickshire.

Consider a Walking Holiday in the Cotswolds

If you enjoy routes like the Rollright Stones Circular Walk, you may also want to explore a longer self-guided experience in the region. Options include self-guided walking holidays in the Cotswolds, which combine classic countryside trails, historic villages, and prehistoric landmarks like the Rollright Stones.