Arthur's Stone, Dorstone

An atmospheric Neolithic burial chamber made of great stone slabs, set in the hills above Herefordshire's Golden Valley

Arthur’s Stone is a Neolithic chambered tomb located in Herefordshire, England, dating back over 5,000 years. Situated on a hill overlooking the Golden Valley, this ancient monument consists of nine upright stones supporting a massive capstone estimated to weigh more than 25 tonnes. Originally, these stones were covered by a long earthen mound, accessed through a right-angled passage from the side. An isolated stone nearby likely served as a false entrance, possibly acting as a focal point for ceremonial activities.  

While the tomb has never been excavated, similar sites in the region have revealed incomplete skeletal remains, flint flakes, arrowheads, and pottery, indicating that Arthur’s Stone may have been used for both burial and ritual purposes. Its elevated position suggests it could have been a gathering place for Neolithic communities, possibly linked to seasonal pastoral practices. Over time, the monument has become entwined with local folklore, notably legends associating it with King Arthur. One such tale recounts that Arthur slew a giant at this site, leaving imprints of the giant’s elbows on one of the stones as he fell.

This monument can be visited as part of the Golden Valley Pilgrim Way.

Learn more about Arthur's Stone on the English Heritage website.