The Nine Stones is a small but significant stone circle located near Winterbourne Abbas in Dorchester, situated in the tranquil valley bottom of the South Dorset Downs but next to a busy road, close to the South Winterbourne stream. This prehistoric monument, known for its historical and archaeological value, was first documented in the 18th century by notable antiquarians such as John Aubrey, William Stukeley, and William Hutchins. Their early descriptions remarkably match the current appearance of the site, underscoring its enduring presence through the centuries.
The circle comprises stones made of sarsen or conglomerate, arranged in an irregular yet discernible circular formation. The internal diameter of the circle measures approximately 8 meters, with the stones varying in size. They range from 1.5 meters to 0.5 meters in width and 1.5 meters to 0.45 meters in height. These stones, partially buried over time, might be larger than what is visible on the surface. Notably, the two largest stones, located in the northern and western sections of the circle, each measure around 1.5 meters by 1.5 meters, suggesting their prominence or possible significance within the arrangement.
The stones are generally spaced at regular intervals of about 1 meter around the circle, except for a 3-meter gap on the northern side, which could indicate a potential entrance to the circle. This feature adds an element of intrigue, possibly hinting at the circle’s original use or symbolic meaning. While modern additions such as fence posts, gates, and an informational notice board are present, these are excluded from the site’s official scheduling to preserve its historical integrity. The ground beneath, however, remains protected, ensuring that the Nine Stones continues to be a valuable link to our prehistoric past.