This is the fifth in a series of events to highlight the twenty or so stone circles that are found within Derbyshire, with this one taking you a short distance along the Limestone Way.
Nine Stones Close sadly no longer has nine stones, but just four from what was originally a stone circle approximately 14m in diameter. One of the missing stones is said to form part of a nearby dry stone wall. However, the remaining stones are the largest standing stones in Derbyshire! They range in height from 1.2m to the tallest at the southern end which stands 2.1m high. Before being re-erected & set into concrete in 1936, this stone was measured at 3.5m long. The stone circle is also known as the Grey Ladies from the legend that they come to life & dance at midnight. From the site, the rocky crag of Robin Hood's Stride can be seen to the SSW.
This short event will give us an opportunity to meet up safely outside for some geochat & to swap trackables. Access to the site is along the Limestone Way from the designated parking area at Cratcliffe on the B5056. Please note that this parking area can get busy in fine weather. From there you should cross the road & follow the drive up the hill to the NNW until the track leads off to the NW past Robin Hood's Stride on your left. As you follow the Limestone Way markers through the fields, the stone circle is a short walk NE. Dogs are welcome, but please keep them on a lead as there may be sheep with lambs in the fields. There are several caches dotted around the area if you want to prolong your visit.