S1 – Short single rows composed of less than 10 small and/or medium sized stones

Distribution of short single rows composed of less than 10 small and/or medium-sized stones

There are a total of 11 stone rows of this type and they have been allocated the typological code S1. The distribution of short single rows composed of less than 10 small and/or medium-sized stones (S1) is very much focused on the moors of South West England and the uplands of Mid Wales. The solitary example (Garynahine, Cnoc Fillibhir Mhor) in the Western Isles may be the result of deep peat growth around the stones which were therefore originally much taller. If one discounts this anomaly, it is clear that rows of this character are found only in South West Britain. Four of the rows have a cairn at their upper end, one has a cairn and another a stone circle at their lower ends. Most are situated within close proximity to broadly contemporary archaeological sites and this may in part explain their discovery.

Simplified plans of all short single rows composed of less than 10 small and/or medium-sized stones

Some of these rows may originally have been longer, but the relatively clustered character of the distribution does support the idea that short single rows composed of small numbers of relatively small stones were originally built. The relatively small number of directly associated cairns and stone circles may be of significance. Six of these rows have sea views. Six of these rows are currently categorized as plausible, three as probable and two as possible. Full details for each stone row can be found by clicking either on the map above or the site name below.

Map showing the distribution of S1 stone rows. The red cross shows the mean position of all rows of this type and the light brown shading the area with the denest concentration (heartland). The number refers to the number of rows depicted by a single symbol.

The individual rows

Afon Hyddgen in Mid Wales

Cefn Gwernffrwd Row I in Mid Wales

Cefn Gwernffrwd Row II in Mid Wales

Disgwylfa Fach in Mid Wales

Furzehill Common 2 on Exmoor

Garynahine, Cnoc Fillibhir Mhor in the Western Isles (Lewis)

This is the only row seemingly of this character in northern Britain. It is very likely that it is composed of larger stones which are partly buried by peat. The peat may also be hiding further stones.