Our adventure in prehistoric Devon begins with a visit to Fernworthy Stone Circle, one of the most intriguing sites on the Dartmoor map. This mysterious stone circle, hidden in the heart of the Fernworthy forest, attracts attention not only for its antiquity, but also for its unusual location. To reach this magical place, we need to undertake a short but scenic hike. The parking lot is about a 15-20 minute walk from the circle itself, which adds a touch of adventure and discovery to the whole experience.

Fernworthy Stone Circle, with a 4.4-star rating, impresses with its authenticity and atmosphere of mystery. The circle is made up of unremarkable stones, which may not initially make a stunning impression, but it is this modesty that makes the place so captivating. There are also rows of smaller stones around the main circle, forming a complex that still puzzles archaeologists today.

Note the surroundings - the forest and nearby reservoir add to the site's charm. Especially after the rain, the terrain can be muddy, which only emphasizes the wild character of this corner of Dartmoor. Remember to bring appropriate footwear with you!

The next point on our trip is Merrivale Prehistoric Settlement, a site that takes us even deeper into Devon's prehistory. With an impressive 4.6 star rating, Merrivale offers an extraordinary experience of interacting with the remains of a Bronze Age settlement. What sets this site apart is the variety of monuments gathered in a relatively small area.

At Merrivale we can admire not only stone rows, but also the remains of round houses, giving us an idea of what life might have been like for people more than 3,000 years ago. Particularly impressive are the double rows of standing stones, which in the right light create unforgettable views.

It's worth noting that Merrivale, unlike Fernworthy, is easier to access - it's close to the parking lot, making it ideal for families with children or those with limited mobility. However, as in the case of Fernworthy, it is important to remember to be properly prepared for the variable weather conditions peculiar to Dartmoor.

Comparing the two places, we can see that each offers a unique experience. Fernworthy Stone Circle impresses with its seclusion and intimate atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a deeper connection to prehistory. Merrivale, on the other hand, with its accessibility and variety of monuments, is the perfect place to start an archaeological adventure for families.

Both Fernworthy and Merrivale are free to visit, making them attractive options for travelers on a tight budget. It's worth remembering, however, that there is no tourist infrastructure at either site - no toilets or cafes - which may be a disadvantage for some, and an advantage for others, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of prehistoric Devon.

Continuing our journey through prehistoric Devon, we head to Grey Wethers, a remarkable complex of two stone circles that is sure to be memorable for any lover of ancient monuments. With a 4.7-star rating, Grey Wethers is one of the highest-rated prehistoric sites in the region, and for good reason.

Grey Wethers stands out from other archaeological sites in Devon for its uniqueness - it is the only known pair of stone circles in the region. Located about an hour's walk from Post Bridge, the circles offer not only a fascinating look at Neolithic practices, but also breathtaking views of the surrounding Dartmoor moors.

The name 'Grey Wethers' (which can be translated as 'Grey Wethers') comes from a legend according to which the stones in the distance resembled a flock of sheep. This poetic name adds extra charm and mystery to the place. Note how the stone circles blend harmoniously into the landscape, creating an almost mystical feeling of oneness with nature.

Access to Grey Wethers is relatively easy, although it requires a short hike. It is an ideal destination for those who like to combine exploration of historical sites with hiking. It is worth planning your visit so that you can spend more time here, admiring not only the circles themselves, but also the majestic Dartmoor landscape that surrounds them.

The next point on our trip is Grimspound, a prehistoric settlement that takes us even deeper into the Bronze Age. With an impressive 4.7 star rating, Grimspound offers an extraordinary experience of interacting with the well-preserved remains of an ancient community.

Grimspound is a complex consisting of a circular stone wall surrounding the remains of some 24 circular houses. What sets the site apart is its remarkable state of preservation, allowing us to truly imagine what life might have been like in the Bronze Age. Entering the settlement, one can almost feel the spirit of the site's former inhabitants.

Access to Grimspound is a bit more challenging than to Grey Wethers. The road leading to the settlement is quite steep, which can be a challenge for those with limited mobility. However, the effort to reach the site is lavishly rewarded - the views that unfold from Grimspound are simply spectacular.

Comparing Grey Wethers and Grimspound, one can see that both places offer unique experiences. Grey Wethers impresses with its mystery and unusual combination of two stone circles, ideal for those interested in Neolithic rituals and astronomy. Grimspound, on the other hand, gives us a fuller picture of Bronze Age life with its vastness and variety of remains.

Both sites are free to visit, making them attractive options for travelers on a tight budget. However, it is worth remembering that, as with the previously described sites, both Grey Wethers and Grimspound do not have developed tourist infrastructure. The lack of toilets or food outlets can be a bit of a handicap, but at the same time allows you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of these prehistoric sites.

When planning a visit to Grey Wethers and Grimspound, it's worth taking into account the variable weather conditions peculiar to Dartmoor. Appropriate footwear and rainwear are essential to fully enjoy the exploration of these fascinating sites. Regardless of the weather, both Grey Wethers and Grimspound offer unforgettable experiences, allowing us to touch history thousands of years ago and feel part of this fascinating tale of prehistoric Devon.

To conclude our fascinating journey through prehistoric Devon, we head to Drizzlecombe, a site that is a true gem among the region's Neolithic and Early Bronze Age monuments. With a rating of 4.4 stars, Drizzlecombe may not be the highest-rated site on our tour, but it is certainly one of the most impressive and comprehensive archaeological sites in all of Devon.

Drizzlecombe stands out from the other sites we visited primarily because of the variety of monuments gathered in a relatively small area. The site is home to three impressive rows of stones, one of which contains the tallest standing stone (menhir) on all of Dartmoor. Measuring more than 4 meters high, this gigantic menhir is undoubtedly Drizzlecombe's main attraction and is an unforgettable experience for any lover of prehistory.

In addition to the rows of stones and the menhir, at Drizzlecombe we can also admire numerous burial barrows and the remains of Bronze Age settlements. This variety of monuments allows us to get a more complete picture of the life and ritual practices of our prehistoric ancestors. Walking through the area, one can almost physically feel the passage of time and wonder at the mysteries hidden in these ancient stones.

Access to Drizzlecombe is relatively easy, although it requires a short walk from the nearest parking lot. This short hike, however, is an excellent opportunity to enjoy Dartmoor's picturesque landscapes and prepare yourself mentally for an encounter with prehistory. It is worth noting that the terrain can be waterlogged in places, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is essential.

Comparing Drizzlecombe with the other sites we visited during our trip, we can see that it offers the most comprehensive experience of prehistoric Devon. While Fernworthy Stone Circle impresses with its intimacy, and Merrivale impresses with the vastness of its settlement, Drizzlecombe combines ritualistic elements (rows of stones and menhirs) with remnants of daily life (Bronze Age settlements).

Drizzlecombe, like the other sites we visited, is free to visit, making it an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget. However, as with other sites on Dartmoor, there is no developed tourist infrastructure here. You won't find toilets or refreshment facilities here, which may be an inconvenience for some, but an opportunity for others to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the prehistoric landscape.

To sum up our journey through prehistoric Devon, it is worth noting that each of the sites we visited - Fernworthy Stone Circle, Merrivale, Grey Wethers, Grimspound and Drizzlecombe - offers a unique experience and allows us to see prehistory from a slightly different perspective. Fernworthy charms us with its intimacy and mystery, Merrivale impresses us with the vastness of its settlement, Grey Wethers fascinates us with its double structure, Grimspound allows us to look inside a prehistoric village, and Drizzlecombe combines ritual elements and the daily life of our ancestors.

All of these places have one thing in common - they are silent witnesses to the fascinating history that took place in these lands thousands of years ago. By visiting them, we not only learn about our past, but also have a chance to reflect more deeply on man's place in history and nature. Prehistoric Devon is not only a lesson in archaeology, but also an unforgettable adventure that allows us to get away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world and immerse ourselves in the mysterious atmosphere of ancient times.

When planning a visit to these places, remember to prepare properly - comfortable shoes, warm and waterproof clothes and a supply of water and snacks are essential. It's also a good idea to take a map or GPS with you, as some of these places are quite off the beaten track. Whether we are archaeology enthusiasts, nature lovers or simply looking for an unusual experience, prehistoric Devon will certainly not disappoint us, offering a trip back in time that we will not forget for years to come.