The Druids Temple Swinton

The Druid’s Temple is located in the Swinton Estate that is near Masham in North Yorkshire. You don’t have to be staying on-site to visit.

What is The Druids Temple Swinton?

The Druids Temple is actually a folly that was commissioned by William Danby and built in 1820. The Druids themselves resided in northern Europe around 2,000 years ago. Because no single artefact has ever been universally agreed to be Druidic they remain a mystery in history. Stonehenge was once attributed to having been constructed by Druids but that was later debunked.

There is a small car park with an honesty box for visitors. You can also pick up a map from the cafe which is a few minutes walk downhill from the parking area. The woods aren’t massive though and a map isn’t really necessary. The stones give off quite a haunting look and if you didn’t know they were a purpose-built folly you could really let your imagination run wild.

The Druids Temple itself is very impressive with many large rocks forming the outer ring and with other large rocks used within. There are little cubby holes, a table and chairs made of rocks with a small cave at the back. The cave is rumoured to have luminescent bugs in it, sadly we didn’t spot any.

Important Information The Druids Temple Swinton

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe down the valley after the glamping field that is part of the Swinton Estate.

What are the main things to do?

Follies in woodland with a main section inspired by Stonehenge. There is a cafe nearby that has toilets.

What are the ticket prices?

It is free to visit.

Is there parking?

There is parking with an honesty box.

When are they open?

The follies are open all year round. The gate to the car parking area may be locked overnight.

Dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome.

Are they accessible?

They are not accessible to wheelchairs. On wetter days you may struggle with a pushchair.

Please note map location is not exact, close but not exact.