-+-+-+- From Winter's Dearth Through Spring's rebirth Great fires now lit For the coming of Summer. -+-+-+-
The earliest written mention of the customs of Beltane come from ancient Irish texts, around 8th-9th century CE though, one can imagine the practice going far back into the distant mists of time.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beltane
Although the festival had virtually died out by the mid twentieth century, it has had something of a revival in more recent times. There are numerous contemporary celebrations held around Britain, such as that held in Edinburgh, Scotland. Another takes place at Thornborough Henges in North Yorkshire, over the nearest weekend to the first of May.
History of Thornborough Henges | English Heritage
The Celebration
My first experience of this wonderful event was back in 2008, then still a quite small, intimate gathering. The sense of fellowship with like-minded folk, of communion with Mother Nature and the spirit of place was quite profound. I have attended many times over the years and seen it grow to become a very popular event, drawing folks from far and wide (although Covid threw a spanner in the works for a time). It takes place over four days, with camping around the outside of the central circle, though the 'main event' occurs around lunchtime on the Sunday. Folks are encouraged to dress up for the occasion, though this is optional. Folks gather in the middle of the central henge for the Opening of the Circle ritual that culminates in the Lighting of the Fire up on the Henge. Following on from that is an entertaining and appropriately themed theatrical production, often with a drumming and dance performance after. The remainder of the afternoon is a relaxed affair, with stalls and refreshments available. Often there are small music and singing performances. All very enjoyable, to say nothing of a number of enduring friendships that have been made over the years. Towards sunset folks once again gather in the centre for the Closing of the Circle.
Northern Henge
Though not part of the main celebration, the northern henge has always had a special allure, even though strictly speaking, it was in private ownership and off limits until recently (now preserved for the nation by English Heritage). This circle is better preserved than the central and southern circles, with the ditch and mound still well defined and shrouded in woodland, the trees like arboreal guardians protecting the henge from the rigours of time. In late Spring/ early Summer, the central mound is a vivid sea of bluebells, with pink campions here and there bobbing along on this floral wave.
I apologise to any folks who only follow me via email, as the next section is very photo-heavy and will likely cause truncation of the post. The whole selection can, of course, be accessed via the website. For those who persevere, I hope you enjoy this journey through the years, from 2008 to 2019, with many faces in the photos popping up year on year.
(All images, as usual, taken by and copyright of the Author).
2010
2011
2012
2013
Thornborough
Past grandeur hiding
Under pastures green
Weathered contours,
Land shaped by time.
We follow in the footsteps
Of those in anciet times.
Yet, high above, the Skylark
Singing it's sweet refrain
Then, as now,
Timeless
2014
2015
2016
2017
2019
The Northern Henge A mound A ditch An ancient plateau Circles within circles A timeless shrine At the heart The matriarch Her verdant arms Reaching on high Presiding Over her tribe Pure azure Heads demure The faerie's flower In a sky of blue Below
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Finally could see the photos Ralph. Some good photographs… vibrant and interesting!