New findings at Stanton Drew

The Bristol News is reporting that new evidence is indicating that the neolithic stone circle near Stanton Drew, is older than previously thought and has an associated barrow. A great article about a place I don't know a lot about. I definitely will add it to my places to visit when I next go to the UK.

Sacred site at Stanton Drew, neolithic stones | Bristol News

Ask anyone in Bristol to name an ancient stone circle, and 90 per cent of people will probably say Stonehenge. A few of the wider-read sorts might mention Avebury. But remarkably, few will say the words Stanton Drew.

While Wiltshire's two landmark sites are known worldwide, Bristol's own major neolithic stone circle goes largely unnoticed.

But all that might be about to change, thanks to a team of enthusiastic amateur archaeologists who have discovered some intriguing new evidence that suggests the Stanton Drew site, near Chew Magna, may actually be 1,000 years older than historians had previously thought....

 Interesting in a new Druid blog. White Cat Grove: The musings of frisky Druids. Check them out. 

Pagan weddings now allowed in Ireland

Congratulations to the people of Ireland. Religious tolerance seems to be growing. "Irish Central" is reporting that Pagan weddings [are] now allowed in Ireland. They say, in part, "Pagan weddings, in many cases performed by a recognized druid, will now be allowed in Ireland. Following a five-year campaign the Irish state has now recognized the right of the Pagan Federation Ireland to perform weddings."

Well done to Ray Sweeney, the Pagan Federation, and all the others who worked to get this important recognition.

Viking festival in Lerwick, Shetland Islands - Telegraph

Although visiting the Shetland Islands in January might not be ultimate vacation, if I were to go there in January, I'd want to be sure to visit during the last Tuesday in January.  It looks like it might be a great experience.

Up Helly Aa: Viking festival in Lerwick, Shetland Islands

Members of the Viking Jarl Squad march with burning torches during the annual Up Helly Aa Festival, Lerwick, Shetland Islands. Up Helly Aa celebrates the influence of the Scandinavian Vikings in the Shetland Islands and has employed this theme since 1870. Up Helly Aa is held on the last Tuesday in January every year, whatever the weather