Thornborough Henges
(Picture: PA)Three huge ancient monuments known as "the Stonehenge of the North" are set to open to the public.
Historic England and English Heritage said they have secured the future of Thornborough Henges following an agreement with the construction firm Tarmac.
English Heritage will take over and open the site near Ripon, North Yorkshire, to the public from Friday.
The Neolithic site consists of three circular earthworks - or henges - each more than 200 yards in diameter and dating from 3500 to 2500 BC.
Historic England said they are “unparalleled in their size, alignment and degree of preservation”.
Chief executive Duncan Wilson added: “Thornborough Henges and their surrounding landscape form part of the most important concentration of Neolithic monuments in the North of England.
“They are a link to our ancient ancestors, through thousands of years, inspiring a sense of wonder and mystery.
“We are thrilled to have acquired this highly significant site for the nation, ensuring that these magnificent monuments are safe and will be preserved for generations to come.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who is the local MP, said: “The Thornborough Henges site has enormous potential to help tell the story of ancient Britain and I very much welcome this announcement about its future – its safeguarding and preservation for the nation.
“Comparatively few people are aware of its significance – both locally and nationally. I hope many more will come to appreciate this little-known gem of our history and while doing so provide a welcome boost to the local visitor economy.”
Historic England said the Thornborough Henges sit in an ancient, ritual prehistoric landscape running from Ferrybridge to Catterick and are “unparalleled in their size, alignment and degree of preservation”.
Like Stonehenge, it is thought the huge amount of people power channelled into their construction is an indication of their significance to the society that created them.
Evidence suggested they may have been covered in a mineral which would have made them glow white and be visible for miles around.
Archaeologists have suggested the henges were probably built as ceremonial or ritual centres and may also have served as trading centres and meeting places.
Today all three henges are clearly visible as massive circular banks, up to four metres high, with encircling ditches of various depths.
The central and southern henges have been actively farmed and so are not as well preserved as the northern henge, which remains in private ownership.
The two southernmost henge were added to Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register in 2009 and Historic England has been working with Tarmac to secure their future.
Stuart Wykes, director of land and natural resources at Tarmac, said: “Tarmac has had a long-standing commitment to secure the long-term future of the monuments and we’re delighted to gift this incredibly important historical site to Historic England. With its help, the heritage of the central and southern henges at Thornborough will be protected and preserved for years to come.
“We hope the public enjoy the breath-taking ancient site once it is accessible for them to enjoy.”
