Twelve Apostles

Ordnance Survey map reference: SE 126451.

Landranger map number: 104.

Latitude: 54.54 degrees.

Longitude: -1.485 degrees.

Architecture: Embanked stone circle..

Length of the major axis: 15.9 metres.

Length of the minor axis: 15.9 metres.

Height of the highest stone: 1 metres.

Shape: Circle.

Number of stones in the circle originally: 20.

Number of stones in the circle now: 11.

Impression of the site (10 amazing, 1 limp): 8

Burl rating of the circle: 3 (Ruined but recognisable).

Thom reference for the circle: -.

Astronomical alignments from this circle: -.

Excavations undertaken at this circle: -.

Details of any finds at this circle: -

This circle is not in state care.

Access to the circle:

The Twelve Apostles stone circle is to be found high on Ilkley moor. It is marked and named on the Landranger OS map. The circle is sited 2.5km from the nearest road, however one of the network of public footpaths that crosses Ilkley moor passes right through it.

The circle is situated in a clearing on the heather covered moor, the centre of the circle is unobstructed and slightly eroded with people using the footpath that runs through it. At first it appears to be an excellent little ring of stones, clearly recognisable and in good condition, however it's appearance is deceptive, only one of the stones remains in it's original position. A survey carried out in 1929 states that the site originaly had 20 stones with one at the centre. This was illustrated on an early drawing of the site.  The tallest stone now standing at the site would have stood 1.4m tall but is now badly leaning and stands at 1m. A good circle to visit despite the long walk needed to reach it. On a clear day there are excellent views to the ENE and SW.

Additional information supplied by Paul Bennett.

The Twelve Apostles as seen from the south east.

The north western section of the ring.

The Twelve Apostles as seen from the north west.