Nestled in the heart of Dartmoor, UK, The Oxenham Arms is more than just a pub—it’s a living bridge between prehistoric and medieval history. This remarkable inn, built nearly 800 years ago, houses a unique relic of Dartmoor’s distant past: a 27-foot-tall Neolithic standing stone embedded in its foundation. This ancient monolith, placed by Neolithic people over 5,000 years ago, offers a rare opportunity to connect with two vastly different eras of human history.
The Neolithic Standing Stone: Dartmoor’s Ancient Relic
At the heart of The Oxenham Arms stands a granite monolith that has witnessed millennia of change. Rising 27 feet in height, the standing stone was shaped, transported, and positioned by Dartmoor’s Neolithic communities. Its survival is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the ancient people who created it.
For the Neolithic inhabitants of Dartmoor, stone monuments like this held deep cultural and spiritual significance. They often served as markers for ceremonial sites, burial grounds, or points of gathering. Some researchers believe they may have also been used for astronomical observations, aligning with celestial events such as solstices to track seasonal changes critical to early agricultural societies.
Dartmoor’s Prehistoric Landscape
Dartmoor’s rugged landscape is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. Neolithic and Bronze Age relics, including stone rows, circles, cairns, and hut remains, dot the hills and valleys of this ancient region. The standing stone at The Oxenham Arms is part of this broader historical tapestry, chosen for its visibility and enduring durability.
The Neolithic people who lived in Dartmoor thousands of years ago were part of a vibrant and resourceful community. Their use of local granite to construct standing stones reflects their intimate knowledge of the land and their ability to adapt to its challenges. The stone at The Oxenham Arms stands as a testament to their enduring legacy.
The Oxenham Arms: A Medieval Pub with a Neolithic Heart
Fast forward several thousand years to the early 12th century, when The Oxenham Arms was constructed in the village of South Zeal. Originally built as a Norman manor house, the structure was later converted into one of England’s oldest inns. Throughout its centuries-long history, The Oxenham Arms has hosted numerous notable figures, from medieval knights to modern travelers.
What sets The Oxenham Arms apart from other historic inns is its decision to incorporate the Neolithic standing stone into its foundation. Rather than removing or discarding this ancient artifact, the builders chose to envelop it within the very walls of the pub. The stone extends from the floor to the ceiling, anchoring the building with its deep historical roots.
This integration reflects the reverence medieval builders had for prehistoric relics, viewing them as markers of history or even as objects of spiritual significance. Today, the standing stone is a defining feature of The Oxenham Arms, offering visitors the unique experience of dining or drinking alongside a piece of prehistoric Dartmoor.
Mystery and Folklore of the Standing Stone
Like many ancient monoliths, the standing stone at The Oxenham Arms is surrounded by an air of mystery. While specific legends about this particular stone are scarce, it evokes the atmosphere of Dartmoor’s rich folklore, a region steeped in tales of spirits, druids, and mystical gatherings.
Standing stones are often associated with ancient rituals, ancestor worship, or seasonal ceremonies, and this stone is no exception. Its preservation in its original location suggests that it held great importance to the people who erected it. The mysteries surrounding the stone only add to its allure, inviting visitors to imagine its role in the lives of Dartmoor’s early inhabitants.
Neolithic Standing Stones in Context
To fully appreciate the standing stone at The Oxenham Arms, it’s essential to understand its place within the wider context of Neolithic Britain. Standing stones, stone circles, and other megalithic monuments were common throughout the British Isles during this period, roughly 4,000 to 6,000 years ago. These structures often served as focal points for ceremonial, social, and possibly even astronomical purposes.
Neolithic communities likely aligned standing stones with celestial events such as solstices and equinoxes, creating a connection between their daily lives and the cosmos. Some stones marked territorial boundaries, while others served as gathering places for trade or negotiation. The stone at The Oxenham Arms would have held similar significance, acting as a marker of importance within Dartmoor’s prehistoric landscape.
A Unique Experience for Visitors
Today, The Oxenham Arms offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience, blending ancient history with medieval charm. As one of the few places where a standing stone is preserved inside a historic building, the inn serves as both a pub and a living museum. Guests can enjoy a meal or a drink in the shadow of the towering monolith, surrounded by centuries-old walls and medieval architecture.
This fusion of prehistoric and medieval history makes The Oxenham Arms a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, archaeologists, and tourists. It provides a tangible connection to Dartmoor’s ancient past, allowing visitors to step back in time while enjoying the comforts of a modern pub.
Preserving Dartmoor’s Ancient Legacy
The standing stone at The Oxenham Arms is a rare and invaluable feature of Dartmoor’s historical landscape. Its preservation, thanks to the foresight of medieval builders, ensures that future generations can continue to marvel at this relic of the Neolithic era.
Efforts to maintain The Oxenham Arms and its unique monolith highlight the importance of protecting historical landmarks that bridge different eras of human history. By preserving this site, we honor the ingenuity of both the Neolithic communities who erected the stone and the medieval builders who chose to incorporate it into their structure.
Conclusion
The standing stone at The Oxenham Arms is more than just an ancient artifact—it’s a connection to Dartmoor’s rich and diverse history. From its origins as a ceremonial marker for Neolithic communities to its preservation within a medieval pub, the stone tells a story of resilience, reverence, and continuity across millennia.
For anyone visiting Dartmoor, The Oxenham Arms offers a rare chance to experience history up close. Dining next to a 5,000-year-old standing stone is not just a meal—it’s a journey through time, a reminder of the people who shaped this land and the enduring legacy they left behind. This remarkable blend of old and ancient ensures that The Oxenham Arms remains a treasure for generations to come.
