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The Blowing Stone Legend

Blowingstone Hill, Kingston Lisle, Oxfordshire Legend Medieval

Perched atop Blowingstone Hill in Oxfordshire, the Blowing Stone has been a source of fascination for centuries. This ancient relic is said to have been used by King Alfred himself to summon an army to fight off invading Vikings. When blown into, the stone emits a deep, resonant note that can be heard for miles. Legend has it that whoever can produce a sound that carries all the way to the Uffington White Horse Hill shall be crowned king of England - a claim that's probably not legally binding, but still makes for a compelling tale.

The village of Kingston Lisle, where the Blowing Stone is situated, owes its name to this very legend. Historians believe that the stone has been a significant landmark in the area for over a thousand years. While there's no concrete evidence to support the claim that King Alfred actually used the stone to rally his troops, the story has become an integral part of local folklore. Today, visitors can still explore the hill and try their hand at blowing the stone to produce its distinctive sound. Whether or not you believe in the legend, the Blowing Stone remains an intriguing piece of English history.

Historical Context

The Blowing Stone dates back to the medieval period, possibly used as a communication tool by King Alfred.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Hill
Activity Types
Audio
Witness Credibility
Local Legend
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Still present
Postcode Area
SN7

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