The Old Straight Track

Exploring ancient tracks across Britain, The Old Straight Track examines their alignment with celestial bodies and their mysterious origins.

This compelling study delves into the ancient tracks, or leys, that weave through the British Isles, a system that was already established when the Romans arrived. The Old Straight Track presents a collection of the author's investigations into the ancient monuments, which he suggests align with the paths of celestial bodies. First published in 1925, this work remains a crucial resource for understanding these enigmatic routes that have intrigued historians and archaeologists alike.

Alfred Watkins, the author, began his observations in the Herefordshire countryside, eventually expanding his research across Britain. He discovered that various landmarks—such as beacon hills, mounds, earthworks, moats, and old churches—were often situated in straight lines. His findings led him to propose that a vast network of straight tracks crisscrossed the landscape, aligning with either the sun's position or the trajectory of specific stars. Watkins' insights opened a window into a potentially lost understanding of the ancient British landscape.

Despite the numerous traces of this ley system scattered throughout the country, the underlying principles remain elusive. The questions linger: Are these tracks remnants of a prehistoric scientific knowledge that has faded over time? Moreover, what was their intended purpose—were they secular pathways or imbued with religious significance? The Old Straight Track encourages readers to explore these ancient mysteries and consider the connections between the land, the cosmos, and human history.