Neolithic builders feasted on ‘mince pies’ at Stonehenge

THE builders of Stonehenge could have feasted on Neolithic mince pies, say English Heritage.

Research has shown ancient Britons had hazelnuts, crab apples, sloe berries and other fruit, and may have preserved these as sweet treats.

Experimental archaeology has shown that seasonal ingredients could have been crafted into mince pies, which they may have eaten during celebratory feasting to mark the winter solstice.

Susan Greaney, at English Heritage, said: “Such foods might have been eaten for celebration and sustenance, with the sharing of food helping the community bond, encouraging people to travel from far and wide to build Stonehenge.”

The 2,500-year-old stone circle aligns with sunset on the winter solstice, and lavish feasting probably took place at this spiritually significant time.