How can sacred sites be interpreted to incorporate multiplicity? An ethnographic study.

Stanton Moor in the Peak District National Park, is a contested and multiple place. It is scattered with many meanings of past, present and future. Initially, this research discusses the main methodological techniques developed throughout the process of investigation, including the emancipatory approach of 'drifting'. Through being in the landscape, the researcher discovered five distinct yet interlinked 'place myths', constructed by: heritage managers; landowners; tourists; pagans; campers; locals and residents of the protest site. 'Place myths' are utopic idealised versions of the place. The thesis, outlines the ways 'users' interact with the place and others in the landscape, through the practices of guardianship- people interacting in ways to protect their place myths. The ways these multiple imaginings can be utilised, by official managers who attempt to promote care for sacred sites, is the focus for the final section. It suggests by incorporating the local community in the interpretative management of sacred sites, through creative consultation based techniques, the 'mindful visitor' can be promoted within formal interpretation strategies. This can ultimately create increased respect and appreciation of the multiple place for all involved, including managers and users of the site. The thesis offers new and distinct ways of experiencing and managing sacred sites. It provides a platform for the users voices to be heard, creating a ground roots history of the landscape. It mediates between diverse understandings and presents the differing voices within one place.