Visited 27.7.15
There is a parking space pretty much next to the stone (same side of road). The stone is large, approximately 3m (2.5 wheelie bins!) Two of which (black and green) were being guarded by this impressive stone. I wonder what the ancients would have thought? At least it is still with us, and will be long after the last wheelie bin has been collected.
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Visited 26.7.15
Am I really the first TMAer to visit Machrie Moor stone circles in a decade? It doesn't seem possible.
Where to start? - at the begining I suppose?
The weather was awful, alternating between light showers and heavy rain, with just the occasional dry patch designed to lure you into a false sense of security! The others stayed in the sign posted car park as I headed up the track to the many delights of Machrie Moor. 'I won't be long' - famous last words!
it takes about half an hour to walk from the car park to the stone circles - depending on how long to stop to look at the other sites along the way.
The first circle you come to is the double circle made up of large boulder-type stones. This is a real 'wow' moment when you first see it. Most of the stones remain and it is very impressive. It looked to me the circle was erected on a low stony mound?
The second circle you see is smaller and made up of four large boulder-type stones which are surrounded by ferns. Bit of gardening required here I think. This is a nice circle in its own right but totally dwarfed by its near neighbors.
The third circle is a mind-blower. It consists of 3 HUGE standing stones, approximately 4m high, and two very strange large flat round stones, like large flat mill stones. What are they about? I have never seen stones like this before at any prehistoric site I have ever visited - and I have been to a few. Are they prehistoric? If so, they must be unique? Very strange indeed. The 3 standing stones are incredible. It reminded me of being back on Orkney - they are that good. When complete this circle must have been awe inspiring.
The fourth circle consists of 12 stones. Alternating between large round boulder-type stones and smaller thin stones. A bit like the Laurel and Hardy of the prehistoric world. This was obviously deliberate and I can't remember visiting any other circle with this arrangement?
The fifth circle consists of 10 small stones. Half of the circle was standing in water - bog-type conditions. This was the only circle it was difficult to walk around due to the 'swamp' - although I gave it a go!
Lastly, circle number six. This circle consists of a couple of very tall standing stones and one monster-sized stone. It is exceptional in its height and beauty. Like most of the stones here it has grooves worn into it by countless rains and is covered with hairy lichen. Near it is several very large fallen prostrate stones. I can't even imagine how good this stone circle must have looked when first erected.
Despite the awful weather, this site blew me away. The setting of the distant hills, the number and quality of the sites here is incredible. This is in the A list of prehistoric sites. I would put it up there with Avebury, Kilmartin, Orkney and Callanish. It is that good. These notes are no doubt doing it a disservice.
Due to the weather and the fact I was conscious of the others waiting patiently n the car I was only able to give Machrie Moor the briefest of visits. It deserves so much more. A full day here would not be unreasonable. When I got back to the car it was pointed out I had been gone two hours! Machrie Moor is that type of place. Save your pennies, sell the family heir looms, do what it takes but catch the ferry to the lovely island of Arran and visit this special place. It really is something special.
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Visited 26.7.15
Since Hob's visit the bracken has been removed from around the remains of this cairn and it is easy to see on the right of the path leading to the stone circles. It is only a short detour. Access is via a wooden stile.
The standing stone is large, weathered (grooved) and covered in hairy lichen. There are also several other large stones remaining from this once (no doubt) impressive tomb.
Of the people 'oot and aboot' today I was the only one to come ans say 'hello' to this fine standing stone - which is a shame. It is well worth the very short walk to get to it. Another nice stone in this fantastic place.
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Visited 26.7.15
This is the first site you come to when walking up the path from the car park towards the famous stone circles. It is an Historic Scotland site and as such has metal railings around it and an information board. It is a 15 minute walk from the car park - about the half way point to the stone circles.
There are several large kerb stones still in place and the large, low, grass covered stony mound is clear to see. The cairn is in a lovely setting with mountains in the distance. If this cairn was anywhere else it would get a lot more attention than it does here. The draw of the stone circles move people on far too quickly.
This is a very nice site.
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Visited 26.7.15
The stone is easily seen (on your right) when walking back from the circles towards the car park. There is no path to the stone and you have to jump over a low fence to get to it.
Although ignored by the other visitors today this is a fine stone with excellent sea views. Like most of the stones on Machrie Moor it is grooved by thousands of years of rain. The stone is approximately 1.5m high.
Hob will be pleased tp know that the wooden fence surrounding the memorial has already fallen to bits!
This stone is well worth checking out when visiting the more famous stone circles. It is only a short walk from the main track.
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Visited 26.7.15
The path to the stone circles takes you past the remains of this chambered cairn. It is to the immediate right of the path. It is impossible to miss - although everyone else out today walked past it without giving it a second glance!
Although there are only two stones remaining they are large. The end stone is approximately 1m square whilst the side stone is about 1m x 2m long. They sit on a long low mound of grassed over stones, approximately 3m wide x 10m long.
There's not much left, but what there is is nice.
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Visited 26.7.15
Directions:
Driving north on the B842 take the turning on the right signposted cemetery. The road is rough, particularly considering where it leads. Park at the turning to the left where the road leads down to the cemetery and the farm. You can see the chambered tomb from here. It is right next to the graveyard - very apt!
Myself and Dafydd walked down the road and through a rusty gate. Karen stayed in the car with Sophie - who was asleep. Access to the field where the remains of the chamber is via a second metal gate. The field is overgrown but the site is a good one. The standing stone is approximately 2m high. A large prostrate stone lies next to it, along with several other large stones. The burial chamber is on an obvious raised stony mound about 10m across. The views along the valley are good. The only thing spoiling it are the pylons, but needs must I guess.
Whilst we were here we also had a look around the more modern cemetery. Tow graves caught my eye. The first was of Walter McIntosh who unfortunately drowned at sea in 1911 - a fisherman no doubt? Next to it was a grave to Janet Currie who died in 1916 - whilst at the Post Office we are informed!
This is a good place to come if you happen to be in the area.
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Visited 23.7.15
Follow Hamish's directions.
Access to the site is via a couple of field gates.
As Hamish says, this site is all about the location. The views across the channel to Mull are fantastic. The clear turquoise water, white sand, rose colored rocks and lush green grass is something to behold. Added to this a blue sky and white fluffy clouds - a change from the torrential rain on my last visit!
Cladham Diseirt is overgrown and unloved.
Iona is a special place, somewhere everyone should visit at least once.
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Visited 23.7.15
Just to report the Bullaun Stones are now back next to the well. As they appear in the photos.
So all is well at the well :)
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Visited 24.7.15
The last time I visited Dafydd was only 1 and Sophie not even a twinkle. Dunadd is a place I had wanted to bring them ever since.
Karen sat in the car while we headed up the short but steep uneven 'path' to the summit. We stopped half way up look at the well. We also read all the information boards. I think these are new since my last visit? In saying that it was pouring down then so perhaps I didn't take so much notice! No such problem today with blue skies and warm sunshine for a change on this otherwise wet Scottish holiday.
What I certainly didn't notice last time was the boar etched into the stone next to the famous footprint or the Ogham script. Dafydd and Sophie took turns trying their feet for size before we headed back down.
This is a great place to visit with extensive views. Should be on everyone's 'must see' list when visiting the beautiful Kilmartin valley.
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Visited 24.7.15
The stone can be seen in the garden of the house next to the car park for the famous fort. It is in the middle of the lawn. What a great garden feature!
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Visited 24.7.15
Directions:
Just before you enter the village of Ford - in a field on your left - can't miss it - it's a big 'un.
There is room to squeeze in opposite the field gate. Over said gate and a short walk to the second gate - easy access. The stone is approximately 3m high and covered in hairy lichen. There were several bales of hay near the stone on my visit.
This is a great spot for a standing stone with lovely views all around. Make the effort for the short detour away from the 'bright lights' of Kilmartin to say 'hello' - you won't be disappointed.
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Visited 24.7.15
Directions:
From Kilmartin take the A186 north. Then take the B840 signposted Ford. The stone is immediately adjacent to the road on the right - can't miss it.
The broken stone is right next to the road, the other side of a small wall and barbed wire fence. It has a smaller stone next to its front and the large broken section is prostrate on the ground behind.
Worth stopping for if driving along this pretty road.
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Visited 25.7.15
Directions:
As previously reported the track you need to take is not the most obvious! Park at the bridge where the A83 crosses the burn. There are 3 houses next to the bridge. Walk north along the A83 and take the first turning on the right. This is a rough track leading up to the metal shed you can see from the road. As you approach the shed the stones will come into view. The stones are not visible from the road. Hope this helps?
We were heading for the Mull of Kintyre (cue much humming!) and were running late - again. However, this is a site I wanted to see and didn't want to miss the opportunity. When I eventually worked out the correct track to take it is only a short walk from the road. The walk from the nearest parking spot is much farther. You could drive up the track but I don't know if the farmer would be happy with that?
When I arrived the place was deserted (well, it was a Saturday evening). Access to the field is via a metal gate. Sheep were in the field and I was surprised when one came running over and butted me. Luckily it wasn't the one with the horns! I gave it a pat and told him/her that I meant no harm and only wanted to see the stones. He/she seemed happy with this and ran off.
The 3 standing stones are very impressive. Tall, straight and covered in hairy lichen. The cist is equally impressive. It is of good size and has all its sides and its capstone - something you don't often see. The cist is on a low mound of grasses over small boulders.
The views across the sea towards the islands is fantastic - what a sight. A ferry was making its way to Islay I think? The sun shone, the sky was blue, a gentle breeze and the bleet of sheep. Swifts flew overhead. Sounds good? It was! Now for that long walk back to the car and our final destination. All together now - 'Mull of Kintyre.............'
T
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Drive by 25.7.15
Just to add that the cairn is visible from the B841 as you cross the pretty canal. It is a large rough grass covered mound. No time for further investigation on this occasion i'm afraid.
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Visited 22.7.15
Directions:
To the south of Benderloch village. Alongside a private road.
Now, here's something you don't see very often in Scotland, a sign which says 'Private - no entry'. But that is what it says on the sign at the start of the road. (Perhaps the people who live there are originally from southern England :))
Karen parked at the start of the road whilst I duly ignored the sign and walked up the road. The large stone is located in a field to your right near the house.
There is a fort the other side of the house near the shoreline but I didn't push my luck that far!
The fort is called Dun Sniachan (NM90323822)
Canmore state:
The stone measures 2.1m in height by 1.2m at the base. Local tradition states the stone once formed part of a circle. Two stones were recorded in 1772. Buried stones are said to be burried 60ft south of the stone.
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Visited 22.7.15
Directions:
In the school grounds of Benderloch Primary school. Visible from the minor road to Kiel Crofts
The stone is between the school building and the enclosed play ground - next to a bench. Although the original setting of the stone is long gone at least the stone has been preserved within the school. What a great thing to have in your playground! Obviously you need to be careful when you choose to visit the stone, school hours could be a problem - use a bit of sense!
In the trees behind the school (in the location of a destroyed stone circle) I found a large,prostrate, moss covered, stone inbedded in the ground. It certainly looked old and was the right size and shape to be a stone from a circle - I wonder?
Canmore state:
The stone at the north end of Benderloch village is 1.5m in height and 1.1m at the base. 1975 (I assume the school hadn't been built at this point?)
The site of a stone circle lies in arable land between loch Selma and Loch Creran. In a hole nearby there are stones of the circle, some broken. The site of the circle is traceable when thw corn begins to turn yellow, the ring of the circle remains green for a longer period of time. RA Smith 1879
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Visited 22.7.15
Directions:
Take the first right (minor road) after crossing the bridge linking Connel with North Connel (over the Falls of Lore). This is the road which leads to Ardchattan Priory (Historic Scotland). The cairn is in a field immediately behind a row of houses.
The rain continued to come down and I tried to work out a way of getting behind the houses that didn't involve a long walk. In short I couldn't! However, I think I spotted the cairn in a gap between two houses as a rough grass covered mound.
Canmore state:
A cairn seriously disturbed by stone-robbing and by the construction of a wall which crosses it. It has been further distorted by the dumping of stones from field clearance. It was probably 24m in diameter and its present maximum height is 2.1m.
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Visited 22.7.15
Directions:
On the eastern side of the A828 immediately south of Duror (blink and you will miss it!)
There is room to pull over opposite the field where the stone stands. This is near the 30mph sign. Access is via a rusty metal gate and then a second rusty gate (on the left) to get you up close and personal. A short but very muddy walk. There were large puddles next to both gates, not helped by the ever present rain!
This is a magnificent stone, in the middle of a field of sheep. If you happen to be travelling down the A828 (not far from the jaw-dropping beauty of Glen Coe) this is a 'must see' stone. I am surprised to see I am the first person to provide field notes? The stone is visible from the road if you prefer.
Canmore state:
One of the most impressive standing stones in Lorn. It measures 3.7m in height and 1.1m by 0.6m at the base, tapering to a point at the top'.
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Roadside view 21.7.15
Directions:
On the western outskirts of Congleton, next to the A54.
My initial approach was via the minor road to the west but this soon became a no-no as the fields were in crop - corn I think. We carried on north and turned right onto the A54 to take us into Congleton. I thought that was that.
I was surprised to then see the long barrow quite close to this road. It is easily seen as a long low mound, covered in large mature trees. Parking could be tricky but probably the best place would be the muddy access road leading to the housing construction site - still on-going. Fortunately these new houses are still a little way from the long barrow. How close they are planning to build I don't know?
Due to a combination of the long drive, a car load of hungry and tired people who were keen to get to a cafe in Congleton for breakfast and the rain I didn't actually get to have a proper visit. Perhaps next time?
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Visited 21.7.15
Directions:
On the western side of the A535, a short distance south of Jodrell Bank, opposite a school.
We parked in the school drive entrance (school was closed) and I carefully crossed the busy road. Unfortunately the field was in crop (wheat) and therefore I was unable to make out any trace of the barrow.
E.H. state:
A bowl barrow 50m south of Jodrell Bank Farm. It is an earthen oval mound 1.3m high by 58m x 40m. In 1977 cremations were exposed during ploughing across the mound.
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Drive by 21.7.15
Directions:
To the west of the A535. A short distance north of the famous Jodrell Bank.
As Posties photos show, the fields where the barrows lie are undulating and the ploughed down barrows are not easy to spot - particularly on a drive-by.
The A535 is a busy road and parking is tricky.
E.H. state the 3 barrows are between 0.75m and 1m high x 35m in diameter. The barrows have been carbon dated to c1900BC. The cremated remains of a young woman was discovered within a leather container when one of the barrows was excavated in the 1970s.
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Visited 21.7.15
Directions:
East of Congleton along minor roads.
The two large upright stones are easy to see from the road and we parked outside the (posh) appropriately named Bridestone House (up for sale if you are interested!) We didn't park in the lane next to the stones as it gives access to Bridestone Natural Stone suppliers and judging by the amount of mud on the road it sees a lot of use. We didn't want to risk blocking a lorry etc.
Anyway, I walked up the lane (in the rain) and through the wooden gate. Next to the gate is a prostrate large moss covered stone - is this from the burial chamber? It is certainly large enough to have been?
The site appears to have been restored at some point with one of the large (approx 3 metre) having been cemented back together again. Having said that, the site is certainly impressive and offers fine views west over Congleton and the surrounding low lying area.
I had the place to myself and am glad to report no sign of litter or barking dogs! This is an excellent place to visit and well worth stopping off for when in the area. Pity about the rain!
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Visited 21.7.15
Directions:
On the A34 - north of Congleton - can't miss it!
We parked in the large car park next to the church. From the car park the mound upon which the church is built is very noticeable.
Luckily the church was open and I had a good look around. There are some medieval wall paintings to be seen as well as two worn stone effigies of knights in armor. The leaflet I picked up stated that in the village there is an oak tree which is believed to be 1,200 years old - possibly the oldest in England. Unfortunately we didn't have time to look for it.
I like an old church and this is a good one.
Well worth stopping off for - particularly given its prehistoric roots.
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Visited 21.6.15
Directions:
On the A466, north of Monmouth.
St Weonard’s is only a small village and it is easy to spot the church. We parked outside the church and bought a sunflower from the church’s ‘honesty table’. (That morning we discovered a slug had eaten Sophie’s sunflower she had from school and was very upset so this was a ‘must buy’!) I like ‘honesty tables’ and try to buy from them as much as possible. It restores my faith in humankind. The church is pretty and well worth a look around. There is a 15thC wooden chest and some kind of wooden stretcher which I assume was used for carrying coffins? I like an old church………..
Anyway, onto the Tump. It is easily found, just outside the church, next to the primary school. There is a pavement which runs around the base of it. Two ends have a fence around it (part of someone’s garden?) but the main bit is open from the pavement. It is very large and completely covered in trees, bushes, nettles etc. The sides are steep and the soil loose. When I climbed up the soil was giving way with each step. Due to the trees there is no view to be had but I suspect when the Norman fort was built it would have commanded the surrounding area.
If you happen to be in the area it is well worth stopping off for. I would strongly suggest combining a visit with the not-to-far away Kilpeck Church, with its fantastic carvings and famous Sheela Na Gig.
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Visited 25.5.15
Directions:
Just south of the village of Thornborough on the A507. The car park is sign posted.
My last site visit of our weekend away and what a good one it was!
Despite the constant hum of traffic on the very busy A507 this is a pretty place to stop off. Adjacent to the car park is the medieval bridge which the information board state was built in 1400. This crosses a pretty little stream/river which is full of reeds and life. I do like an old bridge – but that’s another story!
Next to this is a wooden kissing gate which gives access to the field where the two barrows reside. They are HUGE. Approximately 5m high x 25m across, and both seem to be in good condition. There was no sign of the tyre tracks previously reported. The information board states the barrows were constructed in approximately 200AD. Other than the sheep and lambs I had the place to myself.
This is a really easy site to access and the barrows are very impressive. The river / bridge is a very pretty setting and well worth stopping off for. The only down side was the rubbish dumped in the car park by some low life or other. An old fridge, wardrobe, microwave etc.
What is wrong with these people? :(
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Directions:
Approximately 3km south east out of Baldock on the A507
‘Drive by’ 24.5.15
There was nowhere to park on the busy A507 so I had to settle for a drive-by.
The fields were in crop and I couldn’t make anything out. This could have been due to the crop or perhaps the barrow has been ploughed out? E.H. have nothing to say on the matter.
No doubt a winter visit is required? If you do plan a visit I suggest parking at the church in Clothall and approach via the public right of way from that direction.
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Visited 25.5.15
Directions:
Next to the 3 horse shoes roundabout, near the train station.
Plenty of parking available.
We found the site with surprisingly little difficulty. Karen stayed in the car (Dafydd now watching a DVD on the ancient Greeks whilst Sophie was enjoying Annie).
I first walked up to the (naturally) vandalised information board and read it as best I could. I then headed up the grass bank which is part of the perimeter of the enclosure. Let’s be honest, this is not the nicest of places. The urban sprawl of Luton represents (to me) all that is bad in modern day ‘progress’. It is not a pretty sight.
However, this small oasis does at least provide some respite from the dreariness of the surroundings. The further you walk into the field the better it seems. Car noise is replaced by bird song and (if you try hard enough) you can start to forget about the ‘progress’. At least there was no litter to be seen – which was another surprise.
From the top of the bank you can appreciate what an elevated position this is - IF you can erase the modern buildings etc this would have been a locally prominent location. I was able to trace large sections of the bank across the grass and out of the trees. This would have been a very large area.
There is not a huge amount to see here and to be honest had the site not appeared in Julian’s big orange book the chances are I wouldn’t have gone out of my way to visit. However, this is an important site and as such is worth the effort. I am glad I visited but not a place I am likely to make a return visit.
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Visited 24.5.15
Although a little distant from the main group of barrows Earl’s Hill barrow is easy enough to spot. An obvious thing to look for is the metal bench perched on top! It is next to the tee-off for the 18th (350 yards Par 4 – if you are interested).
The view from this large barrow is not as good as the main group due to the large factory / industrial site and new housing estate being built below. On the plus side the sun had finally broken out from behind the clouds and a warm glow of sunshine enveloped me.
I note 12 years have passed since Kammer visited. I would encourage other TMAers not to wait so long to pay a visit.
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Visited 24.5.15
Once you arrive at the main group of round barrows the long barrow is easy to spot on the fairway of the adjacent golf course – 18th hole? It is larger than I expected, approximately 2m high x 30m long and looked to be in good condition. I know golf courses are not everyone’s cup of tea but at least they should offer some sort of protection to sites – excluding divots of course! I find it quite amazing that this long barrow was perhaps 2,000 years old when the ancestors decided to build their round barrows.
Makes you think – well, makes me think anyway!
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Visited 24.5.15
Directions:
Just off the A505, west of Royston. Large (free) car park.
Karen stayed in the car to keep an eye on the children (who were busy watching DVDs – Dafydd a documentary on the Vikings / Sophie Peppa Pig!) whilst I headed up the obvious ‘chalk path’ towards the barrows which are easily seen from the car park.
Despite being overcast, it was quite warm with only a little breeze. Surprisingly for a bank holiday there were no golf players around so I didn’t have to worry about stray golf balls hitting me!
The three larger barrows are approximately 2.5m high x 20 across, the smaller ones approximately 1.5m high x 10m across. The 'missing barrow' Kammer refers to is possibly either a very small barrow next to the long barrow? On the other hand it may not be! Although one barrow showed clear damage caused by previous ‘excavation’ the others all appeared to be in good order.
There are good views to be had from the top of the barrows north and west.
The O/S map shows a couple of other barrows to the east and a further barrow across the road on the other side of the car park. Unfortunately I decided I didn’t have enough time to visit these as I felt I had been gone too long as it was. Which proved to be the right judgment call given Karen’s response when I did eventually arrive back at the car! It is surprising how quickly time can pass when you immerse yourself in a site.
This is an excellent place to visit and well worth the minimal effort. Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time!
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Visited 24.5.15
Directions:
Next to Paper Mill Lane (near the church). Can't really miss it. Plenty of parking.
My second 'Pudding Stone' in as many days! This one is even better than the first. It has a nice setting on a small green, next to a lovely oak tree. An information board and bench have been kindly provided. The stone sits on a conical flint built stand - nicely done.
Standon is a very pretty village with an attractive church. This, coupled with the stone itself, makes it a good place to visit if you happen to be in the area.
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Visited 24.5.15
Directions:
Next to Six Hills roundabout, near junction 7 of the A1 (M).
I would guess that parking is tricky here during the 'working week' but as it was evening time on a bank holiday Sunday I had no such problems. We parked in the empty Kings Court office complex.
I am pleased to say the cycle tracks across the top of the barrows previously reported are no longer there. All six barrows are fully grassed over although four of them are suffering from rabbit burrow damage - one in particular. I know rabbits are cute but something needs to be done here before too much damage occurs.
The barrows are very impressive, approximately 3 metres high x 10 metres across. Most have the tell-tale depression in the top of earlier excavations.
It is amazing that the barrows have survived. This is a very built up 'modernized' area with office blocks, DIY centres and duel carrigeways. we should be thankful that planning permission now (for all its faults) offers far more protection than it ever used to, otherwise these fine monuments would be but a memory.
I wonder what the builders would think if they were transported forward in time until today and see how much has changed - yet their monuments remain.
This is an excellent site to visit although I would suggest a weekend / evening visit when parking will be a lot easier.
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Visited 23.5.15
Directions:
Come off the A404 at junction 9B. Take first exit at small roundabout onto Henley Road (north). Then take the first right into Pinkey Road and after 200m you will find a N.T. car park on the left (Pinkey Wood). Park here, walk back to Henley road and turn right (north). You will then come to a turning on the left which goes under the A404. Immediately the other side is a bridleway on the left. Take this and continue walking south along a path which runs parallel to the A404. Take any of the paths to the right which will lead you to the site.
Although this may sound long and complicated it is only a 15 minute walk from the car park to Robin's place. (Although I doubt the famous Mr Hood ever set foot here!).
I was initially attracted to this site as it appears on the AA road atlas map. How the AA chooses which sites to put on their map is another mystery altogether! Although I am surprised these are the first field notes to appear.
The site is easy to miss and if the ferns were any higher of the N.T. hadn't erected a handy sign I would have probably walked straight past it.
There is not a lot to see. A low circular bank at most 1m high (most of it less than this) and a shallow ditch.
If you are looking for somewhere to have a nice walk through the trees then this is a good place to come (it is very pretty) but if it is substantial prehistoric remains you are after then this isn't! Still, at least it is still with us so that can't be such a bad thing :)
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Visited 23.5.14
With children in tow we opted for the (sometimes rough) drive up the hill, past the infamous Hell Fire Club caves, and parked in the large car park at the top of the hill, next to the church of St Lawrence.
There were several dog walkers about on this overcast but warm day and myself, Dafydd and Sophie headed towards the church, passing the large boulder on the way.
The church itself was locked and looking around the graveyard there wasn't (at first glance) much to see. However, it didn't take long to get your 'eye in' and the familiar low circular inner face of the rampart could be made out.
We then went back outside and walked down the path to the left (when facing the church). It was then that the true preservation of the ditches/ramparts became apparent - approximately 2m high. We rummaged about in the undergrowth and in places (which were worn by recent human feet) you could see how the bank was made up of lumps of chalk and flint.
There was a N.T. sign erected which said the site is going to be cleared of trees to improve the view across the landscape. I am not sure if this is a good thing or not?
Despite initial reservations I am glad I visited this site. If you do plan a visit, watch your suspension when you near the car park!
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Visited 23.5.15
Directions:
Easy to spot, next to the main roundabout when driving through Princes Riseborough. It is outside a toilet block, next to a newsagent. There is plenty of parking available.
The stone is a little less than 1m square and moss has started to grow around its top.
It is good to see that this stone is appreciated by the locals and has been given the presentation it deserves.
Well worth a look when in the area.
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Visited 24.4.15
Directions:
Approximately 1km south of Barrow Elm Farm barrow.
Due to time constraints (and the fact the field was in crop) I opted to observe the barrow from the roadside. There is no public access to the site. Parking is on the grass verge.
The barrow is next/in a hedgerow. It is approximately 1.5m high x 15m in diameter. The barrow is overgrown and has two trees growing out of the top. Worth looking out for.
For some reason E.H. doesn’t appear to have anything to report.
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Visited 24.4.15
Directions:
On a crossroads about 1km south-east of the village of Coln St Aldwyns
Access is easy.
You can park on the grass verge and the barrow is right next to the road, the other side of the hedge.
There appears to be a depression where it has been dug into although E.H. states there is no evidence of excavation. No doubt they are right and I am wrong!.
Worth a quick look if you happen to be passing but don’t go out of your way.
E.H. state:
‘A round barrow immediately north of the Salt Way. The barrow measures 19m east-west by 15m north-south and is 1.5m high. The barrow is thought to have been the meeting point of Brightwold’s Hundred, known as ‘La Berge near Hatherop’, although this identification has not been proven’.
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Visited 24.4.15
(I didn't realise I had been here before!)
There is plenty of room to park next to the metal field gate.
There is no public access to the field where the barrow resides so Karen stayed in the car whilst I hopped over the locked metal gate. Across the field and then over a wooden gate and the remains of the barrow can be seen in the corner of the field to your right. There is a low barbed wire fence which surrounds the barrow – easy to step over.
The whole corner of the field is covered in nettles and I was wearing shorts! However, at this time of year they were only a few inches high so I felt confident I would be ok. What I didn’t allow for was the unseen rabbit holes which are everywhere. The first I knew was when my left leg disappeared down a hole to knee height and I fell flat on the nettles! My legs were a bright red and itching like mad – cue a desperate search for dock leaves! It could have been worse as at least I didn’t injure myself.
I now carefully walked over to the barrow for a closer look. Unfortunately the barrow is well mangled and has clearly been dug into at some point – and I don’t just mean by the many rabbits who now call it home. The barrow is covered in nettles and if you came in the summer access would be much more difficult. When I got back to the car and told Karen of my woes she said I would get no sympathy as I wasn’t supposed to be in the field in the first place! Also, a couple of passing farmers had given her the ‘evil eye’ whilst I was gone. Worth a look if you are very keen and happen to be in the area.
E.H. state:
‘A bowl barrow set on top of a ridge 335m south of Broadfield Farm. The barrow measures 27m in diameter by 1.65m high’.
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Visited 24.4.15
Directions:
A short distance north of Westonbirt arboretum.
It was Karen’s birthday and as a treat we decided to have a day in the lovely Cotswolds. Of course, if we just happen to be passing a site it wouldn’t harm to have a quick look………..........
There is a wooden gate and a public footpath sign. You can park on the verge opposite. There is very little to see, just a minor ‘bump’ in the grass field. It didn’t look 0.6m high to me. Don’t bother.
E.H. state:
‘Two bowl barrows arranged on an east-west axis and situated on sloping ground. The western barrow, a mound composed of small stones, is 25m x 0.6m high. The eastern barrow, also composed of small stones, is 22m x 0.25m’
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Visited 16.4.15
On our way back to the car after visiting the Cheesewring, I was keen to visit Rillaton Barrow – home of the famous gold cup. It took a little time to spot as the ground is very uneven and despite being a fair size the barrow is not at all obvious.
However, find it we did. It has now been reduced to a mangled grass covered mound. A large hole has been dug into it in the past, no doubt how they unearthed the cup in the first place. Clearly an important person was buried here and the barrow would have been a substantial size when first built.
I am glad that I managed to find and visit this famous barrow. I will always think of it when I see a photo of the cup. Try to visit it if you are on your way to/from the Cheesewring.
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Visited 16.4.15
The Cheesewring is the prominent landmark when in the Minions area and is well worth the walk for a closer look and exploration. From the Hurlers stone circles the Cheesewring looks quite far you can walk it in about 15 minutes, although you do need to be fairly mobile to clamber up onto the rock outcrops.
Both myself and Dafydd enjoyed scrambling around the rocks and the views are excellent in all directions. From the top of the rocks you get a great ‘bird’s eye’ view of the collapsed circular stone wall which surrounds the Iron Age site.
I am not so sure Karen would have approved of Dafydd being up here with me but is it quite safe as long as you are sensible about things.
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Visited 16.4.14
Very easy to spot when visiting the stone circles.
When looking towards the Cheeswring they are to your left, near the track.
To my untrained eye they didn’t look ‘old’ but they do perfectly frame the Cheesewring.
Worth looking out for.
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Visited 16.4.15
Had it not been for Mr Hamhead's notes I would have had no idea it was there!
Very easy to miss as it just looks like part of a garden wall.
Nothing much to see but it is nice to know that the barrow has survived.
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Visited 16.4.15
We parked in the large car park (free) and Karen decided to go for a walk to try to find a café with the girls whilst myself and Dafydd headed in the opposite direction to visit the famous stone circles. It is only a 5 minute walk over flat moorland – very easy to access. Due to the great weather we had had all week the ground was dry underfoot with the crisp grass crunching under our feet.
There was a sign saying that filming was taking place and apologies for any disruption. We never saw anyone near the circles and we later learnt (via the landlord at the pub where Karen got her coffee from) that the filming was for a ‘period costume drama’ and was taking place on open moorland nearer the Cheesewring.
We walked around the circles (Dafydd trying to count the stones) before making our way towards the Cheesewring itself.
The Hurlers are easy to access and well worth a visit when in the area. As a bonus it’s another English Heritage site ticked off the list!
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Visited 13.4.15
It is only a short walk from the stone rows to the circle. The tall (over head height) outliner can be seen from the rows but not the stones forming the circle itself.
I counted 11 stones and walked (as I always seem to do) in an anti-clockwise direction around them, touching each stone I passed (something else I always seem to do)
This is a nice, rather than spectacular, stone circle and is well worth visiting. One piece of the complicated prehistoric jigsaw that is Merrivale.
Across the way (other side of B3357) I suddenly noticed a large black cloud of smoke. A fire had somehow broken out (I didn’t see anyone) and was spreading through the tinder dry bracken. Fortunately it soon burnt itself out before too much damage was done.
Merrivale is yet another fantastic ‘must see’ site in the Devon / Cornwall border area.
N.B.
First TMA notes for this site in 9 years?
How very odd.
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Visited 13.4.15
Directions:
On the B3357 (east of Tavistock). Not sign posted but large parking area.
It was hot in the car and it was good to get out in the fresh air and stretch our legs. I led the children up the slope which soon brought us out onto the two stone rows. I rarely get the chance to visit a stone row so I was particularly looking forward to visiting Merrivale.
The stone rows certainly didn’t disappoint. The children opted to take their shoes and socks off and play in the leat whilst I walked the entire length of both rows – something I am sure most people who visit this site does! I imagine that it wet weather the ground would be quite boggy – but not today. The larger stones at the end of each row are an obvious start/finish point for whatever activities were once carried out here?
The cist in the middle of the southern row is well worth checking out.
From the row the tall standing stone can be seen. That was my next port of call.
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Visited 17.4.15
Directions:
There is a large car park next to a minor road north off the B3387 – northeast of Widecombe in the Moor. Hound Tor and its medieval village is not sign posted.
To be honest my main reason for visiting Hound Tor was to see the deserted medieval village (E.H. site). Obviously this also gave me the opportunity to visit Hound Tor itself and the adjacent cairn circle and cist. This was the last day of our holiday and I was keen to make the most of it!
Karen opted to stay at the car with the girls whilst Dafydd and myself headed up across the moor towards Hound Tor. Although the Tor itself is obvious there are no signs or path to the medieval village which surprised me as it is an E.H. site. (In Scotland a site like this would have been marked by poles)
We soon reached the Tor and had a good look around. We then headed down the other side and luckily we spotted the cairn/cist pretty much straight away. Approximately two thirds of the kerb stones remain and both ends and one long side of the cist. Bizarrely, a large plastic model of a USA space rocket had been placed in the cist! Dafydd enjoyed taking this home!
From here we (eventually) found the village and then headed back over the Tor to the car park. Because it took us so long to find the village we got back to the car a lot later than I expected. Apparently the girls had been playing up and Karen was less than happy.
Time to head home…………….
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Visited 13.4.15
Directions:
South of the B3212 (sign posted)
Although the site is sign posted from the main road, the appropriate parking place isn’t. Best bet is to follow Pure Joy’s directions.
I wasn’t expecting the stone path up to the site and it was a lovely (and surprisingly easy) walk from the parking area to the site. The weather was fantastic, hot sunshine and blue skies. The children loved messing about in the small streams tumbling down the hillside. The dry, crisp grass crunched underfoot. No need for walking boots or coat today – in fact it turned out I didn’t need them all week!
We soon arrived at Grimspound and what a fantastic place it is! A real ‘wow’!
We walked around the outside of the circular wall and entered the village through what would have been the original entrance. The two stones forming the doorway certainly give you the feeling that you are entering a place – passing from the outside to the inside.
We looked around several of the houses and each picked our favourite one to live in. I was drawn to the large house in the middle of the village – the one with the ‘porch’. I could see myself living here!
A family were enjoying a picnic next to one of the lower houses (a great place to have one) and several people could be seen walking up to Hookney Tor – something I unfortunately didn’t have time to do on this occasion.
Grimspound is an excellent place to visit - particularly in good weather. It is a lot easier to access than you may think (for a moorland site) and is well worth the effort. I can’t recommend Grimspound highly enough. One of the best places I have visited for a long time.
And it’s another English Heritage site ticked off the list!
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Visited 17.4.15
Directions:
Adjacent to a minor road across moorland to the north of Haytor Vale. O/S map required.
I saw this site on my O/S map and thought I would check it out. It’s not that often I get the chance to visit a stone row!
Although the road is narrow and parking is difficult we were able to pull over a little way to the south. The barrow is well mangled and is now no more than a low stony mound, easy to miss unless you were specifically looking for it.
30 paces to the north-east of the cairn is the stone row. I was able to identify a total of 10 stones. The tallest stones are the first two you come to. Both are approx 1m tall although one has fallen. There are then 4 smaller stones (approx 0.5m long) all of which are prostrate. There are then another 4 stones (approx 0.5m high) which are still standing. The final two stones are next to each other and clearly form a start/finish point. I suspect the same was originally true of the other end of the row.
This is typical moorland, rough gorse covered. There are good views along the valley to the east.
This site is a little out of the way but well worth the effort of visiting – I am glad I did.
Oddly, E.H. have nothing to report – so my notes will have to do!
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I have visited both historic and prehistoric sites for a number of years but since 'discovering' this website my visits have spiralled out of control!
I am now out 'exploring' as often as possible and have been to many wonderful places I didn't even know existed before using this website.
Having visited all the CADW sites I am now trying to visit all the E.H. sites and as many H.S. sites as possible.
In trying to achieve these goals I get to travel all around the country and with it the chance to visit as many sites as possible mentioned on this fine website. I hope some of you find my contributions a little helpful?
I have certainly found the contributions made by others to be both very informative and often quite amusing!
I must also mention the lovely Karen whom without her help, encouragement and understanding I would not be able to visit half of the places I do.
I am forever grateful.
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