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Round Barrow(s)
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Hensbarrow - 30.3.2003
I guess we should be ‘grateful’ that somehow this has been allowed to survive considering it has spoil heaps from old china clay working right next to it on the East side, and huge new works just across the Hensbarrow Downs to the West. Although the triangulation pillar on top, and the row of boundary marker stones (including one right on top!) detract from it a little, maybe they have also helped ensure its survival.
A side road just off the B3274 south of Roche leads up the western side of Hensbarrow Downs. As you approach the brow of the hill (opposite the entrance to the new works) there is a circular parking area, marked by two fading red and white poles (which show that it used to be used for clay working). From here Hensbarrow is just a 300 metre walk to the east, clearly visible straight in front of you. Yes, it really is that big! Craig Weatherhill, in “Cornovia: Ancient Sites of Cornwall & Scilly” (Cornwall Books - 1985, revised 1997 & 2000) says it is 5.4 m high and 36 m in diameter, although it does add that it may have been unnaturally enlarged when it was used as a modern beacon. If you prefer more of a walk, there are lots of public footpaths around the Hensbarrow Downs that you could also use to get the barrow.
At 312 metres above sea level this is the highest natural point in the area and the views back across the valley (North) are stunning, with the St Breock Down wind farm clearly visible. However, if you ignore the nice bit of the view you could just as easily think you are sitting on the moon as the clay works surround you.This post appears as part of the weblog entry Another Kernow Week |
Posted by pure joy
6th April 2003ce
Edited 6th April 2003ce
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