CARL

Visited 6.10.13

Directions:
From the village of Bisley take the minor road east towards Battlescombe. The Giant’s Stone is on the left hand side of the road, amid some undergrowth / trees.

Thanks to TSC for the directions. Without his help I doubt I would have found the stones. The trick is to drive along the road as far as some buildings (on the right) and then look out for a rusty metal field gate on your left. The lane is narrow but you can squeeze in next to the gate. Once over the gate go to your left and have a rummage about in the bushes next to the road. The stones are then pretty easy to spot. If you knew where to look you can see the stones from the road but finding them via the metal gate will make life a lot easier.

In all honesty there is very little to see here other than 3 stones sticking out proud of the ground – forming a parallel row. In saying that, for some reason, I found this a nice little quite spot to spend a short while. It is not very likely you will be disturbed here.

Not much to see but if you are in the area there are worse ways to spend a few minutes.

p.s.
The tree growing between the stones in some of the photos is no longer there – thankfully!

Visited 6.10.13

Directions:
From the village of Bisley take a minor road south east. The Twizzle site is on the left, in a copse of trees, next to a public footpath.

A farmer was busy ploughing his field adjacent to the trees which may explain why there was no farm machinery present on my visit. There were however several large piles of logs being stored amongst the trees.

As TSC states, there is little to see here other than ‘lumps and bumps’.

Not really worth the effort of a visit although access is very easy.

Visited 7.10.13

We parked at the metal field gate and I quickly hoped over.
The unmistakable grass covered mound of a Long Barrow is right in front of you – despite it having been severely mangled.

In its glory this would have been a fine sight. It is still approximately 3m high x 50m long although badly dug into.

The 3 large stones remaining are now largely overgrown with brambles although the white and yellow lichen covering them was still easy to see.

The late afternoon sun had warmed the stones and despite its destruction this was still a good place to be – on a day like today anyway. The Barrow occupies a fairly prominent location within the surrounding flat countryside.

It loos as though the land owner is erecting a barbed wire fence around the field although access should still be ok as long as he/she doesn’t cover the field gate with the stuff. The mound of the Long Barrow is easy to see from the roadside but you need to get up close to see the stones.

Well worth a visit when in the area.

Directions for round barrows:
See directions for Randwick Long Barrow.
The Barrows can be found in the trees to the right of the information board.

The information board states that finding the two Round Barrows is ‘challenging’ – not to your average TMAer I would say! Although to be fair most people would walk right past not knowing what they were.

The larger of the two Barrows is approximately 0.5m high x 5m across
The smaller one is about 0.3m high x 4m across.
They are right next to each other.

Worth a quick look when visiting the Long Barrow and Dyke.

Visited 6.10.13

Directions:
See directions for Randwick Long Barrow.
The Dyke is next to the information board – can’t miss it!

The information board states that the Dyke is approximately 2,000 years old but its actual function is unknown.

The Dyke is about 1.5m high and runs in a straight line for about 60m before disappearing into the trees.

Worth a look when visiting the Long Barrow.

Visited 6.10.13

Directions:
From Junction 13 of the M5 take the A419 towards Stroud. Just before entering Stroud follow the signs north for Randwick. Drive through Randwick and as you come out of the other side you will come to a bus stop / parking area for Standish Wood (N.T. site). Park here and walk along the old road (past the metal barrier) which runs through the woods. The Long Barrow / Round Barrows / Dyke can all be found along this path (all on the left).

Please note – there is no vehicle access from the west via the B4008 / Stroud Green – as we discovered!

Standish Wood is not the easiest place to find but the effort is well worthwhile.
The weather was glorious, the sky blue, sun shining and not a hint of wind. Fantastic for early October. Perhaps the last day of summer weather this year? (let’s hope not!)
Karen and the children went exploring in the woods while I went to do my own type of searching – ‘old stone’ hunting!

It was a very pleasant walk along the old, long disused road through the delightful woods. The floor of the woods was carpeted in leaves and the leaves on the trees were starting to turn to the tell tale colours of autumn – brown, red and yellow. The old drystone wall either side of the road had tumbled in many places and nature had started to take control – all adding to the experience. There were lots of families out and about enjoying the weather and (as you do) we smiled and said ‘hello’ as we passed each other.

Isn’t it funny how when you are in the countryside it is the ‘norm’ to say ‘hello’ to anyone you meet whereas in the city you would only get strange looks if you did the same thing? Another reason why I much prefer the countryside.

After about 5 minutes of walking along the road you will see a handy N.T. information board on your left. This gives details of the history of the Long Barrow / Round Barrows and Dyke. The Dyke is right next to the info board and you can’t fail to spot it. For the Long barrow keep walking down the road a little further and then head up the slope / through the trees to your left. Just head for the highest point.

You will very soon come out into an open ‘oasis’ with a very large Long Barrow sat in splendid isolation. This part of the wood had clearly been de-forested at some point and is now an open grassy area surrounded by woodland. Perhaps a scene our Mesolithic ancestors would have approved of as they waited to catch their prey? (Minus the Long Barrow of course!)

The Long Barrow is about 3m high x 50m long. Covered in grass and cut down tree stumps. Someone had recently made a fire on top of it. The woodland on the far side of the Barrow had been dug down and this gives the Barrow a much greater height from that side – perhaps 5m high.

The information board states that the Barrow was excavated in 1883 and that a skeleton had been found inside a cist. You can see where it had been dug into although no sign of the cist.

Unfortunately, because of the trees, there are no views to be had. However, a section of trees has been cut away opposite the information board and you get a good idea of how good the views would be without the trees.

This is a lovely (if a little awkward) place to visit and well worth the effort.

Failed visit 30.9.13 :(

The ‘Red Lady’ of Paviland – a name surly to stir the imagination.
A site of international importance and one I am sure that most, if not all, of the readers of this fine website would love to visit.

And here I am, a mere 60 or so miles away – so why I haven’t I as yet made the ‘pilgrimage’?
The obvious answer of course is because of the well know difficulty of visiting the site. Indeed, some books I have read positively warn of the perils of undertaking such a task.
Even Neil Oliver went for the abseil approach – no doubt also making better TV of course.

I had recently come across a website which actually gave details of how to access the cave (without the need of a rope!) and by co-incidence within days TSC posted his fieldnotes – and thus confirming the access details I had read.

Time to put this right. A day off work, no children in tow, weather forecast reasonable for the time of year and an O/S map and tide timetable at hand. What could stop me?

The tide timetable stated that low tide was at 10.00am. I set out at 7.30am to allow plenty of time to drive to the Gower and walk to the cave by low tide. My plan was to park on the B4247 and take the footpath directly south to the cave. Unfortunately there was absolutely nowhere to park on this stretch of road and in the end I decided the best option would be to park in the large car park in Rhossili, next to the N.T. shop, and walk along the coastal path to the cave.

I arrived early enough not to have to pay the £3.00 parking fee (the little shed wasn’t yet open) and I eagerly made my way past the N.T. shop, coastguard station and east along the coastal path. T

he weather was warm, dry and only a little breeze so all was good. I avoided the temptation to check out the several cliff/promontory forts I passed as priority for today was the great cave itself. After all, I could take my time and look over the forts on the way back.

It took me 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the cave and my heart was racing with expectation and excitement. (This will no doubt sound ‘sad’ to most people but TMAers will know what I mean.) I quickly identified which was the correct headland with photo’s I had taken with me and was soon scrambling down the ravine with the drystone wall running down the middle of it. Why on earth would anyone bother to build a wall here?

I passed Foxhole Slade Cave and was soon onto the treacherous rocks. I have never visited a place before where the rocks were so sharp. They were covered in barnacles and one slip would have resulted in my legs being badly cut (I was wearing shorts). However, this was quickly put to the back of my mind as I was now only a few metres from my goal.

It was at this point that my bubble of excitement burst. The tide was still not far enough out to get around the headland. By now it was 10.30am and I assumed the tide hadn’t fully gone out and I would just have to wait. I sat there like King Cnut and watched the waves roll in and out. To my surprise a seal swam past, sticking its head out of the water to look at me as it did so. I bet he/she could see the cave!

I decided to have a look at Foxhole Slade Cave while I was waiting but my mind was fixed on the tide and Paviland Cave. I returned to the rocks and sat and waited and waited. By 12 noon it was obvious (even to me) that the tide wasn’t going out any further. I tried to get to the cave by scrambling along the side of the headland and also from the other side of the headland – DO NOT attempt this as it is dangerous.
The only safe way to access the cave would be from the beach – which was still underwater. I was so desperate to see the cave I would have swam for it if I had taken bathers with me – that would have been a first!

Despite my best efforts their would be no visit by me today. I had to be sensible from a safety point of view as if I did fall and incapacitate myself, not only was I on my own, but there is no mobile phone signal from the rocks. I slowly and disappointedly had to head back up the ravine and onto the coastal path. So close – but so far. Gutted.
All I can think of is that the low tide wasn’t low enough and that not all low tides allow access – if you see what I mean. A ‘low’ low tide is perhaps necessary?

On the way back to the car park I visited the other sites along the way and tried to enjoy the coastal views but no doubt my disappointment took the edge off it. This is clearly one place I will need to come back to. As Fu Manchu used to say (ask your dad) ‘I will return!’

For anyone contemplating a visit can I offer the following advice?

1. The cave would be accessible to most people once the tide is far enough out. The walk off the coastal path down the ravine is straight forward although the sharp rocks are a little tricky. I would not recommend a visit for those with mobility problems.

2. The walk from the car park in Rhossili is long but offers great views. The quickest way would be to get someone to drop you off on the B4247 and head directly south. However, the coastal path is steep and narrow in places and is often close to the cliff edge. I would not recommend a visit with children – far too dodgy.

3. Check the tide times (try to get a ‘low’ low tide and leave yourself 1.5 hours to walk to the cave if coming from Rhossili.

I hope this is of some help and you have better luck than I did. I still feel gutted about this ‘failed visit’ – more so than any other ‘failed visit’ I have had over the years.
One day…………

Visited 30.9.13

As TSC states there is little to see, just a low arcing bank approximately 1m high.

As you would expect, the coastal views are great.

Don’t get too close to the edge as one slip and you will be joining the ancestors!

Visited 30.9.13

After the huge disappointment of not being able to access Paviland Cave I somewhat reluctantly headed up to the top of the cliff (after first visiting Foxhole Slade) to have a look at the remains of this Cliff Fort.

There is little I can add to the previous fieldnotes.

I purposefully looked for, and found, the metal ring used by those abseiling down the cave (the one the always show on TV!). Small consolation I know.

I peered over the edge to see if I could at least glimpse the cave entrance – I couldn’t.
I was however nearly blown over the edge by a strong gust of wind and I had to quickly drop to all fours to avoid getting a very brief glimpse of the cave before hitting the rocks!

Be careful out here!

Visited 30.9.13

Directions:
Midway between Thurba cliff/promontory fort and Paviland cave. The Knave fort is a short walk south off the coastal path.

The coastline along this stretch of the Gower is particularly dramatic with the layers of rock forming the cliff rising high out of the water on a steep angle.

I was able to make out two lines of defence, the outer rampart now about 1m high, with the inner ramparts about 2m high.
The dreaded gorse covers part of the northern outer defences.

Not much else to add really.

Worth a look when walking this stretch of the coastal path.

Visited 30.9.13

Directions:
You can either use the public footpath from Middleton to the north east or follow the coastal path from Rhossili. Either way the path runs right past this Cliff Fort.

There is not much left to see.
Just a half-circle low grass bank approximately 1m in height.
It appears that over the years the sea has washed away most of the cliff containing the majority of the fort.

Lovely views over Fall Bay.

Visited 30.9.13

Directions:
Park in the main visitor’s car park in Rhossili (£3.00 all day) and follow the road down past the N.T. shop towards the Coastguard station. Continue along the coastal path and this is the first of the several cliff/promontory forts you come to. Can’t miss it as it is right next to the path and has a N.T. sign giving its name and age.

As this fort is so close to the amenities Rhossili has to offer it is no surprise that it attracts the most visitors. Indeed, on my day out walking the coastal path this was the only site I visited where I saw anyone else. Due to the number of people visiting there were sections of the ramparts which has been repaired and had signs erected requesting people keep off the banking due to the erosion it was causing. Thankfully, at least when I visited, people were heeding the signs and observing the fort from the footpath.

This is a very easy site to access and one that shouldn’t be missed if you happen to be at this far end of the Gower peninsular.
It also has the added bonus of giving great views over to Worm’s Head.

** A short distance south I spotted a suspicious looking curved bank vanishing over the cliff edge. Clearly whatever it was has all but been eroded away by the sea. Was this all that is left of some sort of prehistoric enclosure? **

Visited 30.9.13

Directions:
From the main Rhossili visitor’s car park follow the coastal path south west past the N.T. shop and coastguard station and then east towards Port Einon. You will know when you get to Thurba as there is a little N.T. sign telling you so!

The fort itself is a short distance south west of the main coastal path – on a headland.
I counted 3 defensive banks – the outer two being approximately 2m at their highest (when standing in the ditch) and the inner bank approximately 1m high.
In places you can easily see how the banks were constructed of stone

As you would expect there are great coastal views to be had.

Well worth a quick stop-off when walking the coastal path from Rhossili.

Visited 30.9.13

Directions:
Mid way between Thrumba Camp and The Knave cliff forts. The cave can be easily seen from the coastal path near a stile. The cave is high up on the headland.

There is no ‘path’ to the cave but it is only a short walk from the coastal path through the ferns / gorse. However, the slope is very steep and you have to be very careful – I wouldn’t fancy walking to the cave if the grass was wet. Not somewhere to take a child that’s for sure!

The cave itself is small, approximately 1 metre high, going back about 2 metres.
There was a yellow numbered tag nailed to one of the stones. No idea what it was for?

Great coastal views as you would expect. I would suggest it best to simply view the cave from the coastal path and not risk the walk up to the cave. It is a bit dodgy.

Visited 30.9.13

Directions:
From Paviland Cave head up the ravine (with the drystone wall running along it) and Foxhole Slade is in the cliff face on the left. Easy to find although access is over loose stones.

This was the most substantial of the caves I visited / saw today. The cave is clearly still used as a shelter judging by the recent camp fire which had been made there. This would certainly be a good place to sit out a storm.

Well worth a look when visiting Paviland Cave.

Visited 1.10.13

Directions:
Knelston can be found on the A4118 heading west towards Rhossili. You will pass a Texaco garage on your left and immediately after a school on your right. You can park outside the school. Walk a short distance west and you will come to a farm drive on your right – opposite a house called The Rectory. Walk up the farm drive and follow the public footpath signs on your right. You go over a couple of stiles, through some trees and into a field. Directly in front of you (on the opposite side of the field) is a field gate. Walk to the gate and the stone will come into view in the next field over. The public right of way runs straight past the stone so no access worries.

The stone is a big one, triangular in shape and comprising of many quartz pebbles.
There is a fair bit of ‘hairy’ lichen growing around the top of the stone.

I am quite surprised this stone has not been added before given its size and relative ease of access?

There is not much in the way of a view.

Coflein states:
‘Set on level ground, a roughly triangular standing stone, 2.2m high x 2.2m and 0.6m thick’.

Visited 2.8.13

Directions:
Just south of the A849 / B8035 junction. On the left of heading south.
The Cairns are situated on a small rise visible from the road.

We were heading back to the B+B and despite it still being fairly early in the evening, due to the weather; the light was already starting to fail. We pulled over on the side of the by now deserted road and with some trepidation I got out of the car into the pouring rain.

The fence between the road and the ridge is the type which is head height and due to the weather I didn’t fancy trying to climb it. I could see no obvious gate giving access to the field.

The ridge upon which the Cairns reside is quite close to the road and there are several ‘lumps and bumps’ on the ridge which could have been any of the Cairns. Without getting closer it would be impossible to say what was natural and what was man or woman) made. In this weather I would imagine the field would be very bogy.

Canmore states:
‘There are 3 cairns about 750m NE of Rossal, overlooking the tidal flats where the Coladoir River runs into the head of Loch Scridain.
Cairn A – the most northerly cairn of the three measures 4.6m in diameter by 0.3m high and stands on the summit of a rocky ridge. It has been severely robbed but a number of kerb stones are still in situ, the tallest 0.8m high being on the N side. Outside the kerb on the S side there is a single stone 0.7m high which may be one side of a ‘false portal’ setting.
Cairn B – 80m SSW of cairn ‘A’ on the W flank of the same ridge. It measures 5.3m by 4.6m and 0.5m high but only a few kerb stones are visible. At the centre are the remains of a cist measuring 1.2m by 0.9m. The stones protrude only 0.2m above the turf.
Cairn C – 17m SW of ‘B’ measuring about 8.2m in diameter and 1m in height.
No other cairns were noted in the vicinity.’

Visited 2.8.13

My last site of the day.

The rain hadn’t let up all day and by now even I had just about had enough for the day and was looking forward to a warm shower and a change of clothes.

To be honest I didn’t have the enthusiasm to go and ask permission for a close-up look at the stone and instead settled for a view, through the mist, from the top of the drive.

The stone certainly deserves more attention than I gave it – but on a better day!

Karen woke up with a back problem so our planned day out had to be put on hold. The weather forecast said it was likely to be the last day of summer sunshine so I was eager not to waste it. I told Karen I would take the children to nearby Dyffryn Gardens (N.T. site) who had an open day so entry was free (it would also allow her to rest with the children not around).

By co-incidence, you have to drive past Tinkinswood to get to Dyffryn – all the excuse I needed to call in to say ‘hello’.

The weather was indeed very good with warm sunshine and white fluffy clouds. We parked up next to the gate and the first thing I spotted was a police notice warning motorists not to leave valuables in the car – clearly they have had some problems here?
I also noticed a sign advertising the fact that next Saturday (21.9.13) between noon and 4.00pm there would be an expert on site who would be giving free guided tours of Tinkinswood – sounds good. Unfortunately I won’t be able to make it as I have a children’s birthday party to attend!

We headed across the field and had a good look around. For a change the inside of the burial chamber was dry and free of the near ever present puddle. I sat in the sun and tried to contemplate things while the children were happily playing in and around the chamber. Several people came and went while we were there. It was also nice to see that the ‘information machine’ was back in working order and both children had a go at turning the handle.

As an aside, the machine at nearby St Lytham’s was also in working order when stopped off there on the way home.

On the way back to the car we climbed over the stile and had a look around ‘The
Quarry’. In fact, when I visit Tinkinswood these days I seem to spend as much time at
the quarry as I do at the burial chamber itself. I find the place interesting and imagine
that at one time the whole area was covered in such large stones. No shortage of
building material here – there are still easily enough stones left to make another
burial chamber.
Credit to CADW for making this area accessible to the public –
something that was not possible until recently – not officially anyway!

Tinkinswood and St Lytham’s are without doubt ‘must see’ sites of South East Wales.

Visited 2.8.13

Another standing stone right next to the road to Iona (A849)

You can gain access to the field where the stone stands through a gate.
The stone stands on the brow of a hill and is about 2.5m tall.

I can’t comment on the views due to the mist and rain.
I am sure I would have stayed longer had the weather been kinder!
Still, this is without doubt a good stone to visit when in the area.

Visited 2.8.13

The rain continued to pour. This was easily the wettest day of our holiday. Still, you can’t let a bit of moisture stop you from visiting a site can you?

The wind was so strong it blew me back into the car as I got out – much to everyone’s amusment! The bank up from the road was very slippery and the wooden stile was on its last legs. In fact it gave way under me as I crossed over – again much amusement from the car!

The stone is a good one. It is about 2.5m tall and stood in what was now more of a swamp than a field. I didn’t stay long before hurrying back to the sanctuary of the car.

Well worth a look when you are on your way to Iona along the A849.

Visited 2.8.13

On the way back to the B+B after visiting the wonderful island of Iona we stopped off to have a quick look at this impressive standing stone.

The stone is approximately 2.5m tall and is next to Achaban House.

We were all soaked to the bone following our trip to Iona and the rain continued to pour.
We were all cold, wet and hungry and it was still a long drive ahead of us.

Well worth a look if heading over to Iona.

Visited 1.8.13

Directions:
Near a minor road south of Dervaig – can’t miss it!

We parked on the minor road next to a field gate. The rest of the gang stayed in the car whilst I hopped over the gate and across the rough, bogy field of thistles towards the Hillfort. The surrounding landscape is fairly flat and the Hillfort occupies a prominent position.

The walk up to the site isn’t too far but it is steep. On the way up you pass several ruined stone building which are interesting – I can guess where they got the stone from to build them! Most of the buildings were overgrown by thistles, particularly the insides.

There isn’t a huge amount to see with the exception of a length of walling still standing to a height of about 1m which was a pleasant surprise. The views from the top are wonderful and makes the effort to climb worthwile in itself.

A site to recommend but only suitable for the fairly fit only. If you do visit take care when on top, the sides are very steep and it is a long way down!

Canmore states:
‘This fort stands (at a height of 46m OD) on the summit of a steep-sided, isolated ridge 900m SE of Torr a’ Chlachain farmhouse, close to the Salen – Dervaig road. It measures 70m by 32m within a single wall which has been so severely reduced by stone-robbing that virtually no traces now survive on the NE and SW sides. On the NW and SE, however, long stretches of the lowest course of the outer face remain in situ, consisting for the most part of massive boulders, the largest of them measuring 1.2m by 1m and 1.2m in height. the entrance faces NW and is 2.1m wide. Ploughing has encroached over almost the whole of the interior.’

Visited 1.8.13

From the Dervaig A stones follow the road west down the hill and keep an eye out for the ‘new’ cemetery on the left – not the ‘old’ cemetery a bit further down the road. Park in the car park and follow the path down towards the cemetery but then go to the left heading for the stone wall. Once you get to the wall you should be able to spot the standing stones without too much trouble.

This stone row comprises of 3 stones;
Stone 1 is about 0.5m high and is squarish / L shaped
Stone 2 is about 1m high
Stone 3 is about 2m high

All 3 stones are surrounded by ferns and are in close proximity to the wall.

There are no views from the stones themseves – I wonder why they errected here?
Near the stones is a small rocky knoll which does afford good views.
Just below the knoll is what looks like to be two Cairns but I don’t know if they are Cairns, field clearance or natural?

Dervaig B isn’t as good as Dervaig A to be honest but they make a good ‘joint visit’.

Visited 1.8.13

Despite being in a woodland setting (a place which usually means I fail to find what I am looking for) these stones are very easy to spot.

Park in the viewpoint car park and follow the obvious ‘path’ through the ferns. The stones are signposted and access is via a kissing gate. The stones are visible from the gate.

As we approached the stones the children who were climbing all over them decided to leave which meant we had the place to ourselves. I know I have said it before but there is ‘something’ about a woodland setting which often enhances the visitors experience – this is no exception. The weather was windy but sunny. Once in the plantation the wind ceased and the sunlight streamed through the tall pine trees – lovely!

The stone row consists of 2 standing stones (each about 2.5m tall) and 3 large fallen stones. The stones are covered in moss and are impressive. Pity the fallen ones haven’t been re-erected – perhaps one day?

This is a great place to visit, easy to access, impressive stones in a woodland setting.
What more could you want?
When on Mull this is a ‘must see’ site.

Visited 1.8.13

Directions:
On the western side of the main A848, near Ardnacross, opposite a farm.
Follow the track up towards a barn and then strike out to your right uphill.
The stones are not visible until you reach the brow of the hill.

This is a great site consisting of a row of 3 fallen stones. Next to the fallen stones are 2 Cairns, one Cairn has a stone kerbing going half way around and the other has kerbing going all the way around. The other side of the Cairns is a single standing stone and next to that another possible fallen stone. Not much going on here then!

To cap it off there are good costal views to be had. If you happen to be on Mull you could do a lot worse than visit this site although I suspect it would be best to ask permission first. I am quite surprised that these are the first fieldnotes for such a quality place.

Canmore states:
‘Three kerb-cairns and the remains of two flanking settings of standing stones are situated on a platform in the hillside 600m WSW of the farm.
The largest cairn is comparatively well preserved, it measures 5.5m in diameter and has a kerb of large boulders which are almost continuous. The cairn material is still about 0.4m in height on the south side. Several kerb stones of another cairn may be seen protruding through the turf 4.6m to the NW; it is about 4m in diameter and on the south side some 0.2m high. One metre to the N, 5 kerb stones of a further cairn, about 3m in diameter, are visible at ground level.
Both groups of standing stones appear to have been aligned NNE and SSW but only one stone is still upright. The SE group comprises one prostrate slab (2.3m long and 1.1m broad), a standing stone now leaning slightly to the south (2.4m high and 1.05m at the base), and a third slab, half of which is covered by turf, but at least 1.9m long and 1.25m broad.
The three stones of the NW group have all fallen and are partly obscured by turf, but the largest is at least 2.8m long, 1.4m broad and 0.35m thick’

Visited 1.8.13

Directions:
On the eastern side of the main A848, near Ardnacross, next to a wood.
You can park in a passing place and then over the usual metal field gate.

I followed the tree line down to where the Cairn is but I couldn’t see a thing due to the head high ferns. A non-summer visit required!

Canmore states:
‘The cairn is situated 500 SE of Ardnacross. It stands to a height of 1.3m above the surrounding field and measures about 8m in diameter. It is so overgrown that it is difficult to distinguish the edge of the cairn from the natural knoll on which it lies’.

Visited 1.8.13

Directions:
A short distance south east from the Kilninian Standing Stone. On the southern side of the B8073.

I viewed the Cairn from the roadside.
Easily seen as a large, grass covered, rocky mound.

Canmore states:
‘About 440m SW of Kilninian parish church is a large cairn measuring 15m in diameter and 2m in height. A series of large boulders forming the kerb can be seen intermittently around the perimeter, especially on the S side. A considerable amount of stones has been robbed from the top of the cairn and from its N half, but otherwise is relatively well preserved’.

Visited 1.8.13

Directions:
On the brow of a hill on the southern side of the B8073, about 1 mile west of Kilninian, near Tostary.

Stopped off to have a look for the stone on the way back from spending the afternoon at the wonderful beach at Calgary Bay.

Although there is access via a metal gate it is tough going to get to the stone.
Parking is also tricky on the narrow road.
I had to force my way through chest high ferns, bracken and thistles – all up a slope!

However, upon reaching the stone the effort seemed worthwhile.

The stone would be about 2m high if it were standing straight.
It is covered in white lichen and has a large boulder at its base.

There are great coastal views.
To top it off a double rainbow formed once the sun had come out.

Well worth a visit if you are ready to do battle with the undergrowth!

Visited 1.8.13

Directions:
On the northern side of the B8073, about 2 miles south of Achleck.

Despite the Cairn being right next to the road, I couldn’t see a thing due to the trees and head height bushes and ferns.
The site is completely overgrown.

Visited 1.8.13

We stayed the night in a lovely B+B near Mausoleum (SNT site – well worth a look) and once the children had been settled down I had the opportunity of going for a walk before it got too dark. Luckily I was only a short walk from several ‘old stone’ sites so as they say ‘jobs a good ‘un’!

I walked onto the B8035 and headed south.

Gruline standing stone is easily seen in the middle of a field from the roadside.
Access into the field is easy enough over a metal field gate. Although technically there is no public access, given the location and time of day this was never going to be an issue!

The stone is about 2m tall and has a nice backdrop of hills and even a waterfall in the distance.
A bird of prey shrieked overhead which added to the occasion.

Well worth a visit when in the area.

Failed visit 1.8.13

Another 4 years growth since Postie visited has no doubt made this stone even more difficult to locate / access.
(Well done by the way Postie for finding it!)

I tried to visit but the trees/bushes were impenetrable and it was starting to get dark so I decided to have a look at the nearby Cairns instead whilst there was still some light left.

Canmore states:
‘This impressive standing stone is situated within thick scrub and trees on the West side of the road from Salen to Kinloch. Now leaning to the ESE, it is aligned NNE and SSW at its base, which measures 1.2m by 0.4m: the stone stands to a height of 2.45m and tapers towards a pointed top’.

Directions:
At the southern end of the field immediately south of the Gruline Standing Stone.

The light was starting to fade and as I crossed the field towards the Cairn I was delighted to see two deer near the Cairn. One next to its base and the other half way up its side. They were startled by my presence and ran off – wonderful!

The Cairn looks huge as you approach – about 8m high. But this is due to the natural mound it stands on and on its opposite side it is ‘only’ about 2m high.

The Cairn has trees all-around its base and is covered with tree stumps.
The top of the Cairn is capped with ferns. There are lots of stones sticking out of the surface.

On the walk back to the B+B I spotted another 5 deer in a field before they ran off into the trees. What a great way to end the day!

Canmore states:
‘A prominent knoll known as Carn Ban is surmounted by a grass-covered cairn measuring about 26m in diameter and 2.2m in height. Its original shape and size has been mutilated by robbing, clearance and fallen trees’.

The other Cairn is a little distance to the east which Canmore has named the Gruline Cairn. It is located in trees and as it was now pretty much dark I didn’t try to investigate.

Canmore states:
‘This cairn is situated 400m west of Gruline House. Measuring about 18m in diameter and 1m in height it has been severely robbed of stone and is overgrown by shrubs’.

Visited 7.9.13

ST5278255227

Directions:
Directly opposite Whitestown Farm, near the B3134/B3371 junction.

We parked outside the farm and it took a little while to spot the Barrow.
It is immediately behind the hedgerow running alongside the road. It was difficult to see through the hedge at this time of year. I couldn’t see any obvious access into the field. It appears the southern edge of the Barrow has been cut through by the hedge / road. It is now no more than a low grass ‘bump’.

E.H. state:
A bowl barrow located on level ground 20m NW of Whitestown Farm. It is visible as a mound 19m in diameter and 1.75m high at its highest point. The barrow has been spread by past cultivation on all but its southern side where it has been partly levelled by road construction’.

Visited 7.9.13

Directions:
Either side of the B3134, a little south of the B3371 turn off.

There is a public right of way both sides of the road running right past both sets of Barrows – via wooden stiles. There is also a handy lay by to pull into so access is very easy.

The Barrows on the northern side of the road are well defined and easy to spot as large grass covered mounds. 3 are next to each other and the 4th is the other side of the hedge.

The Barrows to the south of the road (my O/S map shows 4 Barrows) are less well defined and appear as a row of undulating grass covered mounds.
Not as impressive as the northern Barrows.

There is a further single Barrow a short distance to the south next to a building but I couldn’t spot that one.

E.H. has nothing to report.

Visited 7.9.13

After looking for any signs of the damage to Priddy Circles I crossed the road and jumped over the metal field gate opposite.

From the gate you can see the remains of 8 Barrows along the brow of the hill.
They appear to be of various size and condition.

I didn’t have time to walk to the top and look back to see if you can get a better view of the Priddy Circles? Perhaps the trees would be in the way?

This is a place I would like to return to one day when I have more time and as well as getting a closer look at the Ash Hill Barrows continue walking south and take in Priddy Nine Barrows on North Hill as well.

Visited 7.9.13

With all the attention this site (quite rightly) has received lately due to the unnecessary damage caused I just had to stop off and have a look for myself.

For a B road the B3135 was very busy but we managed to pull over in front of the metal field gate which gives access to the field where the southern circle is.

There is no public right of way into the field and given the recent publicity I would imagine that visitors would be made less than welcome. However, I decided the best approach would be to try to get some height and see what can be seen? I climbed to the top of the gate and balanced myself as I looked for any signs of damage etc.

On the plus side I couldn’t see any bulldozer damage but on the negative side I couldn’t see much of any banking either – except for a section on the north eastern side? The field is quite overgrown and it is difficult to tell what is what.

If this was the section that has been destroyed it would explain why there was little to see and nature has covered up signs of destruction. Either that or the section I was looking at had already been ploughed out / eroded. Unfortunately, looking at aerial photos I think I was viewing the destroyed section?

Either way there is sadly very little left to be seen of the southern circle.

P.S.
I forgot to look for the ‘tumulus’ marked on my O/S map which is located right next to the road, nearer the house. A modern stone wall has been built along this section of road so it may not be possible to see from the road?

Visited 7.9.13

Directions:
From the A362/B3139/A366 junction near the village of Kilmersdon (said to be the location of the hill Jack and Jill fell down – yes, I also visited that!) take the A362 south and then the first turning on the right. Drive past the farm on your left and you will shortly come to a metal field gate (also on the left) with a large tree trunk placed in front of it. Park here and the camp/enclosure can be seen from the gate.

I climbed over the gate and across the field of long wet grass. The field was free of crop and animals when I visited. Although quite low, only approx 0.5m high, the curving arc of the remains of the bank can be quite easily seen.

Apparently the enclosure covers an area of 0.37 acre. The entrance is said to be on the northeast side.

Not a great deal to see and certainly not worth travelling any distance for although on the plus side access is very easy.

Failed visit 7.9.13

Directions:
Located to the east of the village of Timsbury on the B3115.
Immediately behind Tunley Farm.

Although my O/S showed a public right of way next to the farm from the B3115, in reality it doesn’t exist. In fact all you are confronted with is a stone wall.

Instead we drove up the minor road next to the farm and parked next to the public footpath sign a little way north of the farm. The problem this time was that I was confronted by a field full of head high corn. Not wishing to cause any damage I decided not to go this way. I walked back down the lane to see if there was any other point of access but there is only a large private farm/building yard.

I would imagine the best bet would be to ask permission at the farm as a ‘sneak visit’ appears to be out of the question.

Driving back down the B3115 I looked up to see (what I guess) is the southern side of the Hillfort covered in trees on the brow of the hill

Visited 7.9.13

On Thursday night Dafydd’s older sister returned home from a holiday in Spain. Giving out the presents she had bought she presented Dafydd with a box. Inside was a head light. Now I guess this wouldn’t appeal to most 5 year olds but Dafydd thought it was a great gift.

‘You can use it when you are going in those tunnels with your dad’ Danielle stated.
‘They are not tunnels; they are burial chambers’ Dafydd helpfully replied.

So, come Saturday, where to go so he can try out his new light? Looking at the map I decided it was time a re-visit to Stoney Littleton was in order.

This time we approached via the car park, across the bridge, and up the hill. The adjacent farm now sells ice creams from a little wooden hut which pleased the children immensely. The last time I visited Stoney Littleton was from the lane to the north – the muddiest walk I have ever done, before or after. The walk from the car park was a much more pleasant experience.

We arrived at the Long Barrow and another family were already there. They had clearly already been inside and were chatting outside the entrance. They also had a young boy about Dafydd’s age who was very chatty.

Myself, Dafydd and Sophie headed into the tomb with Dafydd taking the lead with his new light. I had almost forgotten just how wonderful this site is. I headed for the end of the passageway and sat quietly whilst Dafydd and Sophie explored the side chambers.

At this point the young lad came into the passageway with his head light and started chatting to Dafydd (they were comparing notes on their head lights). Dafydd then proceeded to give the boy an explain to the boy what the side chambers were for and where the bones were put. He also suggested that if they kept quiet and shone their lights into the gaps between the stones they may see fairies. I have no idea where he got this notion from but it kept the two of them busy for a short while.

We eventually emerged from the tomb and headed back down the hillside. The other family joined us the children raced each other through the fields and towards the ice cream hut.
All in all a very good visit to what is without doubt an excellent site.

If you have never had the pleasure of Stoney Littleton do yourself a favour and get here as soon as you can. You won’t be disappointed.
Ravenfeather’s previous notes describe a visit better than I can.

Visited 1.8.13

After spending an enjoyable couple of hours in Tobermory (home of the legendary Balamory – Sophie was beside herself with excitement!) it was time for a spot of ‘old stoning’. Whilst in Tobermory we visited the small but excellent museum on the harbour front – free to get in but as it is run by volunteers they request a donation, which I was more than happy to provide. There was a fair bit of prehistoric items on display in glass cabinets (bits of flint / pot etc) and the free information leaflet includes details of the standing stones and how to find them. The leaflet also refers to the visit Time Team made to the island several years ago.

We drove the short distance out of town and parked in the pottery car park. The gang stayed in the car as it had just started to drizzle and I headed up the lane towards the stones on my own. This is the first (and probably only) time I have ever walked up a path made entirely of scallop shells!

The walk was pleasant enough and before long I reached the stile giving access to the field in which the stones stand. As has been previously mentioned there are two stones still standing and a third fallen – all three of an impressive size. Due the to weather I can’t really comment on the views but I am sure they are decent in fine weather?

As I headed back down the path a coach load of people were heading up to the stones escorted by their tour guide. He stopped me and asked for directions which I was happy to do. He also asked if the stones were Pictish? I explained they were a lot older than that. He seemed quite excited passing this information onto the foreign tourists!

These are cracking stones to visit and very accessible, even if you are only on Mull for a couple of hours on a day trip via the Oban / Tobermory ferry. It wouldn’t take long to walk from the ferry terminal although the hill up to the pottery is quite steep.

Visited 29.8.13

Directions:
From the junction of the A494 / A5, take the A494 south west.
Then take the first turning left (south) after the B4402 turn off.
The ‘settlement’ is on the top of the hill on your right, just before the trees.
There is a passing place you can park opposite the metal field gate which gives access to the site.

I hopped over the gate and walked up the hill towards the top. It is a rough grass area and soon a low curving bank can be seen in front of a hedgerow. It is about 1m high and as far as I could see was the only surviving part of the ‘settlement’.

There was another (open) gate I walked through in order to walk around the summit and enjoy the wonderful views. The area was covered in thistles and the nervous sheep darted in all directions as I strolled around.

After satisfying myself that there was nothing else to see I strolled back down the hill to the car. Just as I reached the lane a Land Rover complete with barking dogs drove past me and pulled in at the gate I had just climbed over. ‘Oh ho’ I thought to myself.

‘Was that you up there just now?’ asked the not very happy farmer jumping out of vehicle.
‘Yes’ I replied (there was no point denying it.
‘I saw the sheep being frightened and saw you walking about on top’
‘Yes’ I explained ‘I was looking at the settlement/hillort’ (showing him my notes/map of the place. ‘I hope you don’t mind but I didn’t know who to ask for permission and I was only looking around. There are great views from the top’ I semi-grovelled.
‘Yes’ he agreed. ‘We have to be careful because there is a lot of theft going on these days, sheep rustling etc’
‘Fair comment’ I thought

After a pause and looking at my paperwork the farmer mellowed a fair bit (although I suspect he was still far from being a happy bunny!) and told me about the Cadw visits he has from time to time. He also confirmed that the bit of banking I saw was the only part left to see.

We deprated in a semi-friendly manner and I headed off to the other sites I had on my list. If you are planning a visit (in all honesty this isn’t somewhere I would recommend anyway) it would be wise to seek permission first!

Although marked as settlement on the O/S map, Coflein have it as a Hillfort. This is what they have to say:
‘An oval hillfort, approx 68m by 75m, defined by a bank, ditch and counterscarp. A house-platform and associated structures/enclosures impinge on the southern rampart and appear to be later’.

Visited 29.8.13

My last site of the day and what a great place to finish with!

The weather had been glorious and I was eager to watch the sun go down from this stone circle, high in the hills – who wouldn’t?

I took the turning east, off the B4401, just north of Llanrillo, and headed up the lane. Where the lane forked I made the mistake of continuing to drive up hill instead of parking. The lane soon became a narrow rough track but there was nowhere to turn and I was committed to keep on driving. The track was very steep and I had to continue in 1st gear only. At the top of the track I was confronted by a closed metal field gate which I had no choice but to open and drive through. I decided to leave the car parked here (there was no one about this time of day) and continue uphill on foot.

I then came to another closed gate which had a warning notice attached stating that this was a SSI area and that motor vehicles were prohibited beyond this point. This made me feel a bit better about where I had left my car further down hill. The circle was still not visible so I made my way up to the highest point, over to my left. As I approached the top of the hill – there it was, a small but perfectly formed stone circle.

I first walked around the outside of the circle (anti-clockwise as usual) and then walked around the inside, studying each stone in turn. In the centre of the circle was a depression and a couple of large flat stones lying on the grass. They seemed to by overlying the cist – presumably to protect it? Either way, they made for a good place to sit. The circle consists of about 40 stones and is approximately 10m across.

It really was a beautiful evening and I sat and admired the views up and down the valley. The sun was starting to set behind the distant hills, silhouetting them against the reddening sky. All was quiet except for the bleating of the sheep and the chirping of birds. A bird of prey glided silently overhead. Nothing more than the faintest of breezes.
Bliss would be a good word to use to describe how I felt. I couldn’t have wished to have been anywhere else.

This is a fantastic site and has to be a ‘must see’ when in the area. It reminded me very much of a mini Castlerigg – I can give it no higher compliment. Like Castlerigg the distant hills seemed to form a natural amphitheatre. When the ancients chose this site they knew what they were doing. ‘Primitive man’ indeed!!!!!!!!

After the sun had set I made my way back to the car, opened the gate, and carefully drove back to the main road. All was well with the world – my world at least!

If you do get the chance please pay Moel ty Uchaf a visit but best to park at the first fork in the road. There is ample room there but it will require a fairly long and steep walk to reach the circle. You will think it well worth it!

P.S.
After arriving home I looked at Burl’s book (page 179) to see what he had to say.
Burl mentions an outlying stone to the NNE and the remains of a Cairn 80 yards to the south – neither of which I knew about or spotted. I was too entranced with the stone circle!

Visited 29.8.13

Directions:
From Coed y Bedo standing stone continue north along the very narrow (and very steep) lane. After about 1 mile you will pass Rhydywernen Farm. Once you have passed the farm look down into the field far below and you will see a pile of stones – this is the Cairn!

I opted to view the Cairn from the roadside (nowhere to park) as a closer look would have meant driving to the farm and asking permission. Coflein didn’t sound too promising so I didn’t bother.

The countryside around here is fantastic; unfortunately what is left to see of the Cairn isn’t. One for the very keen only.

Coflein states:
‘Irregular pile of stones, partly derived from recent field clearance, partly robbed. Cist alleged c 1900’

Visited 29.8.13

Directions:
On the eastern side of a narrow road, north of the A494, shortly before the B442 turn off (when driving east along the A494).
The stone is in a field near Ysgubor Fawr Farm.

Although the standing stone is visible from the road, a public right of way gives access across the field to the stone – although there is no sign of any ‘path’ on the ground. There is a public footpath sign pointing the way though.

Access is over a metal gate (at the top of the farm drive) and make your way as best you can across a bogy field of spiky grass. I wouldn’t fancy crossing this field in the middle of winter.

The stone is of a decent size and its texture reminded me of the bark on a tree, all textured and gnarled.

A good stone in a nice location and well worth a visit when in the area.

Visited 29.8.13

Time was short as I was desperate to get to Moel ty Uchaf to watch the sun go down so instead of doing what would have been best – to ask permission at the farm for a proper look around – I settled for a view from the roadside.

The stones nearest the road laying flat) looked huge.
I am sure if the stones were re-erected it would be an impressive sight.
Definitely one to re-visit next time I am up this way – which hopefully won’t be too long.

Burl notes – possibly, originally a free-standing stone circle. Consisting of 22 stones – 55ft across. The cairn may have been added later which stands to a height of 1m.

Visited 29.8.13

What a great site to visit this is!

I left Karen and the children in the caravan early evening in order to get out and do a bit of ‘old stoning’. It was a lovely late summer’s evening and the sun was shining through the trees as I drove along the narrow lanes. The minor roads around here are particularly narrow with few passing places. Luckily I seemed to be the only one out and about! The scenery is beautiful and with the sun shining and empty roads it felt like being in one of those car adverts. You know, the ones where you are the only person in the country driving around!

As I approached the site I passed loads of pheasants that were scurrying around. I am surprised I don’t see more of these birds squashed on the road than I do as they have absolutely no sense at all.

The tomb is easily seen from the road and it is easy to park next to the field fence.
There is a handy stile into the field so access is not a problem.
Several cows were standing guard over the tomb but they moved away as I approached.

The first thing I noticed were the ribbons tied to the lower branches of the tree nearest Branas Uchaf – they look like they have been there for some time. Then of course there is the tomb itself. There are two large stones still standing and several large stones lying flat on the ground. The footprint of the tomb can quite easily be made out as a small rise.

This is a beautiful location (especially on an evening like today) and a place I can thoroughly recommend. If you happen to be in the area, do yourself a favour and visit this lovely place.

Visited 29.8.13

Tan-y-Coed is just about visible from the road – if you know where to look
(clue – look for it behind the stone wall!)

There is just about room to squeeze one car in at the field gate. I walked down the track and as Postie states the Cairn is now nowhere to be seen.
You have to get right up next to it (or walk in the opposite direction) to be able to see it.

Once you have located the Cairn the first thing to strike you is the size of the capstone – it is massive! This is one of those sites where I suspect the Cairn was constructed where they found the erratic they used as the capstone as opposed to dragging the stone here from somewhere else.

The one end of the stone is slightly raised (about 1ft) and the gap has been filled in with loose stones – perhaps to keep animals out?
Most of the Cairn (approx 1m high x 30m long) is covered with nettles.

It is well worth visiting this site to not only see the size of the capstone but also appreciate the wonderful surrounding countryside.

Visited 30.8.13

After spending several hours on the beach in the lovely town of Barmouth (despite the drizzle) we ‘happened’ to be driving past this fine site on our way up to Harlech and its great castle (well worth visiting).

Well, I just had to pop in and say hello – didn’t I?

The others sat in the car and I headed up the lane and through the kissing gate.

Everything was just as I remembered although perhaps a little smaller?
I had the place to myself and was delighted to observe that not one piece of litter was to be seen – despite this being a well know site just off the main road. In fact, at all the sites I visited over the 3 days of my mini-break in North Wales I didn’t see one item of litter. Any North Wallians reading this can hold their heads up with pride – you obviously respect your past.

Are you listening South Wales?

Visited 28.8.13

Directions:
From Tyfos Kerbed Cairn continue north along the very narrow minor road.
The ‘mound’ is behind a couple of large private buildings and cannot be seen from the road.

Although the O/S map shows a public footpath to the east of the ‘mound’, past the buildings, I could see no trace of it on the ground.

I chanced my arm and jumped over the wooden gate and (as quietly as I could) walked down the rough track through the trees and towards the buildings. I have to say I felt uneasy the whole time and I was clearly somewhere I shouldn’t have been. I continued down the track until I came to a large garden brick wall. At this point I turned chicken and retraced my steps as quick as I could.

If you do plan to visit this site I would strongly suggest you ask permission at the houses.

Coflein states:
‘A circular mound set on the edge of a river terrace, 14m in diameter and 2m high, with kerbing on the E side. Set in a landscaped garden / park’.