CARL

Visited 28.8.13

Directions:
When travelling north along the B4518, take the turning right in the centre of Pant-y-dwr. A short distance along this minor road you will see a small wood on your left.
The Barrow is located on top of the hill at the edge of the trees – eastern side.

I parked on the verge and made my way up through the trees towards the top of the hill. This way avoided the need to climb over some of the barbed wire fences you would need to if you ascend the hill through the fields.
The going is not easy and on a few occasions I had to battle my way through the undergrowth / bushes etc. The going does get a bit easier the higher you climb.

Near the top I had to climb over one barbed wire fence to get into the field where the Barrow resides. The Barrow is a grass covered mound – easy to spot.

All was quiet at the Barrow except for the bleating sheep who didn’t seem to mind my intrusion. Two red kites hovered silently overhead – they really are beautiful birds.
The sun was shining and there were fabulous views to be had across the countryside.
This really is a beautiful part of Wales.

Well worth the effort if you happen to be in the area and are reasonably mobile.

Coflein states:
‘A round barrow, 23m in diameter and 1.8m high, set upon a local summit’.

Viewed from roadside 28.8.13

The Barrow was easy enough to spot amongst the trees, next to buildings.
You would need to ask permission for a closer look as a ‘sneak visit’ would be out of the question.

I didn’t have the time to look for someone to ask to a view from the road it was.

Visited 28.8.13

The Barrow on the western side of the road is easy enough to spot as a rough ‘mound’. It is right next to the road – the other side of a fence.

The Barrow on the eastern side is a lot more difficult to spot. I think I saw it as a low ‘bump’ in the field – approximately 1m high x 10m across. It is opposite a barn full of horses and has been cut in half by a field hedge.
If this was the Barrow of course?

Visited 28.8.13

Like Postie I decided to approach the Barrows from the south even though I entered Staylittle from the north.

Using Postie’s numbering system (if I have read it right!) I saw the following Barrows:
(I have added Coflein info for each of these Barrows)

First up was Barrow 7 – easily seen from the side of the road.
Coflein calls this Barrow 5 and states: ‘SN87459087 – a circular mound, 20m in diameter and 1.6m high, bearing the scar of its opening in 1909’.

Next was Barrow 6 – a shortish walk up the hill and easily seen amid the cut down trees. Good views from here.
Coflein calls this Clap Mawr Barrow and states:
‘SN88089157 – a circular mound, 20m in diameter and 1.6m high, one of several similar monuments in the Penfforddlas area that have been trenched, with unspecified human bones and weapons being found’.

As you continue north and enter Staylittle there is a Barrow on the left next to a building. Coflein calls this Llwyn-y-Gog Barrow and states:
‘SN87709204 – a circular mound, 29.5m in diameter and 1.9m high’.

Barrow 5, on the opposite side of the road is recorded as Forest Lodge Barrow. Again, this is easily seen from the road. Coflein states:
‘SN88009199 – a sub-circular mound, 22m by 16m and 1.8m high’.

The last two Barrows 1 and 2 are funnily enough also recorded on Coflein as Barrow 1 and 2! There is room to park next to the gate and a fairly short walk brings you next to both Barrows. It is a pleasant walk and recommended. Decent views from the Barrows. Coflein states:
‘Barrow 2 – SN87739230 – a mutilated, sub-circular mound, 22m by 16m and 1.8m high. Barrow 1 – SN87819236 – a circular mound, 17m in diameter and 1.2m high. Excavation in 1903 produced an urn and a five year old cow burial’.

So there we have it. Hope this makes sense?
As Postie states, this is a hidden gem of a place and one well worth exploring when in the area.

Visited 29.8.13

I didn’t realise I had been here before!

Anyway, ee parked at the field gate and I had a quick look at the large stones acting as gate posts. I then climbed over the gate and walked up the hill towards Caer Caradog. It is only a short walk and isn’t too steep.

It was a pleasant late summer’s evening and all was quiet except for the bleating of the sheep. Just a hint of a breeze to keep you cool. and the sun popping in and out of the clouds.

The bank/ditch is pretty well preserved and I took a gentle stroll all the way around the Hillfort. From the inside the bank is about 1 metre high / about 3 metres from the bottom of the ditch. I startled a few rabbits on the way around.

There are wonderful views to be had. I also had a look at the large boulder in the northern ditch – I wonder how it ended up there?

When I got back to the car Karen said that the people living in Pen-y-Gaer Farm had come out to see what we were doing but went back in without saying anything. I don’t know if they own the land but there is a public right of way to the eastern side of the Hillfort but (technically speaking) not all around the site.

In reality there is no sign of a footpath on the ground and I wandered around regardless.
It’s not as if I was doing any harm after all………

Well worth a visit when in this part of the world.

Visited 30.8.13

As with Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant one to seek out when visiting the famous waterfall a short distance to the north.

The easiest point of access is to take the B4396 turning off the B4580.
This takes you to the north of the standing stone and a metal field gate (the stone is easily seen from here – next to the hedgerow). Hop over the gate and it is only a short walk to the stone.

A public right of way crosses the field but not via the gate.
When I visited it was late afternoon and the field was empty so it wasn’t a problem.

I realised when I visited that I had seen this standing stone before several years ago as a ‘drive by’ after visiting the waterfall.

Surprised no-one has posted field notes before?

Visited 30.8.13

Despite being about 3 metres high and standing right next to the road I nearly missed this first time of looking. The reason is that it is right next to a lamp post on a sharp bend in the road. It is actually next to a house called Gwnfa, if that is any help?

It is nice when ‘old stones’ survive in such (relatively) build up areas.

Well worth a look when visiting the nearby famous (and spectacular) waterfall.

Visited 30.7.13

Directions:
From Torrin take the B8083 west. After about 3 miles the road bends around the top of the loch. There is a large area you can park. From the parking area follow the ‘path’ north towards Loch na Sguabaidh – a stream will be on your left. Within a few minutes you will see Clach Oscar directly in front of you. Can’t miss it.

Clach Oscar is a large erratic approximately 1m square, covered in lichen and moss.
It appears that the 3 large pieces were originally all part of the same stone?

The stone is certainly worth visiting for the walk and views which are fantastic.
When the weather is kind (as it is today) this is an unbelievably scenic place to visit.

Directions:
A short distance south of St Paul’s Epistle.
Access is via a public right of way (over a gate) into a field of sheep.

I spotted this on my O/S map but could find no reference to it by E.H.

The Barrow is barely, and I mean barely, visible as very slight bump cut in half by a wire field fence. I would put it as approximately 0.1m high. It requires the ‘eye of faith’ – assuming it was the Barrow I was looking at!

Whereas St Paul’s Epistle is worth visiting – this one isn’t.

Visited 24.8.13

Very easy to see right next to the minor road.
Tree covered at a prominent location with great views to the east

Nice one.

Visited 24.8.13

My last site of the day.

After parking next to a field gate I approached from the north along the Cotswold Way. This was not ideal as there is a stone wall and barbed wire fence to scale from the path into the required field. It is much easier to climb over the metal field gate and walk diagonally across the field to the Barrow. You can actually just about see the Barrow from the gate as a patch of rough, scruffy ground next to far hedgerow.

The Barrow is pretty mangled with the centre hollowed out. It looks like a nettled covered doughnut. Lots of small stones were sticking out of the grass showing how the Barrow was constructed.

Not much to recommend a visit I am afraid to say.

Visited 24.8.13

Marked on my map as ‘settlement’ which I would say is a more accurate description, given its location in a fairly flat area which would offer little protection to attack.

You can drive all the way to the site but the road becomes rougher the closer you get. In hindsight it would have been better to park near the phone box (a little to the east) and walked up the road.

‘An electric fence’ noted Karen.
‘A wooden gate’ I replied.
60 seconds later I was checking the southern bank out whilst Karen was turning the car around.

The surviving banks that I saw (southern and western) ranged from being completely ploughed out to about 2m in height.
I didn’t have time to look at the condition of the other two sides of this rectangular enclosure.

The banks are exposed in places and you could easily see how they were constructed of the local Cotswold stone. Not much to add really.

Worth a look when in the area. Watch out for the electric fence!

Visited 24.8.13

Directions:
From Bishops’s Cleeve (not much there) take the minor road north to Gotherington. From Gotheringto follow the signs east for Dixton. The Hillfort is to the north of Dixton House, east of Manor Farm.

I chose to opt for access via the Goucestershire Way (approaching from the east). You can park next to the metal field gate where the road turns sharply to the right. The sun was shining and the air was still. A pleasant walk across the field and then through another gate. At this point the ground starts to rise as you head towards the trees. If you want to go blackberry picking, this is the place for you!

I followed the path uphill and it was apparent there was no way through the chest high nettles and masses of brambles – particularly when wearing shorts. I then came across a newly cut path through the nettles to my right; so I followed it hoping for the best.
I then came to a padlocked rusty gate and jumped over it. This brought me out into the trees and a very steep climb – but few nettles. I scrambled my way up the bare slope but on several occasions had to use the trees to pull myself up it was so steep. This was not easy as all the trees seemed to be hawthorns and the spikes were sticking into me. Eventually I got to the top but was confronted by a ‘sea of nettles’, chest high and no way through. The entire top of the Hillfort (open field) appeared to be covered in nettles. This was as far as I was going today.

I didn’t have time to try the other approach, via Manor Farm to the west, but I would imagine you would have hit the same problem with the nettles? No wonder no-one has added fieldnotes to this site before!
If you are planning to come I would suggest a winter visit, approaching from the west.
The approach I took was a difficult climb up the steep hill and I wouldn’t fancy attempting it in the winter. Not sure there is actually anything to see though?

Visited 30.7.13

We actually visited Uig the day before and hadn’t planned a return trip but Sophie had left her cuddly rabbit in the shop so a return trip it had to be! (luckily we managed to get the rabbit back all safe and well) The plus point for me was that it gave me a second chance to visit the standing stone. I did keep an eye out for it yesterday but couldn’t see it. This time, as we left Uig heading south along the A87 I caught a glimpse of it – that was all the encouragement I needed!

There is a parking area on the main road (opposite) and a quick hop over a field gate.
Walk up a rough track, then over a fence, jump over a stream, over another fence and you are there – up close and personal!

The stone is approximately 1.5m high and covered in white lichen.
It is a good spot for a standing stone with fantastic views over Uig and Loch Snizort.

I am so glad I had a second opportunity to pay a visit – thanks Mr Rabbit!

Visited 28.7.13

Directions:
Travelling north along the A87 you come to Broadford. Nearly opposite the turn off (left) for the B8083 there is a minor road on the right. Turn here and the Chambered Cairn is right next to a house (on the left).

The Chambered Cairn is a large mound covered in trees, brambles and long grass.
It is right next to a house and I would guess permission for a closer look my be sought there? I didn’t bother as it would have been a battle to get through the brambles and I doubt you would have seen much anyway? I wonder if the capstone is still there?

Canmore states:
‘A Hebridean type chambered cairn, heavily robbed, although it is still a large, steep-sided, grass-covered mound bearing trees. It measures 77ft by 13ft in height. The capstone of the chamber, said to have been broken in 1832, still leans against the base of the mound on the N side. It is 8ft long, 5ft wide and 1ft thick’. 1972.

p.s – no ice cream I am afraid TSC :(

Visited 30.7.13

Directions:
Travelling north along the A87 you come to Broadford. Take the turn off (left) for the B8083. Drive past An Sithean Chambered Cairn (after stopping for a look of course) and continue along the B8083. after a couple of miles you will come to a ruined church on your right.
There is plenty of room to park.

I couldn’t make out anything that looked definitely like a ruined stone circle.
There were lots of stones sticking up out of the grass but what was natural and what (if any) were from a stone circle I have no idea.

The ruined church is very picturesque and several cars stopped while we were there. It has many interesting grave stones and myself, Sophie and Dafydd spent quite a time exploring.

Although I couldn’t recommend a visit to the stone circle I can certainly recommend a visit to the church.

Visited 30.7.13

Directions:
Travelling north along the A87 you come to Broadford. Take the turn off (left) for the B8083. The Chambered Cairn is about 2 miles down the road on the right hand side, just before the road kinks to the left.

The site is easy to spot being next to the road and you can park anywhere on the grass verge. The standing stone is approximately 0.5m x 0.5m. There are 5 large kerb stones remaining.

The views are magnificent. No wonder there is a bench located next to the Cairn.

Well worth a visit when on Skye.

Visited 21.8.13

Directions:
From Merthyr Tydfil take the minor road east at the A4102 / A4060 roundabout. Continue a short distance along this road (opencast workings on your left) and take the first turning on your right along a progressively poor ‘road’. If you have a 4x4 it would be possible to drive all along this ‘road’ and straight to the Cairns. If, like me, you have an ordinary car you can drive as far as the electricity pylons. Then it’s a case of walking south along the ‘road’ until you reach the Cairns.

The O/S map shows that there are many Cairns scattered either side of the road leading across Merthyr Common. There were several ‘lumps and bumps’ I saw which I suspected of being Cairns but there was only one which was definitely the real thing. This was very close to the road (on the left when walking/driving south). It was a small grass covered stone pile, approximately 0.5m high x 5m across, and dug into in the centre. Several Scottish thistles were growing in and around it.

By the time I reached the common (6.30pm) the light was starting to fade so I didn’t have a huge amount of time to go exploring but I could see no other definite Cairns.
What I could see plenty of was of course the local tradition in these parts of fly-tipping.

I have gone on more than once about this and I would love to have not brought up the subject again but it was so bad here that I have to pass comment. I have never been to a site where there was so much rubbish dumped. Along with the usual items there was a mound of tyres, worryingly a pile of asbestos sheets, old kitchen units, masonry, sofa, mattress and the back of an old BT van. Although the van was graffiti and litter strewn it was clearly a popular place to visit judging by the ladies pink thong I found discarded next to it. When I use the term lady or course it is in the loosest possible context. Ironically enough also discarded was a nice leather bound book on early earth history / dinosaurs – now wrecked of course due to the weather. The fact that the people who do this fly-tipping would throw away such a book probably says a lot more about them than I can. I really do despair of people sometimes.

Despite all this there was plenty of wild life. Scabby looking sheep (blended in nicely with the surroundings), cattle with their calves, friendly mountain ponies and several birds of prey. If it wasn’t for the rubbish and open cast mining this would actually be quite a nice place to visit. As it is I am afraid it is am embarrassing eye sore and not to be recommended.

I bet the Cairn builders could ever imagine that their special place would ever end up looking like it does today. Pity for them – shame on us.

Directions:
See directions for Mynydd Aberdare.
Once you have parked follow the edge of the trees south, down the hill, along a rough track and under the electricity pylons. Continue along the track up the opposite hill and through the forestry plantation. The Cairn is easily seen at the junction where several paths meet.
It is a 25 minute walk from where you park your car.

As I approached the forestry there were lots of notices pinned to trees informing walkers that as of October 2012 public access through the plantation is no longer allowed. Apparently Merthyr Council have withdrawn the permissive walkways and bridleways. One particular colourful sign reiterated that the public were not allowed entry. I of course chose to ignore the signs and carry on as planned.

It was quite a pleasant walk through the trees (except for the customary bits of litter lying around) although the track was very wet in places. The Cairn was very easy to spot on the right where the paths meet. Next to the cairn was a large, rusty steel drum.

The Cairn consisted of a large pile of grey stones approximately 0.5m high x 10m in diameter. A small ‘walkers’ shelter’ had been built into it. Why a shelter would be needed in the middle of a forestry plantation is anyone’s guess?

The hole where the cist once was had a pretty little bush growing out of it and a large flat stone discarded on the side of the Cairn could easily have once formed part of the cist?

This was a nice place to visit. There is always something nice about a site surrounded by trees. The trees obviously blocked any views except for a small area to the east where a large track had been cut through the trees.

This site does take a bit of effort to walk to but if you are in the area visiting the other nearby sites then this one is well worth the trouble.

Coflein states:
‘An extensively strewn cairn, 15.9m in diameter and 1.2m high with remains of a possible cist, set on a boundary’.
(source Os495card; SO00SW5)
j.Wiles 22.07.02

Visited 21.8.13

Directions:
Head for Heolgerrig, west of Merthyr Tydfil, off the A470.
Travel through the village and head up the narrow and very steep lane (towards the antennae).
Park next to the transmitter station – at this point the tarmac pretty much ends.

It was with some relief I actually managed to drive to the top of this hill. My poor car ‘old faithful’ had to be put into 1st gear it was so steep. The sight you are confronted with at the top of the hill is awful – fly-tipping everywhere. The road was actually blocked by two old mattresses. Kitchen units, torn open black rubbish bags, vacuum cleaners, toys, litter of all description was dumped in various piles all around. I have said it before and I will say it again, in all my travels around the country there is nowhere and I mean nowhere which comes close to the filth you find at South Wales Valleys sites. There is clearly something which is in the psyche of some of the people who live in this area which makes them think that fly-tipping is ok? Well, if you happen to be reading this (which I very much doubt) it isn’t. You and your sort are a disgrace to humankind. I am not happy.

Rant over; I will now move onto the subject in question i.e. the Cairn on Mynydd Aberdare.
This site had been on my ‘hit list’ for a long time and I was pleased to have finally got here.

I jumped over the metal gate at the bottom of the transmitter station and walked up the track. At the back of the station I jumped over the double barbed wire fence and managed to cut my knee of the barbed wire. You cannot see the Cairn from here but the trick is to look west for an old wooden post. Once you reach the post the Cairn can be seen, a short distance to the north. In total a 5 minute walk from the car.

The Cairn is pretty good actually. It is a large pile of grey stones (guarded by sheep) and occupies a prominent position with extensive views. I couldn’t see any sign of the cist. It looks as though it must have been covered over to protect it?

I sat a while and imagined the rubbish gone, the houses had not been built and how the area must have looked when the Cairn was first built. This would have been a nice spot. Before long low, black, threatening rain clouds started to blow in over the horizon – time to move on.

On the way back I walked outside of the transmitter station and was pleased to see there was a gate I could hop over back to the road. No need to risk my legs again!

All in all this is a good Cairn to visit, despite the disgraceful surroundings.

We parked at the burial ground and I left the others in the car (it was raining – again) while I headed up the hill opposite.

The Cairn is not visible from the road but soon comes into view as you reach the higher ground.

The Cairn is approximately 1m high x 15m across and is afforded great views.

Visited 29.7.13

Directions:
East of the A855 about 2 miles north of Portree.
There is parking available at the side of the road.

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

The Dun/Fort is close to the road but you do have to climb over a barbed wire fence and cross a small stream to get to it. Luckily it hadn’t been raining too much so the water levels were quite low and it wasn’t too difficult to cross. Then it is a short but steep walk up to the site.

There were lots of large boulders scattered about but best of all was stone walling still standing to a height of about 1.5m – on the western side.

There are also great views to be had south towards Portree and best of all, north towards the Old Man of Storr which could be clearly seen.

I nice bit of Dun walling to see and great views – well worth the effort!

Visited 29.7.13

Best place to park is near the turn off and a quick hop over the fence and you are up close and personal with the standing stone. Not that there is much in the way of standing. The stone is little more than a square stone sticking out the heather.

Just to the north of the stone is a Cairn. This can be easily seen as a heather covered mound.

Not much else to say really.

Visited 29.7.13

We parked on the grass verge and Karen stayed in the car with the children as I climbed over the field gate and headed out across the field towards the stones (easily seen from the roadside). I obviously wasn’t the first person to visit the stones today as there were clear foot prints in the long green grass.

The stones were covered in white and yellow lichen and have great loch side views.
Both stones are approximately 1.5m high. The RHS stone has a large boulder next to it.

The weather was warm, cloudy but still. The water was calm and the birds were singing.
This was a good place to be. Well recommended.

Visited 29.7.13

We parked in the parking area opposite the turning for Keistle.
The Cairn is easily seen from the road as a large mound of stones covered in heather.

I headed in a straight line for the Cairn – big mistake!
The ground was very, very boggy and it was very hard going. The grass and heather was up to my chest and on more than one occasion I stepped straight into deep, mucky black water.
Luckily I was wearing my new boots for the first time and am pleased to report they passed their first test with flying colours – my feet stayed dry – for a change!

If visiting this Cairn make sure to approach from the left hand side as the ground in this direction was a lot drier.

I eventually reached my target and what an impressive Cairn this is.
From the top you can appreciate its location and the surrounding fields of purple heather was very pretty to look at – although not good to walk through!

This site is definitely worth stopping off for when in the area.
If it has been raining at all make sure you wear your boots.

Visited 29.7.13

This is a great site to visit and access couldn’t be easier.
Park in the car park (complete with info board) and a short walk brings you to the Souterrain.
Next to the Souterrain is a sign which states this is the site of a roundhouse but to be honest if the sign didn’t tell you, you wouldn’t know it was there!

Dafydd and Sophie joined me whilst Karen opted to stay in the car. There was only one hard hat at the entrance (no torch) which I gave to Dafydd. Sophie was short enough not to need it and I guess I don’t matter – despite hitting my head a few times! The children went ahead of me as they had the two head lights while I grouped in the dark behind them.

A short distance in we were met by a large puddle which Sophie happily splashed through (she had Peppa Pig wellies on) but Dafydd had to turn back as he didn’t. I now used Dafydd’s light and squelched through the puddle/mud.

This is an excellent Souterrain to explore and despite the obviously reconstructed bits, and the small window inserted at the far end, it shows off the builders skills to good affect.
There is a small side chamber on the left hand at the beginning of the passageway.
The information board states the Souterrain is 17m long x 1.5m high.

As we exited a man was waiting to go in and I offered him Dafydd’s light so he could have a look around himself. This involved Dafydd instructing the man on what he should and shouldn’t do when entering the Souterrain. The man nodded patiently and thanked him for the advice!

This is an excellent place to visit and I would say is a ‘must see’ when on Skye.

Visited 19.8.13

Directions:
A short distance north west of the village of Ystradowen, off the A4222

I parked on the grass verge outside Ash Hall and battled my way through the chest high ferns and brambles to get to the public footpath wooden stile. Once over the stile it is only a short uphill walk to the site.

The site consists of a shallow bank and ditch – about 0.5m deep – semi-circular.

The enclosure occupies a surprisingly prominent position in the fairly flat countryside and offers good views to the south and east.

There’s not much to see in all honesty but with blue skies, warm sun, no wind and dry underfoot I enjoyed my short visit here.

Coflein has nothing to say about the site other than having it recorded as a ‘defended enclosure’.

Visited 19.7.13

This is one of those sites where, although I had been before, I always felt I had ‘unfinished business’ with. The last time I visited I was still new to visiting sites and I didn’t have the benefit of an O/S map. As a result I made the mistake of approaching the Hillfort from the south (no public right of way) and was worried about being spotted by someone in the farm opposite so I didn’t hang around long.
This was something I had wanted to put right ever since. Today was the day!

Going straight from work I drove through Rhiwsaeson and parked next to a field fate to the east of the Hillfort. There is a public right of way from this point via a kissing gate (Glamorgan Ridgeway Walk) which runs slightly to the north of the site.

I got out of the car and realised I had left my boots home. Luckily my wellies were in the car so problem solved. Through the gate I was met by a flock of sheep that were quite nervous of me. I reassured the sheep I meant no harm but it didn’t convince them and they soon scattered.

After a long day stuck in the office it felt good to back in the countryside once again. The sky was blue and there wasn’t a hint of wind. The sun felt warm on my back as I strolled up the hill. No fences/barbed wire or farmers to negotiate – this is the life!

I soon arrived at the outer ramparts and strolled clock-wise around the Hillfort. All was peaceful except the bleating of the sheep. I spotted several large stones scattered around the perimeter, one looked like a standing stone but no doubt it isn’t. There are good views to be had in all directions. Far below me I could see the busy roads full with rush hour traffic – boy was I glad to be here and not there. I even managed to pick my first blackberry – yes, it was sour!

Upon reaching the northern edge of the Hillfort I noticed a narrow track that had been made through the ferns by the sheep leading down the hill. They had worn away the grass and beneath the surface could be seen the banks of stones making up the ramparts. The inner ditch/rampart was about 2m deep and the outer ditch/rampart about 3m deep.

By the time I returned to the car all the stresses of the day were behind me. I guess I am lucky in that I am able to de-stress simply by taking a walk in the country. Some people have to resort to other, more harmful, ways. Not wishing to sound judgemental but I am sure my way would be preferential?

Caerau Hillfort is a good place to visit and comes highly recommended.

Visited 19.8.13

Directions:
On the outskirts of Llanharry; north of the pretty market town of Cowbridge.
The Barrow is in a field adjacent to the Fox and Hounds pub. Parking is available either in the pub or in a lay by next to the field gate giving access to the field.

I thought I had visited all the Barrows in the Vale but somehow I missed this one until I spotted it on an O/S map I recently purchased. Time to put that right!

It was a pleasant late summers evening and I was able to hop over the rusty gate and walk over to Barrow without getting wet – for a change. The Barrow is actually easily visible from the gate if you would rather not trespass.

For this part of the world the Barrow is large and in good condition. It is approximately 1m high x 25m across. The field was in pasture with no animals present so access was no problem.

When I reached the Barrow I noticed the remains of a small brick building and some sort of concrete ‘box’ structure which had been built into the eastern side of the Barrow.

As I said, the Barrow is a good one and well worth a quick look when in the area.

Visited 29.7.13

Directions:
To the east of the main A87 heading north to Uig – in Kingsburgh.
You can park next to the field gate which gives access to the old quarry.

I hopped over the gate and squelched my way along the muddy track leading past a few farm sheds and nervous sheep. I then started the steep climb up to the Fort. This also involved getting over a few barbed wire fences.

A large section of the rock outcrop had been quarried away and at one point this meant I had to carefully walk across a ridge no more than 1m wide with a vertical 10m drop either side. Thinking back I guess this was a little dodgy!

Upon reaching the Fort the remains of a collapsed stone wall could be seen on the eastern side. Also, what appeared to be the remains of 3 hut circles could be made out within the Fort – which was a nice bonus.

The Fort is not large but very defensible. There are good views to be had.

If you do plan to visit this site please take care as it is quite dangerous.

Another fort (Dun Adhamh) is a little further to the south but I didn’t have the opportunity to investigate – there is only so long you can expect people to sit in a car for you!

Canmore states:
‘On Creag nam Mean are the remains of a stone-walled fort. An irregular oval plan measuring 170ft in length by 82ft in breadth at its widest part. It has been defended by a stone wall practically obliterated on the W flank and appearing as a tumbled mass of stones 2ft high on the opposite side. Immediately within the outer defence is a hut circle 13ft in diameter abutting on the inside of the wall and there are traces of two impinging hut circles further W. Within the fort are 3 more circular stone huts and in the SW are indications of two large curvilinear enclosures’.

View from the P.O.

Directions:
In the middle of a field, west of the A87, on the outskirts of Uig.

After visiting the nearby ‘Faerie Glen’ we parked outside the Post Office on the main road and the Cairn could be easily seen in the fields beyond. It is next to a metal shed and some trees. It is seen as an area of rough ground covered in tall grass and bushes. Several bits of old farm machinery were left next to the Cairn.
If it were not for the trees there would be good views out across Uig Bay.

Canmore states:
‘On the brow of a sharp dip in the low-lying ground at the head of Uig Bay, is a cairn of stones of irregular outline overgrown with grass. It measures 54ft by 48ft and rises 5ft above the higher ground to the E and 12ft above the low ground to the W. There is a large depression on the top of the cairn and the surface has been considerably disturbed in places.’

Visited 29.7.13

Directions:
To the east of the A850 / A87 junction.
Right next to the minor road.

The two taller stones are about 5ft high. The smaller standing stone is about 2ft high.
Between the two taller stones I noticed the stump of another standing stone?

All the stones were covered in lichen.
Good views to the south.

Worth a quick look when in the area.

Visited 28.7.13

Ah! – another Historic Scotland site ticked off the list. And a Broch at that!

I had been looking forward to visiting this Broch and despite the foul weather I wasn’t disappointed. After parking in the large car park it is a short walk uphill to the Broch.

The walls are standing up to 2m I places and the Broch occupies a prominent position. In better weather it would offer superb views over Skye and out to sea (but not today).
A small section of the internal stairway survives so is a ‘must do’.

Not as in good condition as the (relatively nearby) Glen Elg Brochs but it has a better view and is well worth a visit when holidaying on Skye.

Skye, the ‘misty Isle’ – they got that bit right!

Visited 28.7.13

Directions:
Park in the car park for the Coral Beaches (personally I didn’t think they were worth the effort of the long walk, although seeing a herd of cows on the beach was a novelty!) Walk up the track opposite the car park and then over the metal field gate which was locked and had barbed wire looped over it. Once you have negotiated that, keep on the track and do the same at the next locked/barbed wire gate. The 3rd gate had neither a lock nor barbed wire (I guess the owner probably thought you would have given up by that point. But he didn’t reckon on a determined TMAer!).
Continue on track until it curves to the right and you will see a tiny ‘ravine’ on the left. The Souterrain is the other side of the ‘ravine’ and is NOT visible from the track.
It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the car park to the Souterrain.

Upon locating the Souterrain the next tricky bit was to get inside. The entrance is very small and I had to ‘command crawl’ on my belly in the mud to get into the chamber. Once past the narrow entrance it opens us a bit and I was able to waddle, which is just as well as it was very wet and muddy inside. The passageway is about 3ft high x 2ft wide – no good if you are claustrophobic!

I had got about 8 metres in and as I was starting to admire the excellent stonework the batteries in my head light started to fail. (Spares back at the car) Slowly but surely my light grew dimmer and dimmer. I was just about able to note that the end of the chamber seemed to curve upward and grow narrower. Soon it was completely dark except from the light from the entrance. It was time to gingerly make my way out.

I crawled back out into the bright light and noticed a lot of animal droppings on the floor – luckily no one was home!

This is an excellent site to visit and if you are able to get over the fences and crawl into a narrow passageway (and don’t mind getting muddy) this is well worth the effort.

I was really pleased to have seen this one.

Visited 28.7.13

Directions:
Head for Edinbane (A850) and park near the Lodge Hotel. The Cairn is in the field (north of the road) opposite a sign for a campsite. Access is over a field gate and a short walk along a rough track.

Our first day on Skye produced rain and mist; something we had to get used to on our visit! Luckily this site is only a short walk from the road and the Cairn is easy enough to spot.

The Cairn is a good one to visit. It sits in a field of sheep and spiky grass and is next to a stream. Good views are to be had out across the loch. Although the Cairn is disturbed and grass covered, the outer ring of kerb stones are in good condition and are easily visible.

Well worth a visit when on Skye.

Canmore states:
‘The cairn is situated on the W side of a kink in an unnamed burn, 40m NNE of the Portree road. It measures 19m in diameter and stands 1.2m in height’.

Visited 28.7.13

Directions:
From the more famous Vatten Cairns (A863) take the narrow minor road south and park as best you can near the farm (on your left). Walk up the road until you reach the brow of the hill and hop over the metal field gate on your right.
Head for the highest point and the Cairn will soon come into view.

Despite the heavier rain and descending mist this was well worth getting (even more) wet for. The Cairn now consists of a low circle of stones although the central cist is in good order despite the missing capstone. Foxgloves were growing out of the centre of the cist which seems appropriate somehow.

On a clear day there would be great coastal views. The nearby Vatten Cairns were visible on the horizon.

All in all a good little Cairn to say hello to and well worth the small detour when visiting the ‘must see’ Vatten Cairns.

Visited 28.7.13

These are two very large Cairns, close to the road, and well worth visiting.
They were much bigger than I was expecting.

The northern Cairn is in better condition although its southern counterpart has the better views. Due to the rain / mist the views were somewhat curtailed.

Access is via a metal field gate and across a bogy field. All went well until I stepped into a hole and my right leg fully disappeared into the ground. There I was ‘sat’ on the wet grass in the rain – with a leg covered in black ‘bog water – such is the life of a TMAer!

Once I had regained my composure (and leg) I carried on to the Cairns and slipped and slithered to the top over the wet heavily moss covered stones.

I didn’t stay long due to the weather and a car full of people who had had enough for one day!

Visited 28.7.13

It is a long drive north off the A850 / B886 along an increasingly bumpy minor road to arrive at Trumpan and its ruined church. In saying that I do like an old ruined church and this one doesn’t disappoint. The graveyard itself is clearly well maintained.

It took a little while to find the stone (I had at first walked past it) and it is located near the entrance to the graveyard (on the right if memory serves). My O/S map refers to it as the Priest’s Stone. It is about 1.5m high and has a crack running through it in which many coins had been wedged. The hole in the stone doesn’t go all the way through and is actually quite small.

I am sorry to report that I failed the ‘finger test’ so I had better make the most of my time on earth as it doesn’t appear I have much else to look forward to!

I also spotted an old stone which looked like it must have been the font. That too had coins placed in it.

This part of Skye reminded me very much of being on Orkney. Even the headstones had the ‘hairy moss’ so prevalent on the Scottish Isles. This is a great spot for a graveyard with cracking coastal views (despite the rain/mist).
There are a lot worse places to be laid to rest, that’s for sure.

Visited 26.7.13

Directions:
After visiting the two famous Brochs near Glenelg take the rough, minor road north towards the ferry terminal. Shortly before arriving at the terminal the two Cairns can be easily seen in a field on your right at the centre of the bay.

Two large Cairns next to each other. One was crowded with sheep whilst the other only had one sheep on it – perhaps he was ‘Billy (the goat) no mates’!!

Access to the Cairns is via the usual barbed wire fence and across a field of spiky grass; but you can get a good look at them from the road if you prefer. There are good coastal views to be had and when originally built these Cairns would have been very prominent to passing seafarers. Which I guess was the intention?

Not really worth the visit unless you were heading this way to catch the ferry to Skye.
I didn’t have the time or opportunity to have a look for the nearby cup-marked stone.

Canmore states:
‘The remains of two cairns on the brink of a raised beach. The eastern one is a turf covered stony mound 11m in diameter and 1.5m high. The centre appears to be intact. The other cairn is now a mutilated turf covered stony mound 16m in diameter and 1m high. The area is still traditionally known as a burial ground’.

‘A cup-marked stone, with some of the cups connected by channels is situated a little NW of the cairns. It is a large slab of natural rock by the side of a small hazel wood on the right of where a gate crosses the road to Kyle Rhea. At the base of the rock are at least 12 small, shallow cup-marks, one pair joined together in a barbell shape, and 5 grooves, approx 6inches long’.

Visited 26.7.13

We parked at the farm and noticed a hand made sign stating that the Broch was a 1km walk up a track. Karen stayed in the car while I, Dafydd and Sophie headed towards our goal. Sophie enjoyed herself splashing in the puddles and chasing the sheep whilst Dafydd was taking notice of the various items of farm machinery.

The track was fairly level but a bit rough. Low clouds hung over the mountains in this picturesque valley. The river gurgled away making its way to the sea in Glenelg Bay.
It was a very atmospheric walk, something Scotland excels in – no wonder I love this country so much.

As has been said, the Broch is in not as good condition as its more famous counterparts but is still worth the small amount of effort required.

The walk also takes in some wonderful scenery.

Visited 26.7.13

It had started to drizzle (in the Highlands this counts as being dry!) and we stopped the car on the rough, narrow road near Balvraid Farm. The others sat in the car while in the car while I hopped over the barbed wire fence to get a close up of the Cairn.

The remains are impressive and well worth a look when visiting the nearby more famous Brochs. There is a large capstone held up by 3 stones while a further two stones have fallen.
The whole Cairn is sat on a mound about 10m in diameter.

As with the other sites in the area good views abound.

Visited 26.7.13

Despite its size we managed to actually drive past the Broch before I spotted it while exploring its ‘twin’ up the road. There is a parking space and information board. Access is via a wooden gate and short path.

The half of the walling still standing is very impressive – pity the other side is gone.
However, enough remains to give you a good idea of how substantial these Brochs were when first built. (Doubt my house will look so good in 2,000 years time!)

You can walk a short way up the internal staircase which is an added bonus..

It is a long old drive along a narrow, twisting and often poorly surfaced road to get to these Brochs off the main A87 but in my opinion well worth it.
An easier route would be via the ferry from Skye if you happen to be on holiday there.

Visited 26.7.13

Not quite as impressive as its near neighbour but certainly worth a visit just the same.

There is room to park and a short but steepish walk will soon bring you to the Broch’s doorway. As with Dun Telve there are internal stairs you can walk up which is fun.
The walls are not as high as Dun Telve but still a decent height.

‘The best preserved Brochs on mainland Scotland’ the information panel proclaims.
I wouldn’t disagree as the only better ones I have seen have been on the Scottish Islands.

That’s another two Historic Scotland sites off the list.
All in all well worth the long drive out of our way (at least I thought so!)

If visiting the Brochs check out the ‘Wagon Café’ opposite Dun Troddan.
Definitely the most unusual café I have ever been to!
Is there a more unlikely place to find a café?

Visited 10.8.13

‘Be careful what you wish for – it may come true’ as someone one said.
Well, this was a point in case.

A couple of days ago I was up in these parts visiting the Cairns around Llyn Fawr. I was hoping to also visit the Cairns on Hirwaun Common but run out of time.
‘Wish I had more time, don’t know when I will be up here again?’ thought I.
Two days later here I am.

Following a less than successful visit the Brecon Beacons mountain centre (on the grounds I had left my money home and I couldn’t buy any food, drink or (most importantly) ice creams by card as they ‘don’t get a signal’ we headed home with two unhappy children, one unhappy driver (no latte for Karen) and me hoping for a quick look for the Cairns I missed a couple of days ago.

Somewhat reluctantly Karen agreed to my request and we soon pulled into the viewpoint described previously. The burger/ice cream van was still there but this only made things worse as he was sure not to take cards! Sophie had thankfully fallen asleep and Dafydd (still in a strop following the lack of ice cream) decided to stay in the car and not come with me – something I was later very thankful for.

‘I won’t be long’ I optimistically said as I headed down the road towards the common.
‘I won’t need my boots as it will only be an easy walk across the common’ I added.
How wrong could I be?

Hoping over rust field gate I followed the edge of the trees as this would give me the most direct route to the Cairn marked on my O/S map (Craig-Y-Bwlch). I soon discovered why even the sheep were keeping out of this part of the common!

Despite it being a dry summer and the last couple of weeks in particular had been good weather the ground became more and more boggy the further I walked. I could see that normally this field would be little more than a swamp. The grass was growing on top of ‘mounds’ which stood about a foot higher than the floor level – no doubt this would normally be a foot of water. Still, not too bad, even if my trainers were starting to take a bit of a battering and the ground got wetter and muddier.

SPLAT! – my right leg sunk up to my knee in blackish ‘bog water’ and down I fell – side-on into said ‘bog water’. My notes came out of my pocket and floated on the foul smelling water. My trainer nearly came off as I regained my feet. I was covered.
‘Good grief’ I said to myself (or words to that affect), may as well carry on now.

Onwards I went trying to get to the higher ground where the sheep were. (Who says sheep are daft? – they have more sense than me!). On I trudged, the going getting worse and worse. At times I could barely make any headway. Down again I fell. I was so glad Dafydd stayed in the car. There was no way he could have walked through this and there was no way I could have carried him. This was without doubt the worst walk to any ‘old stone’ site I had ever had the misfortune to endure.

Eventually I made my way to the barbed wire fence and was much relieved to get over it and onto the higher (and much drier) ground. The sheep soon scattered.
By now I was tired, wet, muddy and smelly. I looked for where I thought the Cairn was most likely to be and as luck would have it I chose right.
(Funnily enough on my recent trip to Scotland there were a few occasions when I headed for where I thought a Cairn should be and came up trumps ever time – I must be getting better at this!)

The Cairn is a good one. Only low with nearly all the stones gone but it does have most of the capstone in situ – something you don’t often see. The section of missing capstone is possible the large flat stone dumped on the side of the Cairn? I laid flat on the (dry) grass and peered in under the large grass covered capstone. Nothing to see in the gloom other than some animal droppings. Luckily the culprit wasn’t at home or I am sure we would have both had a fright!

There are cracking views to be had towards the Brecon Beacons and this is a good final resting place. The only thing spoiling it is the large open-cast colliery immediately below – creating a large ‘wound’ into the landscape. The yellow JCBs and lorries were scuttling about.
At least one day they will all be gone and the hillside will ‘heal’ itself.

I didn’t look specifically for the other two Cairns recorded as they did not appear on my O/S map. There was one low ‘mound’ which could have been one of them but there was nothing else obviously ‘Cairn like’.

On my return to the car I decided it would be best to go in a loop, staying on the higher, drier ground, and not the more direct route I had first taken. This proved to be a much better option and although I did have to negotiate one area of bogy ground it was nowhere near as bad as the way I had come – although there was still one barbed wire fence to get over.

As I trudged back to the car Karen’s initial look of annoyance (I had been a lot longer than expected) changed into a big grin as she saw the state of me. Laughter could be heard from the couple in the car I passed. I didn’t say a word. I took my trainers and socks off and put them in the bin – queue more laughter from said couple. I open Karen’s door, ‘you look like you s**t yourself’ she helpingly remarked. Quite.

Despite my misfortunes this Cairn is certainly worth taking the effort to visit. As I said it’s not often you see a capstone in situ and the views are excellent.

Access advice:
Park in the viewpoint car park for Llyn Fawr. Carefully walk north along the busy road (A4061) until you reach the sharp bend to the left. On the right hand side you will see an old rusty field gate with a low dry stone wall to the left of it. Follow the ‘track’ down and cross over the stream. Keep to the left hand side of the fields which is near the cliff face and the driest ground. Keep going and the Cairn will come into view situated on a small high point. DO NOT attempt the more direct route near the trees unless you are some sort of masochist!

Visited 26.7.13

Directions:
Right next to the A890 – just to the north of Auchtertyre.
Parking is available next to site

Not much to report really. The site is a small rock outcrop covered in ferns and heather. Therefore not a lot to see. At least it is easy to get to!

Canmore states:
‘Summounting a rocky knollis the foundation of an oval Dun. It measures 23m by 13m, with an outer wall face visible in the debris for most of the perimeter except in the west where the wall has mostly slipped away. The inner face is nowhere visible but the spread of debris suggests a wall thickness of between 3.5m and 4m. The entrance is not evident but may have been in the west at the easiest approach’.

Visited 8.8.13

Great views of Llyn Fawr can be had from the Craig-Y-Llyn car park viewing point on the A4061.

There is an information board, picnic tables and if you are lucky, a burger/ice cream van!

If you also want to see Llyn Fach you will need to follow the ‘path’ west into the forestry – which also gives great views of Llyn Fawr.

Visited 8.8.13

Karen was out for the evening with her mother and the children had a sleep-over so I had the evening to myself (a rare event). It was cloudy but warm and dry so I wanted to make the most of my ‘opportunity’.

I decided to head up the Rhigos – that mountain road which is sure to close at the first sign of any wintry weather – although that was something I didn’t need to worry about today. I had my map and boots in the car so straight from work I headed west.

Although the distance from Newport isn’t that great you do have to contend with not only the ‘rush hour’ but also the narrow, twisting roads of the former mining villages you have to drive through. Tonyrefail, Penygraig, Tonypandy, Trelaw, Treorchy and Treherbert – names to conjure with but not greatest of places to drive through.

The road climbs higher and higher but eventually I arrive safe and well at the Craig y Llyn car park – complete with burger van, picnic tables and an information board which includes details of the Lyn Fawr Hoard. I also notice at least 15 crosses to (presumably) local people who again (presumably) have had their ashes scattered upon this view point. I read the inscriptions one by one and felt a little sad. The views from this vantage point are tremendous and you can see why people may want their ashes to be here. This leads me on to the whole point of my visit; to have a look at very much older final resting places of locals.
See, some things never change – what’s a good spot now was a good spot then.

I walked back along the edge of the surprisingly busy road (A4061) and the headed west along the ‘footpath’ towards the forestry plantation. The path skirts the edge of a long drop down towards Llyn Fawr – affording great views of both the lake and the countryside. The trees on the eastern edge of the forestry (as shown on my O/S map) have now been cut down and they only start shortly before I reach my first target of the evening – Garn Fach.

Garn Fach
I searched and searched for this Cairn but to no avail – despite it being right next to the track. ‘Topped by a modern stone pile 1.7m high’ – not even I could fail to spot that, despite the trees. The pile of stones are no longer there and as for the location of the Cairn? – your guess is as good as mine. I simply couldn’t find any trace of it and I know I was in the right place. Perhaps a tree is now growing on top of it?

I continued west along the rough path to reach target number 2 – Y Foel Chwern
This path by the way is called cylchoedd-a-dolenni (loops and links)

Y Foel Chwern
This Cairn was a lot easier to spot; mainly because of the painted sawn-off telegraph pole which now more of a yellow colour. The Cairn is covered in heather and a young fir tree is growing out of the top. There are many large stones sticking out of the surface. There would no doubt be good views if it weren’t for the trees all around.

A little further west brought me to my third target – Craig-Y-Pant

Craig-Y-Pant
This is no more than a low grass covered mound surrounded by trees. If you didn’t know it was there you would walk straight past none the wiser. Little else to report.

Finally it was time to head for my fourth (and final) target – Carn Foesen

Carn Foesen
I walked back to the spot where Garn Fach Cairn is supposed to be and then south along the track. You first pass an ornate metal sign/post (National Cycle Network) and you then soon come to the small cast iron boundary post and the adjacent Cairn.
The Cairn (for a change) was easy to spot and consisted of a low mound of grey stones with the centre hollowed out. What this does do is show the clear outline of where the cist is/was although it is now full of stones and I was unable to identify any edging stones of the cist itself.

I then turned my attention to the memorial to little Willy Llewellyn. I realised I had been here before, several years ago, before Dafydd was born. The memorial was covered in ‘gifts’ – teddies, toys, coins etc. I added a sweet for what it was worth (although it felt right to leave something). I am not a particularly emotional person (ask Karen!) but I was deeply moved when reading the epitaph. I can’t even begin to imagine how a small child of Willy’s age could have got out here? The terror he must have gone through and I didn’t even want to think about how things ended for him. Willy was only 5, the same age as Dafydd, perhaps that’s why it affected me so much. It may sound strange but I couldn’t bear to stay here very long.

I continued south along the track before heading east, back to the car park, via a road used by the forestry lorries. The first time I came here I actually drove up this road to park a lot closer to the Cairn/Memorial – although I doubt I was supposed to! In reality (at this time of day) there would be nothing to stop you driving up the forestry road as it does not have a barrier preventing access and the road is well made.

All in all there isn’t a lot to recommend in visiting these Cairns. It is a fair old walk from the car park, along rough paths, and the Cairns aren’t much to shout about.
I would suggest it would be better to stop at the car park, have a cuppa and a burger, and enjoy the great views out towards the Brecon Beacons and below over Llyn Fawr.

I had intended to also visit the nearby Craig-Y-Bwlch Cairns but once again time got the better of me. One for next time……………….

Visited 25.7.13

We parked in the car park next to the village hall and while Karen and the children enjoyed an ice cream (Orkney ice cream at that!) I headed across the road to visit this small Hillfort. Upon crossing the road I noticed someone had erected a large ‘modern’ stone circle which was nice to see – traditions and all that.

Access was a bit difficult as I had to jump a barbed wire fence before fighting my way up the steep slope through chest high ferns. The easiest way to the top if from the western slope where there is a bit less vegetation and not as steep.

Upon reaching the summit the views are simply stunning. In one direction the mountains of Glen Coe and in the other the magnificent views out onto the Loch Leven. I could see no trace of the Hillfort (ferns could possibly be hiding something?).
A couple of rusty metal rings were inserted into the rock to presumably once have held a flag pole / beacon etc at some point?

Despite being small and very close to the road this isn’t the easiest site to access but well worth the effort for the views.

This is certainly a beautiful part of the world.

Visited 31.7.13

Directions:
Just above the beach at Armadale Bay – next to where the ferry leaves from Skye to the Scottish Mainland.

Karen went for her customary latte and a wander around the shops while I took the children for a play on the beach whilst we waited for the ferry.

The Barrow is very easy to spot (centrally positioned above the beach) and would have been a prominent feature to the ancient sea farers.
These days the Barrow is covered in brambles, long grass and a large tree.

Well worth a look if you are ever here for the ferry or for a look around the excellent photographic shop/gallery of Grumpy George!

‘A view from the roadside’ 31.7.13

Spotted this Dun on the O/S map and as we were heading down the A851 to catch the ferry at Armadale I thought it was worth a quick look. We pulled in a convenient lay-by.

I had intended to try to actually visit the site but it immediately became apparent that it would take quite a time to battle through the trees to attempt this – if indeed it was possible at all? There is no public right of way to the Dun.

From the beach it would be impossible unless you happen to be Spider-Man.
The cliffs are vertical and high. The site itself didn’t look to be that big so I guess that over the years the promontory has been eroded by the sea and when first built the site would have been a lot bigger?