CARL

Visited 29.7.15

Directions:
Signposted off the B7021. Park at the farm – 50p!

Myself and Sophie walked through the muddy farm yard whilst the others stayed in the car. Sophie had wellies on so she was ok! Two signs direct you to the rock art so finding it wasn’t a problem. The problem is the mud. The field you have to walk through is inhabited by a herd of cows who have turned the bottom end of the field into a bog – which you have to walk through to get to the site.

However, once through, the walk to the two fenced off areas was not too bad – as long as you managed to avoid the cow pats! The fenced off area to the left is the smaller of the two and (for a welcome change) the bright sunshine made the cup and circles difficult to make out. This was the same problem we had in the larger section of rock on the right. I could make the markings out but not very well. Unfortunately I didn’t have any water with me to wet them. These are not the most impressive rock art I have seen (certainly when compared with Kilmartin) but let’s be honest, any rock art which has survived this long has to be appreciated.

The Historic Scotland sign is very badly worn and weathered. Can we have a new one please?

On the way back to the car one particularly nosey cow came right up to us and started to chew my shorts and t-shirt. I didn’t want to scare Sophie but I had to push it away a couple of times before it left us alone. Cows are not the brightest creatures but they are big so you do have to take care. The way back was equally muddy.

Worth visiting but make sure you bring your wellies.

Visited 29.7.15

Just to keep Postie happy I came to visit the next and egg(s). Oh OK I admit it – I was coming anyway!

There is plenty of room to park at the start of the drive to Blairbuy Farm. The approach road is in good condition so don’t worry about the suspension etc.

The others stayed in the car whilst I walked through the open metal field gate, around the edge of the empty field and across to the obvious stones and ‘nest’. The large boulder is approximately 2m across and the smaller boulders less than 1m across. Both of the smaller stones were surrounded by nettles.

I was surprised to find an Historic Scotland sign next to the trees. Although this site shows on the AA map it isn’t on the ‘official’ Historic Scotland places to visit list. Perhaps it once used to?

Anyway, as Postie says, this is a good place to visit and well worth the minimal effort required to reach it. Assuming you happen to be in this part of the world of course!

Failed visit 29.7.15

Sections of the wall opposite the houses are now very overgrown. Other sections are clear of vegetation. I assume the standing stone is somewhere under one of the overgrown sections as I was unable to spot it?
A spot of gardening required here I would say!

Visited 29.7.15

Directions:
On the A747, 1 mile west of Monreith. Is signposted and has a small car park. 89 steep steps take you from the car park to the top of the cliff.

There are two info boards, one in the car park and one at the fort itself. Myself, Dafydd and Sophie walked up the steps and were soon at the top. As you would expect there are fine coastal views to be had. The site is D shaped and the surrounding ditch is still 2m deep in places.

Well worth stopping off for when passing.
Historic Scotland site.

Visited 29.7.15

In the associated museum next to Whithorn Priory (Historic Scotland) is a selection of early Christian crosses. Also on display is a fine Bullaun stone. It has one well defined hollow and is near the entrance. The only information the lady at the museum could give me was that it was found locally.

Visited 28.7.15

Directions:
South of the A77 along a minor road at Garleffin – a short distance south of the village of Ballantrae.

The stones are easy to spot in the garden of the end bungalow. One stone is in the front lawn, the larger stone is along the side of the house. The stones are approximately 1.5m high and 0.5m wide. The tops of the grey stones are covered in moss. The stones are very easy to see from the road outside the house.

Failed visit 28.7.15

Directions:
West of Sandhead along a minor road off the B7042.
O/S map required. Near Whirlpool Farm.

In short, I failed to find this fallen stone. The field edges are overgrown and I was unsure which field edge to look in? The fields are separated by dry stone walls.

Canmore state:
An irregular shaped slab measuring 0.7m x 0.4m x 1.3m long. There are no cup marks on the stone. The stone now lies fallen, near the edge of a field.

Visited 28.7.15

Directions:
In the Rhinns of Galloway, 2 miles south west of Sandhead, on the A716.

There is room to park outside the gate which gives access to the pretty path through the trees to the church. This is an Historic Scotland site which holds a  fine selection of early christian grave stones. The church is not open but one end of it has been changed into a huge glass display case! These are where the stones are displayed. It is actually very well done.

Among the stones on display is a bullan stone with three cups – which was a nice surprise. Well worth a visit if you happen to be in the area.

Visited 27.7.15

Directions:
1m south of Blackwater on the A841 – NOT signposted despite being an Historic Scotland site.

Another nightmare site to visit!

We drove past the parking area twice before finding the place. It is right next to the main road but is surrounded by a low stone wall which hides it. It looks for all the world like the front of someone’s garden. I then noticed that the metal post which no doubt held the H.S. sign had been cut through. At least there were black and white posts to guide the way.

You walk through the garden of a new-build looking house and up onto the hillside. As a certain song asks ‘Why does it always rain on me?’ so the rain continued its onslaught.

This was even worse to visit than the nearby H.S. of Tor A’chaisteal Fort. The hillside was little more than a bog, water flowed freely down the slope. Everywhere was ankle deep in mud. If only I had my wellies!

Without the aid of the black and white posts I would never have found the place.

Historic Scotland state this site is an ‘enigma’. A circular stone structure surrounded by a wall of turf and stone. The site is imperfectly understood. A short cist was discovered containing an urn with fragments of burnt human bone. It is also claimed that the site could be a cashel. Current thinking says the site is an Iron Age Dun with an enclosure bank which formed part of a post-medieval farm. Perhaps it is a multi-period site?

There are several large stones, both erect and prostrate. One of them is very long, looking like a long stone bench. It would have been a decent sized standing stone if ever erect? The site (whatever it is) is in a very prominent position and would afford good views – in better weather!

On this occasion I am not overly surprised that these are the first TMA field notes – despite being an Historic Scotland site. If planning a visit pick a dry day AND bring your wellies.

I will be sending H.S. an e-mail regarding access issues with both this site and Torr A’chaisteal.

Visited 27.7.15

Directions:
The site is signposted on the A841, four miles north of Blackwaterfoot. Parking is tricky but there is just about room to squeeze onto the verge near the house.

The others stayed in the car out of the persistent rain whilst I walked through the garden of the house and through a wooden gate. This led into a field of wheat. I walked down the side of the field and came to a barbed wire fence and rusty gate.

Into the next field of curious cows who immediately came charging over to me. This could be disconcerting for a lot of people but I had been in this position many times before and knew that they would stop just before me (at least I hoped they would!) This they did and with much mooing they followed me to the end of the field. From this point the ground became little more than bog (where have you heard that before?!) I sank ankle deep in cow pat splattered slime and mud. I wish I had brought my wellies on holiday this year!

Despite being an Historic Scotland site there were none of the usual black and white posts to guide you. Just keep heading down hill towards the sea and you will see it.

There is an Historic Scotland information board which seemed out of character given how un-visitor friendly it was to get here. Although only a 15 minute walk, H.S. could make this far easier for visitors. Your average day-tripper would have no chance of getting here. I am surprised these are the first TMA field notes though.

The fort consists of a large, flat topped grass mound. It looked very much like a Norman motte. The site dominated the surrounding countryside and would have been very visible to anyone passing by sea.

That’s another H.S. site ticked off the list. Now, for that yucky walk/squelch back to the car.

Visited 27.7.15

What a nightmare this turned out to be!

For the second consecutive day the rain came down, down, down. I was still a bit damp from yesterday’s exploring. First effort to find this circle failed but I was determined to give it one more go before it was time to leave this lovely (from the birts I could see through the rain and mist) island.

Look out for the sign on the opposite side of the road for Cnod Na Dial forestry. You can easily park opposite this sign in a large graveled area. From this parking area a track goes off into the trees and a wooden sign offers you a couple of different route options. Ignore all of these – they don’t go to the circle.

This is what you need to do: Either-
Walk back to the road, turn right and walk about 50m and crash your way through the chest high ferns and undergrowth and hope you can see the tops of the stones -or-
From the parking area crash your way through the head high ferns and undergrowth aiming for an angle between the parking space and the road and hope you can see the tops of the stones.

How can a stone circle so close to the road be so difficult to find? It is not visible from either the road or the parking are even though it is only a matter of yards away.

On the way to the circle I went via the parking are – big mistake. The ferns were mega high (I noticed several large prostrate stones covered in moss. For a moment I thought the circle had been destroyed!) and the way was hard going. As the ground dropped down I walked into a bog and sank shin deep in blackish water. This whole area was pretty much under water. Too late now. I carried on. Just as I was on the verge of giving up I spotted the top of a large boulder-type stone – success!

The circle is on a low ridge so at least it was out of the water – other than the torrential rain falling. The circle is totally grown over and clearly has not been visited or looked after in a very long time. I counted 6 stones of various sizes, all boulder-type stones. The mist and rain certainly increased the atmosphere but tide and ferry time tables wait for no man (or woman for that matter).

There was no way I was going back the way I came so I headed straight for the road (which you can’t see due to the undergrowth and trees). I battled my way through and although very wet underfoot was nowhere near as bad as the way I had come. By the time I got back to the car I did a little dance and splashed about in the puddles and rain (much to the amusement of the children and the disbelief of Karen) I couldn’t be any wetter.

Whilst waiting for the ferry I had the good fortune to watch two otters on the beach. One in the water and the other running around the rocks. The ignored me. Apparently there are loads of otters on Arran (as well as red squirrels – which I didn’t see) and they are a common sight all around the island.

Arran is a lovely place to visit and my stay was all too short. Most of the sites I visited were short distances from the road but most had a sense of wilderness about them. Pretty much left to look after themselves. Normally this wouldn’t be such a bad thing but given the appalling weather it made most visits very wet and muddy.

I will definitely visit Arran again. There is so much to see, I barely scratched the surface. Hopefully the next time I come I may see the sun – and a red squirrel (apparently they don’t like the rain either!)

Visited 27.7.15

There is a parking space pretty much next to the stone (same side of road). The stone is large, approximately 3m (2.5 wheelie bins!) Two of which (black and green) were being guarded by this impressive stone. I wonder what the ancients would have thought? At least it is still with us, and will be long after the last wheelie bin has been collected.

Visited 26.7.15

Am I really the first TMAer to visit Machrie Moor stone circles in a decade? It doesn’t seem possible.

Where to start? – at the begining I suppose?

The weather was awful, alternating between light showers and heavy rain, with just the occasional dry patch designed to lure you into a false sense of security! The others stayed in the sign posted car park as I headed up the track to the many delights of Machrie Moor. ‘I won’t be long’ – famous last words!

it takes about half an hour to walk from the car park to the stone circles – depending on how long to stop to look at the other sites along the way.

The first circle you come to is the double circle made up of large boulder-type stones. This is a real ‘wow’ moment when you first see it. Most of the stones remain and it is very impressive. It looked to me the circle was erected on a low stony mound?

The second circle you see is smaller and made up of four large boulder-type stones which are surrounded by ferns. Bit of gardening required here I think. This is a nice circle in its own right but totally dwarfed by its near neighbors.

The third circle is a mind-blower. It consists of 3 HUGE standing stones, approximately 4m high, and two very strange large flat round stones, like large flat mill stones. What are they about? I have never seen stones like this before at any prehistoric site I have ever visited – and I have been to a few. Are they prehistoric? If so, they must be unique? Very strange indeed. The 3 standing stones are incredible. It reminded me of being back on Orkney – they are that good. When complete this circle must have been awe inspiring.

The fourth circle consists of 12 stones. Alternating between large round boulder-type stones and smaller thin stones. A bit like the Laurel and Hardy of the prehistoric world. This was obviously deliberate and I can’t remember visiting any other circle with this arrangement?

The fifth circle consists of 10 small stones. Half of the circle was standing in water – bog-type conditions. This was the only circle it was difficult to walk around due to the ‘swamp’ – although I gave it a go!

Lastly, circle number six. This circle consists of a couple of very tall standing stones and one monster-sized stone. It is exceptional in its height and beauty. Like most of the stones here it has grooves worn into it by countless rains and is covered with hairy lichen. Near it is several very large fallen prostrate stones. I can’t even imagine how good this stone circle must have looked when first erected.

Despite the awful weather, this site blew me away. The setting of the distant hills, the number and quality of the sites here is incredible. This is in the A list of prehistoric sites. I would put it up there with Avebury, Kilmartin, Orkney and Callanish. It is that good. These notes are no doubt doing it a disservice.

Due to the weather and the fact I was conscious of the others waiting patiently n the car I was only able to give Machrie Moor the briefest of visits. It deserves so much more. A full day here would not be unreasonable. When I got back to the car it was pointed out I had been gone two hours! Machrie Moor is that type of place. Save your pennies, sell the family heir looms, do what it takes but catch the ferry to the lovely island of Arran and visit this special place. It really is something special.

Visited 26.7.15

Since Hob’s visit the bracken has been removed from around the remains of this cairn and it is easy to see on the right of the path leading to the stone circles. It is only a short detour. Access is via a wooden stile.

The standing stone is large, weathered (grooved) and covered in hairy lichen. There are also several other large stones remaining from this once (no doubt) impressive tomb.

Of the people ‘oot and aboot’ today I was the only one to come ans say ‘hello’ to this fine standing stone – which is a shame. It is well worth the very short walk to get to it. Another nice stone in this fantastic place.

Visited 26.7.15

This is the first site you come to when walking up the path from the car park towards the famous stone circles. It is an Historic Scotland site and as such has metal railings around it and an information board. It is a 15 minute walk from the car park – about the half way point to the stone circles.

There are several large kerb stones still in place and the large, low, grass covered stony mound is clear to see. The cairn is in a lovely setting with mountains in the distance. If this cairn was anywhere else it would get a lot more attention than it does here. The draw of the stone circles move people on far too quickly.

This is a very nice site.

Visited 26.7.15

The stone is easily seen (on your right) when walking back from the circles towards the car park. There is no path to the stone and you have to jump over a low fence to get to it.

Although ignored by the other visitors today this is a fine stone with excellent sea views. Like most of the stones on Machrie Moor it is grooved by thousands of years of rain. The stone is approximately 1.5m high.

Hob will be pleased tp know that the wooden fence surrounding the memorial has already fallen to bits!

This stone is well worth checking out when visiting the more famous stone circles. It is only a short walk from the main track.

Visited 26.7.15

The path to the stone circles takes you past the remains of this chambered cairn. It is to the immediate right of the path. It is impossible to miss – although everyone else out today walked past it without giving it a second glance!

Although there are only two stones remaining they are large. The end stone is approximately 1m square whilst the side stone is about 1m x 2m long. They sit on a long low mound of grassed over stones, approximately 3m wide x 10m long.

There’s not much left, but what there is is nice.

Visited 26.7.15

Directions:
Driving north on the B842 take the turning on the right signposted cemetery. The road is rough, particularly considering where it leads. Park at the turning to the left where the road leads down to the cemetery and the farm. You can see the chambered tomb from here. It is right next to the graveyard – very apt!

Myself and Dafydd walked down the road and through a rusty gate. Karen stayed in the car with Sophie – who was asleep. Access to the field where the remains of the chamber is via a second metal gate. The field is overgrown but the site is a good one. The standing stone is approximately 2m high. A large prostrate stone lies next to it, along with several other large stones. The burial chamber is on an obvious raised stony mound about 10m across. The views along the valley are good. The only thing spoiling it are the pylons, but needs must I guess.

Whilst we were here we also had a look around the more modern cemetery. Tow graves caught my eye. The first was of Walter McIntosh who unfortunately drowned at sea in 1911 – a fisherman no doubt? Next to it was a grave to Janet Currie who died in 1916 – whilst at the Post Office we are informed!

This is a good place to come if you happen to be in the area.

Visited 23.7.15

Follow Hamish’s directions.
Access to the site is via a couple of field gates.

As Hamish says, this site is all about the location. The views across the channel to Mull are fantastic. The clear turquoise water, white sand, rose colored rocks and lush green grass is something to behold. Added to this a blue sky and white fluffy clouds – a change from the torrential rain on my last visit!

Cladham Diseirt is overgrown and unloved.

Iona is a special place, somewhere everyone should visit at least once.

Visited 23.7.15

Just to report the Bullaun Stones are now back next to the well. As they appear in the photos.

So all is well at the well :)

Visited 24.7.15

The last time I visited Dafydd was only 1 and Sophie not even a twinkle. Dunadd is a place I had wanted to bring them ever since.

Karen sat in the car while we headed up the short but steep uneven ‘path’ to the summit. We stopped half way up look at the well. We also read all the information boards. I think these are new since my last visit? In saying that it was pouring down then so perhaps I didn’t take so much notice! No such problem today with blue skies and warm sunshine for a change on this otherwise wet Scottish holiday.

What I certainly didn’t notice last time was the boar etched into the stone next to the famous footprint or the Ogham script. Dafydd and Sophie took turns trying their feet for size before we headed back down.

This is a great place to visit with extensive views. Should be on everyone’s ‘must see’ list when visiting the beautiful Kilmartin valley.

Visited 24.7.15

The stone can be seen in the garden of the house next to the car park for the famous fort. It is in the middle of the lawn. What a great garden feature!

Visited 24.7.15

Directions:
Just before you enter the village of Ford – in a field on your left – can’t miss it – it’s a big ‘un.

There is room to squeeze in opposite the field gate. Over said gate and a short walk to the second gate – easy access. The stone is approximately 3m high and covered in hairy lichen. There were several bales of hay near the stone on my visit.

This is a great spot for a standing stone with lovely views all around. Make the effort for the short detour away from the ‘bright lights’ of Kilmartin to say ‘hello’ – you won’t be disappointed.

Visited 24.7.15

Directions:
From Kilmartin take the A186 north. Then take the B840 signposted Ford. The stone is immediately adjacent to the road on the right – can’t miss it.

The broken stone is right next to the road, the other side of a small wall and barbed wire fence. It has a smaller stone next to its front and the large broken section is prostrate on the ground behind.

Worth stopping for if driving along this pretty road.

Visited 25.7.15

Directions:
As previously reported the track you need to take is not the most obvious! Park at the bridge where the A83 crosses the burn. There are 3 houses next to the bridge. Walk north along the A83 and take the first turning on the right. This is a rough track leading up to the metal shed you can see from the road. As you approach the shed the stones will come into view. The stones are not visible from the road. Hope this helps?

We were heading for the Mull of Kintyre (cue much humming!) and were running late – again. However, this is a site I wanted to see and didn’t want to miss the opportunity. When I eventually worked out the correct track to take it is only a short walk from the road. The walk from the nearest parking spot is much farther. You could drive up the track but I don’t know if the farmer would be happy with that?

When I arrived the place was deserted (well, it was a Saturday evening). Access to the field is via a metal gate. Sheep were in the field and I was surprised when one came running over and butted me. Luckily it wasn’t the one with the horns! I gave it a pat and told him/her that I meant no harm and only wanted to see the stones. He/she seemed happy with this and ran off.

The 3 standing stones are very impressive. Tall, straight and covered in hairy lichen. The cist is equally impressive. It is of good size and has all its sides and its capstone – something you don’t often see. The cist is on a low mound of grasses over small boulders.

The views across the sea towards the islands is fantastic – what a sight. A ferry was making its way to Islay I think? The sun shone, the sky was blue, a gentle breeze and the bleet of sheep. Swifts flew overhead. Sounds good? It was! Now for that long walk back to the car and our final destination. All together now – ‘Mull of Kintyre.............‘

T

Visited 22.7.15

Directions:
To the south of Benderloch village. Alongside a private road.

Now, here’s something you don’t see very often in Scotland, a sign which says ‘Private – no entry’. But that is what it says on the sign at the start of the road. (Perhaps the people who live there are originally from southern England :))

Karen parked at the start of the road whilst I duly ignored the sign and walked up the road. The large stone is located in a field to your right near the house.

There is a fort the other side of the house near the shoreline but I didn’t push my luck that far!
The fort is called Dun Sniachan (NM90323822)

Canmore state:
The stone measures 2.1m in height by 1.2m at the base. Local tradition states the stone once formed part of a circle. Two stones were recorded in 1772. Buried stones are said to be burried 60ft south of the stone.

Visited 22.7.15

Directions:
In the school grounds of Benderloch Primary school. Visible from the minor road to Kiel Crofts

The stone is between the school building and the enclosed play ground – next to a bench. Although the original setting of the stone is long gone at least the stone has been preserved within the school. What a great thing to have in your playground! Obviously you need to be careful when you choose to visit the stone, school hours could be a problem – use a bit of sense!

In the trees behind the school (in the location of a destroyed stone circle) I found a large,prostrate, moss covered, stone inbedded in the ground. It certainly looked old and was the right size and shape to be a stone from a circle – I wonder?

Canmore state:
The stone at the north end of Benderloch village is 1.5m in height and 1.1m at the base. 1975 (I assume the school hadn’t been built at this point?)

The site of a stone circle lies in arable land between loch Selma and Loch Creran. In a hole nearby there are stones of the circle, some broken. The site of the circle is traceable when thw corn begins to turn yellow, the ring of the circle remains green for a longer period of time. RA Smith 1879

Visited 22.7.15

Directions:
Take the first right (minor road) after crossing the bridge linking Connel with North Connel (over the Falls of Lore). This is the road which leads to Ardchattan Priory (Historic Scotland). The cairn is in a field immediately behind a row of houses.

The rain continued to come down and I tried to work out a way of getting behind the houses that didn’t involve a long walk. In short I couldn’t! However, I think I spotted the cairn in a gap between two houses as a rough grass covered mound.

Canmore state:
A cairn seriously disturbed by stone-robbing and by the construction of a wall which crosses it. It has been further distorted by the dumping of stones from field clearance. It was probably 24m in diameter and its present maximum height is 2.1m.

Visited 22.7.15

Directions:
On the eastern side of the A828 immediately south of Duror (blink and you will miss it!)

There is room to pull over opposite the field where the stone stands. This is near the 30mph sign. Access is via a rusty metal gate and then a second rusty gate (on the left) to get you up close and personal. A short but very muddy walk. There were large puddles next to both gates, not helped by the ever present rain!

This is a magnificent stone, in the middle of a field of sheep. If you happen to be travelling down the A828 (not far from the jaw-dropping beauty of Glen Coe) this is a ‘must see’ stone. I am surprised to see I am the first person to provide field notes? The stone is visible from the road if you prefer.

Canmore state:
One of the most impressive standing stones in Lorn. It measures 3.7m in height and 1.1m by 0.6m at the base, tapering to a point at the top’.

Visited 21.7.15

Directions:
On the western side of the A535, a short distance south of Jodrell Bank, opposite a school.

We parked in the school drive entrance (school was closed) and I carefully crossed the busy road. Unfortunately the field was in crop (wheat) and therefore I was unable to make out any trace of the barrow.

E.H. state:
A bowl barrow 50m south of Jodrell Bank Farm. It is an earthen oval mound 1.3m high by 58m x 40m. In 1977 cremations were exposed during ploughing across the mound.

Visited 21.7.15

Directions:
East of Congleton along minor roads.

The two large upright stones are easy to see from the road and we parked outside the (posh) appropriately named Bridestone House (up for sale if you are interested!) We didn’t park in the lane next to the stones as it gives access to Bridestone Natural Stone suppliers and judging by the amount of mud on the road it sees a lot of use. We didn’t want to risk blocking a lorry etc.

Anyway, I walked up the lane (in the rain) and through the wooden gate. Next to the gate is a prostrate large moss covered stone – is this from the burial chamber? It is certainly large enough to have been?

The site appears to have been restored at some point with one of the large (approx 3 metre) having been cemented back together again. Having said that, the site is certainly impressive and offers fine views west over Congleton and the surrounding low lying area.

I had the place to myself and am glad to report no sign of litter or barking dogs! This is an excellent place to visit and well worth stopping off for when in the area. Pity about the rain!

Visited 21.7.15

Directions:
On the A34 – north of Congleton – can’t miss it!

We parked in the large car park next to the church. From the car park the mound upon which the church is built is very noticeable.

Luckily the church was open and I had a good look around. There are some medieval wall paintings to be seen as well as two worn stone effigies of knights in armor. The leaflet I picked up stated that in the village there is an oak tree which is believed to be 1,200 years old – possibly the oldest in England. Unfortunately we didn’t have time to look for it.

I like an old church and this is a good one.
Well worth stopping off for – particularly given its prehistoric roots.

Visited 21.6.15

Directions:
On the A466, north of Monmouth.

St Weonard’s is only a small village and it is easy to spot the church. We parked outside the church and bought a sunflower from the church’s ‘honesty table’. (That morning we discovered a slug had eaten Sophie’s sunflower she had from school and was very upset so this was a ‘must buy’!) I like ‘honesty tables’ and try to buy from them as much as possible. It restores my faith in humankind. The church is pretty and well worth a look around. There is a 15thC wooden chest and some kind of wooden stretcher which I assume was used for carrying coffins? I like an old church………..

Anyway, onto the Tump. It is easily found, just outside the church, next to the primary school. There is a pavement which runs around the base of it. Two ends have a fence around it (part of someone’s garden?) but the main bit is open from the pavement. It is very large and completely covered in trees, bushes, nettles etc. The sides are steep and the soil loose. When I climbed up the soil was giving way with each step. Due to the trees there is no view to be had but I suspect when the Norman fort was built it would have commanded the surrounding area.

If you happen to be in the area it is well worth stopping off for. I would strongly suggest combining a visit with the not-to-far away Kilpeck Church, with its fantastic carvings and famous Sheela Na Gig.

Visited 25.5.15

Directions:
Just south of the village of Thornborough on the A507. The car park is sign posted.

My last site visit of our weekend away and what a good one it was!

Despite the constant hum of traffic on the very busy A507 this is a pretty place to stop off. Adjacent to the car park is the medieval bridge which the information board state was built in 1400. This crosses a pretty little stream/river which is full of reeds and life. I do like an old bridge – but that’s another story!

Next to this is a wooden kissing gate which gives access to the field where the two barrows reside. They are HUGE. Approximately 5m high x 25m across, and both seem to be in good condition. There was no sign of the tyre tracks previously reported. The information board states the barrows were constructed in approximately 200AD. Other than the sheep and lambs I had the place to myself.

This is a really easy site to access and the barrows are very impressive. The river / bridge is a very pretty setting and well worth stopping off for. The only down side was the rubbish dumped in the car park by some low life or other. An old fridge, wardrobe, microwave etc.
What is wrong with these people? :(

Visited 25.5.15

Directions:
Next to the 3 horse shoes roundabout, near the train station.
Plenty of parking available.

We found the site with surprisingly little difficulty. Karen stayed in the car (Dafydd now watching a DVD on the ancient Greeks whilst Sophie was enjoying Annie).

I first walked up to the (naturally) vandalised information board and read it as best I could. I then headed up the grass bank which is part of the perimeter of the enclosure. Let’s be honest, this is not the nicest of places. The urban sprawl of Luton represents (to me) all that is bad in modern day ‘progress’. It is not a pretty sight.

However, this small oasis does at least provide some respite from the dreariness of the surroundings. The further you walk into the field the better it seems. Car noise is replaced by bird song and (if you try hard enough) you can start to forget about the ‘progress’. At least there was no litter to be seen – which was another surprise.

From the top of the bank you can appreciate what an elevated position this is – IF you can erase the modern buildings etc this would have been a locally prominent location. I was able to trace large sections of the bank across the grass and out of the trees. This would have been a very large area.

There is not a huge amount to see here and to be honest had the site not appeared in Julian’s big orange book the chances are I wouldn’t have gone out of my way to visit. However, this is an important site and as such is worth the effort. I am glad I visited but not a place I am likely to make a return visit.

Visited 24.5.15

Although a little distant from the main group of barrows Earl’s Hill barrow is easy enough to spot. An obvious thing to look for is the metal bench perched on top! It is next to the tee-off for the 18th (350 yards Par 4 – if you are interested).

The view from this large barrow is not as good as the main group due to the large factory / industrial site and new housing estate being built below. On the plus side the sun had finally broken out from behind the clouds and a warm glow of sunshine enveloped me.

I note 12 years have passed since Kammer visited. I would encourage other TMAers not to wait so long to pay a visit.

Visited 24.5.15

Once you arrive at the main group of round barrows the long barrow is easy to spot on the fairway of the adjacent golf course – 18th hole? It is larger than I expected, approximately 2m high x 30m long and looked to be in good condition. I know golf courses are not everyone’s cup of tea but at least they should offer some sort of protection to sites – excluding divots of course! I find it quite amazing that this long barrow was perhaps 2,000 years old when the ancestors decided to build their round barrows.
Makes you think – well, makes me think anyway!

Visited 24.5.15

Directions:
Just off the A505, west of Royston. Large (free) car park.

Karen stayed in the car to keep an eye on the children (who were busy watching DVDs – Dafydd a documentary on the Vikings / Sophie Peppa Pig!) whilst I headed up the obvious ‘chalk path’ towards the barrows which are easily seen from the car park.

Despite being overcast, it was quite warm with only a little breeze. Surprisingly for a bank holiday there were no golf players around so I didn’t have to worry about stray golf balls hitting me!

The three larger barrows are approximately 2.5m high x 20 across, the smaller ones approximately 1.5m high x 10m across. The ‘missing barrow’ Kammer refers to is possibly either a very small barrow next to the long barrow? On the other hand it may not be! Although one barrow showed clear damage caused by previous ‘excavation’ the others all appeared to be in good order.

There are good views to be had from the top of the barrows north and west.

The O/S map shows a couple of other barrows to the east and a further barrow across the road on the other side of the car park. Unfortunately I decided I didn’t have enough time to visit these as I felt I had been gone too long as it was. Which proved to be the right judgment call given Karen’s response when I did eventually arrive back at the car! It is surprising how quickly time can pass when you immerse yourself in a site.

This is an excellent place to visit and well worth the minimal effort. Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time!

Visited 24.5.15

Directions:
Next to Paper Mill Lane (near the church). Can’t really miss it. Plenty of parking.

My second ‘Pudding Stone’ in as many days! This one is even better than the first. It has a nice setting on a small green, next to a lovely oak tree. An information board and bench have been kindly provided. The stone sits on a conical flint built stand – nicely done.

Standon is a very pretty village with an attractive church. This, coupled with the stone itself, makes it a good place to visit if you happen to be in the area.

Visited 24.5.15

Directions:
Next to Six Hills roundabout, near junction 7 of the A1 (M).

I would guess that parking is tricky here during the ‘working week’ but as it was evening time on a bank holiday Sunday I had no such problems. We parked in the empty Kings Court office complex.

I am pleased to say the cycle tracks across the top of the barrows previously reported are no longer there. All six barrows are fully grassed over although four of them are suffering from rabbit burrow damage – one in particular. I know rabbits are cute but something needs to be done here before too much damage occurs.

The barrows are very impressive, approximately 3 metres high x 10 metres across. Most have the tell-tale depression in the top of earlier excavations.

It is amazing that the barrows have survived. This is a very built up ‘modernized’ area with office blocks, DIY centres and duel carrigeways. we should be thankful that planning permission now (for all its faults) offers far more protection than it ever used to, otherwise these fine monuments would be but a memory.

I wonder what the builders would think if they were transported forward in time until today and see how much has changed – yet their monuments remain.

This is an excellent site to visit although I would suggest a weekend / evening visit when parking will be a lot easier.

Visited 23.5.15

Directions:
Come off the A404 at junction 9B. Take first exit at small roundabout onto Henley Road (north). Then take the first right into Pinkey Road and after 200m you will find a N.T. car park on the left (Pinkey Wood). Park here, walk back to Henley road and turn right (north). You will then come to a turning on the left which goes under the A404. Immediately the other side is a bridleway on the left. Take this and continue walking south along a path which runs parallel to the A404. Take any of the paths to the right which will lead you to the site.

Although this may sound long and complicated it is only a 15 minute walk from the car park to Robin’s place. (Although I doubt the famous Mr Hood ever set foot here!).

I was initially attracted to this site as it appears on the AA road atlas map. How the AA chooses which sites to put on their map is another mystery altogether! Although I am surprised these are the first field notes to appear.

The site is easy to miss and if the ferns were any higher of the N.T. hadn’t erected a handy sign I would have probably walked straight past it.

There is not a lot to see. A low circular bank at most 1m high (most of it less than this) and a shallow ditch.

If you are looking for somewhere to have a nice walk through the trees then this is a good place to come (it is very pretty) but if it is substantial prehistoric remains you are after then this isn’t! Still, at least it is still with us so that can’t be such a bad thing :)

Visited 23.5.14

With children in tow we opted for the (sometimes rough) drive up the hill, past the infamous Hell Fire Club caves, and parked in the large car park at the top of the hill, next to the church of St Lawrence.

There were several dog walkers about on this overcast but warm day and myself, Dafydd and Sophie headed towards the church, passing the large boulder on the way.

The church itself was locked and looking around the graveyard there wasn’t (at first glance) much to see. However, it didn’t take long to get your ‘eye in’ and the familiar low circular inner face of the rampart could be made out.

We then went back outside and walked down the path to the left (when facing the church). It was then that the true preservation of the ditches/ramparts became apparent – approximately 2m high. We rummaged about in the undergrowth and in places (which were worn by recent human feet) you could see how the bank was made up of lumps of chalk and flint.

There was a N.T. sign erected which said the site is going to be cleared of trees to improve the view across the landscape. I am not sure if this is a good thing or not?

Despite initial reservations I am glad I visited this site. If you do plan a visit, watch your suspension when you near the car park!

Visited 23.5.15

Directions:
Easy to spot, next to the main roundabout when driving through Princes Riseborough. It is outside a toilet block, next to a newsagent. There is plenty of parking available.

The stone is a little less than 1m square and moss has started to grow around its top.

It is good to see that this stone is appreciated by the locals and has been given the presentation it deserves.

Well worth a look when in the area.

Visited 24.4.15

Directions:
Approximately 1km south of Barrow Elm Farm barrow.

Due to time constraints (and the fact the field was in crop) I opted to observe the barrow from the roadside. There is no public access to the site. Parking is on the grass verge.

The barrow is next/in a hedgerow. It is approximately 1.5m high x 15m in diameter. The barrow is overgrown and has two trees growing out of the top. Worth looking out for.

For some reason E.H. doesn’t appear to have anything to report.

Visited 24.4.15

Directions:
On a crossroads about 1km south-east of the village of Coln St Aldwyns

Access is easy.
You can park on the grass verge and the barrow is right next to the road, the other side of the hedge.
There appears to be a depression where it has been dug into although E.H. states there is no evidence of excavation. No doubt they are right and I am wrong!.
Worth a quick look if you happen to be passing but don’t go out of your way.

E.H. state:
‘A round barrow immediately north of the Salt Way. The barrow measures 19m east-west by 15m north-south and is 1.5m high. The barrow is thought to have been the meeting point of Brightwold’s Hundred, known as ‘La Berge near Hatherop’, although this identification has not been proven’.

Visited 24.4.15

(I didn’t realise I had been here before!)

There is plenty of room to park next to the metal field gate.

There is no public access to the field where the barrow resides so Karen stayed in the car whilst I hopped over the locked metal gate. Across the field and then over a wooden gate and the remains of the barrow can be seen in the corner of the field to your right. There is a low barbed wire fence which surrounds the barrow – easy to step over.

The whole corner of the field is covered in nettles and I was wearing shorts! However, at this time of year they were only a few inches high so I felt confident I would be ok. What I didn’t allow for was the unseen rabbit holes which are everywhere. The first I knew was when my left leg disappeared down a hole to knee height and I fell flat on the nettles! My legs were a bright red and itching like mad – cue a desperate search for dock leaves! It could have been worse as at least I didn’t injure myself.

I now carefully walked over to the barrow for a closer look. Unfortunately the barrow is well mangled and has clearly been dug into at some point – and I don’t just mean by the many rabbits who now call it home. The barrow is covered in nettles and if you came in the summer access would be much more difficult. When I got back to the car and told Karen of my woes she said I would get no sympathy as I wasn’t supposed to be in the field in the first place! Also, a couple of passing farmers had given her the ‘evil eye’ whilst I was gone. Worth a look if you are very keen and happen to be in the area.

E.H. state:
‘A bowl barrow set on top of a ridge 335m south of Broadfield Farm. The barrow measures 27m in diameter by 1.65m high’.

Visited 24.4.15

Directions:
A short distance north of Westonbirt arboretum.

It was Karen’s birthday and as a treat we decided to have a day in the lovely Cotswolds. Of course, if we just happen to be passing a site it wouldn’t harm to have a quick look………..........

There is a wooden gate and a public footpath sign. You can park on the verge opposite. There is very little to see, just a minor ‘bump’ in the grass field. It didn’t look 0.6m high to me. Don’t bother.

E.H. state:
‘Two bowl barrows arranged on an east-west axis and situated on sloping ground. The western barrow, a mound composed of small stones, is 25m x 0.6m high. The eastern barrow, also composed of small stones, is 22m x 0.25m’

Visited 16.4.15

On our way back to the car after visiting the Cheesewring, I was keen to visit Rillaton Barrow – home of the famous gold cup. It took a little time to spot as the ground is very uneven and despite being a fair size the barrow is not at all obvious.

However, find it we did. It has now been reduced to a mangled grass covered mound. A large hole has been dug into it in the past, no doubt how they unearthed the cup in the first place. Clearly an important person was buried here and the barrow would have been a substantial size when first built.

I am glad that I managed to find and visit this famous barrow. I will always think of it when I see a photo of the cup. Try to visit it if you are on your way to/from the Cheesewring.

Visited 16.4.15

The Cheesewring is the prominent landmark when in the Minions area and is well worth the walk for a closer look and exploration. From the Hurlers stone circles the Cheesewring looks quite far you can walk it in about 15 minutes, although you do need to be fairly mobile to clamber up onto the rock outcrops.

Both myself and Dafydd enjoyed scrambling around the rocks and the views are excellent in all directions. From the top of the rocks you get a great ‘bird’s eye’ view of the collapsed circular stone wall which surrounds the Iron Age site.
I am not so sure Karen would have approved of Dafydd being up here with me but is it quite safe as long as you are sensible about things.

Visited 16.4.14

Very easy to spot when visiting the stone circles.
When looking towards the Cheeswring they are to your left, near the track.
To my untrained eye they didn’t look ‘old’ but they do perfectly frame the Cheesewring.
Worth looking out for.