CARL

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

However, upon reaching the stone the effort seemed worthwhile.

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

I walked onto the B8035 and headed south.

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

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

Well worth a visit when in the area.

Failed visit 1.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 7.9.13

ST5278255227

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

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

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

Visited 7.9.13

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

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

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

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

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

E.H. has nothing to report.

Visited 7.9.13

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

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

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

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

Visited 7.9.13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 7.9.13

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

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

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

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

Failed visit 7.9.13

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 7.9.13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 1.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 29.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 29.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 29.8.13

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

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

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

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

Visited 29.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 29.8.13

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

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

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

Visited 29.8.13

What a great site to visit this is!

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 29.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

Visited 30.8.13

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

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

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

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

Are you listening South Wales?

Visited 28.8.13

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

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

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

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

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

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 :(