CARL

Visited 18.2.12

Directions:
Take the B4465 east out of Bristol and just beyond the Shortwood turn off there is a convenient bus stop on the left. The Barrow is in the field next ti the bus stop. To make matters even easier there is a public right of way across the field. Access is therefore very easy.

That’s the good news. The bad news is that there is very little to see. The Barrow is now no more that a ploughed out mound no more than 0.3 metre high and spread over an area of about 30 metres.

To be honest I would have easily walked right past it if I wasn’t specifically looking for it. Don’t bother wasting your petrol.

Visited 12.2.12

Saw this on the O/S map and thought I would check it out as I was heading north towards Porlock stone circle.
It can be found off the B3223 just south of Exford.

There is plenty of room to park at the entrance to a Room Hill reservoir building and the Barrow can be seen from the field gate.
A quick walk across the field and you are there. No public right of access but as no one was about.....................

The Barrow has been well mangled and now only stands about 1 metre high and about 20 metres across. By far the most interesting feature are the 4 stones which stand proud of the Barrow forming a semi-circle. Presumably these are the remains of the retaining stones which once supported the Barrow? Each stone is of a similar size – about 1 foot square. An unexpected bonus. Good views are also to be had.

Near the Barrow is a strange brick building with no door or window. Access is via a metal hatch in the roof. No idea what it is for – perhaps something to do with the reservoir? There is a trig point near the building.

The stones make this Barrow worth a visit when in this part of Exmoor.

Failed visit 12.2.12

By now it was almost dark but I thought I would at least make a token effort to see if I could spot any of the stones. I couldn’t!

Besides the problem with the light; the stones are only 10cms high and the heather (which covers the whole area) is waist height – no contest!

I think even in the middle of the day it would be very difficult to spot any of the stones – it would probably involve feeling with you feet. Good luck!

Visited 12.2.12

What a job it was trying to find this!

I was particularly looking forward to visiting this site as it is not every day you get a chance to visit a new stone circle

The weather had been fantastic and I was looking forward to watching the sun go down from a stone circle – something I had never done before. That was the plan anyway!

We drove up, we drove down. We drove up again and down again. All the while the light fading as the sun finally set on the horizon. Still no sign of the circle.

What was throwing us is that the O/S map shows the stones next to a sheep fold and previous notes also refer to a sheep fold. The sheep fold is no longer there!

We eventually found the circle by stopping at every field gate and (ignoring the no entry signs) having a look around in the field.

This is the best advice I can give for anyone looking for the circle:
The circle is close to the road but you obviously need to find the right field gate. Travelling north the circle is on the left. Keep an eye out for a small brick bridge that the road goes over (over a small stream). The field gate you need is the one just before the bridge. Once you have the right gate access is easy!

The circle is visible from the gate but it is no effort to climb over it – no barbed wire!

Probably due to frustration in finding the thing (plus the fact that I had missed the sunset) I was a little disappointed with this stone circle. There were only 3 or 4 stones of any size (about 2 feet high) – the rest were very small and quite loose in the soil. They were easily moved with one hand and could have been easily pulled out of the ground if someone had wanted to. The larger stones were earth fast. The smaller stones also looked completely different to the larger stones. Why have such discrepancies in stone size? It does make me wonder if the smaller stones have been added later to perhaps show where the original larger stones once stood? They were so shallow in the ground I don’t see how they could have stood for thousands of years! The largest stone is a fallen one – about 4ft long.

I am glad I found the circle but all in all a bit of a disappointment.

Visited 12.2.12

Directions: Just north of the B3224 – east out of Wheddon Cross
There is room to park next to the field gate / public footpath sign.

Karen sat in the car reading her book whilst I carried Sophie and Dafydd trooped behind us. We went through the gate and walked along the snow covered grass, heading uphill towards the Barrows. I pointed out to Dafydd some fox (I think) prints in the snow and various other animal prints. Dafydd insisted in examining these prints very carefully and following them towards the hedgerow. I told him to be careful not to slip. Needless to say he slipped onto his bum and slid down the bank – much to the amusement of Sophie who chuckled away like a good ‘un. Sisters – eh?

There are 3 Barrows on the summit of the hill. It is only the top of the nearest Barrow that you can see from the field gate. As you reach the top of the hill the other two appear into view. There is a trig point on the smallest of the Barrows. The Barrows are surrounded by fences to help protect them – which is obviously a good thing. The smaller of the Barrows is about 1 metre high; the other two are about two metres high. The largest Barrow is about 15 metres across.

On the way back to the car Dafydd decided to go ‘ice skating’ on a frozen puddle. Needless to say it wasn’t long before he slipped over again. Sophie chuckled.

It was a beautiful winter’s day – blue sky, not a cloud in sight and no wind. The ground was hard with frost and patches of snow scattered about the fields.
You could see for miles all around. Well worth a visit when in the area.

There is a public footpath which runs right past the Barrows so trespassing is not required – for a change!

Visited 12.2.12

After visiting ‘Snowdrop Valley’ and enjoying an excellent cream tea in the rather posh tea rooms in Wheddon Cross it was time for a bit of ‘old stoning’ before it got dark.
First up was a site I had wanted to visit for a number of years – the Caratacus Stone.

It was easy enough to find; being near the road and sign posted.

I was just about able to make out the Latin inscription but if I wasn’t specifically looking for it I wouldn’t have known it was there. The stone is about 1 metre tall.

The area around the stone has an obvious gorse problem and I am pleased to report that a large amount of ‘de-gorsing’ is taking place. There were whole swathes of recently cut down gorse piled up, making access a lot easier. If left to nature I guess it wouldn’t take too many years before it would be impossible to see the stone!

Definitely well worth a visit when in the area.

Visited 12.2.12

Very easy site to access – large N.T. parking area. The 3 Barrows are right next to the road / parking area.

It is only a 2 minute walk from the car park – through knee height heather.

This is a stunning setting with fantastic views in all directions. You can see for miles and miles and miles…………………………..

Although it was a beautiful day it was starting to get colder. Karen, Dafydd and Sophie stayed in the car while I tramped through the heather. It must have been getting cold as my pen stopped working until I warmed it up!

The largest of the Barrows (furthest from car park) is covered in heather but didn’t look like it had been dug into – although it was hard to say with all the heather.

The other two Barrows were much more defined although both had clearly been dug into – no doubt someone looking for treasure!!

The two smaller Barrows are approximately 20 metres across – the largest 30 metres across. All 3 Barrows are about 2 metres high. There is a trig point on one of the smaller Barrows.

The views really are something.
Well worth visiting when in the area.

Directions:
Just south of the B3224 – east out of Wheddon Cross.
I parked in the convenient car park opposite (Kennisham Forestry Commission).
I then crossed over the road and walked south down the lane past the Goosemoor Cross – situated at the cross roads.
A short distance down the lane you come to a metal field gate on your left.
The Barrow is easily visible from the gate.

I hopped over the gate and walked over to the Barrow. It is approximately 1 metre high and 20 metres across. The western section being cut through by a hedgerow.

I startled a bird of prey that flew effortlessly up into the deep blue sky – a lovely sight. There is not much else I can add about the Barrow except to say that other than the bit damaged by the hedgerow it seems to be in pretty good condition.

Worth a quick look when in the area.

Cae’r Eglwys, Nash Point

Agree with Gladman about the condition of this site. I had a look recently when I went to visit the nearby Hillfort and Barrows. Unless you specifically looked for it you wouldn’t know it was there.
Just a lumpy, rough patch of grass.

Visited 28.1.12

COFLEIN states: A circular mound 13.7m in diameter and 1.8m high, damaged by a recent ditch and road on the N + E

I on the other hand couldn’t make out anything.
Probably due to the head height brambles which cover the entire area!

Visited 28.1.12

Directions: Take the A4222 north out of the charming town of Cowbridge and then take the minor road south east at the first junction you come to. There is room to park near the private road which leads to Hollybush Farm. (After visiting the site you can continue on the minor road a short distance – leading directly onto the A48)

I walked down the private road towards the farm and was greeted by the farmer who was busy repairing pot holes in the road. I explained I was hoping to have a look at the Hillfort and he happily explained the way through the farm towards the site. There is a public right of way on the map but nothing at ground level to show where it is.

I walked past the stables, through two gates, ducked under electric fences and along what can only be described as a quagmire of a ‘path’. Thank the Lord for wellies! A 10 minute walk later and I arrived at the woods where the Hillfort hides.

Upon entering the wood I saw a ‘path’ of sorts with various arrows nailed to trees pointing the direction to take along the path. I don’t know if this is used for runners or more likely horse riders given the proximity to the stables? It certainly wasn’t for TMAers benefit!!

The double ditch/ramparts of the enclosure was easy enough to spot despite the trees and undergrowth with the banks still standing to about 2 metres in height – impressive remains for this part of the world. One thing that was a bit odd is that the site is not on top of the hill, it is on the western slope. Surely not good for defensive purposes? On the other hand the ditches/ramparts seem a bit excessive if this was no more than an animal enclosure? But again, why on the slope and not on the top of the hill?
One of life’s little mysteries.

The weather was very good for the time of year-bit cold but bright skies and no wind. I disturbed several birds whilst stomping about. I then headed back through the mire to Karen, Sophie and Dafydd waiting patiently for me in the car (bless them).

Killin is a lovely place to visit and the Falls of Dochart are simply wonderful. This is one of my favourite places in Britain and one I visit as often as I can – which in reality is once every couple of years!

However, until today, I didn’t realise that this is also the site of a prehistoric enclosure!

There is a large free public car park and it is only a short walk to the old stone bridge which crosses the River Dochart. In the middle of the bridge is a metal gate which is locked. The key is available from the folklore Centre. This gives access to the island in the middle of river which is the burial ground of the Clan MacNab.

Although I have been meaning to have a look around the burial ground I have never got around to it but I am sure it would be interesting to have a look at the old headstones. The island is covered in trees.

It also turns out that this island was originally a prehistoric site.
CANMORE states: ‘On Innis Bhuidhe, a long, narrow, island in the river Dochart, are the remains of a small promontory fort and an enclosure. The fort is formed by a ditch, with an inner rampart, cut across the island approximately 70m from its NE end. A modern path cuts across the centre of the ditch and has obliterated any traces of an entrance. The enclosure is roughly rectangular and measures80m x 26m. It is formed by an earthen bank best preserved at its NE and SW ends and has a maximum height of 2.2m’ – 20.8.1969

‘The monument comprises of the remains of two forts of prehistoric date surviving as a series of earthworks and occupies a long, narrow island in the River Dochart at around 110m OD to the Falls of Dochart’ – 26.11.1996

On my next visit to Killin I will make a point of visiting this site.

There is one obvious question to ask – how exactly did they get on and off the island in prehistoric times? The river currents are very strong these days, perhaps they were different then? Or perhaps some sort of wooden walk way was constructed?

Visited 14.1.12

There are 3 Barrows here and I am pleased to say that they are (just about) still visible.

I parked at the entrance to Channel View Farm and walked down the lane to try and find the Barrow closest to the road. I eventually was just about able to make out a very minor ‘mound’ in a grass field the over side of the hedgerow. Had my visit been in the summer I would never have been able to see through the hedge – it was hard enough with no leaves!

I then went in search of the other two Barrows.

I walked back up the lane and looked for a way through the impenetrable hedgerow. I was just about to give up when I saw a small gap where I could push myself past a thorn bush. (The public footpath showing on the O/S map simply doesn’t exist on the ground). This point of access will not be here for long as it was clear a barbed wire fence was in the process of being erected all around the field.

The first Barrow you come to is in the field to your left. This had been ploughed and it was just about possible to make out the tell tale sign of a low mound. This Barrow will not be with us much longer.

The second Barrow is faring much better. It is easy to spot and is directly in front of you. It is about 30 metres across and 1 metre high – grass covered. It is fairly close to farm buildings and as there doesn’t appear to be any public right of way I didn’t hang around too long.

Visited 14.1.12

COFLEIN states there are four Barrows here. They may be on the O/S map and they may be here is spirit but they are certainly not here in body. The entire field is deeply ploughed and is a sea of sticky earth and mud. I am sorry to report that these Barrows are now completely ploughed out.

Visited 14.1.12

After visiting Nash Point Promontory Fort I stepped over the concrete stile and headed north along the cliff top towards these barrows. You first cross a flat field and then come to a wooden stile. Over the stile and you will see in the next field a stone wall cutting the field in half. The first Barrow (Barrow 3) is to the right, near the hedgerow, this side of the wall – the other two (Barrows 1 and 2) in a similar position on the other side of the wall. All 3 are easy to access although you do have to come off the permissive footpath to do so.

Barrow 3 – The most ploughed out of the 3 Barrows, measuring about 20 metres across and only 0.3 metres in height. Easy to miss if you weren’t looking specifically for it.

Barrow 2 – The smallest of the trio and again easy to miss. Approximately 0.5 metres in height x 5 metres across. Very close to Barrow 1.

Barrow 1 – The best of the three Barrows. Easy to spot. This one is again about 0.5 metres in height and 10 metres across.

All 3 Barrows are grass covered with no sign of any stones sticking out.

Needless to say there are great coastal views to be had all along the headland.

Visited 14.1.12

My first ‘old stoning’ of the year – and a let down at that.

I was planning to re-visit the wonderful Stoney Littleton Long Barrow but Dafydd was displaying the ‘terrible twos’ (despite being nearly 4) and we had to put the trip on hold. (No doubt some of you reading this will have a knowing smile on your face!) By mid-morning I needed to get out so I went alone to visit s few sites not too far from home. The weather was dry and bright but the wind a biting January cold.

I parked on the verge near Somerset Farm and squelched through the muddy field in search of the two Barrows shown on the O/S map. The fields are clearing used for crop and despite my best efforts I was unable to identify the Barrows. Perhaps they have been completely ploughed away?

COFLEIN states: ‘A pair of Bronze Age Barrows c100 metres apart. Irregular shaped 6.5 m x 8m x 0.4m high’ – 2002.

Visited 14.1.12

Although the sign read ‘Private Road – £1.50 all day parking’ I was confident there wouldn’t be any ticket collectors out this time of year. I was right although I was not alone – the car park on the headland was packed and I only just managed to find a place to park. This is clearly a poplar place to come on a cold by dry winter’s afternoon.

I had been here before to visit the lighthouse (well worth a visit) but this was the first time I could have had a proper close up look at the Promontory Fort. The previous undergrowth has now largely been removed.

The information board in the car park gives no mention of the Fort or the nearby Barrows.

I took the rough ‘path’ down from the car park, across a small wooden bridge, and up the steep incline towards the Fort. Luckily there are foot holds worn into the side of the slope so walking up wasn’t too difficult.

When I reached the top I was pleasantly surprised by how well preserved the defences were. I counted 4 sets of ditches ramparts – the outer rampart being about 1 metre high with the inner 3 about 2 metres high. The site isn’t that large although no doubt a large area has since been lost to coastal erosion. A bird of prey hovered silently only about 6 ft of the ground above the ramparts – a lovely sight.

Well worth a visit when in the area. One word of warning though – the cliffs are sheer and not fenced off. If coming with little ones you will need to be very careful.
The warning signs are there for a reason!

Visited 28.12.11

My 800th Field Note!

A couple of months ago I had read that the Long Barrow had been re-opened to the public and since then I have been ‘chomping at the bit’ to go back.
Boy, am I glad I did. This is a fantastic site to visit.
Easy parking, easy access and very close to several other sites which are also well worth seeing

We passed the site earlier on in the day but there were so many people there I decided to call back later when we were more likely to have the place to ourselves. We returned as dusk fell and sure enough this time there was no one to be seen – hurrah!

Sophie was asleep so Karen stayed in the car whilst myself and Dafydd headed off across the field – Dafydd insisting on wearing my head light and taking the lead!
As we approached the first think I noticed since my last visit was that the fence which surrounded the tomb had been removed. Then, there waiting for us, was the entrance!

Dafydd quickly took command of proceedings and insisted on going in first (as he had the light!). We both crawled on our hands and knees and were soon inside. Dafydd was then able to stand up while I crouched down. It was black inside and we both looked around using the light as best we could. It was then that I spotted the two side chambers – something I wasn’t expecting – a real bonus.

We crept into the first chamber and it was then that I noticed something hanging from the ceiling. I couldn’t make out what it was and called Dafydd over. We shone the light on the object and then to my great surprise (and delight) found it to be a bat roosting! It was only about 4 inches long and through the wings I could make out the head and eyes. I wasn’t sure how Dafydd would react but typical of him he took it all in his stride. I didn’t want to disturb the little thing so we backed out and went into the second chamber. Here Dafydd spotted a large spider hanging down. He quickly decided that this was the ‘spider’s house’ and the other chamber being the ‘bat’s house’.

It was now starting to get dark and we headed back to the car. I excitedly told Karen about what we had seen and suggested she go and have a look herself. ‘How do I get in?’ asked Karen. ‘Easy’ said I, ‘Dafydd has the light and all you need to do is crawl inside on your hands and knees’. ‘If you think I am crawling on my hands and knees into a dark burial chamber…………………’ We headed home.

This is a cracking site to visit and well done to English Heritage for doing the work required in order that the Long Barrow can be accessed again. I must admit when visiting these types of site I am still amazed that there is unrestricted access to these important and ancient monuments. I guess we should just be grateful and enjoy it for as long as we can.

Visited 28.12.11

Last time I came here Dafydd was a baby sat in the car. Now the baby sitting in the car was Sophie. Who would have thought?

On this cold but bright winter’s afternoon there were plenty of walkers about. As I made my way up to the Hillfort a group of ramblers were coming the other way.
The cold wind was fairly biting.

This time I walked right around the Hillfort which took longer than I was expecting – about 45 minutes (sorry Karen!). The Hillfort is certainly a big one and the views are simply stunning.

I was thinking that this area would be great for a school trip to teach children a bit about their ancestors. The children could walk around the Hillfort (discussing how it would have originally looked etc) then stop off at Hetty Pegler’s Tump before having lunch / run around etc at the Coakley point viewpoint parking area and of course having a look at Nympsfield Long Barrow. What a great day out! They could then do projects on what they had seen / prehistoric life. Any school teachers reading this?!!

Visited 28.12.11

I wasn’t planning on re-visiting this site but as Nympsfield Long Barrow was crawling with people I decided to take a walk through the woods to visit the Barrow.

There is not much to add from my previous visit other than the ruined wall you walk over has now pretty much totally fallen down. The evident ‘path’ through the trees shows that this lesser well known site does get its fair amount of visitors.

If the trees were not here there would be spectacular views to be had across the Severn Valley. Whoever was buried here must have been someone of importance. Pity he/she wasn’t left alone.

While I was mooching about near the Barrow a lady looking slightly distressed was looking for her Labrador puppy. I hope she found it.

Visited 28.12.11

By the time I came back from visiting the nearby Soldier’s Grave Barrow most of the people had gone although two young boys were playing in the piles of leaves which had collected in the chambers. They were clearly oblivious to what it was they were playing in.
Their fathers were deep in conversation about something – I doubt it was the Long Barrow!!

I didn’t stay too long.

Visited 28.12.11

Not a lot to report. All that remains of this much ploughed out Long Barrow is a long, low, grass covered mound – I would say about 50 metres long and 0.5 metres high.

The hedgerow surrounding the field consisted largely of thorn bushes and a ‘keep out’ sign does little to encourage a visit.
However, I managed to find a gap in a wall……

Visited 28.12.12

Directions: Take the B4058 north out of Wotton-Under-Edge and where it joins the A4135 there is a minor road to the south. (You can also reach The Clump Long Barrow from this direction).
The Long Barrow is easily visible in the field to the east.

Parking is possible in a passing place and Karen patiently sat in the car while I peered over the hedge looking for a way into the field. Obviously there must be an entry somewhere but I couldn’t spot it. There was no way through the hedge. I therefore had to settle for a view from afar.

The Long Barrow looks a bit like the back of a camel – two humps – where it has been dug into in the past. From a distance it looks to be about 2 metres high and 50 metres across.

Visited 28.12.11

Taking the minor road east out of Wotton-Under-Edge you soon come to this Long Barrow (near the point where the road forks) There is room to park on the verge at this point.

I walked along the rough track to the north of the Long Barrow and from here it was a case of carefully hopping over the electric fence and a short but muddy walk.

The Long Barrow is about 25 metres across and 2 metres high – covered with brambles which prevented further investigation. A fairly ruined dry stone wall surrounds the Long Barrow.
Not much else to add other than that there are pretty good views.

Visited 27.12.11

Despite doing a degree in History, my niece, Danielle, had never visited a prehistoric site before – I was about to put that right!

An obvious, nice and easy, post Christmas site to choose was the famous Tinkinswood burial chamber.

I was keen to re-visit this site following the excavation work carried out in October.

I brought along a spare pair of wellies which was just as well as the area near the kissing gate was not much more that a quagmire. Things improved as we approached the Long Barrow although, as ever, the inside was under water.

One thing I did notice (which I don’t remember from previous visits) was the number of ribbons tied to a nearby tree. ‘Offering’s no doubt.

In my non-expert sort of way I explained to Danielle all about Long Barrows, how they were constructed, when built, what would have been placed inside and why it looks the way it does now etc. She was most impressed – not by me no doubt but the site itself! ‘That’s amazing’ was a phrase she often repeated!

The bushes, brambles etc had all been cut back from around the tomb and viewing the site was even easier than before.

On one side of the Long Barrow appears to be an excavated side chamber but I can find no reference to this is the site report. Perhaps it is not a side chamber but something else? It certainly looks like a side chamber!

On my last visit I mentioned the large stones I had spotted in the trees/bushes near the burial chamber. I am pleased to see that this area has now been investigated with the following conclusion (it is referred to as the ‘quarry site’):
‘The test pits in the possible quarry have produced no evidence at all that slabs were cut from the outcrop to make the capstone for Tinkinswood chambered cairn.‘

The pile of stones near the ‘quarry site’ which does indeed look like a fallen cromlech has been proven to be just field clearance. The team report ‘The pile of stones and large slabs sit on top of a layer of soil that lies directly over a bedrock outcrop. We found a piece of metal that looks like it originated from a tractor below one of the larger stones. We now think that the stones were cleared from the local field, by machine, sometime in the 19th C’.

The team exploring the site should be congratulated for not only clearing scrub from around Tinkinswood and confirming the position regarding the other possible sites but for also enabling much easier access to the ‘quarry site’ and ‘fallen cromlech’. The bushes/trees have been removed, a new wooden stile built and a fence surrounding the site constructed. All in all a top job which allows the visitor to appreciate this site even more.

Visited 27.12.11

Like Tinkinswood, I was keen to re-visit this site following the excavation work carried out in October.

Accompanied by my Niece, Danielle, we parked up and squelched up towards the burial chamber.
There was clear evidence of the trench put right across the site (the turf having been put back on).

The findings of the dig concluded:
‘The cairn was originally 30 metres in length and about 12 metres wide, constructed from locally collected limestone slabs and boulders. The cairn material was carefully laid on the ground with the edges of the monument defined by a low revetment. It is clear that this was once a substantial structure. The façade at the front of the chamber would have extended either side and would have formed a striking feature similar to that at Tinkinswood‘

Fragments of Neolithic pottery, a fragment of a bone needle, struck flint and human bone and teeth were found. The flint appears to be early Neolithic in date. Pre-monument ground surface charcoal was also found which will be able to accurately date its construction.

Visited 11.12.11

As luck would have it we stumbled upon St Mary’s Church within minutes of entering Welshpool – which was just as well as the light was starting to fade.

The gate at the bottom of the steps was padlocked so I walked around to the other side of the churchyard and found this gate to be open.

The stone is easy to spot being right in front of the church entrance. It was smaller than I was expecting – only about 1 metre x 1 metre.

After reading the folklore associated with the stone I jumped on top, spun around 3 times and made a wish. No, I’m not going to tell you or it won’t come true!

Easy stone to access and worth a quick look when visiting Welshpool.

‘Visited’ 11.12.11

Directions: close to the A5 – just south of the village of Cerrigydrudion.

There are two possible candidates for this Barrow.
It is either the low ploughed down mound in the middle of the field or the large gorse covered mound a little further to the east.
I can’t be sure.

COFLEIN has no site description – so no help there!

Visited 11.12.11

Directions: close to a minor road off the A5 – south east of the village of Cerrigydrudion.
Pretty much opposite Pen-Y-Gaer Farm.

The minor road running past the farm is very narrow with nowhere to park. Karen sat in the car at the farm entrance and I promised to be quick as she was blocking the road.

The ramparts of the Hillfort can be easily seen from the road. I of course wanted a closer look so I hopped over the barbed wire fence, squelched across the muddy field and headed uphill.

I only had time to explore the southern section of the Hillfort and the single ditch/rampart was in pretty good condition. The rampart still stood in places 3 metres high from the bottom of the ditch and 1 metre high from the inside of the Hillfort. Part of the rampart is covered in the dreaded gorse.

The weather was misty with drizzle in the air. On a sunny day I am sure the views would be marvellous.

Well worth a visit although it would probably be best if you asked permission first at the farm as there is no public right of way.

COFLEIN has this to say:
‘Caer Caradog is a later prehistoric Hillfort crowning an isolated mountain spur overlooking the Cerrigydrudion valley basin. The Hillfort is an irregular oval enclosure defined by a massive rampart and ditch with a counterscarp bank beyond. The rampart still rises some 6 metres above the base of the ditch. Excavation showed it to be a simple dump construction. There is an entrance to the east facing along the saddle connecting the spur to the main massif of Y Drum. The enclosure is about 166m east-west with an area of 1.7ha. Excavations failed to identify any structures apart from the ramparts: notably no trace of a gate was recorded. This gave rise to doubts about the identification of the Caer as a Hillfort as such. However, it is possible that any features present were missed’.

Visited 11.12.11

Apart from anything else I wanted to visit this site as I have read a fair bit about Owain Glyndwr and wanted to visit the place where he lived and was proclaimed Prince of Wales in 1400 (the English burnt his house down in 1403)
What a lovely location to live.

Obviously, whilst I was there it would have been neglect of me not to go searching for the cup marked stone!

The directions given by Postman are spot on.

The stone is easy enough to spot right next to the ‘spiky’ grass – near a couple of other stones.

I think I managed to spot 15 cup marks – but I could be wrong!

Visited 11.12.11.

The cross can be found in the graveyard to the right of the church entrance.

I am far from being an expert on prehistoric rock art but I have to say that the cup marks on this stone are far from convincing. Perhaps they are just very worn – a bit like the cross!

Still, the graveyard is worth checking out. The path leading through the graveyard is made up of old headstones! Most seem to be from the 1700s – never seen a path like that before!

The church was all locked up so I wasn’t able to have a look inside.

Visited 11.12.11

The stone can be found inserted into the church porch entrance on the left.

The stone is approximately 1.8 metres high and certainly looks out of place amid the more ‘normal’ stone work.

Directly in front of the stone is the head stone of Hugh Thomas 1734.

As an aside, when in Corwen don’t miss the opportunity so see the fantastic statue of Owain Gyndwr on the main road outside the newsagent. It really is impressive.

Visited 9.12.11

This was my last site of the day and the light was fading fast. It was so dull in fact that I was in two minds about attempting to find the stone. In the end I got there just before it became completely dark.

Parking opposite the farm drive in a small lay by I jumped over the gate and headed down the track. The stone was a lot easier to find than I was expecting. As you walk down the farm drive you soon come to a passing place on your left (5 minute walk).
The standing stone is easily seen from here on your left.

The ground towards the stone is very boggy and I was lucky that I had my wellies on!
The stone itself is about 1.5 metres high and leaning to the south west. It is covered in lichen.
Right next to the ‘main’ stone is a smaller version – about a third of the size.
I have no idea if this is prehistoric and connected with Maen Llywd or just a random stone which happens to be here?

By the time I got back to the car it was black. I am glad I didn’t get here 10 minutes later!

Worth a quick look when in the area.

Visited 9.12.11

The church you need is actually St Illtud’s in Llanelltyd and is easy to find as it is right on the A470 just north of the A496 junction. There is a car park right next to the church.

It was starting to get dark and I was half expecting to church to be locked as there were no lights on. Fortunately the gate leading into the church yard was closed but not locked – as was the church door. It was very dark inside but I managed to find the light switch.

The stone is propped up against the far wall on the right and is held in place by a small chain. There was a portable heater on the floor in front of the stone. The stone is about 1.5 metres high and 0.5 metres across at the base.

There was a pamphlet available in the church which refers to the stone although I was unable to make out the footprint said to be carved in it. This could have been due to the poor lighting or perhaps it was on the reverse side of the stone?

The pamphlet gives some interesting information about the stone:
‘This famous stone was found in 1876 amongst debris in an outbuilding near the church.
On the stone is an inscription of mid 12C date – ‘Vestigium Kenyric tenetur in capite lapidis et ipsemet antequam peregre profectus est’. ‘The footprint of Kenyric is imprinted at the head of this stone before he himself set out for foreign parts’.
On the stone is clearly carved a footprint which is said to be that of a pilgrim. It is said to be the only stone of its kind in existence.
Why did Kenyric have an imprint of his foot made on the stone? One theory is that placing a foot on the stone was considered by the pilgrim to guarantee a safe return from a visit to foreign lands. There is some evidence for a superstition of this kind amongst Welsh sailors.
Kenyric was possibly a local chieftain.
Within the churchyard there are four ancient yew trees’.

Visited 9.12.11

Directions: Taking the A470 north out of Rhayader you soon come to a brown tourist sign to the right pointing the way to Marteg Valley and its visitor’s centre. Turn here and keep going along the very narrow road until you come to a small parking area on your left which has an information board next to it. Park here.
Now comes the slightly tricky bit. Head west, walking uphill towards the flat headland below the rock face. The Cairn will come into sight after about 100 yards.

For me this was a WOW site. The view from the Cairn, west along the valley, is simply stunning. Hills surround, a winding river below and a waterfall in the distance – this is a very special place and a wonderful location to be laid to rest.

The Cairn itself has 6 quite large kerb stones remaining and is hollowed out in the middle. I saw what looked like one side of a cist in the middle of the hollow.

COFLEIN has the following to say: ‘On a small rocky spur projecting into the Marteg Valley, below a steep rock face, is a kerbed cairn consisting of a stony mound measuring 9m x 0.5 m high. The cairn is retained by a kerb of 6 slabs projecting up to 0.5m high and sloping outwards. It is probable that the kerb circle was never continuous. In the centre is a large hollow and on the east side is exposed a stone slab about 1.5m long, set on edge, which may have formed one side of a cist’.

This is a wonderful location. Please try to visit if possible. You won’t be disappointed.

Visited 9.12.11

Directions: A couple of hundred yards east of Cefn Ceidio Barrow on the A44 east out of Rhayader. Situated at the junction of two minor roads. Room to park on the verge.

The Barrow is very easy to spot and consisted of a large grass covered mound approximately 20 metres across x 2 metres high.
I counted what appeared to be 4 kerb stones on the NE side and one on the SW side of the Barrow.

The wind wasn’t half cold when stood on the top!

Visited 9.12.11

Directions: Easy to find – just to the north of the A44 – a short distance east of Rhayader.
There is room to park on the grass verge opposite the Barrow.

The Barrow is easy to spot in the middle of the field from the A44.
Access is up and over the field gate.
It is approximately 20 metres across and 2 metres high – covered in trees.

The Barrow looks to be in good condition and COFLEIN states that the Barrow is undisturbed.

While I was visiting I was fortunate to spot 5 Red Kites in the next field. One of them was hovering very low and I had a great view of the wing patterns. Wonderful sight.

Visited 9.12.11

Directions – easy. Take the minor road west off the A470 to the village of Llanwrthwl – ¼ mile. This road takes you directly to the church. You can access the pretty graveyard either through the gate (the option Karen took) or up and over the stone wall stepping stones (the option I took!)

By now light showers had started but this didn’t diminish from the lovely setting of this church / stone This may sound strange but the site ‘feels’ ancient. Its location surrounded by hills is wonderful.

It’s a big lump of rock – approximately 2 metres high x 1.5 metres across.
The information board describes it as a 3,000 to 4,000 year old ‘sacrificial’ stone – I don’t know what that is based on?

It is also well worth having a look inside the church which boasts a lovely 13th century font.

Overall a top notch place to visit. Highly recommended.

Visited 9.12.11

Directions – take the B4358 west out of Newbridge on Wye. The stone is visible on your left, next to a telegraph pole (near the football pitch) shortly after going over the bridge. Plenty of room to park.

The weather was cloudy with the sun trying to break through. Although the stone was easy to see, access was a bit more problematic. The field gate was padlocked (not a huge problem) but the field itself was waterlogged with huge puddles near the field entrance. Karen was concerned about the ‘trespassing’ element but I was more concerned about the size and depth of the puddles!

In the end we agreed it was best to view this stone from afar.

Re-Visited 10.12.11

As myself and Karen had managed to get a weekend away on the Great Orme it would have been a shame not to re-visit this site.

Unfortunately the donkeys are no longer in the field (apparently a baby donkey had arrived and so many people visited it caused parking problems for the residents!). The chap who owns the noisy, barking dogs told us that the donkeys had been taken elsewhere.

The wooden fence surrounding the tomb has all but fallen apart but most alarming was a sign in the tomb warning people against any more digging as the site is protected. I couldn’t see any sign of digging but it is a worry.

The tomb itself is exactly the same as my last visit and is certainly worth a look when visiting the copper mines (which incidentally was shut this time of year).

Visited 13.11.11

This site has been on my ‘hit list’ for a few years and at last I had the chance to visit.
Following a nice day in Oxford visiting my niece in university (the brains of the family!) and looking around the city at the wonderful architecture, it was time to see something of even more interest to me.

The site was easy enough to find (the recycling plant is well sign posted from miles around). Opposite the entrance to the recycling skips is a gravel car park with room for about 6 cars – park here. A gravel path then takes you from the car park, along the side of the lake and directly to the Henge. It is a less than 10 minute stroll and was very pleasant in the unusual November sunshine. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky, no wind and definitely T-shirt weather. There were plenty of swans and various breeds of duck to look at while birds twittered away in the bushes and trees.

I tried to encourage the others to come but Karen stayed with the children in the car as Sophie was asleep and Dafydd preferred to watch a Scooby Doo DVD!!

Arriving at the Henge I was immediately taken by it. I know it is a reconstruction but I thought it was fab all the same. A low outer bank (1 metre high) with an inner ditch f about the same depth. I counted 28 stones ranging in height from 1 metre to 2.5 metres. There was only one other visitor, a lady quietly taking photos from various angles. We said hello but kept our distance so we could each enjoy the Henge in our own particular way.

Despite the surrounding landfill I thought this was a cracker of a site and well worth travelling some distance to visit. Despite being a reconstruction it somehow felt very ‘real’ to me. It certainly gives a good ‘feel’ of how Henges would have been when newly constructed.

When I visit Henges in future I will think back to my visit here and no doubt will have a better appreciation of what I am seeing. Looking at photos in a book is one thing but actually visiting a site gives you that ‘extra something’- although I am sure I don’t need to tell that to anyone reading this!

In short – visit. You won’t be disappointed.

View from afar 13.11.11

Whilst driving north along the minor road from Lambourne 7 Barrows towards the Blowing Stone I looked over to my left towards Rams Hill. I wasn’t planning a visit and just happened to look over to see if I could see anything. I was in luck.

The crops were in and the grass low. The sun was in just the right position in the sky and I could clearly see the contour of a ditch, cast in shadow, running around the eastern slope of Rams Hill. The ditch was about a quarter of the way down the slope from the top of the hill. Had the sun not been in the position it was I probably wouldn’t have been able to see anything. As I say, I was in luck.

Visited 13.11.11

Taking the minor road north off the B4507 you pass through the village of Kingston Lisle and shortly come to a cemetery. Park here.

Opposite the cemetery is Greenfield House (the one with the barking dog).
Walk past the house (north) and you can then easily enough make your way through the bushes into the field. I managed this while carrying Sophie with little problem
I walked around the edge of the field keeping the tall garden hedge to my right.
When the hedge finishes you come to a small wooded area which is ‘protected’ by a barbed wire fence. From this point the Barrow is easily seen amid the trees – totally covered with bushes / brambles etc.

Had I not had Sophie with me I would have hopped over the fence for a closer look but as it was I settled for a view from the field.

On our way back to the car we started a pheasant which flew out of a bush and made myself and Sophie jump. A minute or two later I heard shotgun blasts in the distance. I hope the two events weren’t related!

Visited 13.11.11

I approached the site from the minor road off the A417 to the east of Wantage.
Where the road takes a sharp turn to the left there is just about room to park.
On such a lovely day it was perhaps not surprising to see so many people out and about walking / cycling etc.

I headed west towards Wantage along the narrow tarmac path and soon came to the ‘mound’. The ‘mound’ being right next to the path, the other side of a muddy ditch.
There is not much to see – just a ‘mound’ covered in bushes / trees / brambles etc.
It could be a Barrow (it looks the right shape) but there again what do I know?

In truth there is little to recommend a visit.

‘Drive-by’ visit 13.11.11

Driving north along the minor road past Lambourne 7 Barrows and Lambourne Long Barrow you can see one of the two Barrows marked on the O/S clearly in a field to your right.

From the road it appears to be about 1 metre high and 20 metres across.
The second Barrow to the east is not visible from the road and unfortunately I didn’t have time to stop for a proper look at the Barrows.

Access looked straight forward enough across the fields but there doesn’t appear to be any official public right of way.

English Heritage record the site as Sparsholt Down Barrow Cemetery and use list entry ID – 1018720

‘Drive by’ visit 13.11.11

On an unseasonably warm and sunny November afternoon it was a pleasant drive past the famous Barrows and with the summer vegetation now low the Barrows stood out even more than ever. Yellow / brown islands in a sea of lush green.

It is often the case with Barrows that they are best viewed from afar rather than close up. If I had had time I would have liked to have stopped but with Karen not feeling very well I had to settle for a ‘drive by’ view.

Still, it was a very pleasant sight.

Visited 13.11.11

Finding the church was easy enough (it is signposted off the B449) but the stone itself proved a little more elusive.

As it was Sunday morning a service was being held so we just about managed to park in the church car park. I walked up the path, past the church entrance, through a gate and into the graveyard.

It is a large graveyard with various info boards giving details of the Abbey which once stood there. Unfortunately there is no monition of the standing stone.

I looked through the trees, around the perimeter of the church and along the only hedge I could see. There was a lady tending a grave and I went for a chat to ask her if she knew where the stone was? She said she had never heard of it but seemed quite interested. We walked up and down and then realised the stone was on the other side of the hedge! I had pretty much walked past it when I first entered the graveyard.

The stone is a lot smaller than I was expecting – only about 0.5 metre square and very weather worn. The lady was also pleased to have seen the stone and went back to the grave. Worth a quick look when in the area but not worth travelling far for.

Directions: park in the church car park and take the path to the left of the church entrance. Then immediately turn right and walk to the (locked) metal gate. The stone is easily seen just in front of the hedge.

Visited 13.11.11

This was an interesting place to visit.
I initially walked past the two kerbside stones without spotting them but soon found where they lay.

One stone is about 7 inches across and the other larger stone (the one outside the cottage) is about 12 inches across.

My first reaction was to dismiss the stones but then again it is strange how they have been left amid the obviously different modern kerb stones. Hmmmm……………….

The church looked very pretty but unfortunately I didn’t have time to look around.

Visited 13.11.11

I parked in the large car park used by walkers and the model aircraft club (several of which were flying their planes) and walked across the road for a closer look at this strangely named Barrow. The Barrow is easily seen from the lane.

I jumped over the locked field gate and was soon stood on top of the Barrow. There are indeed splendid views to be had down the valley.
The Barrow is about 25 metres across and 1 metre high.

Right in the middle of the Barrow was a large hole made by some animal or other – perhaps a badger’s sett? I wasn’t going to stick my arm in to find out!

Visited 13.11.11

Wow, what a great little site!
Easy to find and just about room to squeeze a car in on the verge near the stone itself.

Luckily when I opened the box there was one postcard and leaflet next. The postcard is 40p and the leaflet 20p – honesty box.
The leaflet is very informative and even gives instructions on how the ‘blow’ the stone! I didn’t try as I wasn’t sure which hole I should be blowing up!

I liked this stone a lot – glad I visited.