Ballowall Barrow

Penwith, United Kingdom

Ballowall Barrow is a prehistoric funerary cairn (chambered tomb) containing several phases of use from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. It is situated on the cliff top at Ballowall Common, near St Just in Cornwall.

It was first excavated in 1878 by William Copeland Borlase, when it was discovered under mining debris. Reconstruction work which was done after the excavation to make the inside more accessible has further complicated the site. The site today is a confused mix of original and reconstructions introduced by Borlase. The finds from excavations are in stored in museums at Truro, Cambridge and the British Museum.

The construction of the site is unique in consisting of a combination of Neolithic and Bronze Age funerary rituals. A similar site was recorded by Borlase but its location has been lost.

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Details

Founded: 3500 - 2500 BCE
Category: Cemeteries, mausoleums and burial places in United Kingdom

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Pete / Hel (6 months ago)
The barrow is 72 feet (22 m) in diameter. The Cornwall and Scilly Historic Environment Record describes it as a central domed structure, containing cists and with a pit beneath, surrounded by an outer cairn also containing cists. An entrance grave is located in the external side of the outer cairn. The site today is a confused mix of original and reconstructions introduced by Borlase. The finds from excavations are stored in museums at Truro, Cambridge and the British Museum. Worth a visit plus the bonus of the great views.
Anthony Chan (7 months ago)
Nice bronze age village, bit out of the way but can visit with cape cornwall. You wan walk onto the barrow.
John Thornton (11 months ago)
Intriguing structure in an amazing location. Views over top of Cot Valley and over to lighthouse/volcanic islands. Even more intriguing because of its contradictions and rebuilding. Hopefully it gets an update investigation using modern technology. In the meantime just take in the awe and majesty of where it is and what it is.
Raif & Vy (2 years ago)
In a spectacular cliff-edge position, of the unique Bronze Age Tomb. The actual Bronze Age Tomb, there is not much to see but the views of the ocean & cliffs in the background are definitely worth the drive. Loved the scenery.
Karen Kennedy (2 years ago)
Beautiful walk easy paths to get up to- you can walk to Lands End on the Coastal Path if you want to- its 5+ 1/2miles - gorgeous views.!
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